Funds set up for Border Patrol agents

Supporters of jailed men have 3 ways to financially help their families

Posted: January 26, 2007
1:00 a.m. Eastern
© 2007

Funds for donations have been set up on behalf of the families of two Border Patrol agents jailed for their actions in the shooting and wounding of a Mexican drug smuggler who was granted full immunity to testify against them.

The funds are meant to benefit agents Jose Alonso Compean and Ignacio "Nacho" Ramos, who were sentenced to 12 years and 11 years, respectively, in October and reported to prison Jan. 17.

Supporters of the men believe they were wrongly convicted and the sentences handed down far too stiff. Calls from members of Congress and countless Americans for President Bush to pardon the two former agents thus far have been unsuccessful. While efforts continue, supporters of the two men have established funds for people to help their families while they are incarcerated as well as to help pay legal bills.

A labor union, the National Border Patrol Council, is soliciting donations on its website.

"All donations that are designated for Agents Ramos and Compean will be used to fund their legal defense and assist their families in their hour of need," the site states.

"Donations to the fund can be made by check payable to 'BPA Legal Defense & Relief Fund.' Checks should be mailed to: BPA Legal Defense & Relief Fund, P.O. Box 47208, Tampa, FL 33647."

A separate website run by Ramos' family also seeks donations from supporters.