Lawmaker targets border watch groups

FROM STAFF AND CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES REPORTS
Jan 22, 2007

PHOENIX — A proposed law would make felons out of members of the Minuteman Civil Defense Corps — and probably some neighborhood watch groups.

HB 2286 would make it a crime for any individual or group not affiliated with law enforcement to patrol "to detect alleged illegal activity'' if any are armed. Violators would be subject to up to 18 months in state prison.

The proposal by Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Phoenix, does not name names. But she admitted to Capitol Media Services it is specifically aimed at the Minuteman organization "and other vigilante groups” that patrol the border looking for those entering the country illegally.

The purpose of the measure was not lost on Chris Simcox, state director of the Minuteman group. He said the measure is not only unjust but also unconstitutional, violating both the right to assemble peacefully and to bear arms.