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Mexican man’s parents sue agent

Say Corbett violated their constitutional rights

By Jonathon Shacat
Herald/Review
Published/Last Modified on Thursday, Dec 11, 2008 - 05:12:05 am MST

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BISBEE — A civil rights lawsuit was filed against U.S. Border Patrol Agent Nicholas Corbett on Wednesday in federal court in Tucson regarding the death of Francisco Dominguez-Rivera, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, last year.

The plaintiffs in the case are Dominguez-Rivera’s parents — Renato Ariza Dominguez and Maria Clara Leonor Rivera Cordero, both of Mexico. Their attorneys are listed as Richard Gonzales in Tucson and Federico Castelan Sayre in Santa Ana, Calif. Corbett is the sole defendant.

The complaint requests a jury trial and seeks a judgment against Corbett that holds him liable and awards the plaintiffs “all actual, compensatory and punitive damages to which they are entitled by law, their attorney’s fees and costs incurred herein, and such other and further relief as the court may deem just and proper.”

The amount of money being sought is not specified.

The lawsuit alleges that Corbett violated the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights by wrongfully and unconstitutionally causing the death of Dominguez-Rivera in violation of the Fourth and Fifth amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

It also alleges that supervisory personnel from the Border Patrol have condoned, authorized and ratified a custom and practice whereby agents are allowed to shoot at unarmed Mexican nationals without thorough investigation or threat of discipline. As a result of this unconstitutional custom and practice, Corbett shot and killed Dominguez-Rivera.

The plaintiffs claim Corbett shot Dominguez-Rivera execution style as he was attempting to surrender by kneeling down. However, during two criminal trials concerning this incident, Corbett maintained he fired the gun in self-defense during hand-to-hand combat to prevent Dominguez-Rivera from smashing his head with a rock.

Sean Chapman, the lead defense attorney who represented Corbett in his criminal case, has declined to comment on the filing of the lawsuit.

Bud Tuffly, president of the Local 2544 National Border Patrol Council in Tucson, said the lawsuit against Corbett was expected and he is not surprised by it.

“We will back him up 100 percent,” he said. “We will keep supporting him.”

On Dec. 2, Sayre submitted a federal tort claim seeking a total of $7.5 million. That document is a prerequisite to file a lawsuit against the government for Corbett’s actions. The parties involved have six months to respond to it.

Corbett is charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter and negligent homicide for killing Dominguez-Rivera on Jan. 12, 2007, near Naco.

During a criminal trial in U.S. District Court in Tucson in late October and early November, Judge David Bury declared a mistrial because jurors were unable to reach a verdict. Another trial held in late February and early March resulted in the same outcome. Prosecutors have not yet made a decision on whether to take the case to trial again.

Two male jurors — Nos. 40 and 26 — from the second trial told the Herald/Review the panel was deadlocked at a vote of 11-1 to acquit Corbett.

Juror No. 13, a woman who lives in Catalina, near Oro Valley, contacted the Herald/Review on Nov. 18. She acknowledged the final vote was 11-1 to acquit, but she pointed out most members of the jury believed Corbett was probably guilty but they thought there was reasonable doubt.

“The defense did a good job of smoke and mirrors. They really did,” said the juror, who did not want her name printed to protect her anonymity.

She said that besides the one person who thought Corbett was guilty, there were also two people who felt undecided toward the end of the deliberations.

“We did talk about it a little more after the note was sent to the judge and some pressure was applied to the one person that thought he was guilty because, I believe, some of the jurors thought that the judge would not let us be hung and they thought we would be there forever and all of them, including the two that were undecided tried to convince the one juror that thought he was guilty to go along with the ‘not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt verdict’ so we could get out of there,” she said. “That person wouldn’t budge and then the judge called us back and released us.”

Herald/Review reporter Jonathon Shacat can be reached at 515-4693 or by e-mail at jonathon.shacat@bisbeereview.net.

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Extortion Inc. wrote on Dec 25, 2008 1:10 PM:

" What two-bit lawyer or Mexican government officials turned them onto this idea? So, they lost in court twice, they will again. But who is paying the attorney's fees for them? And where are they living now (paid for by whom)? With all the problems Mexico has, I doubt the government is supporting the family, so it's some group like MALDEF pushing this case. Bring it on fools! "

oh yeah it does say that wrote on Dec 18, 2008 9:14 PM:

" I totally forgot, our US Constitution says "we the people of the US".... Wow! So, I haven't gone to law school, but how can there even be jurisdiction for a civil trial in this case? Esp. when the parties are non-citizens? Can we sue everyone from Mexico & their gov. that urges them to violate our laws on a daily basis to come here, get our free healthcare, etc? Hmmm... come to think of it, we wouldn't even need agents if these "parents" would teach their kids right from wrong! GET IN LINE... "

To Toxic Hatred wrote on Dec 18, 2008 10:09 AM:

" I grow my own food, Thank You! When I need help I hire or trade with American Citizens. Why do you defend illegal aliens, are you cashing in on them? It's all about the $$$$money$$$$ for some. For me it's all about being a Patriot. Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday Jesus, I'll pray for you Toxic Hatred and ask that some light move into your heart through truthful knowledge. The cartels are bad, drugs are bad, illegal aliens working for much less then American citizens while displacing us in the job market is bad. "

David wrote on Dec 18, 2008 6:37 AM:

" Toxic Marxist: I suppose you are for the NASU or one world socialist government where all peoples blend together and live in harmony. It will be tried and many societies will completely lose their identity, customs and racial pride before it fails (again). That is human nature. We are not of one culture. That's what makes this world go 'round. Strife, war, conquest, prejudice. That's what keeps the cultures separated, and makes this world such a neat place. Oh, you're welcome and I'll be sure to tell my folks you thank them for growing your food. Idgit "

Cheyenne wrote on Dec 17, 2008 8:30 AM:

" To Toxic Hatred: Go to the farmers in this country and ask them who grows the crops. I am an AMERICAN PATRIOT and I am without shame. We have been peaceful. Start checking on the crimes illegals are doing in the US of A to our citizens. Yes, the illegals have basic rights. The main right they have is to GO HOME, YOU ARE NOT WANTED!!! Close Our Border. "

first svian wrote on Dec 17, 2008 6:34 AM:

" to Toxic Hatred? perhapsin your neck of the words they are growing you food, here they are taking jobs, plumbers, electricians, roofers etc, So you see, you do not have the complete picture, and any nation has the right, nay, the responsibility to protect it's citizens and borders. There is absolutely no reason that these people cannot apply for legal entry is there? "

a watcher wrote on Dec 16, 2008 10:44 PM:

" I'm amazed been watching and reading this for months. I for one agree with many that Shacat and the Herald have been very bias in this issue. Make me wonder if the same political stance will be taken against our military when they have to defend this border. Looks to me like its only a matter of time with the Mexican counsel and lobbist, as well as support from our local media. I'm just glad many Juror's saw the bigger picture then they did in Texas. "

Toxic Hatred wrote on Dec 16, 2008 8:53 PM:

" Everyone in the world has inherent human rights, including Mexicans. This includes the right to petition, the right to free speech, and the right to pursue justice in a court of law, regardless of race, creed, nationality or color. Many of the Sierra Vistans commenting have been poisoned by a toxic hatred that distorts their own humanity. Forgive them, because they are more ignorant than evil. Americans can be better than these shameful fearful beings. We should be humans more than patriots, and peacemakers more than warfighters. We should embrace the workers who grow our food, because they sustain us. "

Old Marine wrote on Dec 16, 2008 8:43 PM:

" From what I read, the Mexican people have enough problems with their own. Mexico is seething with drug dealing citizens killing their own people. It would be better for our side of the Border if they kept their problems in Mexico. Looks like to me those people sueing our people are trying to get rich at our tax payers expense. "

To Human wrote on Dec 16, 2008 11:46 AM:

" Then the little guy must stay in their own country and throw rocks at their own Law Enforcement. These "little guys" illegal aliens should not be our problems.
Announce that "We the People" of the U.S. will not allow anyone to assault us on our own soil. Then we can read what other countries choose to do with their citizens that throw rocks as weapons.And that is the "Bear Naked" Truth! "

to Mr. Human wrote on Dec 15, 2008 11:31 PM:

" Get a clue man. If the small guy didn't have a rock in his hand, the big guy wouldn't have had a gun in his. That is what you call self-defense. What is the mindset of someone bringing a rock to a gun fight? Makes you think that maybe Mr Dominguez wasn't the sweet little person everyone tried to make him out to be. "

human wrote on Dec 15, 2008 5:18 PM:

" NO RIGHTS? have you never heard of HUMAN RIGHTS? It goes to show you that the government are criminals too but they can get away with it.
A rock in the hand of small HUMAN is no match for a big HUMAN with a gun. "

Team520 wrote on Dec 15, 2008 1:04 PM:

" I totally agree. What kind of rights does this guy get? Give me a break!! Insurance rate increases , thefts and the list goes on and on to what illegals of all races cost this country. He has NO RIGHTS here. "

Constitutional Rights wrote on Dec 15, 2008 12:37 PM:

" I love the fact that are suing because this illegal alien's Constitutional rights were violated. Maybe everyone out there should go ahead and read the Consitution. Mmm, doesn't it start with "We the people of the United States..."? Oh yeah, it does. I'm not the smartest man in the world, but sure does seem to disqualify one party in this lawsuit. "

Whatever wrote on Dec 15, 2008 8:48 AM:

" So the mexicans are suing. The lawyer is probably pro bono - another FREE service. They have NO RIGHTS. They are ILLEGALS. Maybe the lawyer should go to mexico with them. I support Corbett all the way. "

Are You Kidding Me wrote on Dec 14, 2008 7:36 PM:

" Sueing?! Now that's pathetic, people are just to sue happy anymore, always wanting a buck, or passing the buck. "

Cheyenne wrote on Dec 14, 2008 10:03 AM:

" Meso Americans, so what you are saying is that present day mix raced mexicans have spanish, french, etc.., ancestors also. That would mean advocates for aztlan and reconquesta have no basis for their ideology of taking the southwestern states by repopulation by legal and illegal mexicans. BTW illegals have no constitutional rights. I havent seen anything in there thats says it is for foreigners. COB, (close our border). "

to George wrote on Dec 13, 2008 10:54 PM:

" I"m sorry that when you were arrested by the Border Patrol they yelled at you and took your fingerprints. Get over it. There is nothing negligant about defending yourself. Since you weren't born here, you are innocent until PROVEN guilty. They had 2 shots to prove it and that is 2 more than it should have taken to know he shot in self-defense. "

I disliked Illegals wrote on Dec 13, 2008 8:12 PM:

" But they aren't as bad as news flash and george. Those are the people that are scary. "

Meso Americans wrote on Dec 13, 2008 7:51 PM:

" Mexicans are of mixed races that include native Americans. They were Americans before Columbus captured his first slaves for the free market. "

To News Flash wrote on Dec 13, 2008 1:56 PM:

" I am a Native American, I was born in the U.S.A. and I do not want 6 billion 3rd worlders climbing under the fence to occupy our nation! I am against the human, drug, and sex-slave traders in business selling their service to violate our laws, land, jobs, children, states, etc. I stand firm against the cartels!
I lived on the reservation and know what I'm talking about. Perhaps you could write something stating your position. Add to your position why you defend the cartels and citizens from other countries that will not rally for change in their own country. "

Old Marine wrote on Dec 13, 2008 11:49 AM:

" To News Flash: If you feel so strongly about the subject you describe, why do you live in this country? There is nothing holding you here. Perhaps if people like you moved on, there would be more places for the illegal immigrants/aliens to take your place. "

George wrote on Dec 13, 2008 10:10 AM:

" To George - ICE, CBP, whatever. All those fancy titles don't change the fact that Corbett acted negligently and he and the agency he works for should be held accountable. "

News Flash wrote on Dec 13, 2008 9:40 AM:

" Native Americans have determined the European occupation to be illegal. These non native illegals have stolen the very land that sustained 'true' Americans until Columbus' arrival destroyed their sovereignty. So the illegals have either killed or reduced true Americans to reservations that only the greedy believe to be moral and just. That leaves the US in a very immoral position, since most of the occupiers are all illegals and non-native Americans. Americans are good at taking, but not at giving it back... unless you respect the barrel of a gun. "

irate wrote on Dec 13, 2008 9:29 AM:

" Here is the lawyer's email and address if you'd like to contact him:

GONZALESLAW.COM
33 N STONE SUITE 1410
TUCSON, AZ
TP:520-327-1121 "

Independent wrote on Dec 12, 2008 10:11 PM:

" I'm sorry the kids dead but you, the parents, should blame yourself and your country for not being able to provide employement or education to its populace. Of course, if you didn't breed like mice, perhaps the country could do these things. Stay home and correct your country's ills and you won't die in the desert. "

to Ignorance is bliss wrote on Dec 12, 2008 4:42 PM:

" You obviously don't know what he word Ignorance means...before you come on here and insult every American, you should do your homework and get the facts straight. You have no clue what you're talking about and you have no compassion for your own Country or those who risk their own lives everyday in order to defend it. Shame, shame... "

Just me wrote on Dec 12, 2008 2:54 PM:

" There was no proof it was execution style. First of all execution style involves a shot to the back of the head which is not what occured. And a shot from the back to the front could occur when someone is bending over in front of you to pick up something to throw. you do something illegal you pay the price not sure when it blows up in your face. Actually arrest his parents they knew he was coming that is aiding and abetting right? All laws apply equally? "

To ignorance and HHH... wrote on Dec 12, 2008 1:25 PM:

" Francisco Dominguez-Rivera got exactly what he deserved and if there is a god, his parents will get exactly what they deserve, NOTHING! You and others can arm-chair quarterback the decision Mr. Corbett made until the end of time and it won't change the FACT that after 2 trials he was NOT CONVICTED. So scream "murder" and "viva la whatever" but don't expect proud Americans to support your conspiracy theory-like agenda. "

To ignorance is bliss wrote on Dec 12, 2008 1:22 PM:

" What fence did you just crawl under to get here. Americans have always done these jobs, there is not one job you listed that I have not worked in and was paid a living wage. Until the illegal aliens came and were willing to put me and millions of others out of business. I paid off a home, paid my taxes and raised my children. Most Americans are against slave labor and those that disreguard our laws. Seems you are one of the few making poor excuses for lawbreakers, How many illegals are meeting your needs for slave wages? "

Just Me wrote on Dec 12, 2008 11:06 AM:

" To Ignorance and High... You two sound just that, Ignorant and High.... The person was here ILLEGALLY!!!!! So lets sue the parents for not keeping their illegal son in their own country. Killing someone is NOT ok... but if he was where he was supposed to be(In Mexico) he would be alive right now. Do you know how many US citizens get treated much worse!! It is the US constitution and if you are not a US citizen than it should not apply to you!! This is a pitiful ridiculous mess!! "

kcs wrote on Dec 12, 2008 8:58 AM:

" Congratulations Agent Corbett. You have finally received justice. Now get that malicious prosecution, defamation of character , and harrassment under color of authority lawsuit filed. I hope you get millions. Now get your butt back to work keeping the border jumping thugs out of our country. "

To Ignorance is bliss wrote on Dec 12, 2008 8:28 AM:

" Your ignorance is believing everything you read. The county and this paper threw out that execution style term at the start and got people to believe it. You shouldn't believe everything you read. His 2 brothers and sister-in-law are "claiming" he was on his knees. They also now are trying to get millions richer. Coincidence? No. Mexican Gov't influence? Yes. Would you execute someone in front of 6 other witnesses and just leave them alone? No one would. The witnesses made up story is just that, and you believe it. "

A TAX PAYER wrote on Dec 12, 2008 8:09 AM:

" The Border Patrol has a job to do. They are doing it the best they can. Now that they are afraid of being SUED, they may start looking the other way for fear of being thrown in jail while the ILLEGALS run free and take our jobs, welfare, FREE HEALTH care, Etc. They are ILLEGAL and should be put under the jail. If you want to come and work in the fileds, sheetrock, home builders, then go to the back of the line and come over LEGALLY. I don't blame them for better life. JUST LEGALLY! "

US Citizen for Sovereignty wrote on Dec 12, 2008 6:22 AM:

" Sovereignty is the exclusive right to control a government, a country, a people, or oneself. This case should be dismissed as without merit. The guy was here illegally, breaking our laws so therefore, his family is entitled to NOTHING! As long as people think they can get a payoff, our country's sovereignty and laws will never be respected. It's time American stand up for itself, and send these types packing! "

David wrote on Dec 12, 2008 5:21 AM:

" I am glad that Agent Corbett did not join Agents Ramos and Compean. The Rule of Law is fading fast in this Nation, won't be long now before it is complete anarchy. This frivolous suit filed in the Federal Court and probably sanctioned by our own Federal Government at some level is another stepping stone towards the North American Socialist Union, and eventually an attempt at a One World Government. Fortunately, a lot of us won't live to see that. Teach your children well. "

Hereford wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:38 PM:

" Go back to your country and stop killing our people. Our Boarder Patrol are going to get you and stop you all. We should start to charge all of you for just coming across our boarder and junk our country with litter. Plus how can an illegal sue someone that doesnt live here. Unless the judge is paid off. You will not win. And if slight change you will win you are charged for trespassing 7.5 million dollars. Or your government will take it all away from you and laugh at you "

ignorance is bliss wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:57 PM:

" The comments here have me blown away, since when is it ok to murder a human being execution style and not pay a price? When all you whinney babies are done you can take up the slack at the hotels restaurants fields clean nasty toilets at airports and of course lets not forget those nannies and housekeepers the rich keep, I want to do a survey out there America, how many of you have any of the above serving your needs? they will clean for less than minimum wage and not complain, the job will be done right!! "

To Hands Held High wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:08 PM:

" Just a reminder, God will be holding all involved in this illegal action accountable on Judgment Day. I am not talking about the shooting, I am talking about the folks that send the illegal across the border and those that call them to come and work illegally. Dominguez-Rivera’s parents seemed to live well from the money their son sent home while working prior years in the U.S. Illegally. The company he worked for made good profits while paying illegals, most likely less then they would have paid legal American workers. Follow the money and the bleeding hearts that encourage illegals. "

Hereford Resident wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:55 PM:

" To hands held high: You are probably and illegal yourself. Why not go back to your country and leave ours alone. As you see there are a lot of mad people out there and pretty soon there will be vigilante justice coming if you can't keep your illegal people out of our country. "

to George wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:51 PM:

" Since when has the Border Patrol ever been a part of ICE. The Border Patrol is part of Customs and Border Protection, or CBP. ICE is Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a completely separate part of Homeland Security. Before you try and sound intelligent, why don't you make sure that you are? "

Well wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:35 PM:

" I hope Jennifer Allen and Isabel Garcia are reading this. It is crap like this lawsuit that has disgusted Americans and is creating a hostile environment. Illegal immigration brings up distaste in all those who respect the laws, then to have gold diggers like these people makes people even more mad--then they cry that everyone is racist. Not racist but tired of being taken advantage of. They are not "friends" to the south. Far from it, "friends" don't do this to friends. "

let me understand wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:32 PM:

" I see an illegal immigrant. I can kill him. He has no rights because he is not an American. OK. RIGHT. What a bunch of dummies here! "

Raymond wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:12 PM:

" Sorry, We need to close the border and all AID to Mexico PERIOD. NO Mexican is worth 7.5 million, if that ILLEGAL was worth it he would of came over here legally. Anyone that feels for this Illegal can pay out of his/her pocket. "

simplyme wrote on Dec 11, 2008 8:56 PM:

" If the family has time and money to sue why did their son need to come here to "sweat and slave" for a dirty little job no one here would want? It is going to cost more money to get here to testify. Sounds like he was doing more here than looking for work. Is this legal? "

JS wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:01 PM:

" Dollar chasing Lawyers and Money hungry parents, No love--- It's all about the money. The Border officer should have been given a medal for doing his job "

Paul Arnold wrote on Dec 11, 2008 5:34 PM:

" MONEY, money. From the day one it has been solely about money!
WAKE UP AMERICA the enemy, illegals, are inside the gates.
Imagine if he were from Guatemala trying to sue Mexico! "

To Video Evicence wrote on Dec 11, 2008 5:27 PM:

" So did you see the video???
What I have heard is the video was to grainy to see anything. I am glad you are an expert on these matters. It would be nice to see the video myself so I can see what you saw !!! Anyways that is NOT what the story is about. It is about someone from Mexico sueing a Border Agent who is protecting our borders. I am sorry you might need to reread the article. "

Hands Held High wrote on Dec 11, 2008 4:49 PM:

" Viva Mexico and the memory and plight of Francisco Dominguez-Rivera. This will not be forgotten! Hang in there Mr. Renato and Maria, many on both sides are with you. This is a human trajedy and you are within your right to pursue civil justice. Everybody in this land has civil rights, even the undocumented. Keep you heads up high and don't listen to or be afraid of the haters ...there will always be haters like there are dust devils in death valley. Our prayers are with you. "

Whattt wrote on Dec 11, 2008 4:01 PM:

" Mexican citizens do have rights in the US? "

cochise county wrote on Dec 11, 2008 3:56 PM:

" glad to see everyone feels like i do. what rights? he was illegally here, and is not a citizen - and therefore has no rights... "

Outraged wrote on Dec 11, 2008 3:11 PM:

" Since when does the US Constitution have to expand to encompass the world. If you're not an American Citizen, how in the world can your Constitutional Rights be violated?? Sleezy lawyers + gold digging parents = 1 infuriating situation. "

fed up wrote on Dec 11, 2008 3:02 PM:

" I agree, I thought it was the "US" constitution, and you had to be a "US" citizen in order to violate it......this is a shame that this can happen in our country. This country needs a change, and soon......this lawsuit should not have even made it to our court system. "

TurnAround Fair Play wrote on Dec 11, 2008 1:41 PM:

" I think that if the civil lawsuit manages to go forth, then we as US Citizens should sue Mexico families for not stopping their relatives from coming over illegally!!! "

Pauly wrote on Dec 11, 2008 1:14 PM:

" What’s wrong with you people! It is Corbett’s fault that that boy isn’t here with us today. If he wasn’t there doing his job protecting our borders that boy would have gotten away with that crime and probably many more.
And for that I thank you Agent Corbett. I hope you illegals don't even get a dime! "

George wrote on Dec 11, 2008 1:13 PM:

" Giuseppi, admittedly, you are not as knowledgeable as you believed you were. There are aspects of the Constitution which apply to non-U.S. Citizens as well. Hopefully, they will win a big settlement against Corbett and the ICE. "

BNID wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:38 AM:

" So when do we sue border states to the south or the Mexican government for all the trash and medical bills that they have brought us here? "

Sierra Vista Resident... wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:22 AM:

" You all need a desperate reality check. If the parents simply want money, Give it ot them. They lost a son, and moreso, have caused this group in Mexico to retaliate because of one agents views on the job. SICK. Anyone who sides with this certain Border patrol agent deserves a reality check. Three border patrols and one sheriff in the family, am I biased. no. "

Dan wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:14 AM:

" I was going to write a boatload of comments but I see my fellow AMERICANS have things well covered. Hats off to y'all! God bless America. "

Pete wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:09 AM:

" Why do some people have rights and others dont? I was arrested and beat up in another state for trespassing on my OWN property, when the stupid county attorney finally realized there had been a mistake he droped the charges. It cost me $4200.00 in attorney fees and I was not allowed to sue anyone. I am still very bitter towards the justice in this country. The whole system is a big joke and no better than Mexicos. "

Hereford Resident wrote on Dec 11, 2008 11:03 AM:

" I find it amusing that they want to sue a BP agent that doesn't make much to begin with. What do they hope to gain from this? I hope that if this does go to trial and he is found not guilty again that the parents have to pay all costs the taxpayers are going to be burdened with during this case. I am willing to bet that they won't have to pay a dime. "

RWE wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:49 AM:

" What is going on here?!?!? These people should have no rights to sue anyone in this country if they are not citizens. These lawyers should be ashamed of themselves for even taking them as clients. Our constitution does not apply to ILLEGAL aliens. "

And you thought... wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:48 AM:

" this would have been the end of it. Whether or not Corbett was found guilty there was still going to be a lawsuit for millions upon millions of dollars. The Patrol will settle with the family for an undiscolsed amount and the family will be given free passes to the good ol U.S. of A. Don't ya just love how our laws work? Score one for us taxpayers! "

CGS wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:33 AM:

" The Mexican family is suing for lost wages their illegal immigrant son would have sent them over his lifetime. Under US law that is acceptable, but these people are Mexican living in Mexico!!! This is insane! They should sue their own government. "

Murphy wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:29 AM:

" This guy was here illegaly, how the heck can someone sue when there own actions are illegal? iF i HAD A CRACK PIPE AND A COP WAS SEARCHING ME AND IT BROKE AND CUT ME, WOULD I BE ABLE TO SUE? No, you can only sue for stupid reasons if you are mexican. Did you know that they are not even held accountable if you get in an car accident with them? I think we all need to get together and protest. "

Ugly American wrote on Dec 11, 2008 10:00 AM:

" Between the liberals and the lawyers who pervert the laws and constitution of the US of A illegal foreign nationals have all of, if not more, rights than an American citizen. Than they wonder why our country is in the shape it is. Nuthin dumber than a liberal. "

Cj wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:43 AM:

" I feel so bad for Mr. Corbett. I wish him the best and that this will be over soon. Why don't they sue him in a mexican court of law? You can't even go after a mexican national that hits your car. "

Juror wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:14 AM:

" Regarding the last trial Grant Woods was the one that used smoke and mirrors since he never had any evidence to proceed with the case to begin with. Remember the entire event was caught on video tape and Corbetts story is the only one that matches the video. The people that said he was surrendering are lying only because the video proves them wrong. This was the reasonable doubt in the testimony. The death is a horrible thing but if Francisco was surrendering the video would have shown it. "

UNBELIEVABLE wrote on Dec 11, 2008 9:03 AM:

" WHAT???!!!!! Since when do illigal's have a right to sue US citizens for violating their "rights" in our country?????? This needs to be thrown out of court as fast as it was put in. "

video evidence wrote on Dec 11, 2008 8:51 AM:

" The video shows Corbett shooting the victim from behind, execution style. No one is throwing rocks, and no fisticuffs are evident. It is clear the victim is shot from behind. "

Easy to see wrote on Dec 11, 2008 8:48 AM:

" Shacat's bias is loud and clear. He gave about half of the article to what juror #13 had to say. I am surprised he didn't get a quote from Jennifer Alllen for this article. "

Harvey Stanbrough wrote on Dec 11, 2008 8:23 AM:

" That's one small step for an illegal alien, and one giant leap for Entitlement Nation. "

ridiculous wrote on Dec 11, 2008 8:19 AM:

" This quote is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard:
'It also alleges that supervisory personnel from the Border Patrol have condoned, authorized and ratified a custom and practice whereby agents are allowed to shoot at unarmed Mexican nationals without thorough investigation or threat of discipline" "

Giuseppi wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:43 AM:

" Guess I'm not as educated as I thought I was - I was under the impression that the U.S. Constitutiion only applied to U.S. citizens. "

Mike wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:40 AM:

" No constitutional rights for illegal immigrants, nothing but sleezy lawyers. "

Emily wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:38 AM:

" All I have to say to the Dominguez - Rivera family is " GOLD DIGGERS"... They're taking advantage of the situation...Like I said they should sue the Coyote that smuggled them into 'OUR' Country... "

American wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:33 AM:

" "The lawsuit alleges that Corbett violated the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights..." Since when does someone who is found in the US illegally possess "constitutional rights"? This is a ridiculous lawsuit. "

kcs wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:22 AM:

" Mr. Shacat, your anti-Border Patrol views are so blatant in this article it amazes me. You are trying to change the opinion of 11 our of 12 people on this jury who viewed Agent Corbett's actions as self defense. Don't you get it?
Law abiding citizens and legal immigrants are sick and tired of these border jumping thugs who are invading our country. Maybe you need to resign from the Herald and join Isabel Garcia and her Derechos Humanos organization. "

Old Marine wrote on Dec 11, 2008 7:18 AM:

" Looks like "illegal" no longer has any meaning in our country with this kind of stuff. Why not open our borders to everyone whether "terrorists" or not. I believe we are beginning to lose our freedom in this country. This certainly will help to make our Border Patrol inaffective. What comes next, sueing our soldiers for killing the enemy? "

Oh yes... wrote on Dec 11, 2008 6:11 AM:

" The BP condones all these shootings, because they happen all the time right?
What the BP condones is agents' right to protect themselves from people such as their son who entered ILLEGALLY and threatened the agent. I am so sick of people committing crimes and then they want to play the victim, or in this case, the family. Go back to Mexico, really. Now our constitution has to cover the world? "