Click Here

The neighborhood patrol

9 snips
Oct 24, 2025
Francisco Chavo Romero, a Southern California community activist with Unión del Barrio, discusses the rise of neighborhood patrols aimed at monitoring ICE activities. He explains the grassroots tools that have replaced traditional apps for tracking, driven by his Chicano heritage and commitment to protecting undocumented neighbors. Francisco shares insights into ICE's tactics, the impact of their raids, and how his organization conducts lawful observations while preparing for militarized operations. He also addresses the risks of criminalization and the importance of community solidarity.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Following ICE In Person

  • Francisco and activists physically followed an ICE SUV through San Diego to observe and record its actions.
  • They combined low-tech watching with digital tools and community reporting to track agents in real time.
ADVICE

Organize Block-by-Block Patrols

  • Map neighborhoods and assign at least one to two vehicles with two to three people each for patrols.
  • Use two-way radios and printed literature to coordinate and inform residents about what to watch for.
ADVICE

Stay Legal When Observing Agents

  • Observe and engage lawfully without obstructing operations to avoid arrest.
  • Train volunteers to interact politely and never give officers reasons to detain them.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app