Deaths at Border

* The INS argues that it is not responsible for migrant deaths from natural hazards on the U.S.-Mexico border following stepped-up enforcement in border cities (“The Hidden Toll,” Nov. 2). Yet there is a long tradition in American law that holds a property owner liable for dangerous conditions on the property, particularly when entry is encouraged by an “attractive nuisance” or incentive.

Knowing the powerful draw of low-wage U.S. jobs (see “Recruiters Who Fill Low-Skill Jobs Go Begging,” Nov. 2), our government has exposed people to new dangers--deadly heat, freezing cold and polluted waterways--by forcing migrants across rural areas. The government cannot now slough off responsibility by arguing that, since natural hazards are “acts of God,” any injury resulting from them is unavoidable. The INS must acknowledge that these deaths resulted from an intentional “act of man”: its current policy.

PETER L. REICH

Professor of Law

Whittier Law School

Costa Mesa

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As sad as the situation is, the deaths that have occurred for the migrants crossing the border can only be blamed on those who choose to ignore the fact that we have laws regarding immigration into the U.S. If those who wish to migrate to the U.S. adhered to the law, we wouldn’t have to have a holiday “honoring” those who have died. The answer to the question “cuantos mas?” can only be answered by the immigrants themselves.

ROBERT C. THOMPSON

Marina del Rey