Defending the American way
Fernando Rivera Jr.'s house sits near an open gate in the U.S.-Mexico border fence, through which migrants often cross onto his property in Brownsville, Texas.
Recently, groups of heavily armed private citizens such as the Patriots, who use displays of force to intimidate people attempting to cross the border illegally, have started to patrol in the area.
A sign is displayed in a farm field near the U.S.-Mexico border outside Brownsville.
Rusty Monsees, owner of the land on which the Patriots operate, poses for a portrait. Monsees, 66, said “illegals” have poisoned his dogs and sprayed the windows of his house with bullets, but he refuses to leave.
A U.S. Border Patrol vehicle drives by the 18-foot-high rust-coloured steel barrier along the U.S.-Mexico border at sunset.
Patriots patrol the area in their vehicle.
Patriots Huggie Bear, left, Will, centre, and Rob Chupp, right, patrol the border.
A patch is seen on the Rob’s flak jacket.
Rob goes through a woman's purse abandoned on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande River, near a patriot camp.
Fernando Rivera Jr., centre, watches as a neighbour’s pet raccoon inspects his son rifle outside their home.
A sign reading “We Don't Dial 911” hangs outside Rivera’s house.
