Table of Contents
On January 19, my life was irrevocably altered when my daughter, Katie, was killed in a tragic accident. Katie, a vibrant and loving young woman, was a passenger at a red light when an illegal immigrant driving recklessly under the influence crashed into her vehicle. The perpetrator, Julio Cucul-Bol, a Guatemalan national unlawfully in the country, struck our car at nearly 80 miles per hour. The consequences of that night were devastating—not only did we lose Katie, but the actions of one man shattered our family.
In the aftermath, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approached me to discuss an initiative named Operation Midway Blitz. This program aimed to apprehend individuals like Cucul-Bol, specifically targeting illegal offenders and those convicted of serious crimes. Initially, I was hesitant to associate such a tragic event with any operation, but after understanding its purpose—to honor Katie’s memory while enforcing laws meant to protect families—I found solace in the idea that her death could lead to meaningful change.
The impact of sanctuary policies
It is evident that had our immigration laws been respected, my daughter would still be alive today. The sanctuary policies in Illinois effectively shielded criminals like Cucul-Bol from accountability. These policies send a misleading message: that individuals can enter and remain in the U.S. without facing the repercussions of their actions. This is not compassion; it is a dangerous neglect of public safety.
Confronting the silence of politicians
In the months following Katie’s death, I have repeatedly called upon Illinois politicians to explain how they reconcile public safety with their open-border policies. My inquiries have been met with silence, which speaks volumes about their priorities. The lack of systematic controls or audits to monitor who enters our communities has left us vulnerable. Who is ensuring our towns are safe? Who is responsible for tracking the movements of those allowed to reside here? The absence of accountability is alarming.
The stark difference in dedication
During my meetings with various agents from DHS and ICE in Chicago, I was struck by their unwavering commitment to community safety. These professionals are not the adversaries many perceive them to be; rather, they are dedicated individuals working tirelessly to restore order. Their compassion and professionalism were evident, contrasting sharply with the indifference of Illinois leaders. This dedication to public safety is something I wish more people would recognize.
Politicians’ failure to act
Despite the tragedy that claimed my daughter’s life, Illinois politicians continue to turn a blind eye to her story. Acknowledging the implications of their policies would require admitting their failures, something they seem unwilling to do. Their focus appears to be on maintaining political power rather than safeguarding the lives of innocent residents. Katie’s future was stolen, along with the dreams we held dear—her wedding, her children—were lost forever. This is the true cost of failed leadership.
In light of these events, I wholeheartedly support Operation Midway Blitz. It represents a crucial step towards restoring accountability within our immigration system. We must prioritize the safety of our communities over political maneuvering. My hope is that through this initiative, we can honor Katie’s legacy—not merely in words but through tangible actions that ensure no other family has to endure such a heartbreaking loss.
As a father, my plea is for reform. It is imperative that we hold our leaders accountable and demand policies that protect rather than endanger. Katie’s story should serve as a catalyst for change, urging us to create a safer environment for all families. The time has come to act decisively—both in memory of my daughter and for the safety of future generations.