Episode Details

In the late 1970s, San Diego was a city teetering on the edge of transformation. The sun-drenched beaches and vibrant culture masked a darker reality: a surge in crime linked to cross-border activities. As a former detective with the San Diego Police Department, I witnessed first-hand the birth of a specialized unit designed to combat this rising tide of criminality—the Border Alien Robbery Force, or BARF. This is the story of that unit, the challenges it faced, and the impact it had on policing in San Diego.

San Diego, with its proximity to the Mexican border, was uniquely positioned as a hotspot for smuggling and robbery. The late 70s saw an influx of illegal immigrants, many of whom were drawn by the promise of work and a better life. However, alongside this influx came organized crime syndicates that exploited these individuals' vulnerabilities. They engaged in a series of robberies, targeting businesses and individuals alike, creating an atmosphere of fear.

The creation of BARF was a response to the urgent need for a focused approach to border-related crime. The unit, comprised of seasoned detectives, was tasked with addressing the unique challenges posed by cross-border criminal enterprises. We were a tight-knit group, motivated by a shared sense of duty and a commitment to restoring safety to our communities.

Listen to the stories of border violence as told by one of the original members of BARF - Detective Ed Cervantes - You can also watch the episode on https://www.youtube.com/live/eFYlpzlxOo0?si=Nba33cLpO2uUodJz