BajaNomad - Tecate policia

Tecate policia

Pages: 1 2

cftlet - 9-2-2013 at 09:26 AM

The last two times I went through Tecate (Feb. southbound pulling a boat and May pulling a cargo trailer north bound) I was stopped for bogus reasons like your dog has to be in a cage if its in the cab and you ran a stop sign ( I did not) and you did not use your turn signal ( I did ). They wanted any where from 1,000 to 2,000 pesos when I said no they tried to get me to follow them I told them I did not understand Spanish and they eventually got frustrated and gave up.
Have any of you nomads had problems problems in tecate ? I'm going back down in Oct. with a cargo trailer would it be smarter to go rd. 2000 and bypass the downtown area?
Thank you for any advice.

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 09:35 AM

Not too far back, there were long discussions here about the Tecate police and their lawless nonsense on the hill through town .....then it seemed to cool down. Looks like the honeymoon is over.
Glad you handled the situation with style and grace, and thanks for posting this.

Now....let the flaming begin.

Oh, yeah......do the 2000 if it's not too far out of your way. I've yet to see or hear of any bad happenings on that road.

chuckie - 9-2-2013 at 09:41 AM

What is the "2000"?

Lee - 9-2-2013 at 09:42 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by cftlet
Have any of you nomads had problems problems in tecate ? I'm going back down in Oct. with a cargo trailer would it be smarter to go rd. 2000 and bypass the downtown area?
Thank you for any advice.

Keep doing what you're doing. If 2000 is a better road for you, go there. Tecate works for a lot of people.

The police might have gotten frustrated at your inability to speak Spanish with them -- or, they saw that you were not intimidated by them, were going to stand your ground, and, since time is money to them, they moved on. Just depends on who's on duty when you go through.

I've never been stopped in town but always expect it. Call their bluff, don't go to any station, etc.

Why would ''flaming'' happen here, Dennis? This situation was handled appropriately.

Ateo - 9-2-2013 at 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by chuckie
What is the "2000"?

Blvd. 2000 from Popotla area to Otay.

bajabuddha - 9-2-2013 at 09:46 AM

As an additional notice, since they've (pretty much) finished the re-re-reconstruction on Hwy 1 going through and out of town, they've added an additional umpteen more 'ALTO' signs, especially on the hill below the toll freeway. Keep your eyes peeled for them; i watch traffic around me. Also, when it comes to Mexican Policia, i NEVER make eye contact with them or pretend i 'wanna be their buddy'. Go slow, stay with traffic, and don't give 'em any excuse whatsoever. I got stopped 3 times (northbound) through town two springs ago, but managed to talk my way out of all 3. I knocked on wood, and bruised my forehead. Ah, ain't Baja speyshul !!

But you don't have to cross at Tecate

durrelllrobert - 9-2-2013 at 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ateo

Quote:

Originally posted by chuckie
What is the "2000"?

Blvd. 2000 from Popotla area to Otay.

..and after you cross the TJ reservoir and pass by 2 dairy farms you get off on free road to Tecate or continue on to the Mexicali toll road and take that to Tecate.

chuckie - 9-2-2013 at 10:22 AM

OK, Thanks, I come through Tecate, but since I approach from the east, that wouldnt seem to make much sense for me...

cftlet - 9-2-2013 at 11:29 AM

Does anyone know if there realy is a law requiring yaur dog being caged while in your vehicle?

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by cftlet
Does anyone know if there realy is a law requiring yaur dog being caged while in your vehicle?

I doubt anyone here really knows, what with Mexico being what it is, but I doubt there is.
Anyway, insist on seeing the judge and have him tell you.

The Tecate police have also told people their dog had to be in a seat belt.
As far as I'm concerned, it's all mordida oriented BS.

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee

Why would ''flaming'' happen here, Dennis? This situation was handled appropriately.

As I mentioned, Lee, "Glad you handled the situation with style and grace."

Can't say as much for the predatory conduct of the police, so flaming those a-holes was what I referred to.

TecateRay - 9-2-2013 at 12:06 PM

Unfortunately this seems to be happening more and more in Tecate. Friends who live in Tecate say that every Saturday and Sunday morning the cops are out stopping anyone likely to pay a fine "on the spot". It appears to me that they work from the police station east about a mile or so. They may work other areas, but that is my usual direction.

They stopped me mid June with the "you ran a stop sign". I told him I did not several times. Standard you have to follow me to the police station routine, give me your license and registration. He finally gave me my papers back after I told him, "Fine, let's go" and he realized I wasn't ready to pay him there on the street. I continued on my way behind and within one block he had pulled over the next car with California plates. Same thing happened to another friend of mine last month.

Not sure if anything can be done. My Mexican friends are frustrated that this is happening in their town, but don't see any simple solutions. If any Nomads out there have connections in Tecate or recommendations please post them here.

My solution is to deny and say you will go to the police station. I have personally used this approach 5 or 6 times in Tecate over the past 5 years and have NEVER yet been to the police station. It may happen some day and if I really did commit an infraction I will pay the legitimate fine.

woody with a view - 9-2-2013 at 12:07 PM

call Sindicatura and the tourism people.

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=62999

[Edited on 9-2-2013 by woody with a view]

brewer - 9-2-2013 at 12:19 PM

I go through Tecate heading south when I'm hauling items that could be duty taxed. Hoping for a green light. I usually get one. Always cops around looking for gringos. I drive real slow and count to three at every stop sign. Had a cop come by me last week with his lights on. I was behind a semi going slow and he actually came in too hot and passed me. He tried to get behind me, but there was traffic behind him. I stayed behind the semi truck and made it through.

If I'm not hauling anything taxable, I boycott Tecate and use the Mexicaki east crossing. Screw the Tecate cops.

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
count to three at every stop sign.

New Tecate translation:

ALTO = PARK :lol:

Marla Daily - 9-2-2013 at 12:27 PM

We've been stopped more often than not in Tecate pulling our cargo trailer. I've posted our experiences several times.

http://forums.bajanomad.co/viewthread.php?tid=56833#pid68213...

Once was for dogs in the back seat of our extended cab truck; another was for not stopping (we did) at a stop sign on the hill;
another was for speeding (we were not). Tecate has been a crap-shoot for at lease three years now. The last time they wanted to follow us to the ATM so we could pull money out for them!
We have yet to pay. KNOCK ON WOOD! We politely out-wait them—we simply sit there and politely do nothing.

rts551 - 9-2-2013 at 01:18 PM

I pass through Tecate every couple of months or so. I always tread lightly. That being said (and no excuse for a shakedown), I see lots of US plated cars (could be locals, could be tourists) that are in a big hurry to get to the border.

Lee - 9-2-2013 at 02:41 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TecateRay
My solution is to deny and say you will go to the police station. I have personally used this approach 5 or 6 times in Tecate over the past 5 years and have NEVER yet been to the police station. It may happen some day and if I really did commit an infraction I will pay the legitimate fine.

Someone I know well was stopped in CC for running a stop sign. Not true. He didn't want to pay the Cop off, and chose going to the Station. The ''Judge'' happened to be in, displayed a large board that had violations and fines listed. In addition to being accused of not stopping at a stop sign, Cop added an additional charge of Speeding -- with the implication the Cop was PO'd at going to the Station. (1 charge on the street, 2 charges at the Station.)

Following the Cop to the Station, the Cop stopped on a isolated street, it was about 9pm, and the gringoes got rattled.

There are 2 Camps: those who think going to the Station means they'll get justice (by pleading their case), and those who have been to the Station and got fleeced. The 2 charges amounted to $80US.

Personally, I would never go to a Station. I believe odds are in my favor on a public street with people around.

By the way, last time going North at the major intersection at the bottom of the hill, I stopped for a red light and thought of turning right since no traffic was coming. Then noticed a motorcycle cop opposite quadrant diagonally (kitty corner), and he was looking at me. Glad I waited for a green light.

Sure like to read about successful outcomes at a Tecate police station.

rts551 - 9-2-2013 at 03:05 PM

3 camps Lee. Third camp goes to the station and has everything thrown out or fine reduced. Happened to me in Santa Rosalia. went through a stop sign , well kinda, I left from a parking spot at the intersection. Judge threw it out and asked to speak to the Bicycle cop after I left. You never know. You imply we should be afraid of the police... why?

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 03:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee
There are 2 Camps: those who think going to the Station means they'll get justice (by pleading their case), and those who have been to the Station and got fleeced.

There's a third as well. Keeping the money out of the street cop's hands might discourage him from being a hatchet-man for the judge in the future. He may no longer bother with the lies and fantasies if he's not seeing the ill-gotten gains.
It all starts with him, and there may be a chance it will end right there.

monoloco - 9-2-2013 at 03:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee
There are 2 Camps: those who think going to the Station means they'll get justice (by pleading their case), and those who have been to the Station and got fleeced.

Exactly, as long as the majority of suckers will open their wallets they'll keep preying on people. It's much better to go to the station and take your lumps (or not) and cut the mordilones out of the loop.

tripledigitken - 9-2-2013 at 03:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
....I've yet to see or hear of any bad happenings on that road.

Are you just talking about policia targeting gringos? Certainly the bodies dumped there by Narco's has been published in the local papers and copied online.

Ken

Bajahowodd - 9-2-2013 at 03:57 PM

Never even seen Tecate police as I transited through towb. That siad, my only gripe about the Tecate crossing is with the Mexican army troops that "direct" traffic. I stopped counting the number of Mexican plated vehicles that drove up and were allowed to cut the line to go right into the border checkpoint. What's that all about?

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 04:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken

Are you just talking about policia targeting gringos?

Of course. Nothing more.

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
What's that all about?

It's probably about twenty dollars.
I asked the US inspector at the booth what was up and she said it takes place in Mexico and there's nothing they could do about it.

tripledigitken - 9-2-2013 at 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken

Are you just talking about policia targeting gringos?

Of course. Nothing more.

I'm not surprised as I know you read the local news sources.

Ken

DENNIS - 9-2-2013 at 07:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken

I'm not surprised as I know you read the local news sources.

Ken

Worst part of that road for me is the dead dogs that follow their people across the road instead of using the foot bridges.
Very sad.

Yeah...I know it's a body dump as well, but the poor dogs......

brewer - 9-2-2013 at 08:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken

I'm not surprised as I know you read the local news sources.

Ken

Worst part of that road for me is the dead dogs that follow their people across the road instead of using the foot bridges.
Very sad.

Yeah...I know it's a body dump as well, but the poor dogs......

Body dump as well? In Tecate? Could you elaborate? Am I missing something?

DENNIS - 9-3-2013 at 07:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
Body dump as well? In Tecate? Could you elaborate? Am I missing something?

Actually, we were discussing Blvd. 2000, from Otay to the Highway -1 Toll Road. It has a reputation for being a favorite road used by the drug folks for dumping victim's bodies...all, or in parts.......probably for it's semi-isolation in some areas.
File this under, "Things the Image Committee won't tell you."

"Don't drive at night."

"You can't litter aluminum."

Lee - 9-3-2013 at 08:58 AM

Then there's the story posted here of the guy charged with not having his dogs in a kennel or with seat belts (might have been the stop sign scam) and the Tecate Cops searched his truck, found couple knives, went to the Station and was told he would be put in jail and his truck impounded if he didn't pay up. (Wife was outside in the truck.) Guess the trucker paid the Cops what they demanded.

Any positive stories about scam stops that end up at the Station?

DENNIS - 9-3-2013 at 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee

Any positive stories about scam stops that end up at the Station?

I've heard some, but never committed them to memory. Just kinda took honest and fair treatment for granted.
We all know it's not the individual cop on the street. It's the system and they're all part of it. That's why I have no faith in the SINDICATURA solution. They will not prosecute their own. The stories we sometimes hear to the contrary are PR BS as far as I'm concerned.
In spite of that, there have been lots of stories of people getting a fair shake at the station after it's already been established the street cop is a reprehensible thief.

I also feel this will never change in our lifetime. Even Wall Street pursues the easy money. It seems to be human nature.
That said....the "good fight" is still our obligation. It's our part of the contract.

"Take me to the juez. I don't mind waiting."

.

[Edited on 9-3-2013 by DENNIS]

David K - 9-3-2013 at 10:06 AM

Sometime over 3 years ago, they changed the name to CORREDOR 2000...

Here's a photo taken between the Otay Border and the start of the 'Corredor', which begins just to the south of where the Toll Highway to Tecate (from Tijuana) begins (photos from Sept., 2010):

Another sign calls it CORR TIJUANA-ROSARITO:

SOUTHBOUND from Otay Border, first follow signs for the Tecate Toll Road (2-D) and you will turn east onto BLVD. INDUSTRIAL:

Please excuse the glare, but this is the sign where you split to the right (signed for ROSARITO) and the Toll highway to Tecate is to the left:

Getting dark, but this is the sign at the south (or west) end of the Corredor, just south of the Fox Baja Studio (Titanic Movie Set) at Popotla:

NORTHBOUND (2007):

The end of the Corredor...

This is looking at the start of the Tecate Toll Highway.

AAA Map showing the new highway:

Here is a road log I made in 2007 after first using the BLVD. 2000 (now CORREDOR 2000):

MEXICO at Otay Border: Mile 0.0, Time 0:0

Head straight south, staying in left lanes. Follow signs for TECATE.

LEFT TURN at signal, slight curve to left just before signal: Mile 1.1, Time 0:03

Heading east on Blvd. Industrial... soon becomes divided highway!

Take new highway south, signed for Rosarito, Popotla, Ensenada.
Toll highway 2-D to Tecate curves to left, see toll gate, Big Horn Sheep monument almost unseen heading south: Mile 6.0, Time 0:13

Free Hwy. 2 (TECATE) interchange, continue south then southwest: Mile 13.0, Time 0:22

Cross the Rodriguez/ Tijuana reservoir and head into the hills...

Pass under the toll highway (Mex. 1-D) and come to the free highway (Mex. 1)... Mile 31.3, Time 0:38.

They will have it connected to the toll highway, but that work seems stalled. Too bad, but until then go a few miles on the free road to almost Puerto Nuevo where you can hop on the toll road for free.

Fox Baja Studio entrance is just to your right, Puerto Nuevo and access onto the toll highway is about 6 miles to your left.

DavidE - 9-3-2013 at 12:27 PM

On the SOUTH side of the big park that is impossible to miss in Tecate is the tourism office. File a complaint. It will not go into the waste basket. It seems NO ONE here is doing this, filing a complaint. If you have done this personally, please respond below.

Mexican cabrones de patrulla get on their knees every morning and pray to god to encounter a gringo. They KNOW FOR A FACT they can milk them like a Guernsey, and then the gringos will RUN AWAY to the border with their tail between their legs.

Hey Dennis, how's this for a flame?

Have a 50' bus towing a 40' trailer, park in the gawdamn street right in front of the tourist office. The cops will NOT HASSLE YOU.

[Edited on 9-3-2013 by DavidE]

DENNIS - 9-3-2013 at 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DavidE

Hey Dennis, how's this for a flame?

Finest kind, David. High quality, fer sure. Keep up the good work.

Bajahowodd - 9-3-2013 at 04:01 PM

I am wondering just what advantage there is by crossing S/B at Otay and heading over to 2000. While I would not dream of coming up N/B at SY, the S.B transit is really a breeze. Is it about saving a few bucks worth of tolls on the scenic highway?

For us, the ongoing view is well worth the pittance we pay.

David K - 9-3-2013 at 06:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
I am wondering just what advantage there is by crossing S/B at Otay and heading over to 2000. While I would not dream of coming up N/B at SY, the S.B transit is really a breeze. Is it about saving a few bucks worth of tolls on the scenic highway?

For us, the ongoing view is well worth the pittance we pay.

To AVOID the Tijuana/ San Ysidro border and Tijuana city traffic to the toll road at Playas de Tijuana... if you are headed for Rosarito or any point south of Rosarito.

Otay to the Corredor 2000 is 6 miles, and only about 2-3 miles are city street traffic and only one turn (onto Industrial) that entire 6 miles.

I don't get driving 40 miles into the mountains for Tecate only to come back to the coast, unless you wanted to drive through Guadalupe Valley... but that is just me going southbound. Now, northbound I would always go to Tecate because of the border wait at both Tijuana or Otay. However, twice I have had 3 hour or longer border waits at Tecate... but just twice.

Udo - 9-3-2013 at 06:45 PM

This may be another nail in the coffin for the Tecate NORTHBOUND crossing:
Two Mondays ago, at 10:00 a.m.I was the 3rd car in line...less than three minutes!

However, the SBO CBP agent decided to "profile" Jana and I and sent us into secondary.

Were there about 20 minutes. They went through every luggage bag and our refrigerator. They found 8 slices of salami wrapped in a baggie. They said that salami (even though processed and brought in from NOB) was PORK and PORK is on the prohibited list. So they confiscated it. You shoudda seen how they left the contents of our fridge.

David K - 9-3-2013 at 06:55 PM

This new crew of hyped up border guards have made it (for us) no point in saving any food. Even the allowed items (limes) are considered forbidden by the untrained officers and after 20 min. in secondary, a laugh by the ag officer and told us to go (as limes are quite okay to bring across).

Give leftovers or uneaten food to the army checkpoint guys or anyone before coming home!

woody with a view - 9-3-2013 at 07:05 PM

"Take me to the juez, I can wait!"

new bumper sticker.... :light:

David K - 9-6-2013 at 06:40 PM

Here is the CORREDOR 2000 (added in black) on the 2003 Baja Almanac:

The blue highlight route is an off road trail we ran with The Squarecircle and others back in 2005: http://vivabaja.com/305/

TecateRay - 9-6-2013 at 08:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
This new crew of hyped up border guards have made it (for us) no point in saving any food. Even the allowed items (limes) are considered forbidden by the untrained officers and after 20 min. in secondary, a laugh by the ag officer and told us to go (as limes are quite okay to bring across).

Give leftovers or uneaten food to the army checkpoint guys or anyone before coming home!

I second this idea. The enlightened ones at the gates can't decide what's okay and what isn't, so it's easier to send you to secondary. I try to give everything away to someone who needs it more than me then I put my ice chests just inside the door of my camper so it is extra easy to check - it works sometimes, well usually. :rolleyes:

J.P. - 9-6-2013 at 08:27 PM

When we cross going north at Tecate they always look in our motorhome in secondary. They always appear to be baffled the cupboard is bare and the Refrigerator is empty, and we have no food for our two Dogs
:lol:

rocmoc - 9-7-2013 at 06:05 AM

How about the use of a Dash Cam? What do you think would happen? More and more of the RVers I know have gone to having a Dash Cam operating anytime they are driving the RV. I will be getting one myself by my next trip.

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

DENNIS - 9-7-2013 at 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by rocmoc
How about the use of a Dash Cam? What do you think would happen? More and more of the RVers I know have gone to having a Dash Cam operating anytime they are driving the RV. I will be getting one myself by my next trip.

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

I believe photography is prohibited in the gate area. I'm sure you can have one up there, but if you get a real jerk for an inspector, you may have it confiscated.....pending investigation for recorded content.......of course.
Sooo....if you plan to mount a camera, get a cheap one. :cool:

Jack Swords - 9-7-2013 at 08:34 AM

Last year we had our TURKEY ham confiscated, because it was HAM. No point in questioning. We were told to stand away from the car in a distant area, open all doors, and wait. We waited, and waited, and waited, finally searched, sent on our way without even a comment (except about our "ham"). Felt like a criminal. Yet, our dog food was OK. I like the idea of donating it before crossing.

tripledigitken - 9-7-2013 at 08:42 AM

Cameras and policia, most times don't mix.

Last time we got our tourist visas in Tecate, I thought I'd take a photo of the bldg. to post here. Apparently not a good idea. A uniformed official quickly ran over and read me the riot act. I was happy not to have to fight him for control of my camera.

Ken

Trueheart - 9-7-2013 at 09:03 AM

I posted this back in April ... here it is again.

border crossing - Tecate & TJ

Just came north through the border and tried Tecate for first time last Saturday. Arriving at 10 minutes to 2PM, we were on our way in the US by 3:05. I hour 15 minutes total.

I'm wondering what the wait time was at TJ last Saturday, so I could compare how much time was saved. Any Nomads happen to know?

BTW, just before entering line, I stopped at the Pemex and got rid of some limons so as to be in compliance with "no fruit". Federal Policia pulled in behind me with lights on, noticing my ATV trailer plate was missing (claimed by one of Baja's off roads). I showed him the current registration and explained. He simply said that in MX trailers are required to have plates and I needed to follow him to the police station to pay the fine. I got a bit testy. "Police station? But I didn't do anything wrong". Then I told him I was prepping to get in line at border and to let me go on my way PLEASE, Por Favor. He got an odd look on his face, then said okay and handed me back my paperwork. No Mordida!

Was also surprised to find an internal (to US) check point along 94 after going through border on way back to SD & 5. Casual conversation there was all, but they are set up to inspect and detain if they deem it necessary.

Final trip note is that we stayed at Baja Cactus on Friday night, room #204 in back, and it was nice. I do question though, why they squeezed the toilet into such a small place when the room is quite large? Ate at Mama's as we arrived kind of late, and the meal was just average at best. We will try another place next time, and arrive early enough to do so comfortably.

DENNIS - 9-7-2013 at 09:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken
Cameras and policia, most times don't mix.

Last time we got our tourist visas in Tecate, I thought I'd take a photo of the bldg. to post here. Apparently not a good idea. A uniformed official quickly ran over and read me the riot act. I was happy not to have to fight him for control of my camera.

Ken

Ohhh well....it's all for our protection that police can stand right in front of you and maintain stealth. Thank you, HS. :fire:

I lost track above in mentioning the border inspectors when this is a Tecate police mordida thread.

In regard to them....they aren't completely dense. If they see a dash-cam, they probably won't be conducting business in front of it.

.

[Edited on 9-7-2013 by DENNIS]

DavidE - 9-7-2013 at 09:46 AM

I sure look forward to passing through Tecate the next time. All the valiant rabbits have trained the mordelones well. Give them money and flee. I would not rather play pinchy-giggle with the cabrones and not lose the time. Would love to see some of you face off with a pair of six foot three inch Chilango cops.

Lee - 9-7-2013 at 11:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by rts551
3 camps Lee. Third camp goes to the station and has everything thrown out or fine reduced. Happened to me in Santa Rosalia. went through a stop sign , well kinda, I left from a parking spot at the intersection. Judge threw it out and asked to speak to the Bicycle cop after I left. You never know. You imply we should be afraid of the police... why?

I'm not writing that all stations are the same. Tecate and CC would be a toss up and justice there might be fleeting.

I don't imply anything about MX cops except there are some bad apples out there and not all cops are on the take. Since most are good they deserve respect.

No one should be scared of cops but know there are many out there who sweat bullets at being pulled over. Too bad.

DENNIS - 9-7-2013 at 11:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee

I don't imply anything about MX cops except there are some bad apples

I bet I've said this a hundred million times, "It ain't the apples.......it's the barrel they sit in.
It's not just the cop....it's the system they're part of."

When someone finds a cure for human greed, then we can work on mordida.

mtgoat666 - 9-7-2013 at 12:00 PM

Quote:

you should get a cyborg camera like "google glass" and video and webcast EVERYTHING. the bad cops would get freaked out about it, and the video feed will provide endless entertainment for us nomads,..

suggest you put a bumper sticker on your car saying "this car collects video surveillance, all cops subject to recording and live internet broadcast" :lol:

Lee - 9-7-2013 at 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
I bet I've said this a hundred million times, "It ain't the apples.......it's the barrel they sit in.
It's not just the cop....it's the system they're part of."

When someone finds a cure for human greed, then we can work on mordida.

Think this may be a political position Dennis and maybe we're in agreement here. It certainly is the barrel and the system. And it's the Cop on the street it's both. And not all Cops are bad -- and even think 90% of them are not interested in mordida.

John Hiatt said ''there's only two things in life and I forget what they are.''

Osprey - 9-7-2013 at 01:11 PM

Forgive me if this is a little dated because it was a long time ago crossing at Tecate. I was alone in my pickup and this big, fat cop pulled me over for speeding. I knew I wasn't speeding so I figured he was just after my money. It was a challenge to my Spanish back then cause I didn't know very many words but I was rested, fresh and ready for the guy.

They didn't have sindicaturas back then, just The Sheriff so I took a picture of the guy with my polaroid and threatened to tell The Sheriff about the shakedown. Then he backed off, said I could go but I told him I would need 300 pesos to keep quiet about the whole thing. I thought he was gonna cry -- he took out his wallet and showed me pictures of "his family". I wasn't born yesterday so I said "These people could be anybody. How do I know you even have a family?".

Well, it dragged on like that for some time but he finally forked over the money. I made him promise to do 10 hours community service after his regular shifts and I sent him on his way. I'm nobody's fool -- I don't think he ever did the whole 10 hours.

DENNIS - 9-7-2013 at 01:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Osprey
Forgive me if this is a little dated

I love dates. Your stories as well. Good one, Jorge.

Lee - 9-7-2013 at 02:45 PM

God that is so funny! Personally, I wouldn't take money from a Cop.

Mulegena - 9-7-2013 at 02:49 PM

Great short-story, Osprey!

Right up there with your "dosing the hummingbird feeder with Prozac" story in my book.

BajaRun - 9-8-2013 at 12:15 PM

I cross at Tecate 10-12 times a year. Always towing my offroad car on an open trailer. I've only been pulled over one time, and I deserved it..I was heading east toward El Hongo, I had just fueled up at the Pemex on the north side of the highway just after leaving town. I made an illegal left turn right in front of a Policia with light and siren blasting (I didn't see him!!) Luckily he avoided a collision and went around me and kept going. I was thinking that I got away with something. Well up ahead a few miles where the 2 splits off to the old road to Mexicali and the Toll road begins ( I take the old road) I passé the Policia at a traffic incident. He tried to wave me down but I acted like I didn't see him and proceeded on my way...5 miles from my destination there he is in my rearview mirror lighting me up. I pull over and get out, (cliff notes version) I apologized for what I did, he wants $200.00 usd. We settled at $50.00 and I was on my way. It was much easier than going all the way back to town.

Last time I came back through Tecate was 2 weeks ago. When the Border Agent asked what I was bring back from Mexico I said "Just Some Beer"..she asked "How much Beer ?" ..."5 Cases"..."Why so much ?"..."Because I'm from AZ and I'm allowed 5 cases"..."I asked you why you are bring back so much ?"...."Because I'm very thirsty"...."Have a nice Day".......

Now that's funny!!!!!!!!!

BigOly - 9-8-2013 at 02:27 PM

"Well, it dragged on like that for some time but he finally forked over the money. I made him promise to do 10 hours community service after his regular shifts and I sent him on his way. I'm nobody's fool -- I don't think he ever did the whole 10 hours."

brewer - 9-8-2013 at 05:45 PM

Quote:

Last time I came back through Tecate was 2 weeks ago. When the Border Agent asked what I was bring back from Mexico I said "Just Some Beer"..she asked "How much Beer ?" ..."5 Cases"..."Why so much ?"..."Because I'm from AZ and I'm allowed 5 cases"..."I asked you why you are bring back so much ?"...."Because I'm very thirsty"...."Have a nice Day".......

Yea right. They would love to find 5 cases on you so they could ruin your day.

BajaRun - 9-8-2013 at 09:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
Last time I came back through Tecate was 2 weeks ago. When the Border Agent asked what I was bring back from Mexico I said "Just Some Beer"..she asked "How much Beer ?" ..."5 Cases"..."Why so much ?"..."Because I'm from AZ and I'm allowed 5 cases"..."I asked you why you are bring back so much ?"...."Because I'm very thirsty"...."Have a nice Day".......

Yea right. They would love to find 5 cases on you so they could ruin your day.

Are you saying that I can't bring back 5 cases of beer ? If you are then you are misinformed !! And yes I did have 5 cases, 2 Corona and 3 Pacifico

brewer - 9-9-2013 at 01:33 PM

I'm saying I did NOT know you could bring that much beer back. Can anyone elaborate on that? 5 cases. I'm calling BS.

Alcohol

bajaguy - 9-9-2013 at 02:10 PM

THE USCBP enforces (mostly) state alcohol regulations. If you have a California plated car and a California drivers license, you are limited to 1 quart per each adult person.

If you are in a car with other than California plates and you have a drivers license from the state where the car is plated you can "import" additional alcohol, based on that states alcohol or taxation regulations......plus, you have to convince the inspector that you will not stop or drink the booze in California.

NOTE.........if you try and import other than "personal use" amounts, CBP MAY tax you on the alcohol based on IRS and BATF regulations.

YMMV.....by individual inspector......good luck

[Edited on 9-9-2013 by bajaguy]

brewer - 9-9-2013 at 03:19 PM

Well then, I guess AZ is 5 cases!

bajaguy - 9-9-2013 at 03:41 PM

Could be more, based on Arizona regulations.

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
Well then, I guess AZ is 5 cases!

CBP/Arizona regulations

bajaguy - 9-9-2013 at 03:55 PM

"...........Please be aware that State ABC laws govern how much alcohol a person may import into their state without a license and those laws are enforced by CBP. You must check with the state ABC board where your shipment will enter the country to determine their limits.

There is no federal limit on the amount of alcohol someone may import into the U.S. for personal use, however, large quantities might raise the suspicion that the importation is for commercial purposes, and a CBP Officer could require you to obtain an Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) import license before releasing it.

Arizona Revised Statute:

4-244.02. Unlawful importation of spirituous liquor; exceptions

A. It is unlawful for any person, not a qualified licensee under this title, to import spirituous liquors into this state from a foreign country unless:

1. Such person is the legal drinking age.

2. Such person has been physically within such foreign country immediately prior to such importation and such importation coincides with his return from such foreign country.

3. .......the amount of spirituous liquor imported does not exceed the amount permitted by federal law to be imported duty-free, in any period of thirty-one days, except that if the federal law prescribing such duty-free limitation is repealed or amended, then in no event shall the amount of duty-free importation into this state be more than one liter of spirituous liquor during such period.

BajaRun - 9-10-2013 at 07:09 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
Well then, I guess AZ is 5 cases!

I call BS !!

JK Brewer !!

DENNIS - 9-10-2013 at 07:25 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaRun

Quote:

Originally posted by brewer
Well then, I guess AZ is 5 cases!

I call BS !!

JK Brewer !!

This isn't the first time it's been mentioned here. A while back, Bajadock commented about being able to cross into California with cases of wine [I think it was wine] because his car and DL are from Colorado, so I believe there's something to it.

tripledigitken - 9-10-2013 at 07:53 AM

You'd think "Brewer" would have a grasp of the situation.

:spingrin:

Udo - 9-10-2013 at 08:09 AM

Here is another one:
According to the CBP, one CAN be from California and bring up to their allowed dollar value $400.00(maximum $ allowed of tax-exempt products) in booze if you are bringing it via a common carrier (i.e. bus, ship or plane) i.e. you are traveling by one of those modes, NOT in your car.

Don't bring limes for your beer though

durrelllrobert - 9-10-2013 at 08:19 AM

fox5sandiego.com/2013/09/09/730k-of-pot-uncovered-in-lime-shipment/

:lol:

brewer - 9-10-2013 at 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by tripledigitken
You'd think "Brewer" would have a grasp of the situation.

This "Brewer" was clueless on that one.

:spingrin:

Hook - 9-10-2013 at 03:04 PM

I SPECIFICALLY asked CBP about being allowed more than the amount allowed to AZ residents about a year ago, as I crossed with my South Dakota plates; a decidedly non-border state. We had our usual liters of tequila, but I was hoping to bring more north on my next trip north.

He said, NO WAY!!!! One quart was all they allowed us.

DENNIS - 9-10-2013 at 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Hook

He said, NO WAY!!!! One quart was all they allowed us.

And, if you can't believe Homeland Security, who can you believe?

Nookster - 9-11-2013 at 08:40 AM

I drove Hwy 3 from Ensenada yesterday. I got into Tecate and they had 2 different cop cars trolling that short distance, one just before McDonalds and one after. I counted from 1001-1003 at the stop signs and got through OK. There wasn't any military checkpoint this time all the way through and it took me exactly 17 minutes to cross the border at 9:30 a.m. The only downer after a beautiful drive was at the crossing a young female agent took my passport who was very pleasant. As I was answering the typical questions in a polite and friendly manner a voice boomed out behind her "TAKE OFF YOUR SUNGLASSES", the young agent stepped aside and slouching on a stool was a heavy set female agent with the nastiest look on her face. :mad:

Man, I mean just started asking me some questions with a snarl on her face. :lol:

I guess she was just having a miserable day and after thinking about it she was probably training the younger women. I stayed cool, calm and polite regardless and she sent us through. Other than that it was just another beautiful day in paradise. :lol:

durrelllrobert - 9-11-2013 at 09:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Udo
Here is another one:
According to the CBP, one CAN be from California and bring up to their allowed dollar value $400.00(maximum $ allowed of tax-exempt products) in booze if you are bringing it via a common carrier (i.e. bus, ship or plane) i.e. you are traveling by one of those modes, NOT in your car.

Obviously the CBP believes that if you have more than 1 lier in the CAR you are a drunk driver.

Lee - 9-11-2013 at 09:39 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Nookster
I guess she was just having a miserable day and after thinking about it she was probably training the younger women. I stayed cool, calm and polite regardless and she sent us through.. :lol:

Or she was impatient with you for pulling up with sunglasses on. Thought that's always been a no-no.

DENNIS - 9-11-2013 at 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee
Or she was impatient with you for pulling up with sunglasses on. Thought that's always been a no-no.

First, it's take off your sunglasses. Next, it's take off your pants so we can pull those bombs and box cutters out of your butt.
It all makes me feel so safe and protected.

DavidE - 9-11-2013 at 11:02 AM

True Story

Some wiseass wore one of those printed teeshirts showing a belt of dynamite would round the middle and a "Pull Here" string with ring. He wrote a scathing complaint how he was treated entering the USA from Canada.

Nookster - 9-11-2013 at 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lee

Quote:

Or she was impatient with you for pulling up with sunglasses on.
Thought that's always been a no-no.

Yeah you should take them off, but I forget, however that doesn't allow her or anybody to be that rude and nasty.

Complain

bajaguy - 9-11-2013 at 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Nookster

Yeah you should take them off, but I forget, however that doesn't allow her or anybody to be that rude and nasty.

You could write a formal complaint letter to the supervisor in charge of the district.

Here ya go, get out your pencil and some paper.
*********************************
General Information

(01/20/2012)

Chief Patrol Agent: Paul A. Beeson
Deputy Chief Patrol Agent: Rodney S. Scott

Service Area: The San Diego Sector covers the entire San Diego County.

Sector Headquarters Location: 2411 Boswell Road, Chula Vista, California

Contact Information: Phone Number (619) 216-4000;

Sector Headquarters Mailing Address:
2411 Boswell Rd.,
Chula Vista, CA 91914-3519

Community Feedback: We strive to provide quality service to our customers. If we have not lived up to this commitment, we would like to know.

If we have met or exceeded your expectations, please let us know that as well. To comment on the services provided by this office, please write to the Sector Chief Patrol Agent.

If you feel you were mistreated by a Border Patrol employee or wish to make a complaint of misconduct by a Border Patrol employee, you may write to the Chief Patrol Agent.

Nookster - 9-11-2013 at 12:58 PM

bajaguy thanks for that info. I'm really not a complaint type guy, I just roll with it and move on. However this agent disposition was over the top. My brother was with me and he hardly ever goes down and said "after being down all week the Mexicans everywhere where overly gracious and friendly, then when we get back to our own country and one of our own acts like that, it has to make you wonder". Hey, but I guess sometime a person can have a bad day. I keep a window sticker on my truck that says "No Bad Days". Maybe I should mail a few too the Tecate crossing folks. :lol:

David K - 9-11-2013 at 01:08 PM

The seriously bizarre, bigoted questions we got last time through Tecate by the U.S. border officer was so out of line, it is hard to set aside. Baja Angel who loves Baja, was so put off by that and the longer waits coming home, she is not anxious for a repeat. See my Memorial Day 2013 trip report for the details.

monoloco - 9-11-2013 at 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaguy

Quote:

Originally posted by Nookster

Yeah you should take them off, but I forget, however that doesn't allow her or anybody to be that rude and nasty.

You'd probably have just as much luck with this:

Letters, we get letters.............

bajaguy - 9-11-2013 at 01:17 PM

Nookster, David K and others.

It is not easy to sit there and take it, from the US CBP or the Mexican police, however if we (or you) do nothing, the behavior continues.

Take 10 minutes and write a letter........not only the the CBP chief, but to your US Senator and Congressman. Things will happen and you will get an apology.

For the Mexican police, a letter to the State Tourism Chief, the State Police (PEP) and any other state, local and federal addresses you can find............the more letters the better.

One 'fake out' trick I have used is to include a "CC" or "copy" line to the local newspapers.

Just remember, date, time, location, details.......keep it on point

motoged - 9-11-2013 at 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
.... Baja Angel who loves Baja, was so put off by that and the longer waits coming home, she is not anxious for a repeat....

Oh oh.....

Well, you always have the Tacoma for dependability :biggrin:

I am sure she recognizes that the price of admission (and the return) is worth it :cool:

David K - 9-11-2013 at 03:21 PM

Yes, we have always felt an hour or two border wait was well within the norms since what happened to us (U.S.) 12 years ago today... It was the the weird, ignorant questioning we have never heard before that was just so strange... and I have been traveling to Mexico since 1965, so I have heard plenty!

motoged - 9-11-2013 at 03:41 PM

Border Agents are trained to detect non-verbal responses to their questions, as well as the verbal replies. So, when they are playing mind-reader Kresgin, they are looking for other clues as to your present level of comfort with their line of questioning.

So, when they ask yo the same question 5 times, they are waiting for the eye-twitch or similar evidence of your status as a terrorist or other type of undesirable :biggrin:

Ten years ago I was going north at Tecate crossing. I was on a motorcycle that was pleasingly adorned with a month's worth of dust, mud, and bugs....and had several bottles of Mexican Cointreau....the female agent was starting her job appropriately when a fat guard stormed into her booth and said, "He's mine!"

I was prepared for the crossing and had dumped the ten kilos of pot and three "Illegal aliens" out of my panniers a few blocks earlier :lol:

so, was ready for anything they would throw at me :cool:

He directed me to the proctologist's stainless steel table for inspection....and proceeded to tear all my stuff apart. Having found no contraband, he simply walked away. I followed him and pleasantly asked him to repack my crap....(just for entertainment value). He looked surprised (my entertainment) and told me he was finished with me and walked away.

I packed my stuff and took a few steps back for a picture.....he then came storming out and bellowed at me that I could not take pictures.

I asked why not. His reply that I could not photograph federal property. I then asked why it was alright to take photos of the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and such places.

He seemed stumped for a moment before he turned away without answering.

These days I follow the etiquette as best I can....cuz I watch Cops, Border Wars, and Locked Up Abroad a lot on the history channel :lol:

My sins of the past don't seem to show up on their computers and I want to keep it that way :saint:

I look at border crossings as an adventure and an opportunity to appear to be the man my dog thinks I am :biggrin:

DENNIS - 9-11-2013 at 03:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by motoged

I was prepared for the crossing and had dumped the ten kilos of pot and three "Illegal aliens" out of my panniers a few blocks earlier :lol:

so, was ready for anything they would throw at me :cool:

Reminds of a time I was going north at SY in a ratty old pickup with a shell on the bed and the guard didn't want to get his hands dirty, so he asked me without looking if I had any illegals in the rear of the truck, to which I replied, "Nah......I use my big truck for that."
He thought that was funny as hell and sent me on my way with a, "Have a nice day."

You never know what to expect, but whatever it is, it should be nice.

bajaguy - 9-11-2013 at 04:02 PM

Had a nice chat with a CBP agent at the Otay SENTRI booth who wanted to talk about his house in Lomas Del Mar Ensenada, and where were some really good places to eat. I pointed him to Muelle 3.

DENNIS - 9-11-2013 at 04:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaguy
Had a nice chat with a CBP agent at the Otay SENTRI booth who wanted to talk about his house in Lomas Del Mar Ensenada, and where were some really good places to eat. I pointed him to Muelle 3.

Really?? Who was that? :?:

bajaguy - 9-11-2013 at 04:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Really?? Who was that? :?:

Didn't get his name.......it was the Lomas west of/behind Wal Mart

Nookster - 9-11-2013 at 04:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by motoged
Border Agents are trained to detect non-verbal responses to their questions, as well as the verbal replies. So, when they are playing mind-reader Kresgin, they are looking for other clues as to your present level of comfort with their line of questioning.

So, when they ask yo the same question 5 times, they are waiting for the eye-twitch or similar evidence of your status as a terrorist or other type of undesirable :biggrin:

so, was ready for anything they would throw at me :cool:

My sins of the past don't seem to show up on their computers and I want to keep it that way :saint:

I look at border crossings as an adventure and an opportunity to appear to be the man my dog thinks I am :biggrin:

Funny story man :lol:

I think that's why I always pack my dirty underwear on top of my bag. Just to see the reaction :lol:

Nookster - 9-11-2013 at 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by motoged

I was prepared for the crossing and had dumped the ten kilos of pot and three "Illegal aliens" out of my panniers a few blocks earlier :lol:

so, was ready for anything they would throw at me :cool:

Yeah Dennis, reminds me of a few years back I was crossing SY with some friends on motorcycles and my buddy who's half crazy pulled up and the Officer asked "are you bringing anything back"? and my friend looks down and puts his hand on his crotch and said "I hope not"! :lol:

:The officer chuckled and sent him through.

The dance

bajaguy - 9-11-2013 at 04:59 PM

Crossing back into the US is like a dance where you don't know your partner. Let them lead, and just follow. Seems like the people who have problems try to lead and that results in stepped on toes, - yours - (a verbal blast)....and maybe a kick in your shins (secondary).

MMc - 9-11-2013 at 05:02 PM

Years ago, I wanted to give the god children those foam lizards on a wire, so I send my driving companion for to find some. He comes back so proud that he scored 15 for $10.00. I only wanted 10. Yes, beer was involved. We pull up to the guard, he asks what we are bringing back as I look over to my ride along I realize he has bent 2 of the wires so the lizards are hanging from his ears. He says "just some earrings". "Off the secondary"was the guards response.

David K - 9-12-2013 at 08:13 AM

Quote:

so, was ready for anything they would throw at me :cool:

My sins of the past don't seem to show up on their computers and I want to keep it that way :saint:

I look at border crossings as an adventure and an opportunity to appear to be the man my dog thinks I am :biggrin:

Well, why use the phrase 5 times: "Is that were mostly the gringos live?" after I told him were were camping near San Felipe"... and he asked back "I don't know where San Felipe is but is it like Mulege or Loreto were all the gringos live?"

:lol:

Lee - 9-12-2013 at 08:27 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Well, why use the phrase 5 times: "Is that were mostly the gringos live?" after I told him were were camping near San Felipe"... and he asked back "I don't know where San Felipe is but is it like Mulege or Loreto were all the gringos live?"

:lol:

Yes is always a good answer. No would be making the Agent wrong or confused. There are plenty of posts here indicating the US Agents know as much, or less, as the MX Agents. Trying to make sense, or worse, logic, out of anything at the Border is mental masturbashion. Something I know something about.

I don't justify bad behavior from this group. If I were to put myself in their shoes, I'd know they are stressed to the max, a day on the job is not a good day, the politics from above in trying to stop the flow of guns/drugs/bodies leaves everyone PO'd.

One day, don't hold me to this, there will be a ''Tertiary'' where those who fail Secondary will go. Enjoy the ride and glad you don't work there.

durrelllrobert - 9-12-2013 at 08:48 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaguy

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Really?? Who was that? :?:

Didn't get his name.......it was the Lomas west of/behind Wal Mart

??? Lomas means HILLS and there aren't any behind WalMart

bajaguy - 9-12-2013 at 08:52 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by durrelllrobert

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaguy

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Really?? Who was that? :?:

Didn't get his name.......it was the Lomas west of/behind Wal Mart

??? Lomas means HILLS and there aren't any behind WalMart

Bob....that is the name of the subdivision/area. Get an Ensenada city map and check it out.

Pages: 1 2