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Deep Dive: Zero Tolerance: Ronald Vitiello Interview (2019)

Film Lens

Zero Tolerance: Ronald Vitiello Interview
This documentary features Ronald Vitiello discussing his experiences during the 2013 comprehensive immigration reform efforts in the Senate. As the deputy at Border Patrol within Customs and Border Protection, he reflects on the preparations made for potential changes in immigration policy, particularly regarding border security funding. Vitiello notes that while there was optimism at the departmental level about the reform, he was not surprised when the bill ultimately failed to progress in the House after passing the Senate. The film also addresses the ongoing challenges faced by frontline workers dealing with immigration issues. Vitiello emphasizes the difficulties and dangers of the job, highlighting the increasing number of individuals arriving at the border and the inadequacies of current facilities. He points out that the agents and medical staff are often overwhelmed, dealing with thousands of people in need of processing and care, which makes clear the urgency of addressing the immigration crisis.

Why Watch

  • •Find out why Vitiello wasn't surprised by the reform's failure.
  • •See how Border Patrol prepared for potential funding changes.
  • •Meet the frontline workers facing overwhelming challenges.

Did You Know

•Ronald Vitiello was the deputy at Border Patrol in 2013.
•The immigration reform bill passed the Senate but died shortly after.
•In 2012, there was a significant increase in children arriving at the border.
•Vitiello noted that facilities are not built to handle the current immigration problem.

Perfect For

Immigration policy enthusiastsBorder security advocatesFrontline worker supporters