South OC Times

U.S. Representative Young Kim, along with other members of Congress, has called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to temporarily suspend Chile's participation in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The request comes amid concerns that South American Theft Groups (SATG), primarily from Chile, are exploiting the program for what is being termed "burglary tourism." This involves individuals traveling to the U.S. under the VWP to commit robberies before returning home.

In 2024, Orange County's Southeast Patrol Area reported 59 residential burglaries suspected to be linked to SATGs. Representatives Mike Levin, Derek Tran, and Dave Min joined Rep. Kim in urging action against these crimes.

The bipartisan letter sent by Rep. Kim and her colleagues highlights their concern over Chile's participation in the VWP due to its alleged exploitation by SATGs. They have requested that DHS and the Department of State suspend Chile's involvement until a review confirms compliance with security agreements such as the July 2023 Implementation Agreement for Prevention and Combating of Serious Crime (PCSC IA).

The VWP allows citizens from participating countries to enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa after completing an online application and paying a fee. Despite previous discussions between Chilean Foreign Minister Antonia Urrejola and then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken about evaluating Chile’s adherence to information-sharing requirements, local law enforcement reports indicate no reduction in SATG-related crimes.

The representatives emphasize that while California has enacted measures like Proposition 36 to address drug and theft-related offenses, federal action is necessary due to over 880,000 Chilean nationals entering through the VWP from fiscal years 2022 to 2023. These crimes impact local communities and businesses significantly.

Rep. Kim concludes by expressing hope for collaboration with DHS on enhancing national security measures for Southern California communities.