People leave Guatemala to escape extreme poverty, high unemployment, widespread violence, and the constant threat of extortion from notorious gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18—both designated as terrorist organizations. So, it says a lot when an immigrant from Guatemala wants to return after living in Los Angeles.
Nery is a family man. He lives in West Hollywood after immigrating to the U.S. five years ago and provides for his family of four as a pool technician and general handyman. His most prized possession was his 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. It was beat up, the paint didn’t match, but he loved it because it carried all his tools—and because he loves America. To Nery, Chevy is a great American brand, and he knew that make and model to be reliable and durable.
Then it was stolen—twice in one month. The first time, the thief dumped it after a joyride that left the truck with flat tires, bent rims, and more body damage than it had before. All his pool equipment, supplies, and handyman tools were gone. Nery was still grateful to get the truck back, despite the $2,000 in repairs. He spent another $1,000 replacing his pool supplies and handyman tools. Then Nery’s Avalanche was stolen again. This time, it was found totaled. It was a big loss, but Nery found a way.
With his truck gone and no insurance payout—because he could only afford liability coverage—he relied on friends and family to get by. He never missed his rounds. I should know; I’m one of his customers. But I did notice he had a different truck. Nery saved up and paid $7,000 for a used Toyota Tacoma. Then, one morning, as he started his truck for his daily rounds, something was wrong. A thief had stolen his catalytic converter in the night. That cost $2,000 to replace.
After losing his truck and spending more than $12,000, Nery contemplated his next move while standing in my backyard.
“I’ve got to move,” he said.
“Out of WeHo?” I replied.
“No—back to Guatemala.”
