Some neighborhoods in the Bronx, infamous for their high rates of vandalism and danger in the streets and subways, give Mexicans one more thing to worry about when they travel through these areas – they have to watch their backs so they don't get assaulted. Needless to say, they have lost all "trust" in the New York City Police Department.

Esteban, not his real name, who works as an assistant cook at a deli, has been living on Brook Avenue for a year. He said that gang activity in the area has risen and that it is very difficult to control because gangs are "no longer afraid" of authorities.

"These young men get together after 11 p.m. and harass Mexicans who come home late from work. They take their money and beat them, and outright mug them. The gangs challenge the police by covering the subway walls with graffiti," said Esteban. He admitted his fear of the current situation, especially since "the gangs" don't respect women or children.

"It doesn't matter if your family is with you. They'll bother you and insult you no matter what. One would think that the subway stations are safe and well-patrolled, but these boys do what they want," Esteban added. He lamented the high crime rates on Brook Avenue, especially since there is a police station at the Third Avenue stop.

Red zones

Enrique Méndez, who works at a fish shop, said that places like Hunts Point, Cypress Avenue, Fordham Road, and Elder Avenue, among others, are some of the most "dangerous" areas for Mexicans who finish work late at night. The gangs "hunt them," especially on the weekends, with the aim of stealing their money.

"Many Mexicans work at meat markets in Hunts Point and their shifts start at five in the morning. Everyone comes to work in groups because they're afraid of getting mugged. Police officers are around during the day, but at night the streets are truly unsafe," said Méndez, who "learned to live" with the fear of getting assaulted.