134787_110218 BOSA

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATIONThis document was created by Texas Department of Public Safety’s Border Security Operations Center in conjunctionwith federal, state, and local Unified Command partners as part of ongoing border security efforts and should besafeguarded and protected in accordance with the requirements of the above classification. The above classificationincludes this document and any accompanying attachments and/or e-mails.


Key Events and Findings

• On 15 FEB 2011, unknown gunmen attacked two ICE Agents, killing Agent Jaime Zapata and

injuring Agent Victor Avila, who were traveling from Mexico City to Monterrey in an armored SUV

with diplomatic plates.

• In the Coastal Bend Sector, THP Wharton Co seized a total of 66.14 lbs of cocaine.

Each bundle had a circular emblem with a black knight chess piece on the packaging.

• In the last few months, there have been a total of five reported incidences involving livestock

trailers to transport contraband. All incidences involved Gooseneck trailers except for one. In all,

there have a total of two incidences that occurred this week in Nacogdoches.

• The Laredo Sector reported the fifth seizure of liquid narcotic since mid-December.

CBP-OFO Officers working at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo seized 37.17 lbs

of liquid cocaine concealed in Corona beer bottles located inside of a 2001 Ford F-150.

• Over the last several months, there has been an increase in reported home invasions in the RGV

Sector and surrounding areas. To date, home invaders have largely been Hispanic males,

utilizing an assortment of weapons (semi automatic handguns, rifles, and shotguns). Several of

the get-away vehicles had Mexican plates. These types of incidences typically involve thefts of

narcotics between rival DTOs or the collection of drug debts owed.

• The amount of OTM apprehensions doubled this week from 123 to 449. The majority of OTMs

were apprehended in the RGV Sector.

• On 14 FEB 2011 in Monterrey’s central barrio, the Director of the Nuevo Leon’s C-5 Intelligence

Center Homero Guillermo Salcido Treviño, was found assassinated in his government issued

armored SUV.


287

287

27

Dallam Lipscomb

Hemphill

Potter Gray

Parmer

Cochran

Yoakum

Hall

Hale Motley

LubbockDickens

Andrews

King

Terry

ShermanHansford Ochiltree

Hutchinson

Wheeler

Randall Armstrong Donley

CastroBriscoe

Childress

Cottle

Hardeman

Foard

Hartley Roberts

OldhamCarson

Deaf SmithCollingsworth

Bailey

Swisher

Lamb Floyd

HockleyCrosby

Gaines

Knox

Lynn GarzaKent Stonewall

Jeff Davis

Reeves

Loving Winkler

Ward

Ector

Dawson

Martin

Zavala

UvaldeKinney

Edwards

Brewster

La Salle

Dimmit

Starr

Bowie

CassCam

p

Titus

Fra

nklin

Mo

rris

Rains Marion

KaufmanHarrison

PanolaGregg

Rusk

Bell

WilliamsonMilam

Sabine

Trinity

UpshurWood

Van Zandt

NavarroHill

Cherokee

Freestone

McLennan

Falls

Shelby

Nacogdoches

San

Augustine

Jasper

Jefferson

Tyler

Walker

Polk

Robertson

Madison

Brazos

Hardin

San Jacinto

Grimes

Liberty

Chambers

Montgomery

Burleson

Lee

Ellis

Goliad

BeeLive Oak

Duval

Jim Hogg

Henderson

Anderson

Leon

Limestone

Travis

Hays

Comal

Houston

Angelina

Newton

Orange

Cooke Grayson Fannin

CollinDentonHunt

Lamar

Delta

Hopkins

Dallas

Red River

Rockwall

Nolan

Baylor

Jones Shackelford Stephens

Archer

Young

Taylor

Haskell Throckmorton

Callahan

Howard

Borden Parker

Erath

Palo Pinto

Montague

Clay

Wichita

Wilbarger

WiseJack

Upton

BrownColeman

RunnelsCoke

SterlingGlasscock

Midland

Crane

Menard

McCulloch

Concho

Sutton

Schleicher

Tom Green

Crockett

Pecos

Irion

Reagan

Comanche

Hood

Bosque

Somervell

Hamilton

Kimble

Mason

Mills

San Saba

Blanco

Burnet

Lampasas

Johnson

Gillespie

Terrell

Llano

Coryell

Tarrant

Washington

Fayette

Lavaca

Colorado

Austin

Fort Bend

Brazoria

HarrisBastrop

Matagorda

Kerr

Real

Bexar

Wilson

Karnes

Caldwell

Gonzales

DeWitt

Waller

Kendall

Atascosa

Frio

Medina

Bandera

Galveston

Fisher

Scurry

Mitchell

Culberson

Webb

Jeff Davis

Val VerdePresidio

Moore

Dona Ana

Luna

Grant

Hidalgo

Eastland

Guadalupe

Jim Wells

Willacy

Kenedy

Cameron

Wharton

Jackson

Victoria

Refugio

San Patricio

Nueces

Kleberg

Brooks

Hudspeth

Otero

HudspethEl Paso

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

El Paso Sector

p. 05-17

Marfa Sector

p. 18-24

Del Rio Sector

p. 25-31

Laredo Sector

p. 32-45Rio Grande

Valley Sector

p. 46-62

Coastal Bend

Sector

p. 63-74

Statewide Corridor Seizures

p. 75-81

Overall Assessment

p. 95-100

Sig. Mexico Events

p. 82-94

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

Operation BORDER STAR 09 – 15 FEBURARY 2011


EL PASO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011

EL PASO

H U

D S P

E T H


UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS

Hudspeth CO SODona Ana CO SO (NM)Grant CO SO (NM)Hidalgo CO SO (NM)Luna CO SO (NM)Otero CO SO (NM) Anthony PDEl Paso PD

Horizon City PD

Ysleta Del Sur Tribal PD

El Paso ISD PD

University of Texas El Paso PD

El Paso Community College PD

El Paso Office of Emergency Management

Texas Tech University PD

Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts

Texas Attorney General, El Paso

Union Pacific Railroad PD

Texas Alcohic Beverage Commission

El Paso County Constables

USBP CBP – OFOICE West TX HIDTAEPICTMFDPS TPWDUS Army, Ft. Bliss CIDEl Paso CO SO

Full Map/Table of Contents


El Paso SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 107

Fugitive Arrests 57

Gang Related Criminal Arrests 8

Pursuits 2

Scouts/Decoys 0

Illegal Alien Apprehensions

IAs/Referrals 0

IAs/USBP 256

OTMs 16

OTM Countries

El Salvador 3

Guatemala 4

Honduras 6

Uruguay 1

Guinea 1

India 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 3,205.64 lbs

Cocaine 72.88 lbs

Heroin 0.0004 lbs

Methamphetamine 1.89 lbs

Currency $16,086

Other

Hydrocodone (5 pills)

Xanax (10 pills)

Methadone (6 pills)

Doxepin (7 pills)

Gabapertin(21 pills)

Tizanidine (19.5 pills)

Lisinopril (7 pills)

Amlodipine (15 pills)

Paroxetine (20 pills)

Ecstasy (1 pill)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 1

Explosive(s) 0

Vehicles Stolen / Recovered

Stolen 25

Recovered 1


El Paso Sector

The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:

$15,079

$23,830

$0

$16,086

$0

$5,000

$10,000

$15,000

$20,000

$25,000

$30,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

El Paso UC Currency Seizures

1,280.86

3,755.55

2,351.78

3,205.64

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

3,500.00

4,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

El Paso UC Marijuana Seizures

35.27

22.10

8.81

72.88

0.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

80.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

El Paso UC Cocaine Seizures

243

205

140

256

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

El Paso UC Illegal Aliens


Gang activity

Happy Valley Gang Barrio Azteca Florencia 13 MS-13

Sur 13 Crip Folk

Eleven gang-related incidents were reported during this period involving thirteen arrests of members from

seven different gangs. There were eight criminal and five fugitive arrests. The incidents involved:

Possession of Marijuana, Evading Arrest/Detention, Resisting Arrest, Possession of a Controlled

Substance, Carrying a Prohibited Weapon, Assault on a Public Servant, and Burglary of a Building.

EPSO Case# 11-0200252

FOLK gang member

WILLIAMS, Jesse III

Arrested for the following:

112.03lbs marijuana,

$14,186 USD, Springfield

Armory .45 pistol

EPPD Case# 11-040003

FOLK gang member

LOCKHART, Deion Dee, AKA: Memphis.

Lockhart is known to carry firearms on his person

and in vehicle. Lockhart is violent with several

assault charges.

Arrested for the following: 0.011 kilos cocaine;

Set of brass knuckles

On 07 FEB 2011, Detectives with the El Paso Co Border Crime Initiative set

up surveillance in Socorro, TX. After several hours of surveillance, the

Detectives conducted a search of a residence where some of the subjects

attempted to flee but were apprehended. Detectives observed in plainview

several bricks of marijuana and subsequently seized 150 bundles of

marijuana weighing approximately 97 lbs in the kitchen area of the

residence. Approximately $1,900 USD was located in one of the bedrooms.

A 1997 Dodge Ram pickup truck and an older model Nissan Altima were

also seized. Four subjects were placed under arrest for Possession of

Marijuana.

Additional information



43.5 pounds

marijuana

• On 08 FEB 2011, 19.66 lbs of cocaine concealed in a non-factory compartment

within the front bumper of a 1995 Mercury Grand Marquis.

CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of the Americas POE seized:

• On 08 FEB 2011, 33.02 lbs of cocaine concealed within the rear bumper of a 2000

Ford Focus.


• On 08 FEB 2011, 68.74 lbs of marijuana concealed within a non-factory

compartment within the rear bumper of a 2005 Nissan Altima.

CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of the Americas POE seized:

• On 11 FEB 2011, 344.19 pounds of marijuana concealed within rear quarter

panels, spare tire, rear seats and fuel tank of a 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe.

Additional information (cont)




• On 11 FEB 2011, seized 56.88 lbs of marijuana concealed in a false floor in the

cargo area a 1999 Ford Explorer.

CBP-OFO Officers at the Paso del Norte POE seized:

• On 10 FEB 2011, 28 lbs of

marijuana concealed inside a non-

factory compartment within the floor

of a 2002 Ford Focus station

wagon.

• On 12 FEB 2011, seized 46.08 lbs of marijuana that was concealed inside a false

compartment behind rear seat of a 2001 Audi 2AQ.




CBP-OFO Officers seized:

• On 11 FEB 2011 at the Ysleta POE, 20.28 lbs of cocaine concealed inside the

center console of a 1999 Ford F-150.

• On 12 FEB 2011 at the Santa

Teresa POE, 74.07 lbs of

marijuana concealed inside a

fabricated compartment in the left

front tire well of a 1996 Chevy

Corsica.




The raids conducted by the FBI and DEA El Paso Strike Force, part of the

NUÑEZ OPERATION, targeted a group accused of distributing more than 5

kilos of cocaine throughout the El Paso area. The operation was named

after Adrian Nuñez, 36, of El Paso. Nuñez was first questioned in August

2009 after law enforcement found "16 bricks of cocaine at his home,‖

according to court records. He was not arrested until a year later, when he

was released on $20,000 bond. Nuñez was rearrested this week after he was

named in the indictment used to charge the other men. Carlos Armando

Bernal Quintero, 30, of El Paso, remains a fugitive. The U.S. government

seeks the forfeiture of at least two properties, including one of the used car

lots and a $653,000 USD home.

On 09 FEB 2010, raids were conducted at three used-car lots on

Alameda Ave in El Paso, TX, as part of an undercover investigation

into alleged narco-traffickers belonging to twogroups linked to the VINCENTE CARILLO-FUENTES (VCF) CARTEL. Six men were arrested and

another six were previously arrested as part of the two drug-trafficking cases. The cases were named the

NUÑEZ OPERATION and the PINEDO OPERATION according to a federal news release.

The PINEDO OPERATION is named after Juan Gerardo Pinedo, 33, of

Sunland Park, NM, who is accused of directing a drug ring dealing in

cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine. Pinedo was also dealing with an

undercover El Paso PD Officer posing as a person hired to transport 20 kilos

of cocaine to Philadelphia last fall. Pinedo was positively identified during the

meeting with the undercover officer and observed conducting counter-

surveillance during the drug transaction by El Paso PD Officers conducting

surveillance.

http://www.elpasotimes.com/portlet/article/html/imageDisplay.jsp?contentItemRelationshipId=3582681



PINEDO OPERATION arrests

1. Juan Gerardo Pinedo

2. Miguel Humberto Lerma

3. Jorge Magdaleno

4. Ruben Salcedo

5. Yoshio Acosta

6. Heriberto Guardian Madera

7. Uriel Quiñonez

8. Thomas Aldama

NUÑEZ OPERATION arrests

1. Adrian Nuñez

2. Alejandro Melendez

3. Abraham Melendez

4. Juan Justino Barragan Purata

5. Carlos Armando Bernal Quintero (Fugitive)

JORGE MAGDALENO (27) Conspiracy

to distribute marijuana

At this time, MAGDALENO is a

―suspected‖ BARRIO AZTECA member.

RUBEN SALCEDO (35)

Conspiracy to distribute marijuana

ABRAHAM MELENDEZ (21)

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

ALEJANDRO MELENDEZ (31)

Conspiracy to distribute cocaine

MIGUEL LERMA (27)

Conspiracy to distribute marijuana

As of 2010, LERMA is a confirmed

NORTENO gang member

Photos of five individuals who were arrested and are being held – no bond

http://epcounty.com/CS/blogs/sheriff_news/image_444828AC.png

http://epcounty.com/CS/blogs/sheriff_news/image_190391A5.png

http://epcounty.com/CS/blogs/sheriff_news/image_7CF2D2B9.png

http://epcounty.com/CS/blogs/sheriff_news/image_11782238.png


The El Paso Co SO, with assistance from ICE, the US Marshal Service, Texas DPS, the El Paso Co

Constable’s Office, El Paso PD, Horizon City PD, and the Anthony PD, conducted a 3-day operation

named OPERATION FLOOD that led to the arrest of 26 people. The operation targeted the

following: Driver license/insurance verification, traffic enforcement, warrant round up (18 arrests

during this phase), inspections of establishments for on-premise consumption of alcohol, and DWI

enforcement. During the operation, $1,100 USD was collected in cash bonds by the Constable’s

Office. The operation targeted mostly east El Paso, Montana Vista, Horizon, and Socorro areas,

although certain operations were conducted in other parts of El Paso Co.


OPERATION FLOOD

Establishment Inspections

During the operation, a total of 11 establishments were inspected. Various minor violations were

discovered and will be reported to the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC).

Information and photos courtesy of the El Paso Co SO


The El Paso Sector experienced a

increase in seizures of marijuana,

cocaine and currency. Of the total

3,205 lbs of marijuana seized, 412

lbs was seized at the Bridge of the

Americas (BOTA), 823 lbs at the

Paso Del Norte POE, 74 lbs at the

Santa Teresa POE, and 1,296 lbs in

the Lordsburg area. There were 30

El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment

823 lbs of Marijuana Seized at Paso Del Norte (PDN) POE

reported marijuana seizures. Two cocaine seizures were reported this period: one at the Bridge of

the America (23.9 kilos) and Ysleta Port of Entry (9.2 kilos). Additionally, there was a decrease in

stolen vehicles (8) as well as a decrease in the recovery of stolen vehicles.

City-wide index crime continues to show a decrease

compared to the same time frame last year. There is a

noted 600% increase (6) in murders, 94% increase (15) in

sexual assaults, 18% increase (8) in robberies, a 7%

decrease (88) in assaults, a 5% decrease (11) in burglary,

and a 21% decrease (49) in vehicle theft, and a 8%

decrease (27) in vehicle burglary. It is noteworthy that

overall crime continues to remain low with the continued

population increase. (Chart Provided by El Paso PD)

Citywide (YTD through Feb 12th, 2011)

Offense 2010 2011 % Change

Murder 1 7 600%

Sexual Aslt 16 31 94%

Robbery 45 53 18%

Aslt 1,220 1,132 -7%

Burglary 231 220 -5%

Larceny 1,636 1,328 -19%

Veh Theft 231 182 -21%

Burglary Vehicle 320 293 -8%

TOTAL 3,380 2,953 -13%

Crime Rate: 524 458 -13%

Population of El Paso: 644,638


El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

During this reporting period, IA apprehensions increased by 116 from the previous week’s 140, for

256 total IA apprehensions. The total reported IA apprehensions within the El Paso Sector from 5

JAN thru 15 FEB, 2001, is 1,141 with 73 being other than Mexican (OTM).

From 1/05 – 1/11 (119 apprehensions)






GUATE, 5

ALGER, 1

BRAZIL, 1

HONDO, 6

ELSAL, 3

INDIA, 1UINEA, 1 URUGU, 1

IA 396 – OTM 19

IA Apprehensions 2 – 15 FEB 2011ELSAL, 10

GUATE, 11

HONDO, 6

INDIA, 9

ITALY, 1

CUBA, 1

THAIL, 1 ISRAE, 1

JAPAN, 1SKOREA , 1

PAKIS, 1

JAMAI, 1

TURK, 1

BRAZI, 2 VENEZ, 1

ECUAD, 3

DR, 1

PHIL, 1

, 1

IA 746 -- OTM 54

IA Apprehensions 5 JAN – 1 FEB 2011

Leading IA OTMs thus far to date:

Guatemala 14

El Salvador 13

Honduras 12

India 10


H U D S P E T H

P E C O S

T E R R E L L

C U L B E R S O N

J E F F D A V I S

B R E W S T E R

R E E V E S


MARFA UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011


Hudspeth CO SO Jeff Davis CO SO Pecos CO SO Presidio CO SO Reeves CO SO Terrell CO SO Alpine PD Fort Stockton PDPecos PD Presidio PD

USBP CBP - OFO ICE NPSWest TX HIDTATMFTPWDDPSBrewster CO SO Culberson CO SO

P R E S I D I O



Marfa SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 68

Fugitive Arrests 0


Pursuits 0

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 1

IAs/USBP 59

OTMs 4

OTM Countries

Jamaica 1

Philippines 2

Slovakia 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 912.50 lbs

Cocaine 0.0 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs


Currency $8,660

Other Hashish (0.06 lbs)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 1

Recovered 0


Marfa Sector


$50,460

$2,040$0

$8,660

$0

$10,000

$20,000

$30,000

$40,000

$50,000

$60,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Marfa UC Currency Seizures

3,380.05

2,505.10

3,767.55

4,568.50

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

3,500.00

4,000.00

4,500.00

5,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ized

Marfa UC Marijuana Seizures

15.00

4.41

0.01 0.000.00

2.00

4.00

6.00

8.00

10.00

12.00

14.00

16.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Marfa UC Cocaine Seizures

71

40

20

59

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Marfa UC Illegal Aliens



• 274.23 lbs of marijuana and arrested one USC in an orange 2005 Chevrolet

Avalanche. The marijuana, vehicle, and subject were turned over to the DEA.

The marijuana was discovered in a speaker box behind the front seat.

USBP Agents in Hudspeth Co seized:

Speaker panel face removed revealing

marijuana within the box.

Marijuana hidden inside

speaker panel box.

Trunk area where speaker panel

was placed.




USBP Agents in Presidio Co seized 198.25 lbs of

marijuana and arrested five IAs on the Pinto

Canyon Ranch. The marijuana and subjects were

turned over to the DEA. One subject was

identified via verbal debrief and tattoos as a

member of the MEXICAN MAFIA.

Subject claims to be a member of the

Mexican Mafia. Tattoos are consistent

with the claim and the gang.

PRESIDIO

PRESIDIO COUNTY

N OJINAGA




USBP Agents in Presidio Co assisted by Marfa Sector Air Operations seized 193.1 lbs of marijuana

and arrested four IAs on the Chilicote Ranch. The narcotics and subjects were turned over to the

DEA.

VALENTINE

N


Additional information (cont)OFO Agents at the Presidio POE conducting inspections seized 156.52 lbs of marijuana and

arrested two Mexican citizens. The marijuana was located inside a hidden compartment above the

rear wheel well of a 1995 Ford Windstar.

Marfa Unified Command Sector Assessment

Marijuana seizures by the Unified Command have increased this week to 4,568.59 lbs compared

to 3,767.55 lbs last week. The largest marijuana seizure was 3,656 lbs from a commercial vehicle

(truck tractor/semi trailer) flatbed at the Sierra Blanca Checkpoint by USBP. The second largest

seizure was 274.23 lbs contained in a false compartment in a Chevrolet Avalanche, also at the

Sierra Blanca Checkpoint. The third largest seizure was 193.1 lbs of marijuana seized by USBP

Agents southwest of Marfa along with five IAs, including one MEXICAN MAFIA member,

backpacking the narcotics.

The single commercial vehicle seizure of 3,656.10 lbs accounted for more than 80% of the total

amount of marijuana seized this reporting period. There is a continuing trend of large loads being

apprehended in commercial vehicles over the past three weeks. Operation GEAR JAMMER, a

large multi-agency operation, is scheduled to begin this month. The operation spanning the El Pasoand Marfa Sectors will focus on the interdiction of commercial vehicles.


V A L V E R D E

U V A L D E

R E A L

M A V E R I C K

K I N N E Y

D I M M I T

E D W A R D S

Z A V A L A


DEL RIO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011


Maverick CO SOReal CO SOVal Verde CO SOUvalde CO SOZavala CO SODel Rio PD38th Judicial District (Volunteer)Dimmit CO Constable (Volunteer)Edwards CO SO (Volunteer)Uvalde PD (Volunteer)

USBPCBP-OFO ICE-FNUSouth TX HIDTANPSUSCGTPWDTMFDPSDimmit CO SOKinney CO SO



Del Rio SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 5

Bailouts 5

Criminal Arrests 13

Fugitive Arrests 10


Pursuits 1

Scouts/Decoys 1


IAs/Referrals 8

IAs/USBP 371

OTMs 79

OTM Countries

El Salvador 10

Guatemala 23

Honduras 41

India 3

Nicaraguan 2

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 0.0 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs


Currency $0.00

Other Diazepam/Valium (80 pills)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 0

Ammunition 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 5


Del Rio Sector


$0

$101,530

$0 $0$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Del Rio UC Currency Seizures

2,209.93

1,662.73

2,454.91

2,080.13

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

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a Se

ize

d

Del Rio UC Marijuana Seizures

227

205233

371

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Del Rio UC Illegal Aliens

94.84

0.00

93.48

0.000.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

80.00

90.00

100.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Del Rio UC Cocaine Seizures


Gang activity

A Dimmit Co Constable arrested two subjects for Public Intoxication and Disorderly

Conduct at a public area. Both subjects served time in a state prison and have

BLOODS gang involvement. (ANALYST NOTE: Even though this is a misdemeanor criminal

incident, it is uncommon to run across BLOODS in the Del Rio Sector. In Texas, the BLOODS

have the largest population in the Dallas/Ft Worth Metroplex and Houston.)


USBP Agents observed a 2002 Pontiac Grand AM being driven at a high rate of speed toward the

Rio Grande on a local Maverick Co farm. The farm is in an area known for both IA and narcotics

smuggling. Approximately half an hour later, the Agents observed the vehicle leave the area at a

high rate of speed. The Agents followed the vehicle as it traveled on multiple streets and alleyways

in Eagle Pass when the vehicle blew a tire. The Agents apprehended the juvenile suspects and

located five bundles of contraband in the back seat and trunk. The total weight of the marijuana

was 400 lbs. DPS took custody of the juvenile subjects, the marijuana, and the vehicle.



A Zavala Co SO Deputy performed a traffic stop on a 2005 Dodge 1500 and arrested

two subjects for Public Intoxication and Driving Under the Influence on US-57 in

Batesville. The subjects were towing a trailer that contained several beams which had

been hollowed out and bolted back together. There were no illegal items found in the

beams.

Hidden compartment in between beams

While on boat patrol on the Rio Grande, a TPWD Game Warden and a Maverick

Co SO Deputy observed a green duffel bag on the river’s bank on the Texas side

approximately nine miles north of Eagle Pass. The Officers took possession of the

duffel bag and met with a CBP Marine unit, advising of the seizure, and guided

them to the location were USBP Agents continued the search for the smugglers.

Maverick Co SO took custody of the 52 lbs of marijuana.

A USBP Agent remotely observed five individuals crossing the Rio Grande on a

local ranch near Eagle Pass. Agents responded to the area where they discovered

five bags containing narcotics and apprehended one individual. The bags

contained 100 bricks of marijuana with a total weight of 277.57 lbs. The subject

was processed for Expedited Removal. The narcotics were turned over to DEA.



• Observed four individuals wading across the Rio Grande towards the US. Three

of the subjects were carrying large bundles. Upon exiting the river on the US side,

the subjects dropped the bundles and absconded from the area when the Agents

approached. The Agents apprehended three juveniles hiding in the area. One

subject absconded back to Mexico. The DEA took custody of the bags which

contained 75 bricks of marijuana weighing 150 lbs. The juveniles turned over to

the Juvenile Coordinator in Del Rio.

• At the USBP Del Rio Checkpoint on US-277 sent a Blue 2004 Ford Expedition to

secondary inspection where a K-9 alerted to the spare tire mounted at the rear of

the vehicle. Upon inspection, 31 bricks of marijuana were found; four more were

found under the rear seat. The 35 packages of marijuana totaled 58.05 lbs. The

subject, marijuana, and vehicle were turned over to the DEA.

USBP Agents:

• Were alerted by Eagle Pass Camera Operators of narcotics being loaded in a

1996 Ford F-150. The Agents observed a vehicle traveling north on US-277

matching the description. The vehicle began to drive erratically. Agents continued

to follow the vehicle and observed two ATV ramps covering large objects in the

bed of the truck. Additional Agents successfully deployed a tire deflation device,

causing the vehicle to swerve off the road. The driver fled from the vehicle and

was immediately apprehended. A search of the vehicle yielded six large sugar

sacks, with 258 bricks of marijuana, totaling 676.6 lbs. The vehicle was seized by

USBP; the driver, and marijuana were turned over to ICE.


Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment

During, this reporting period 2,080 lbs of marijuana seized and no

other narcotics reported. There was a marked increase in stolen

vehicles recovered, with five being reported this period. Absconds

increased from one to five this reporting period.

There was a major increase in IAs

apprehended, with 371 this reporting

period versus 233 last period. This is

the second week in a row that UC

members have had IAs from India. Last

week there was one and this week three

were apprehended.

The Del Rio JOIC was advised that

Backscatter units now located at each

of the checkpoints in the Del Rio Sector.

Backscatter units utilize x-ray detection

technology imaging of vehicles and

objects. Backscatter technology reveals

contraband that transmission x-rays

miss, such as explosives, drugs,

cigarettes, and people, especially when

hidden within a complex environment,

and provides photo-like imaging for

rapid analysis.

Backscatter Van

Backscatter Example

Backscatter Website

http://www.as-e.com/products_solutions/z_backscatter.asp


W E B B

J I MH O G G

D U V A L

Z A P A T A

L A S A L L E

F R I O


LAREDO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011


Jim Hogg CO SOLa Salle CO SO Webb CO SO Zapata CO SO Dilley PD Laredo PDPearsall PD

CBP ICE TPWDTMFDPSDuval CO S O Frio CO SO



Laredo SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 21

Fugitive Arrests 0


Pursuits 0

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 11

IAs/USBP 544

OTMs 45

OTM Countries

El Salvador 1

Guatemala 20

Honduras 17

India 4

Nicaragua 2

Russia 1

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 5.619 lbs

Heroin 0.015 lbs


Currency $7,515

Other None

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 1

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 4


Laredo Sector


$12,508

$4,502

$1,430

$7,515

$0

$2,000

$4,000

$6,000

$8,000

$10,000

$12,000

$14,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Laredo UC Currency Seizures

3,804.814,094.64

4,484.40

12,061.33

0.00

2,000.00

4,000.00

6,000.00

8,000.00

10,000.00

12,000.00

14,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Laredo UC Marijuana Seizures

565.50

109.48

0.09 5.620.00

100.00

200.00

300.00

400.00

500.00

600.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Laredo UC Cocaine Seizures

533519

471

544

420

440

460

480

500

520

540

560

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Laredo UC Illegal Aliens



• On 10 FEB 2011, 101.35 lbs of marijuana at the SH-16 Checkpoint. Agents

discovered 25 bundles of marijuana weighing 67.6 lbs concealed in an ice chest,

five gallon plastic cans, and in the tool box of a 2008 Ford F-250. The Agents

then discovered an additional 10 bundles of marijuana, weighing 33.75 lbs,

concealed in a hidden compartment located underneath the toolbox. The vehicle,

the contraband, and driver were turned over Jim Hogg Co SO.

USBP Hebbronville Agents seized:

• On 10 FEB 2011, observed a suspicious 2002 Chevrolet

pickup truck, traveling on US-359, near Realitos, TX. The

Agents attempted to make contact with the driver when

vehicle veered off the roadway and drove through a

fence line. The vehicle was found abandoned and the

driver had absconded in the brush. Agents searched the

vehicle and recovered 22 bundles of marijuana weighing

502.9 lbs. The contraband and vehicle were turned over

to DEA.CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE



• On 14 FEB 2011, working at the FM-1017 Checkpoint in Hebbronville, TX,

searched a vehicle referred to secondary inspection, revealed 15 bundles of

marijuana weighing 95.5 lbs. The marijuana was concealed within an external

diesel tank located in the bed of the pickup truck. The driver, vehicle, and

contraband were turned over to Jim Hogg Co SO.

USBP Hebbronville Agents:

• On 15 FEB 2011, working the SH-359

Checkpoint near Bruni, TX, initiated a secondary

inspection on a 1996 Kenworth Tractor pulling a

Wabash reefer trailer with NC license plates.

Agents seized 1,908 lbs of marijuana concealed

behind a false wall in the front portion of the

trailer. The driver, marijuana and truck were

turned over to DEA.

• With the assistance of National Guard (NG) AVN H-72 Aircrew,

apprehended 18 IAs in the vicinity of Hebbronville, TX.


On 14 FEB 2011, a THP Trooper initiated a traffic stop on a 2003 Chevrolet C2500 pickup truck

driven by a male subject on FM-649 near Mirando City, TX. The driver refused to stop, a pursuit

ensued until SH-16S and the driver then bailed out in Roma, TX, a few feet from the Rio Grande.

The Trooper apprehended the driver and seized 414 lbs of marijuana and the vehicle.


Energy Drink




• Working Laredo West initiated a traffic stop on a

white 2005 Nissan Altima driven by a male subject

and a juvenile passenger. The agents seized 170

lbs of marijuana concealed inside green duffle

bags located in the back seat and the trunk of the

vehicle. The driver was arrested and the vehicle

was seized and turned over to DEA.

USBP Agents:

• Working Laredo South, with the assistance of NG AVN UH-72 Aircrew, turned

back eight subjects to Mexico in the vicinity of the Laredo Community College. In

the vicinity of Zachary Ranch, eight subjects were apprehended. Near the

Zapata-Webb Co line, four subjects were apprehended, while eight subjects were

turned back to Mexico.

• On 9 FEB 2011, working Laredo North,

seized 2,087.8 lbs of marijuana at the

IH-35 Checkpoint. In a 1997 Freightliner,

the marijuana was concealed in a falsecompartment of the tractor trailer. The driver, vehicle and marijuana were turned

over to DEA.



• On 10 FEB 2011 working out of Laredo North, seized 4.1 lbs of marijuana at the

IH-35 Checkpoint. The vehicle, driver and marijuana were turned over to DEA.

• On 10 FEB 2011 working out of Laredo North, seized 2.8 lbs of cocaine from a

box located at the Post Office in Laredo. The cocaine was turned over to US

Postal Inspector.

• On 9 FEB 2011, working in Hebbronville

near the Jones-Borregos Ranch (located

approximately 30 miles south of

Hebbronville) discovered five burlap

sacks containing 231 lbs of marijuana.

Five subjects absconded into the brush.

The marijuana was turned over to DEA.

USBP Agents:

• On 10 FEB 2011 working out of Laredo North, inspected a vehicle after a K-9

alert. The Agents found five bundles of marijuana concealed within the spare tire

weighing 32.2 lbs. The vehicle was seized, and the contraband was turned over

to DEA.




• On 11 FEB 2011, assigned to the Laredo North station working at the IH-35

Checkpoint, initiated a secondary inspection on a blue 2009 International Prostar

tractor trailer with GA license plates. The Agents seized 617.4 lbs of marijuana

from the empty trailer. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized. Both

were turned

over to DEA.

USBP Agents:

• Working out of Laredo West Station, with the assistance of NG AVN

UH-72 Aircrew, apprehended 44 IAs in the vicinity of Apache Ranch

near Laredo.

• On 11 FEB 2011, working out of Laredo West

Station near the Galvan Ranch apprehended

two subjects found to be IAs. The Agents

searched the area and discovered 36 bundles

of marijuana weighing 206.7 lbs. The marijuana

was turned over to the DEA.



• On 11 FEB 2011, assigned to the Laredo South Station were

conducting line watch duties in El Cenizo, TX. The Agent and his

service K-9 discovered an abandoned bundle of marijuana weighing

57.2 lbs by the riverbank.

• On 13 FEB 2011, assigned to the Zapata Station were working

the riverbank near San Ygnacio, TX, and seized 74.34 lbs of

abandoned marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.

USBP Agents:

• Assigned to the Laredo South Station, with the assistance of NG

AVN UH-72 Aircrew, apprehended one subject while an additional

subject absconded back to Mexico. Also, in the vicinity of Rio

Bravo, TX, NG AVN UH-72 turned back nine subjects to Mexico.

• Assigned to the Laredo North Station were working the Mines

Road near the Needmore Ranch (approximately 15 miles NW of

Laredo) and observed three subjects in the brush. As the

Agents approached the subjects, they absconded towards the

river, dropping five bundles of marijuana with a total weight of

337 lbs. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.




On 14 FEB 2011, THP Trooper performed a traffic stop on a vehicle that was northbound on US-83,

and a pursuit ensued. Troopers apprehended the driver at mile marker 726 and seized 13 bundles

of marijuana wrapped in clear plastic from the cargo and back seat area of the vehicle, weighing a

total 292 lbs. Subject was arrested and vehicle was seized.



On 14 FEB 2011, THP Trooper performed a traffic stop on a vehicle that was driving

Southbound on IH-35. The Trooper asked the driver for consent to search the vehicle.

The search revealed a vacuum sealed bag containing $5,005 USD. The driver was

arrested and the vehicle was seized.


On 11 FEB 2011, THP Trooper conducted a traffic

stop on a tracker-trailer on US-83 near Laredo.

Troops noticed inconsistency with information

obtained by driver and a consent to search revealed

154 bundles of marijuana, weighing 2,436.1 lbs that

was concealed and co-mingled with produce inside

the trailer.

• On 9 FEB 2011, arrested a male subject in the 3100 block of San Luis St. for Assault. The

Officers recovered a bulletproof vest at the scene. The subject was identified as a MEXICAN

MAFIA associate.

• On 10 FEB 2011, a male subject in the 4100 block of Marcy Loop for Possession of a

Controlled Substance. Officers recovered 42.5 lbs of methamphetamines .

• On 9 FEB 2011, detained a male subject in the 4500 block of Santa Anita Loop. The subject

was identified as a Mexican National, and was turned over to ICE for illegal re-entry.

Officers also recovered a AK-47 Assault Rifle, a Desert Eagle Handgun, and several

magazines with ammunition.

Laredo PD Officers:



• On 11 FEB 2011, seized 37.17 lbs of liquid cocaine. The liquid cocaine was

concealed inside beer bottles in a 2001 Ford F-150. The male subject was

arrested and vehicle was seized.

• On 15 FEB 2011, seized 85.54 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was concealed

within the rear door quarter panels and gas tank of a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado

pickup truck. A male subject was arrested and the vehicle was seized.

CBP-OFO Officers working at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo:


Laredo Unified Command Sector Assessment

The Laredo Unified Command had a significant increase in all areas for this reporting period except

heroin. The significant increases are representative of both larger, single event seizures as well as more

seizures compared to last reporting period.

IH-35 and US-83 remain active for illicit drug traffic. The Hebbronville areas of FM-1017 and SH-16

continue to see activity, especially at or near the checkpoints. Concealment methods for large seizures

continue to be observed frequently in commercial motor vehicles. The Laredo Sector reported the fifth

seizure of liquid narcotic since mid-December. CBP-OFO Officers working at the Lincoln Juarez

Bridge in Laredo seized 37.17 lbs of liquid cocaine concealed in Corona beer bottles located inside

of a 2001 Ford F-150.

Significant seizures during this reporting period include: 2,087.8 lbs of marijuana located by USBP Laredo

North Agents working the IH-35 checkpoint; 2,436.1 lbs of marijuana located by Texas DPS on US-83

near Webb/Zapata Co line; 1,908 lbs of marijuana located by USBP Hebbronville Agents at SH-359

Checkpoint; and $5,005 USD located by Texas DPS near Frio/Atascosa Co line on IH-35.

Apprehensions by USBP are up this reporting period with the support of US National Guard Aviation

wherein 62 apprehensions were made.


K E N E D Y

S T A R R

H I D A L G O

W I L L A C Y

C A M E R O N

B R O O K S

RIO GRANDE VALLEY UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011


Raymondville PDRio Grande City PDRoma PD San Benito PD San Juan PDWeslaco PDUniv of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) PD

USBPCBP – OFOICE USCG Starr CO HIDTADPSTPWD TMF

Cameron CO SOHidalgo CO SOKenedy CO SOStarr CO SOWillacy CO SOBrownsville PD Harlingen PD Hidalgo PD

La Grulla PD La Joya PDMercedes PDMission PD Palmview PDPenitas PD Pharr PDPort Isabel PD




Rio Grande Valley Sector

The Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 2

Criminal Arrests 44

Fugitive Arrests 2


Pursuits 3

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 0

IAs/USBP 525

OTMs 305

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 63.3 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs


Currency $160,519

Other 0

Weapons

Handgun(s) 2

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 5


Rio Grande Valley Sector


$303,852

$154,381

$1,052

$160,519

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

$350,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

RGV UC Currency Seizures

31,976.17

27,077.12

37,574.30

31,398.42

0.00

5,000.00

10,000.00

15,000.00

20,000.00

25,000.00

30,000.00

35,000.00

40,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

RGV UC Marijuana Seizures

98.10

221.10

66.13

63.30

0.00

50.00

100.00

150.00

200.00

250.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

RGV UC Cocaine Seizures

547

422

883

525

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

RGV UC Illegal Aliens


Vallucos Mexican Mafia Hermanos Pistoleros Latinos

Latin Kings Texas Syndicate Partido Revolucionario Mexicanos

Po’ Boys Texas Chicano Brotherhood South Side Bandito

Sureno 13 Tri City Bombers Norteno 14

The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Gang Intelligence Unit reported 47 gang member arrests during this

reporting period. These arrests were made by 12 different agencies in the RGV sector. The gang

members were arrested for offenses such as parole violation, aggravated robbery, theft of property,

possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, driving while intoxicated, assault on

a public servant, evading arrest, sexual assault, failure to identify a fugitive from justice, assault

causing bodily injury, robbery, unauthorized use of a vehicle, criminal trespass, hindering

apprehension of known sex offender, contempt of child support, burglary of a vehicle, prohibited

weapon, and failure to register as sex offender. The arrestees have gang affiliation with:

Gang activity

USBP Agents and DPS Air 108 searched for a

group of 10 suspected IAs near the Anzalduas

Bridge. Upon arriving on scene, the Aircrew

scanned a large wooded area with the FLIR

camera spotting several subjects hiding in

various locations. The Aircrew guided Agents to

the suspects, and a total of nine subjects were

apprehended.



Mission PD Officers responded to a residence in Mission regarding a reported home invasion. Upon

arrival, Officers observed the front door ajar and after clearing the residence, officers noted a strong smell

of marijuana. Marijuana residue was located on the kitchen table, along with several boxes of .223

ammunition, nine AK-47 magazines, a .223 magazine, a black ballistic vest, a Hi-Point C9 handgun with

two loaded magazines, and $2,250.00 USD in the residence. Witnesses stated that a green colored older

model Suburban and a newer model grey colored Chrysler 300 arrived earlier at the residence. The

Suburban then backed into the driveway and seven masked males carrying long rifles exited the vehicle.

Two masked men with rifles exited the Chrysler and kicked the front door in. At that point, a neighbor

called the police. While Mission PD was at the residence, a male subject arrived at the residence and

stated that he lived at the residence with two other subjects. The status of the two other residents is

unknown.



ANALYST NOTE: Over the last several months, there has been an increase in reported home invasions in

the RGV Sector and surrounding areas. To date, home invaders have largely been Hispanic males, and

almost half the invasions utilize ski masks, wear dark clothing, and have assorted weapons (semi

automatic handguns, rifles, and shotguns). These types of incidences typically involve thefts of narcotics

between rival DTOs or the collection of drug debts owed. Several of the get-away vehicles had Mexican

plates.


• Along with the McAllen Postal Inspector’s Office conducted several

seizures at the USPS for a total of 56.41 lbs of marijuana during a joint

operation to protect against the distribution of marijuana through the

US Mail. This is an ongoing operation.

• Assisted by CBP Air and Marine Agents from the Harlingen station,

seized 694 lbs of marijuana and arrested one male subject.

• From the McAllen station in Peñitas, seized 584 lbs of marijuana and arrested two

male subjects.

• From the Weslaco station seized $11,000 USD and 750 lbs of marijuana. Agents

seized one vehicle and arrested three male subjects.

• From the Rio Grande City station, seized a total of 748 lbs of marijuana in two

separate incidents in Rio Grande City and Alto Bonito. No arrests were made.


USBP Agents:

• From the Rio Grande City station seized more than 4,000 pounds of

marijuana. The drugs seized came from several seizures in Starr County.

One seizure occurred near Fronton, TX, when Agents observed several

people tossing bundles into the bed of a pickup near the Rio Grande

River. During another seizure, Agents found several subjects carrying

bundles on their backs. In total, Agents seized an estimated $3.6 million

worth of marijuana.CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE


• Hidalgo POE inspected a 2006 Honda

Civic with Texas license plates. Officers

found 25.97 lbs of cocaine concealed in

the vehicle’s firewall. The female driver

was arrested and vehicle seized.

• Los Indios Bridge inspected a 1989

Ford Ranger pickup with Mexico

license plates. Officers found 60.09 lbs

of marijuana concealed in the vehicle’s

gas tank. The male Mexican driver was

arrested and vehicle seized.

CBP Officers Agents at the:


• Pharr POE seized $49,720.00 USD

from a female passenger after

conducting inspections on a Nissan

Altima. The female USC had the

currency concealed in the waistband

of her pants.


The 12-foot tall border fence has been in place for months around La Paloma, near San

Benito, TX. USBP agents intercepted more than 600 lbs of marijuana in the Rancho Grande

subdivision. Agents reported 10 smugglers were using two LADDERS to smuggle the drugs,

one on each side of the fence.


SAN BENTIO

The smuggling operation utilizes

a vehicle on the north side of the

fence to transport the marijuana.

While USBP has caught many

loads, some residents say this

isn't the first time drug smugglers

have used a ladder to smuggle

drugs over the fence. A local

resident says this procedure has

been utilized for 2-3 months.

Sometimes, they pass the drugs

through the fence and other times

utilize ladders to scale the fence.



Hidalgo Co SO initiated a

pursuit southbound on Patricio

Perez Rd towards the Rio

Grande. During the pursuit, the

suspect vehicle deployed

homemade spikes (aka caltrops)

and was successful in spiking

one law enforcement vehicle.

The suspects (driver and


DPS Air 108 was called to assist USBP locate an

SUV that was traveling towards Los Ebanos, TX,

down Patricia Perez Rd that had run through a

metal barricade. The Aircrew responded to assist

and observed the vehicle burning from several

miles away. The Aircrew arrived on scene and

spotted three jon boats in the river, two trucks,

and several possible DTO suspects on the Mexico

side of the river. The Aircrew provided overwatch

support for the single USBP agent on scene until

backup units arrived.

passenger) and narcotics were able to make it back to the Mexico-side after the

vehicle was driven into the Rio Grande. DPS Air 108 assisted with air support.



• Obtained a consent to search a residence on Alvarez Rd. Officers and Agents

found 227 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 25 bundles inside a pit underneath the

residence. Three subjects were arrested.

• Executed a search warrant in Roma after CBP K9 alerted to narcotics at the

residence. Officers and Agents found 8,900 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 622

bundles inside the garage and residence. Two vehicles were also seized.

Roma PD along with ICE Agents and Starr County SO:

• Obtained a consent to search a residence in Brownsville. Investigators located

$4,250.00 USD and arrested one subject.

• Received repeated tips on narcotics being sold at a residence in Brownsville.

Investigators received consent to search the residence. In the residence,

Investigators seized 35 grams of cocaine. Two suspects were arrested.

Brownsville PD Investigators:


• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2000 Silverado pickup on US-83 in Sullivan City, TX,

destined for Pharr, TX. The Trooper observed all four tires to have deficiencies. A

consent to search was granted, which revealed all four tires contained marijuana.

A total of 160 lbs of marijuana was removed from the tires.

• Assisted by DPS 108, was involved in a pursuit of a 2003 Pontiac near La Joya,

TX. The Aircrew arrived on scene where the vehicle was abandoned in a pasture

and one suspect fled on foot. The Aircrew began an aerial search of the area

utilizing the FLIR and was able to locate the suspect in a brushy area. Troopers

were guided towards the location where the suspect was apprehended. A search

of the vehicle yielded 355 lbs of marijuana located in several bundles.


A THP Trooper:



• Attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2004 Chevrolet pickup on US-83 near

Sullivan City, TX, for following too closely. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit

ensued, resulting in a bail out and absocond. Troopers conducted a search of the

vehicle and found 730.2 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 31 bundles concealed in the

truck bed.

• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am on US-83 near La Joya for

following too closely. When the Trooper made contact with the driver, the suspect

drove off and a pursuit ensued. Driver bailed out but was apprehended. The

Trooper conducted a search of the vehicle and found 355 lbs of marijuana

wrapped in several bundles concealed in the rear seat and trunk area.

• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe destined for McAllen. After

the driver admitted to narcotics in the car, a search of the vehicle revealed 260 lbs

of marijuana in 11 bundles in the rear cargo area.

• 1999 Ford Expedition. Upon search of the vehicle, the Trooper found 18.7 lbs of

cocaine in eight bundles wrapped in cellophane and carbon paper concealed in

the air conditioning unit of the vehicle. The male suspect was arrested.

• 2001 Mercury Grand Marquis destined for Brownsville. A consent to search was

granted and revealed $94,000 USD contained within five bundles wrapped in grey

duct tape and concealed in an after-market compartment inside the trunk of the

vehicle. One male subject was arrested and vehicle was seized.

THP Troopers:


A THP Trooper in Raymondville conducted a traffic stop on US-77 on a:


Roma PD Officer conducted a traffic stop on a purple 2008 Chevrolet pickup. The

Officer conducted a pat down of the suspect and discovered a Browning Hi-Power 9

mm handgun. The driver and handgun were taken to the Roma PD station where a

check indicated the gun was reported stolen from Griffith, TX.

DPS – CID Agents developed information on the locations of three stolen vehicles in the San Benito

and Olmito, TX, areas. THP Troopers located a:

• 2007 Lincoln Navigator parked at a residence in San Benito;

• 2007 Chevrolet Corvette parked in a funeral home parking lot in San Benito; and

• 2007 Freightliner tractor truck parked in an abandoned parking lot in Olmito

In all cases the vehicles were unoccupied and no arrests were made.

DPS Air 108 assisted a THP

Trooper with a vehicle pursuit

north of FM-493 to the

community of Hargill, TX, which

ended at a residence. The

Trooper encountered a suspect

who began to resist arrest. The

Aircrew arrived locating theTrooper at the residence and observed Trooper taser the suspect who then took the prongs off and

continued to resist arrest. The Aircrew guided other units to the location including a DPS AVN pilot,

who drove to the location and assisted in taking the suspect into custody.




USBP Agents were attempting to apprehend a group of suspects near the

intersection of Military and Inspiration Roads and requested DPS Air 108 assistance.

Upon searching the area with FLIR, the Aircrew quickly located a group of suspects

and guided ground Agents towards the subjects. Agents were able to locate and

apprehend 12 suspects, including the guide, who was hiding separately from the

group.

USBP Agents conducting a search at the Rio Grande City POE requested DPS Air

108 support. Upon searching the area with the FLIR camera, one subject was

located and apprehended, while 10-12 were pushed back to the Mexican side of the

Rio Grande. There were two rafts and a vehicle involved in the recovery of the

suspects on the Mexican side.




A surveillance camera on the Anzalduas

bridge revealed a large military-transport

vehicle drive north on the bridge over the

international boundary with at least a dozen

armed men in the back of the truck. The

driver made a U-turn just before reaching

the lines of cars for entry into the US, then

headed south toward Mexico. The men in

the military vehicle stopped and searched a

silver SUV for a few minutes which then

resumed heading south. They were in US

territory for approximately 10 minutes.

DPS Air 108 responded to assist USBP Agents on a criminal search just north of the Hidalgo POE.

Utilizing a FLIR camera and Night Vision, the Aircrew identified a group of five suspects and relayed

their location to ground Agents who were able to apprehend the four of the five suspects. The

Aircrew then assisted locating another eight suspects hiding along a fence line, underneath some

thick brush.


USBP Agents assisted by DPS Air 108 investigated simultaneous narcotics crossing attempts by

DTOs in the Cage Pump area. The Aircrew responded to the traffic and arrived on scene just after

the vehicle splashed-down in the Rio Grande and initiated bailouts. The Aircrew provided overwatch

support with the Night Sun for the responding USBP Marine units as DTOs on the Mexico side were

near the bank attempting to recover the narcotics. One of the vehicles used near Abram, TX, was a

Ford F-250 that was unable to splashdown due to obstacles. Only one bundle of narcotics out of

approximately 40-50 bundles was recovered by ground agents.




Mission PD responded to a disturbance call where an Officer observed several subjects and

vehicles drove towards the rear of a residence. As the Officer activated red/blue lights, one

subject in a black Chrysler 300 drove around the Officers unit. The Officer then attempted to

conduct a traffic stop, the driver refused to stop and pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, the and

a

The RGV Unified Command agencies were responsible for the seizure of over 31,000 lbs of marijuana

this reporting period for a 16% decrease from last week. Cocaine seizures decreased from last week to a

combined agency total of 63.3 pounds. The USBP, CBP-OFO, Mission PD, DPS THP and CID, Roma PD,

ICE, US Postal Service, and Brownsville PD contributed significantly to the marijuana seizures.

The Mexican Military and Mexican federal authority efforts to root out cartel targets were at an elevated

state this week. Gulf Cartel and Zeta confrontations remained constant, as the two factions attempt to

control vital drug smuggling routes. The Mexican cities of Padilla, Reynosa, Matamoros and San

Fernando, were sites of violent gun battles. Several DTO members were either killed or taken into custody

by the Mexican government forces. There is a potential for these types of encounters to continue given

the unsettled rivalry disputes.

RGV JOIC Sector Assessment

driver passenger bailed out and fled on foot. While attempting to arrest the subject, the Officer caught was

struck in the back of the head with a blunt object. As the officer attempted to handcuff the suspect, other

Officers came to assist and took subject into custody. The Mission PD Officer was transported to the

hospital for medical attention for lacerations to the back of his head. Officers searching the suspect found

a 9mm Taurus Millennium handgun inside the left pant leg.

There were several weapons seizures and a large cache of ammunition taken from the site of the

shootings in Mexico. Due to multiple factors influencing the drug trade from Mexico, the potential exists

that narcotics smuggling will increase in the coming weeks; this may be due, in part, to the recent Mexican

government controlled burn of 26 tons of seized marijuana just south of the RGV western corridor.

Because of the significant loss of marijuana, the cartels may attempt to replace the narcotics for future

transport north into the US.


K L E B E R G

N U E C E S

J I MW E L L S

S A N P A T R I C I O

B E E

L I V EO A K

K A R N E S

G O L I A D

D e W I T T

L A V A C A

J A C K S O N

R E F U G I O

W H A R T O N

M A T A G O R D A

B R O O K S


COASTAL BEND UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR09 – 15 FEB 2011


USBPCBP – OFO ICEFBI ATFDEAUSCGHouston HIDTASan Antonio HIDTATMFDPSAransas CO SOBee CO SOBrooks CO SODewitt CO SOGoliad CO SOJackson CO SOJim Wells CO SOKarnes CO SO

Kleberg CO SOLavaca CO SOMatagorda CO SO Live Oak CO SO McMullen CO SONueces CO SO Refugio CO SOSan Patricio CO SOVictoria CO SOWharton CO SOBay City PDCorpus Christi PDDriscoll PDEl Campo PDKingsville PDOrange Grove PDSeguin PDThree Rivers PDVictoria PD



Coastal Bend SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 6

Bailouts 3

Criminal Arrests 288

Fugitive Arrests 87


Pursuits 2

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 8

IAs/USBP 0

OTMs 0

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 274.87 lbs

Cocaine 95.28 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs


Currency $141,186

Other Xanax (1 pill)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 6

Recovered 8


Coastal Bend Sector


$171,048

$74,778

$7,157

$141,186

$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

$140,000

$160,000

$180,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Coastal Bend UC Currency Seizures

914.06

636.46

2,685.90

274.87

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Coastal Bend UC Marijuana Seizures

0.23 1.73 0.09

95.28

0.00

20.00

40.00

60.00

80.00

100.00

120.00

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Coastal Bend UC Cocaine Seizures

21

0 0 00

5

10

15

20

25

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Coastal Bend UC Illegal Aliens


Gang Activity

Alice Police Department arrested two gang members belonging to BROWN AND

PROUD (BAP), a local street gang for possession of marijuana for sale. A third BAP

member was arrested as a result of a search warrant in a separate incident.

Alice Police Department also arrested two gang members belonging to the LATIN

KING street gang for possession of cocaine and possession of a firearm.

As a result of on-going investigation involving the MEXICAN MAFIA, Corpus Christi

PD and DPS – CID Corpus Christi served a search warrant on a residence in

Corpus Christi. Investigators seized 114.1 grams of methamphetamine, 0.70 grams

of crack cocaine, and 12.8 grams of marijuana and $3,157.00 USD. Two arrests

were made. (reported last week and photos available this week)


Emblem on

cocaine package

Additional Information (cont)

THP Wharton Co seized 66.14 lbs of cocaine concealed in the seats of a 2010 Ford Edge with

Mexican license plates. The driver was from Monterrey, MX, traveling to Houston on US-59N.



• Working US-77S, seized $136,820.00 USD wrapped in five bundles concealed in

a hidden compartment of a 1996 Dodge Van.

Compartment in van floor


• Seized 9.5 lbs of cocaine concealed in the gas tank of a 1993 Nissan Sentra

registered in Mexico. The vehicle had been abandoned and an investigation

revealed that the driver, who was not located, had been taking the load from

Brownsville to Houston on US-77N.

Alice PD seized 0.21 lbs of cocaine and $3,581.91 USD after executing a search

warrant at a female suspect’s apartment building.

Matagorda Co SO seized 0.5 lbs of marijuana in 19 bags packaged for distribution

following a traffic stop on a red 1997 Pontiac.

The South Texas Narcotics Task Force (Kingsville Task Force)



THP Nueces Co seized 71 lbs of marijuana

concealed in the floor of a 2002 Buick Skylark. The

driver and passenger were from Brownsville and

traveling to Houston on US-77N.


THP Jim Wells Co seized 52.5 lbs of marijuana concealed inside the gas tank of 2004 Jeep Liberty

traveling on US-281N. The suspect was driving from Mercedes, TX, to Dallas.

CVE Trooper in Refugio Co seized 13.98 lbs of cocaine and 10.45 lbs of crystal

methamphetamine concealed in the fuel tank of a 2008 Dodge Nitro. The driver

was from Houston and traveling from Mexico back to Houston on US-77N.



On 12 FEB 2011, THP Brooks Co seized 41.35 lbs of marijuana

concealed in the gas tank of a 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. The

female driver is from Texas City, TX, and was traveling with two

young children that were not her own. The driver was traveling

from Edinburg, TX, to Texas City on US-281N and was

subsequently arrested.




• 7.6 lbs of methamphetamine and 5.4 lbs of

cocaine concealed in the drive train of a 1999

Ford F-150 pickup truck. The driver was from

Minnesota and traveling from Matamoros, MX, to

Houston on US-59N. Victoria PD and Jackson Co

SO assisted in this case.


• A horse trailer with a false wall located between the cargo area and the stall on

US-59S. The driver advised that he was going to Brownsville to pick up a load of

marijuana. (see assessment)

False

Compartment

THP Victoria seized:

Tool marked drive shaft


• Seized 19 lbs of marijuana from two passengers boarding a commercial bus in

Refugio, TX. The passengers were from Mexico and traveling from Corpus Christi

to Houston on US-77N.


• Recovered one Honda ATV and arrested one Mexican

national, who was in possession of the stolen ATV

originating from Georgia. The offender was from

Matamoros, MX. The vehicle and offender were at a public

establishment along US-77 in Refugio, TX.

DPS-CID Corpus Christi working Operation Border Star:

Marijuana seizures decreased in the Coastal Bend Sector over the last reporting period from

2,685.9 lbs to 274.87 lbs, while cocaine seizures have increased from 0.09 lbs to 95.28 lbs. There

were two significant seizures of methamphetamine totaling 18.05 lbs. Three US currency seizures

totaling $141,186.00 were reported which was an increase from $7,157.00 last week. IA referrals,

stolen vehicles, and recovered vehicles increased this reporting period however pursuits, bailouts,

absconds decreased. US-59 and US-281 continue to be locations for drug seizures.

Coastal Bend JOIC’s Sector Assessment


Coastal Bend JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

A review of the Sarita and Falfurrias checkpoint reports revealed

that between 10 FEB and 16 FEB, 2011, there were 746.7 lbs of

marijuana and 30 lbs of cocaine seized at the Falfurrias

checkpoint (US-281N). At the Sarita checkpoint on US-77N there

was 66 lbs of marijuana seized. The Falfurrias checkpoint reported

one small seizure of 53.05 lbs of marijuana that came from a

legitimate Fed-Ex truck. Across the sector, including the

checkpoints, there have been decreases in marijuana seizures

and an increase of cocaine seizures.

One vehicle seizure by DPS involved a horse trailer with a false

wall. The male driver stated that the organization frequently runs

narcotics in these type of trailers and that they always have a lead

and follow-up vehicle. The driver also stated that the vehicles

bypass US-59 when going to Houston due to heavy law

enforcement activity in the Victoria and surrounding areas.

Instead, they utilize SH-141 to IH-37 and from there they travel on

SH-72 to Kennedy, TX, or SH-97 to Floresville, TX. The end goal

was to connect to IH-10 or US-90 to reach Houston, Texas.

FLORESVILLE

KENEDYVICTORIA

To

Houston


Statewide CorridorSeizures

THP [ Carson Co.] –• 16 lbs marijuana - luggage; Megalia, CA to South Carolina.

THP [Nacogdoches Co.] –• 113.2 lbs marijuana & 964.0 grams Hydrocodone – false compartment in rear of gooseneck trailer; Atascocita, TX to Louisville, KY.

CID [Galveston Co.] –• one ballistic vest, one .22 caliber revolver, $1,155 USD, a security surveillance system, police scanners and a laptop computer were all seized - residence; Texas City, TX.

THP [Brazos Co.] –• 249.10 grams cocaine – natural void behind rear seat; Houston, TX to College Station, TX.

THP & CID [McLennan Co.] –• 171.0 grams methamphetamine, $3,548 USD & .357 revolver –residence; Bellmead, TX. • 24.0 lbs marijuana – natural void in back seat; McAllen, TX to Goshen, IN.• 9.0 Kg cocaine – after market metal box behind gas tank; Laredo, TX to Dallas, TX.

THP [Ector Co.] –• 56 grams cocaine – luggage; Van Horn, TX to Odessa, TX.

THP [Oldham Co.] –• 20.34 lbs marijuana – duffle bag in trunk; Phoenix, AZ to Panama City, FL.

THP [Gregg Co.] –• 268.0 grams cocaine – concealed in vehicle’s air filter; Dallas, TX to Tangipahoa, LA.

THP [Kaufman Co.] –• 436 Hydrocodone tablets, 37 Xanaxtablets & 352 grams Codeine –passenger’s purse; Arlington, TX to Monroe, LA.

THP [VanZandt Co.] –• 21 lbs marijuana – trunk; Arlington, TX to Dothan, AL.

THP [Atascosa Co.] –• $20,000 USD – under second row seat; Corpus Christi, TX to Houston, TX.

CID [Hill Co.] –• 450 grams methamphetamine & a .45 Glock –controlled delivery; Hillsboro, TX.

CID [Montgomery Co.] –• 2,497 grams methamphetamine – buy-walk purchase; Humble, TX.


On 11 FEB 2011: With the assistance of Texas City PD SWAT, Dickinson PD, La Marque PD

and DEA-League City, CID Texas City executed a search warrant at a residence in Texas City.

As a result, one ballistic vest, one .22 caliber revolver, $1,155 USD, a security surveillance

On 10 FEB 2011: THP

Longview stopped a

1999 Lincoln Town Car

on IH-20 and arrested

one suspect. A probable

cause search revealed

268 grams of cocaine

concealed in the

vehicle’s air filter. The

vehicle was traveling

from Dallas, TX, to

Tangipahoa, LA.

system, police scanners and a

laptop computer were all seized.

Two suspects were arrested.

On 14 FEB 2011: With

the assistance of

Woodway PD, THP

Waco stopped a 2001

Chevy K3500 on IH-35

and arrested two

suspects. A consent to

search revealed 24 lbs

of marijuana hidden in

a natural void behind

the back seat. The

vehicle was traveling from McAllen to Goshen, IN.


On 14 FEB 2011: THP Nacogdoches stopped a 2009 Ford truck,

pulling a 1997 gooseneck trailer on US-59 and arrested one

suspect. A consent to search revealed a false compartment in the

storage area of the trailer that contained six bundles of marijuana

(totaling 113.20 lbs) and an additional plastic bag filled with 964

grams of Hydrocodone. The drugs were traveling from

Atascocita, TX, to Louisville, KY.

False compartment built behind

back wall of trailer and accessible

through the vent on top of the trailer.


ANALYST NOTE: In the last few months, there have been

a total of five reported incidences involving livestock

trailers to transport contraband (weapons, currency,

marijuana). All incidences involved Gooseneck trailers

except for one. In all, there have a total of two incidences

that occurred this week in Nacogdoches.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/US_59.svg


On 8 FEB 2011: Conroe CID, along with

Houston PD-Narcotics, DEA-Houston and

the Montgomery Co Constable’s Office,

conducted a buy-walk operation in Humble,

TX. As a result of the operation and an

additional search warrant, the Agents

seized 2,497 grams of methamphetamine

and arrested one individual.

On 31 JAN 2011: THP San Marcos stopped a 2008 Ford

F-150 on IH-10 and with the assistance of Luling City PD

K-9 Unit, arrested one suspect. A consent to search was

obtained and $14,285 USD was located in the dash and

console. The vehicle was traveling from Houston to

Cotulla, TX.

On 11 FEB 2011: THP Beaumont stopped a 2000

Ford F-250 on IH-10 and arrested three suspects. A

probable cause search resulted in the seizure of 167

lbs of marijuana. Ten large bundles were discovered

in the tool box located in the bed of the truck. The

drugs were traveling from Houston to Florida.



On 10 FEB 2011: THP Panhandle stopped a 2010 Toyota

Camry on IH-40 and arrested three suspects. A consent

to search revealed 24 bundles of cocaine (totaling 9 kilos)

concealed inside both rocker panels of the rental vehicle.

The cocaine was traveling from Arizona to North Carolina.

Previous Rocker Panel Concealment On 15 DEC 2010: THP

Mount Pleasant stopped a

2002 Dodge Stratus on IH-

30 and arrested one

suspect. A consent to

search revealed 8 bundles

of marijuana (totaling 40

lbs) concealed inside both

rocker panels of the vehicle.

The marijuana was traveling

from Tennessee to Dallas.


Late Entries:

On 21 NOV 2010: THP Jourdanton stopped a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix on IH-37 and arrested one

suspect. A consent to search revealed 6 kilograms of cocaine concealed inside a false

compartment beneath the air blower and behind the speedometer. The cocaine was traveling from

Brownsville, TX to San Antonio, TX.

On 29 JAN 2011: THP Nacogdoches

seized $20,520 USD and arrested one

Jose Luis MENDOZA following a traffic

stop on US-59. During questioning, the

Trooper observed three Santa Muerte

tattoos as well as the pictured St. Maria.

When asked about the

(Santa Muerte stock photo)

meaning, MENDOZA replied

that ―she is the living form of

Santa Muerte.‖ The vehicle

was traveling from Houston to

Jonesboro, AR.

The suspect’s vehicle had a

personalized Arkansas license

plate with the word ―EME‖

displayed. La Eme, which is the

Spanish word for the letter M, is a

common reference to the violent

Mexican Mafia gang.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/US_59.svg


On February 16, 2011 THP Sulphur Springs stopped a 1998 Chevrolet Pick Up on IH-30 in Hopkins

Co. The Trooper quickly recognized that the driver and vehicle were the same as a previous stop in

December 2010. After a K-9 alert, a probable cause search disclosed 2.8 kilos of cocaine located in

a false compartment within the engine. Further investigation also revealed photos of the suspect

standing in the snow with vehicles in the background containing Illinois license plates, confirming a

destination of Chicago on previous smuggling trips, and eventually the driver admitted that Chicago

was the true destination. Multiple crossings on the vehicle and others owned by the driver indicated

crossings in Pharr, TX, and Hidalgo, TX, to/from Mexico. THP was assisted by Hopkins Co Sheriff’s

Office.

December 16, 2010 February 16, 2011



RESPONSE

AUTONOMOUS SENSOR PLATFORM (ASP)Monitored by JOICs, BSOC, TX Fusion Center, and USBP BIC

Activity at one (1) Camera28 JAN – 09 FEB

Noted Activity at three (3) other Cameras – 23 JAN – 16 FEB

USBP Captured one IA from Mexico and onefrom Colombia. The Colombian had an arrestwarrant out of Houston.

RESPONSEActivity at one (1) Camera 28 JAN – 15 FEB


SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICOSIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICO



Significant events in Mexico

CD JUÁREZ – On 11 FEB 2011, a group of armed men entered the

Bar Pantera Rosa located on the Panamerican Highway near Ixcoatl

Street in the southern part of Juárez. A shootout between the gunmen

and Mexican soldiers ensued. Federal Police arrived as backup for

the military while shots were still being exchanged. Two men believed

to be assassins were killed in the gunfight, and three other suspects

were arrested. One person died inside the bar, and another died

outside a nearby gymnasium. Another subject was wounded and

transported by ambulance to a hospital. The Panamerican Highway is

the only exit from the city heading south, and was blocked by

authorities for an extended time. This incident occurred 24 hrs after

the massacre at the Las Torres Bar that claimed nine lives.

Federal Police maintain vigilance Dead subject outside gymnasium Subject in custody

Mexican soldiers guard perimeter

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0CY13FHr8w/TVTJhXmGkeI/AAAAAAAABTo/ciifNwhUXrQ/s320/soldadoscd.jpg


Significant events in Mexico (cont)

Fierro Santos, 23, who was wounded and later taken to a nearby hospital. Also apprehended were

Brayan Alexis, 16, and Fernando Pérez Terrazas N., 20, in possession of an AK-47. Fernando

Perez has prior convictions for auto theft. Fernando Pérez confessed that the reason they were at

this home was to kidnap an alleged extortionist known as "The Panther." The intended victim was a

member of a rival group who was killed at the scene. The fifth subject, Ivan Parra Barrios, 23, was

CD. JUÁREZ – On 12 FEB 2011, five gunmen presumed to have

participated in the massacre at the bar "Las Torres― on 10 FEB 2011

are now under arrest. Seven women and two men were killed in the

attack and a man and woman remain hospitalized. Suspect Roberto

Ceballos Martínez, 22, alias "El Robert" was arrested the night ofthe shooting inside the bar when he tried to go unnoticed after the shooting. The Federal Police

Intelligence Center relayed that this subject had a criminal record involving past drug crimes, and

could be linked to the gang known as ―Artistas Asesinos,‖ which operates in Cd. Juárez. Three

suspects were arrested when federal agents came under gunfire as they answered a suspicious

activity call at a home in the Real subdivision. After a confrontation they were able to arrest Erick

placed under arrest at the local

Red Cross, where he was being

treated for a gunshot wound. An

AK-47 rifle, two rifle magazines,

ninety-six 7.62 x 39 mm rounds, a

9 mm pistol, two mobile phones, a

two way radio and a Mitsubishi

Montero Sport with Chihuahua

license plates were seized.



Courtyard and building where cars were dismantled

CD. JUÁREZ – On 09 FEB 2011, two men and a woman were taken

into custody by municipal police at a residence located at Sendero del

Carmen and Sendero de Pamplona streets in the Sendero de San

Isidro subdivision. Located at the scene were at least twenty sets of

license plates, a variety of auto parts, four engines, and VIN plates

and documents from numerous vehicles. The arrests were made at

after receiving an anonymous tip. Investigators stated this group of

individuals were involved in stripping stolen vehicles and are believed

to be members of a larger car theft operation.

License plates and tools

Individuals arrested



CD. JUÁREZ – A member of the

kidnapping ring led by ―El Cabezon‖

was stabbed to death inside the

CERESO prison in Cd. Juarez on 09

FEB 2011. Another member of the

group died in the prison a few days

earlier.

CD. JUÁREZ – The body of a

semi-nude woman was dumped

near colonia Parque Industriales on

09 FEB 2011. Her face was

covered with tape and her hands

bound. The body was wrapped in a

blanket.

CD. JUÁREZ – A woman was shot and killed inside her

home which also served as a day care center for

children. The homicide occurred the evening of 09 FEB

2011 near the intersection of Santa Fe and Emiliano

Zapata streets in colonia Nuevo Mexico.

CD. JUÁREZ – On 10 FEB 2011 near the intersection of

Mar Rojo and Bosque de Aldama streets, three men were

shot and killed inside their SUV after being pursued

through the streets of colonia Los Bosques.CD. JUÁREZ – On 10 FEB 2011, the municipal police

commander of the Aldama station was shot and killed while

driving in his Dodge Ram pickup on Manuel J. Clouthier and

Saguaro streets.



CD. JUÁREZ – On 11 FEB 2010, two men were shot and killed after leaving the ―Central Integral Contra las

Adicciones‖, a drug rehabilitation center, located near the intersection of Manuel J. Clothier Avenue and Filodendro

Street in the Southeast part of the city. On 16 JUN 2010, six men were executed inside the same facility.

CD. JUÁREZ – On 11 FEB 2011, One Transito Officer was shot

and killed and another gravely wounded as they patrolled near

the intersection of Tecnologico Avenue and Vicente Guerrero

Street. Both were working unarmed.

CD. JUÁREZ – On 12 FEB 2011, A man identified as a town

official in the Juárez Valley and another person were shot and

killed as they drove on the Juarez-Porvenir Highway near the

Yanez Bridge in the town of El Sauzal.



CD. JUÁREZ – On 12 FEB

2011, a boy believed to be

16 yrs old was shot in killed

in front of his home located

on the corner of Ramon

Aranda and Jesus Najera

streets in colonia La

Chavena.

CD. JUÁREZ – On 13 FEB 2011, a

woman identified as ―La Columbiana‖

was shot and killed and a man was

wounded following a long pursuit by

gunmen along Norzagaray Blvd. close

to the international border. A young boy

with the pair was uninjured. The man,

who was shot in the arm, managed to

cross to the US side of the border near

UTEP. USBP Agents who were

watching the incident summoned

medical aid for the man who was

transported to University Medical Center

in El Paso.

The number of DTO related homicides in Cd.

Juárez and surrounding communities continues

to increase. There have been 69 DTO related

homicides during this reporting period bringing

the total to 110 for the month of February and

330 for the year. An estimate predicts the death

tally could reach 5,000 this year unless

conditions change.0

1000

2000

3000

4000

1607

26583111

330

DTO Related Deaths Juarez MX 2008 to Date

2008 2009 2010 2011


Significant events in Mexico

The Mexican Attorney General’s Office reports that authorities torched more than

26 tons of marijuana and about 200 grams of cocaine in Reynosa while

representatives from the three levels of government observed. The drugs that

burned in Reynosa came from 26 recent seizures in Reynosa, Matamoros and

Miguel Aleman.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/20/PGR_logo.svg



REYNOSA – SEDENA Officials from the military’s 8th

zone, which includes Reynosa, killed 23 alleged cartel

members and arrested 31 others in several operations

during a seven-day span from 5 FEB to 12 FEB.

Soldiers also seized more than 11,000 pounds of

marijuana, 2.24 pounds of cocaine and a small amount

of crack cocaine, 76 long guns,10 handguns,11

grenades, three grenade launchers and one grenade

launcher attachment, $75,000 in both USD and Mexican

currency was seized, along with 42 vehicles, two of

which were armored, officials added. Soldiers also

seized two tractors, two bullet-proof vests, four cell

phones and nine radios.

SOTO LA MARINA – SEMAR Marines conducting air

and land patrols near Soto La Marina (Approx. 65

miles east of Cd. Victoria) observed three suspicious

pickup trucks outside a ranch. Armed gunmen

(identified as members of the Gulf Cartel) in the trucks

opened fire on the Marines. The gunmen fled the

scene into heavy brush. Marines searched the trucks

and found 23 long arms, six hand guns, seven

grenades, 53 AK-47 magazines, 70 magazines for

various other weapons and calibers and hundreds of

7.62 & 5.56 mm ammunition. Blood was seen in one

of the vehicles indicating that at least one gunman

was injured.

Initials C.D.G. (Cartel del Golfo)on hats




MATAMOROS – Nine people, including a 16-year-old

girl, were wounded when unidentified assailants threw

a grenade in a business district in Matamoros.

According to the Ministry of Public Security, witnesses

testified to seeing an unknown man walk towards the

store, located at 11th and Abasolo, and throw the

grenade into the crowd of innocent bystanders. All nine

victims were taken to a nearby hospital and received

medical attention for shrapnel injuries.

PADILLA – On 14 FEB 2011, Tamaulipas state

authorities reported 18 dead in Padilla, a town

about 180 miles south of McAllen. Among the

people slain were five of the city’s residents,

another five in a passing car and a person traveling

in a bus. Seven other people were found dead in

the town’s square presumably first executed

elsewhere. Damage to the city hall was reported, as

well as the town’s courthouse and municipal police

station. State authorities vowed to repair the

damaged buildings and investigate the homicides.

The massacre comes days after Mexican army

officials in Reynosa announced that 23 cartel

members killed and another 31 arrested in the past

week.

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

On 15 FEB 2011, ICE Agents Jaime Zapata and Victor

Avila were shot in their armored SUV with diplomatic

plates by unknown gunmen. The Agents were forced off

the road by two carloads of gunmen as they traveled the

busy toll expressway between Queretaro and San Luis

Potosi on Highway 57. The Agents were traveling from

Mexico City to Monterrey. After the Agents identified

themselves as US Citizens and diplomats, the gunmen

opened fire. Agent Zapata was critically wounded and

later succumbed to his wounds, while Agent Avila was

shot twice in the leg.



NUEVO LEON – On 14 FEB 2011 in Monterrey’s central barrio, the Director of the Nuevo Leon’s C-

5 intelligence center Homero Guillermo Salcido Treviño, was found assassinated in his government

issued armored SUV. Salcido Treviño had been kidnapped by drug gang members who drove him

to a central area of the city and shot him five times before throwing a grenade inside the vehicle

and driving away. He was the nephew of the former state police chief, Luis Carlos Treviño

Berchelmann, who left that post earlier this month.

NUEVO LEON – On 13 FEB 2011, Mexican Military forces

arrested Juan Carlos Olvera Acosta—better known as ―El

Sonrics.‖ He was detained along with some of his ―business-

partners,‖ including police officer Yesenia Elizabeth Bocanegra

Garza and Víctor Manuel Ramos Garza in the town of

Guadalupe. Olvera Acosta was one of the top leaders of the

criminal organization Los Zetas in the state of Nuevo León.

Olvera Acosta operated in the municipalities of Linares, General

Terán, Allende, Montemorelos and Santiago.


COLOMBIA NABS FULLY SUBMERSIBLE DRUG SUBMARINE

BOGOTA, Colombia – Colombian soldiers have for the first time seized a fullysubmersible drug-smuggling submarine capable of reaching the coast ofMexico. The sub was found in a rural area of Cauca province on the TimgiquiRiver about 275 miles (440 kilometers) southwest of Bogota, the capital.Intelligence reports and tips from informants led troops to the vessel. The subwas empty when soldiers found it and no one was arrested. It is estimated thevessel had taken six to eight months to build and cost about $2 million. Theengines were installed and the vessel was ready to sail. The seized vessel hadthe following specifications:

• 99-foot-long fiberglass boat

• Powered by two diesel engines

• Air-conditioned interior

• Submersion up to 9 meters

• Equipped with a 16 1/2-foot (five meter) periscope

• Crew of six

• Equipped with sophisticated navigational equipment

• Capacity to sail totally underwater and the ability totravel to the coast of Mexico without surfacing

To date, Colombia has seized at least 32 semi-submersiblevessels designed to smuggle drugs over the past decade,including a dozen last year.


UPDATES & ASSESSMENT

OPERATION BORDER STAR

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OBS Weekly Assessment

Marijuana seizures decreased from 53,318.84 lbs last week to 49,932.89 lbs this week. The

largest total seizure came from the RGV Sector in which Roma PD with ICE Agents and Starr Co

SO executed a search warrant in Roma and seized 8,900 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 622 bundles

inside the garage and residence. Over the past three weeks, the Marfa Sector has seen a trend of

large loads being apprehended in commercial vehicles. The Coastal Bend Sector experienced an

89% decrease in marijuana from 2,685 lbs last week to 274.87 lbs this week. The total estimated

street value for reported marijuana seizures during this reporting period is $47.2 million.

43,565.8839,731.59

53,318.84

49,932.89

0

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20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View

Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average

0

10,000

20,000

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40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

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Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Marijuana (lbs) Long-Term Trendline


OBS Weekly Assessment (cont)

Cocaine seizures increased from last week’s total, from 168.61 lbs last

week to 237.08 lbs this week. The largest total seizures occurred in the

Coastal Bend Sector with 95.28 lbs. The majority of that total came from a

cocaine seizure conducted by THP Wharton Co., in which the cocaine

packaging had a circular emblem with a black knight chess piece. The total

estimated street value for reported cocaine seizures totaled $7.6 million.

Heroin and methamphetamine seizures reported for this week’s reporting period total 0.02 lbs

and 62.54 lbs, respectively. The largest seizure occurred in the Laredo Sector where Laredo PD

Officers seized 42.5 lbs of methamphetamines from a male subject.

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Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Cocaine (lbs) Long-Term Trendline

808.95

358.83

168.61237.08

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700

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900

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View



On 11 FEB 2011, CBP-OFO Officers working

at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo seized

37.17 lbs of liquid cocaine concealed in beer

bottles, inside of a 2001 Ford F-150. This is

the second seizure in the Laredo POE of

liquid cocaine concealed in brown Corona

bottles. Over the last couple months, this

method has been utilized to smuggle liquid

methamphetamine and cocaine. At the Laredo

POE, there have been four seizures of liquid

meth in Heineken mini beer kegs. At the

Brownsville Gateway POE, CBP Officers

seized at total of six liters of liquid crystal

meth concealed inside six 1.2 liter Victoria

beer bottles. These incidences highlight an

increase in smuggling narcotics in liquid form.


DATE LOCATION SEIZURE

12/13/2010Laredo POE via Ford F-150 Van

27.4 lbs liquid meth in Heineken mini

kegs

12/15/2010Laredo POE via

taxi

38.6 lbs liquid meth in Heineken mini

kegs

01/11/2011 Laredo POE via

Mexican taxi

32.52 lbs liquidmeth in Heineken

mini kegs

01/17/2011Brownsville

POE via bicycle

Six liters of liquid crystal meth in 1.2

Victoria beer bottles

01/20/2011Laredo POE via

a privatevehicle

Six liters liquidcocaine in one liter

Corona bottles

02/11/2011Laredo POE via a 2001 Ford F-

150

37.17 lbs of liquidcocaine in liter

Corona beer bottles



Bulk currency seizures increased dramatically from $9,639 USD for last week to $333,966 USD

this week. The largest single seizure was conducted by the South Texas Narcotics Task Force

(Kingsville Task Force) in the Coastal Bend Sector which seized $136,820.00 USD concealed in a

hidden compartment of a 1996 Dodge Van headed Southbound on US-77. In the RGV Sector, CBP

Officers at the Pharr POE seized $49,720.00 USD concealed in the waistband of a female pants,

who was a passenger in a Nissan Altima.

The street value of all contraband seized this week represents a loss to Mexican DTOs

and the criminal networks that support them of approximately $56.2 million.

$0

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Currency Seizures ($) Long-Term View

Currency Seizures (USD) Long-Term Trendline

552,947.05

361,061.00

9,639.00

333,966.00

0.00

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28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11

Currency Seizures ($) Short-Term View




Illegal alien apprehensions increased significantly this week. The highest amount of

apprehensions occurred in the Rio Grande Valley and the Laredo Sectors. The amount of OTM

apprehensions doubled this week. In addition, this week’s apprehension totals are almost double

the average for 2011, and more then double the average for 2010. The RGV Sector accounted for

more than half (68%) of OTM apprehensions, followed by Del Rio Sector with 18%. The majority of

OTMs were Honduran.

EP3%

MAR1%

DR18%

LR10%

RGV68%

Other Than Mexican IAs Detained This Reporting Period

EP MAR DR LR RGV CB

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100

150

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Ecuador* El Salvador* Guatemala* Honduras* India*

Top 5 OTM Origin Countries as Reported by the Unified Command

On 08 FEB 2011, US Department of Justice released a statement regarding the

conviction of Song U. Chon, owner of The Gateway Hotel, in El Paso, TX, for

smuggling and harboring hundreds undocumented aliens into the US from Mexico,

Central America, South America, Eastern Europe, and Southwest Asia charging

approximately $2,000 for each person.


BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS CENTERTEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

[email protected] Duty Phone: 512-424-7351; 7034

Fax: 512-424-7041

If any comments or questions arise from this product, please contact:

If you would like to receive a weekly copy of this dissemination, please contact the BSOC at [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Documents

134787_110218 BOSA