CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION This document was created by Texas Department of Public Safety’s Border Security Operations Center in conjunction with federal, state, and local Unified Command partners as part of ongoing border security efforts and should be safeguarded and protected in accordance with the requirements of the above classification. The above classification CONTROLLEDincludes this UNCLASSIFIEDdocument andINFORMATIONany accompanying – LAW ENFORCEMENTattachments SENSITIVEand/or e-mails. Key Events and Findings • The RGV Sector had a significant marijuana seizure of 7,553 lbs in Hidalgo Co. The marijuana, seized from multiple rooms in a private residence fit in five pickup beds.
• The Coastal Bend Sector had a noteworthy seizure of 13.22 lbs of cocaine hidden in a radiator. This is the fifth seizure from a radiator in the past six months. The majority originated from the Brownsville, TX, area.
• All six JOICs had a combined currency seizure total of $2,188,541 USD this week. Del Rio, Laredo, and Coastal Bend had significant seizures totaling just over $2 million USD.
• A Mexican police convoy transporting the Sinaloa cartel kidnapper, Geovany Lizárraga Ontiveros, came under fire in a rescue attempt. Three civilians were caught in the crossfire on the highway and injured. Two of the wounded travelers were identified as US citizens returning from a visit to see family in Michoacán.
• At least 40 SUVs and pickups were stolen from a vehicle exposition in Reynosa on 07 MAY 2011 by an estimated 50-60 gunmen.
• Gas tanks and quarter panel concealments are some of the most prominent contraband concealment methods. This week numerous seizures from gas tanks and quarter panels were seen across all sectors.
• A Jordanian man was arrested in El Paso after an NCIC hit on the vehicle reference two missing children (ages 2 and 3). The suspect had an outstanding warrant for robbery from 1978 from California and several questionable documents were discovered in the vehicle. The subject was arrested for multiple charges. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Sherman Dallam Hansford Ochiltree Lipscomb Sig. Mexico Events 287 p. 86-101 Hartley Moore Hutchinson Roberts Hemphill 287
Oldham Carson Wheeler TTABLEABLE OFOF Potter Gray Statewide Corridor Seizures Collingsworth Deaf Smith Armstrong Randall Donley p. 79-85 27 Parmer Castro Swisher Briscoe Hall Childress
Hardeman Lamb Floyd ONTENTS Hale Motley Cottle Wichita ONTENTS Bailey Clay C Foard C Wilbarger
Montague Lubbock Lamar Crosby Dickens King Knox Baylor Archer Cooke Grayson Fannin Red River Cochran Hockley Bowie
Delta
Franklin Morris Morris Jack Titus Lynn Garza Denton Collin Yoakum Throckmorton Young Wise Hunt Hopkins Terry Kent Stonewall Haskell Cass Cam Rockwall p Rains Marion Dallas Wood Upshur Grant Tarrant Palo Pinto Parker Borden Fisher Gaines Jones Shackelford Stephens Scurry Dawson Harrison Kaufman Otero Van Zandt Dona Ana Howard Mitchell Eastland Hood Ellis Andrews Martin Taylor Johnson Somervell Henderson Gregg Nolan Callahan Erath Panola Luna Rusk Hill Navarro Ector Comanche Cherokee El Paso Hudspeth Loving Winkler Coke Runnels Bosque Anderson Shelby Glasscock Coleman Midland Sterling Brown Freestone Nacogdoches Hidalgo Hamilton Limestone Ward McLennan San Augustine Culberson Mills Hudspeth Crane Upton Reagan Coryell Houston Irion Tom Green Leon Sabine Concho Falls Angelina McCulloch Lampasas Reeves Trinity San Saba Bell Robertson Jasper Madison Newton Schleicher Menard Burnet Crockett Polk Tyler Milam Jeff Davis Jeff Davis Mason Llano Williamson Walker Pecos Brazos El Paso Sector Grimes Burleson San Jacinto Sutton Kimble Hardin Gillespie Lee Montgomery Blanco Travis Washington p. 05-19 Terrell Liberty Bastrop Waller Orange Kerr Hays Harris Edwards Kendall Austin Val Verde Fayette Comal Caldwell Presidio Real Jefferson Brewster Bandera Chambers Fort Bend Guadalupe Colorado Bexar Gonzales Galveston Kinney Uvalde Medina Lavaca Marfa Sector Wilson Brazoria Wharton DeWitt Jackson Frio p. 20-26 Zavala Karnes Matagorda Atascosa Victoria Goliad Live Dimmit Bee Coastal Bend Del Rio Sector Oak Refugio La Salle San Sector p. 27-36 Jim Patricio Wells Duval Nueces Webb p. 66-78 Overall Assessment Kleberg
Jim Brooks Kenedy p. 102-108 Laredo Sector Hogg Rio Grande p. 37-49 Starr Willacy Valley Sector Cameron p. 50-65 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Operation BORDER STAR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE EL PASO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR
11 – 17 MAY 2011
EL PASO EL H U D S P E T H T E P S D U H
UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS
USBP Horizon City PD CBP – OFO Ysleta Del Sur Tribal PD ICE El Paso ISD PD West TX HIDTA University of Texas El Paso PD EPIC El Paso Community College PD TMF El Paso Office of Emergency DPS Management TPWD US Army, Ft. Bliss CID Texas Tech University PD El Paso CO SO Texas Comptroller of Public Hudspeth CO SO Accounts Dona Ana CO SO (NM) Texas Attorney General, El Paso Grant CO SO (NM) Union Pacific Railroad PD Hidalgo CO SO (NM) Texas Alcohic Beverage Luna CO SO (NM) Commission Otero CO SO (NM) El Paso County Constables Anthony PD El Paso PD Full Map/Table of Contents CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – –LAWLAW ENFORCEMENT ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE SENSITIVE El Paso Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 0 Marijuana 1,839.41 lbs IAs/USBP 180 Cocaine 4.11 kilos OTMs 18 Heroin 0.09 kilos Venezuela 1 China 2 Methamphetamine 0.0 kilos Columbia 1 Currency $1,100.00 Honduras 1 Ecuador 1 Ecstasy, 1 pill, OTM Countries Guatemala 3 Other Hydrocodone, 1 pill Peru 1 El Salvador 2 Brazil 4 Handgun(s) 0 Cuba 1 Weapons Long Gun(s) 0 Mongolia 1 Explosive(s) 0 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 16 Recovered 2
Absconds 0 Bailouts 0 Criminal Arrests 86 Fugitive Arrests 36 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 8 Pursuits 1 Scouts/Decoys 0 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE El Paso Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
El Paso UC Currency Seizures El Paso UC Marijuana Seizures $300,000 4,000.00 $278,147 3,500.00 3,398.69 $250,000 3,000.00 $200,000 2,500.00 $150,000 2,000.00 1,500.00 1,839.42 $100,000 1,674.88 1,000.00 1,208.90 $50,000 $40,771
Pounds ofMarijuana PoundsSeized 500.00 Amountof US CurrencySeized $23,358 $1,100 $0 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
El Paso UC Cocaine Seizures El Paso UC Illegal Aliens 50.00 300 44.65 45.00 258 258 40.00 250 268 35.00 200 30.00 25.00 150 180 20.00 15.00 100 10.00 9.07 Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized 50 5.00 5.80 ofIAs NumberApprehended 0.04 0.00 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity Thirteen gang-related incidents were reported during this reporting period involving thirteen arrests of members from ten different gangs. There were eight criminal arrests and five fugitive arrests. The incidents involved: Evading Arrest, Criminal Trespass, Possession of Marijuana, Homicide, Attempted Homicide, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Carry of a Weapon.
Norteno Barrio Azteca Aryan Brotherhood of Texas Sur 13 Hustle Kingz Lower Valley Criminals Bloods Pura Raza Mexicana Mexican Crazy Klica Vice Lord
Significant events : (EPPD 11-022233) a HUSTLE KINGZ gang member shot at a vehicle, striking an individual and killing him. A second subject in the vehicle was uninjured.
Significant Arrest: Operation SANDSTORM Jesus Francisco Arredondo-Jasso, DOB: 2/14/1988, was for two counts of Sexual Assault of a Child. The arrest warrant was issued out of AK. Arredondo-Jasso is a self-admitted Ex-Sureno gang member and is in the US illegally. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity (cont) US Marshals and associated El Paso Sector law enforcement conducted a warrant sweep entitled Operation Sand Storm. Approximately 164 fugitives were arrested and 263 warrants were cleared. Fourteen gang members were arrested to include: (8) Barrio Azteca, (1) Chuco Town, (1) Border Brothers, (1) Barrio San Juan, (1) Latin King, (1) Northside Kings, and (1) Sureno. Agencies assisting in the operation in conjunction with the US Marshals included: El Paso PD, the El Paso Co SO, ICE, USBP, FBI, BATFE, DEA, Texas OIG, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, TABC, El Paso Co District Attorney’s Office, El Paso Co Constables, THP and the Texas Rangers
Miguel Armando Michael Abraham BETANCOURT MUNOZ Jr. JIMENEZ Elliot BRISENO Edgar Fabian VALERO DOB: 9/18/1979 DOB: 7/11/1990 DOB: 2/19/1982 DOB: 11/29/1991 CASTORENA MAGUREGUI DOB: 9/16/1988 Chuco Town Varrio San Juan Latin Kings Northside Kings DOB: 7/4/1987 DOB: 7/22/1969 Sureno Border Brothers Barrio Aztecas
Juan JIMENEZ Marco MURILLO Omar DUARTE Mario MEDINA Ricardo DOB: 6/23/1956 DOB: 5/10/1978 DOB: 5/7/1987 DOB: 9/3/1992 SALDANA Ernie LARA Antonio Barrio Aztecas Barrio Aztecas Barrio Aztecas Barrio Aztecas DOB: 4/10/1980 DOB: 8/15/1972 MARMOLEJO Barrio Aztecas Barrio Aztecas DOB: 6/23/1964 Barrio Aztecas
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Southbound Operations From 11 May – 13 May 2011, El Paso DPS CID and THP personnel conducted GATE Operations at the Fabens and Fort Hancock POEs. Approximately 950 southbound and 432 northbound vehicles were inspected. Approximately 155 traffic citations were issued during the operation for a variety of violations. One Big Tex trailer with an altered VIN was seized for further investigation. One counterfeit title was surrendered during the operation. Fabens POE Big Tex Trailer
Altered VIN No.
On 06 May 2011, an El Paso DPS CVE Trooper conducted a license plate check on a vehicle bearing GA registration on IH-10W, and received an NCIC alert regarding two missing children (ages 2 and 3). The Trooper stopped the vehicle and both children were recovered. The driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant issued out of GA for interference with custody of a child. Additionally, El Paso DPS CID, with the assistance of the Texas Rangers, seized several questionable government documents. The Jordanian suspect has been residing in the US and faces additional forgery charges for the located documents. The suspect was also found to be wanted under an alias name for a 1978 robbery committed in California. A positive identity was confirmed by the Texas Rangers through fingerprints submitted to Los Angeles Co SO. Investigation continues by HIS, DPS CID, and the Texas Rangers.
Ahmad A Makahlea 01/27/1954 222-52-2106 Various Seized Documents
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of Americas POE seized: 11 MAY 2011 80.34 lbs of marijuana 2005 Toyota Corolla Concealment: Rear quarter panels
16 MAY 2011 69.31 lbs of marijuana 2003 Nissan 350Z Concealment: Behind driver and passenger seats
16 MAY 2011 48.33 lbs of marijuana 1994 Ford Mustang Concealment: Rear bumper
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized: 11 MAY 2011
99.99 lbs of marijuana 2002 Ford Expedition Concealment: Within rear cargo
11 MAY 2011
110.98 lbs of marijuana 1996 Jeep Cherokee Concealment: All four tires
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized: 12 MAY 2011 187.26 lbs of marijuana 2002 Chrysler Cirrus Concealment: Rear seats, gas tank floor and roof 13 MAY 2011 67.86 lbs of marijuana 1999 Hyundai Tiburon Concealment: Dashboard
14 MAY 2011 38.71 lbs of marijuana 1995 Jeep Cherokee Concealment: Dashboard
15 MAY 2011 63.67 lbs of marijuana 1998 Jeep Cherokee Concealment: Spare tire
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Paso del Norte POE seized: 11 MAY 2011 175.49 lbs of marijuana 2008 Ford Focus Concealment: Quarter panels
12 MAY 2011 149.80 lbs of marijuana 1993 Ford van E-150 Concealment: Non-factory compartment in the roof 12 MAY 2011 65.48 lbs of marijuana 2000 Ford Windstar Concealment: Fuel tank
12 MAY 2011 62.61 lbs of marijuana 1994 Plymouth Voyager Concealment: Fuel tank
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers seized: 12 MAY 2011 – Paso del Norte POE 7.5 lbs of cocaine 2001 Ford Explorer Concealment: Fuel tank
15 MAY 2011 – Ysleta POE 90.2 lbs of marijuana 1998 Ford Windstar Concealment: Dashboard
15 MAY 2011 – Columbus, NM POE 24.25 lbs of cocaine 2003 Chevrolet Venture Concealment: Dashboard
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) 2003 Suzuki GXSR On 12 May 2011, El Paso PD Auto Theft Task Force (ATTF) Officers received information that an employee at an auto salvage lot was in possession of a stolen motorcycle. Surveillance was established, and when the subject arrived at work, Officers requested to inspect the motorcycle. El Paso PD confirmed that the motorcycle had been stolen in 2005. The motorcycle was impounded, and officers obtained consent to search the subject’s residence for additional stolen goods. The search revealed a motorcycle engine that was reported stolen from Scottsdale, AZ in 2001. El Paso PD ATTF will continue its investigation. Stolen Engine (non-repairable)
On 08 May 2011, an El Paso PD Officer was operating a License Plate Reader (LPR) unit Actual 1995 funded by Border Star grants on I-10/E at Buick Le Sabre MM:33. The LPR notified the Officer of a possible stolen 1995 Buick Le Sabre, as the vehicle passed through. The vehicle was LPR Laptop Screen Reading confirmed stolen, and the Officer initiated a traffic stop. A subsequent warrant check revealed several outstanding. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was impounded. El Paso PD Auto Theft Task Force Officers were notified and continue to investigate.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) As a result of an investigation by the El Paso Co SO, Officers seized approximately 661 grams (1.48 lbs) of cocaine which was concealed inside a hidden compartment of a 2007 Honda Accord. Also seized was an undetermined amount of United States currency. Jorge Ivan Venegas of Socorro, TX, was arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled Substance. For the week ending 14 May 2011, the Border Auto Theft Information Center (BATIC) received 3,568 inquiries/callers requesting information on suspicious vehicles. The BATIC Specialists responded affirmatively to 57 of these calls with stolen vehicle information forwarded to the requesting officers. For the week, 40 vehicles were returned back to the US with a property value calculated at $465,488 USD. On 10 May 2011, El Paso CID personnel recovered 15 stolen vehicles from Mexico. The total property value was calculated at $267,893 USD.
El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment The El Paso Sector experienced a decrease in marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and currency seizures, and an increase in heroin during this reporting period. There was a decrease in stolen vehicles (22) as well as a decrease in recovered stolen vehicles (2). Of the total 1,791 lbs of marijuana seized at the POEs, 315 lbs was seized at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) POE, 721 lbs at the Ysleta POE, 490 lbs at the Paso Del Norte POE, 240 lbs at the Santa Teresa POE, and 24 lbs in the Lordsburg area. There were 21 reported marijuana seizures across the POEs, and 1 cocaine seizure at the Ysleta POE for a total of 3.4 kilos seized during this reporting period.
Two predominate concealment methods during this reporting period were in dashboards and vehicle fuel tanks. Additional concealment methods included vehicle roofs, vehicle tires, vehicle seats, quarter panels, fender wells, tires and roof areas. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)
The El Paso PD reported 7 marijuana seizures totaling 0.638 lbs, and 3 cocaine seizures totaling 0.0217 kilos. The El Paso Co SO reported 2 marijuana seizures totaling 45.86 lbs, and 5 cocaine seizures totaling 1.3516 kilos (2.98 lbs).
During this reporting period, 180 IAs were apprehended. IA apprehensions decreased by 88 from the previous week’s 268. Total reported IA apprehensions within the El Paso Sector from 5 Jan 2011 through 17 May 2011 were 4,827, with 305 being Other Than Mexican (OTM).
FRANCE, 1 SAUDI, 1 BRAZIL ECUAD, 1 ELSAL Leading IA OTMs 5 JAN 2011to date: NIGIA, COLOM, 1 VENEZ, 1 GUATE 2 CUBA, INDA, 5 CHINA, 2 1 HONDO KENYA, 2 PERU Guatemala 78 POLAND, 3 MONGO, 1 DR POLAND El Salvador 42 DR, 1 INDA Honduras 41 PERU, KENYA 2 BRAZIL, 28 FRANCE Brazil 40 HONDO, 11 NIGIA SAUDI India 24 CHINA COLOM GUATE, 18 ECUAD From 4/13 – 4/19 (33 OTM Apprehensions) ELSAL, 18 VENEZ CUBA From 4/20 – 4/26 (25 OTM Apprehensions) MONGO From 4/27 – 5/03 (12 OTM Apprehensions) From 5/04 – 5/10 (11 OTM Apprehensions) From 5/11 – 5/17 (18 OTM Apprehensions) OTM Apprehensions between 13 Apr - 17 May
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont) Citywide (YTD through 14 May 2011) City-wide index crime continues to show a decrease by Offense 2010 2011 % Change 7% compared to the same time frame last year. There is Murder 1 13 1,200% a noted 1,200% increase (12) in murders, a 56% increase Sexual Aslt 57 89 56% (32) in sexual assaults, a 6% decrease (9) in robberies, a Robbery 154 145 -6% 2% decrease (99) in assaults, a 6% decrease (40) in Aslt 4,152 4,053 -2% Burglary 675 635 -6% burglary, an 11% decrease (539) in larceny, a 22% Larceny 4,909 4,370 -11% decrease (145) in vehicle theft, and a 2% increase (21) in Veh Theft 652 507 -22% vehicle burglary. (Information provided by El Paso PD) *Burg Vehicle 938 959 2% Total: 10,600 9,812 -7% Population of El Paso: 649,121 (2010 Census) *** Crime Rate: 1,644 1,522 -7% Population El Paso City and County: 700,000 Population figures do not reflect the individuals fleeing CD. Juarez to El Paso due to the on going DTO Violence
*Burg Vehicle , Sexual Aslt, 89 938 Sexual Aslt, 57 *Burg Vehicle , Murder, 13 Robbery, Robbery, 145 959 Murder, 1 154 Veh Theft, 507 Murder Veh Theft, 652 Murder Sexual Aslt Sexual Aslt Aslt, 4,053 Robbery Aslt, 4,152 Robbery Aslt Aslt Larceny , 4,370 Larceny , Burglary 4,909 Burglary Larceny Larceny Veh Theft Veh Theft Burglary, 675 *Burg Vehicle *Burg Vehicle Burglary, 635
City Wide for week ending 14 May 2010 City Wide for week ending 14 May 2011
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE MARFA UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS USBP Hudspeth CO SO CBP - OFO Jeff Davis CO SO ICE Pecos CO SO C U L B E R S O N NPS Presidio CO SO West TX HIDTA Reeves CO SO H U D S P E T H TMF Terrell CO SO TPWD Alpine PD DPS Fort Stockton PD Brewster CO SO Pecos PD R E E V E S Culberson CO SO Presidio PD P E C O S
J E F F D A V I S
T E R R E L L
P R E S I D I O B R E W S T E R
Full Map/Table of Contents CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – –LAWLAW ENFORCEMENT ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE SENSITIVE Marfa Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions Marijuana 600.23 lbs IAs/Referrals 1 IAs/USBP 49 Cocaine 0.01 lbs OTMs 2 Heroin 0.0 lbs Guatemala 1 OTM Countries Methamphetamine 0.0 lbs New Zealand 1 Currency 0 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered
Hashish 0.015 lbs, Stolen 0 Other Vicodone 1 pills, Oxycodone 1 Pills Recovered 0
Handgun(s) 1 Weapons Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0
Absconds 2 Bailouts 0 Criminal Arrests 69 Fugitive Arrests 1 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 0 Scouts/Decoys 0
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Marfa Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Marfa UC Currency Seizures Marfa UC Marijuana Seizures $120,000 2,500.00 $109,576 2,142.03 1,969.41 $100,000 2,000.00
$80,000 1,500.00 $60,000 1,000.00 $40,000 500.00 600.24
$20,000
Pounds of Marijuana Seized Marijuana of Pounds Amount of US ofUS AmountCurrency Seized $0 $0 $0 96.11 $0 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
Marfa UC Cocaine Seizures Marfa UC Illegal Aliens 0.35 120 0.30 98 0.30 100 0.25 80 0.20 60 0.15 49 40 47 0.10 36
Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized 20
0.05 ofIAs NumberApprehended 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information ICE, CBP, DHS, Midland Co SO, Ector Co SO, and Odessa PD, assisted by DPS 104 and DPS 114, at an apartment complex currently under construction on Faudree Rd. and TX-191 in Odessa, TX. Numerous suspected illegal aliens were believed to be working at the site. Warrants were obtained to search the entire site and also determine immigration status of all workers. Over 100 Law Enforcement Officers set up a perimeter and systematically searched and located over 100 workers. After the initial investigation, 39 individuals were found to be in the country illegally. One individual had an outstanding warrant.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Valentine Cemetery
USBP Marfa Agents seized 56.5 lbs of marijuana abandoned at the Valentine Cemetery in Valentine, TX. The narcotics were turned over to DEA. (No Photos Available)
USBP Marfa Agents seized 249.7 lbs of marijuana and apprehended two IAs on US-90 in Presidio Co, 13 miles west of Marfa, TX. Two subjects were seen absconding to the north. The marijuana and subjects were turned over to DEA for federal prosecution.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Note: It is approximately 19.7 miles from site where 53.25 lbs were seized the day before
USBP Marfa Agents found 193.35 lbs of abandoned marijuana near the Middleton Ranch in the western part of Presidio Co, 43 miles from Marfa. The abandoned marijuana was turned over to DEA.
Marfa USBP apprehended five IAs near the Indian Peak Canyon in Jeff Davis Co, 12 miles west of Valentine, TX. The IAs were in possession of 53.25 lbs of marijuana. Three subjects and the marijuana were turned over to DEA for federal prosecution and two minor IAs were processed for removal.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Marfa Unified Command Sector Assessment Marijuana seizures are down by approximately 70% compared to last week. Marfa USBP Agents have been very active in Presidio and Jeff Davis Counties with two seizures of marijuana and the apprehension of IAs backpacking the marijuana. Seven IAs were involved in the two separate marijuana seizures. Two IA minors from one of the seizures were released. There were two seizures of abandoned marijuana still in backpacks. The only other seizures of marijuana occurred at USBP checkpoints. Backpacking continues to be the primary means of smuggling marijuana in the Marfa Sector. The four marijuana seizures in the ATF seized one firearm at the Marfa Sector this week. Sierra Blanca USBP Checkpoint. Valentine, Texas IA apprehensions were up slightly this week.
Western Presidio Co, western Jeff Davis Co along US-90, southwestern Presidio Co along the Rio Grande, and the IH-10 Checkpoint in Hudspeth Co were all very active for trafficking during this reporting period.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE DEL RIO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS
USBP Maverick CO SO CBP-OFO Real CO SO ICE-FNU Val Verde CO SO South TX HIDTA Uvalde CO SO E D W A R D S NPS Zavala CO SO V A L V E R D E USCG Del Rio PD TPWD 38th Judicial District (Volunteer) TMF Dimmit CO Constable (Volunteer) R E A L DPS Edwards CO SO (Volunteer) Dimmit CO SO Uvalde PD (Volunteer) Kinney CO SO
U V A L D E K I N N E Y
M A V E R I C K Z A V A L A
D I M M I T
Full Map/Table of Contents
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Del Rio Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 4 Marijuana 746.64 lbs IAs/USBP 265 Cocaine 0 lbs OTMs 77 Heroin 0 lbs El Salvador 14 Guatemala 22 Methamphetamine 0 lbs OTM Countries Honduras 40 Currency (Southbound) $549,950.00 Morocco 1 Other 0 Handgun(s) 1 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Weapons Stolen 0 Long Gun(s) 10 (Southbound) Recovered 8 Ammunition 0
Absconds 12 Bailouts 5 Criminal Arrests 9 Fugitive Arrests 6 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 3 Scouts/Decoys 2
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Del Rio Sector
The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:
Del Rio UC Currency Seizures Del Rio UC Marijuana Seizures $600,000 5,000.00 $549,950 4,500.00 4,337.69 $500,000 4,000.00 3,500.00 $400,000 3,000.00 $300,000 2,500.00 2,000.00 $200,000 $150,000 1,500.00 1,000.00 746.64
$100,000 Pounds ofMarijuana PoundsSeized
Amount of US ofUS AmountCurrency Seized 500.00 $0 496.38 652.62 $0 $6,000 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
Del Rio UC Cocaine Seizures Del Rio UC Illegal Aliens 80.00 400 71.12 70.00 350 334 63.86 60.00 300 328 265 50.00 250 288 40.00 47.90 200 30.00 150
20.00 100 Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized
10.00 Numberof IAs Apprehended 50 0.00 0.00 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity A Uvalde PD Officer was contacted by the 38th Judicial District Adult Probation Office in reference to a male subject in their office who had an active warrant. The Officer observed several tattoos on the subject. The subject had a five-point crown on his chest, right arm, and back (crown on lion head), and an LK on the inside of his lip. These are known LATIN KINGS tattoos. He also wore a crown belt buckle. Once detained for the warrant, the subject admitted to being a LATIN KINGS member. Photos were taken of the tattoos at the Uvalde Co Jail.
Crown belt buckle
Latin King tattoos - five point crowns
L K – inner lip
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity (cont) A Uvalde PD Officer went to a residence on Farrar St in Uvalde in reference to a pellet gun shooting. The Officer was invited into the house, and observed marijuana and paraphernalia in plain view. A detective secured a search warrant for the premises. One quarter-lb of marijuana was found in the house, and three-quarters of a lb of marijuana was found in the trunk of a 1991 Lincoln Town Car. The subject was arrested for possession of marijuana, and the vehicle was seized. The subject was also found to be a member of both the street gang MANIAC LATIN DISCIPLES, and the prison gang TANGO OREJON. Spur on scalp 210 Area code-Uvalde
A Dimmit Co Deputy Constable identified one subject as a possible member of the MS-13 gang. The subject had numerous associating tattoos, and had served time previously in TDCJ. The subject was photographed and released.
Rt arm
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Southbound operations CBP-OFO Officers, working outbound at the Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1, referred a 2003 Ford Explorer to secondary inspection following a K-9 alert. The driver gave a negative declaration for weapons or currency. An inspection of three boxes located in the rear of the vehicle revealed ten assault rifles and one pistol. The vehicle was also outfitted with an electronically operated false compartment under the center console. The subject was arrested, and the vehicle and weapons were seized.
.223 pistol conversion
AK-47 Assault Rifle
SILENCER
Rifles in box Yugo SKS Assault Rifle
Boxes containing weapons in cargo area. AR-15 Assault Rifle
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Southbound operations (cont) While conducting outbound inspections at Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1, the CBP-OFO A- TCET selected a 2008 Mazda 6 for inspection. The driver stated he was traveling to Piedras Negras and gave a negative declaration for currency, firearms, and ammo. At the secondary inspection point, non-factory compartments were discovered on both sides of the vehicle. A K-9 had a positive alert to the rocker panel area and an abnormal Buster reading was received. Twenty-four packages of currency were removed from both sides of the rocker panels, for a total of $549,950 USD. The currency and vehicle were seized, and the subject was turned over to ICE.
DPS-CID Agents, CBP-OFO Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team (A-TCET), USBP, the Maverick Co SO and Eagle Pass PD Auto Theft personnel, working a joint Border Star Operation at the Eagle Pass POE conducting outbound vehicle inspections, sent a maroon Hummer H-2 into secondary for inspection. CID Agents inspected the Hummer and discovered the vehicle identification had been altered. CID Agents utilizing alternative methods were able to identify the vehicle as a 2003 Hummer H-2 with a different VIN. An inquiry regarding the Hummer revealed it to be reported stolen out of Williamson Co SO on 17 APR 2008. The theft report was confirmed as an active stolen vehicle. The vehicle was seized and impounded. The investigation is ongoing.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) trash-beverages and chips A Dimmit Co Deputy Constable observed a 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling SH-85W and attempted to run a registration check on the vehicle. The vehicle sped up and a pursuit ensued. A Dimmit Co Deputy assisted with the pursuit. The vehicle began traveling on SH-85E. The driver bailed out of the vehicle approximately one mile east of FM-468. The driver absconded into the brush. The vehicle was reported stolen out of Austin, TX.
Rear seat removed Punched out ignition
USBP Agents were on duty in an orchard near the Rio Grande, just south of Eagle Pass when an Agent heard several subjects approaching. As they neared his location, one subject spotted him. The Agent gave chase. One subject dropped a green duffle bag. A K-9 located another duffel bag in the brush. All the subjects absconded back to Mexico. The duffle bags contained 130 bundles of marijuana weighing 141.34 lbs. The contraband was turned over to the DEA.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) USBP Agents noticed foot sign on US-277 in Val Verde Co. The Agents located four subjects approximately 150 yds north of US-277. The subjects admitted to being in the US illegally. Agents searched the area where the subjects had been hiding, and discovered four bundles of marijuana weighing 302.9 lbs. The DEA took custody of the subjects and contraband.
USBP Agents at the US-57 Checkpoint in Marijuana in rear quarter panel Maverick Co referred a 2001 Ford Explorer to secondary following a K-9 alert. A search of the vehicle yielded multiple bundles of marijuana in the rear quarter panels. A total of 66.18 lbs of marijuana was seized. The subject was arrested; the marijuana and vehicle were seized.
USBP Agents performing line watch duties off FM-1021 approximately 25 miles Southeast of Eagle Pass, encountered foot sign crossing Mines Rd. The Agents followed the foot sign, and discovered five green military style duffle bags lying in a brushy area. The bags contained 22 bundles of marijuana, weighing 235.22 lbs. The contraband was turned over to the DEA.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment
During this reporting period, there was an increase of 94 lbs in the total amount of marijuana seized, although the total continues to be lower than normal for this period. This same period last year, there were approximately 2,200 lbs of marijuana seized. It is unknown if the change in the weather patterns and less rainfall might have affected the spring harvest, or if the marijuana seizures by Mexican Military have depleted the stockpiles in this area. There were no cocaine seizures this reporting period, after significant seizures for the last five weeks in a row.
Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1 has been very active with Southbound operations this reporting period, with currency, weapons and a stolen vehicle recovery. There was a significant currency seizure of $549,950 USD. The destination of the currency is unknown at this time; however, it is suspected to have been en-route to the Zetas. There was a weapon seizure (10 long guns and one handgun) at POE Bridge 1. DPS-CID working outbound with CBP-OFO A-TCET, USBP, Maverick Co SO, and Eagle Pass PD-Auto Theft personnel, apprehended a stolen Hummer II (VIN switch).
DPS-THP Brownwood made a significant cash seizure last week that is connected to the Del Rio Sector. With the POE seizure, the seizure in Brownwood, and a third seizure in South Carolina on 31 MAR 2011, the total seized was approx $1.5 million USD. There are indications that all of these seizures are related to the same Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO).
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE LAREDO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS
F R I O CBP Jim Hogg CO SO ICE La Salle CO SO TPWD Webb CO SO TMF Zapata CO SO DPS Dilley PD Duval CO S O Laredo PD Frio CO SO Pearsall PD
L A S A L L E
W E B B
D U V A L
Z A P A T A J I M H O G G
Full Map/Table of Contents CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Laredo Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 41 Marijuana 1,150.51lbs IAs/USBP 588 Cocaine 0.18 lbs OTMs 106 Heroin 0.09 lbs Brazil 5 Methamphetamine 0 lbs Colombia 4 Dominican Republic 3 Currency $694,576.00 Ecuador 8 OTM Countries El Salvador 13 Other: Xanax pills 131 Guatemala 26 Honduras 38 India 8 Handgun(s) 1 Nicaragua 1 Long Gun(s) 0 Weapons Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Magazine(s) 0 Stolen 10 Recovered 4
Absconds 2 Bailouts 3 Criminal Arrests 17 Fugitive Arrests 2 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 4 Pursuits 1 Scouts/Decoys 0
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Laredo Sector The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:
Laredo UC Currency Seizures Laredo UC Marijuana Seizures $800,000 3,500.00 $694,576 3,131.42 $700,000 3,000.00 2,662.60 $600,000 2,500.00 $500,000 2,000.00 $400,000 1,952.20 1,500.00 $300,000 $200,000 1,000.00 1,150.51
$100,000 ofMarijuana PoundsSeized 500.00 Amount of US ofUS AmountCurrency Seized $0 $0 $0 $0 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
Laredo UC Cocaine Seizures Laredo UC Illegal Aliens 70.00 1,000 932 59.27 900 60.00 800 50.00 700 655 40.00 600 588 500 552 30.00 24.56 400 20.00 300
Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized 200 10.00
11.56 ofIAs NumberApprehended 0.18 100 0.00 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity Known gang type apprehensions this reporting period: HPL – 1 Mara Salvatruchas (MS-13) - 1 Mexican Mafia - 1 Texas Syndicate - 1
On 14 MAY 2011, USBP Cotulla Agents working the Gardendale MOPAC Railroad, IH- 35 near Gardendale, TX, apprehended a male Honduran identified as a MARA SALVATRUCHA (MS-13) gang member. The subject was processed for removal. The subject’s criminal history includes: Simple Assault – Washington D.C. PD, No Disposition Immigration. History: Two prior Jorge Danilo CELAYA-VALLE DOB 08/03/1981 apprehensions.
On 09 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Officers arrested a male subject for Evading with Motor Vehicle and Theft of Motor Vehicle. The subject was identified as a MEXICAN MAFIA gang member and was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.
On 09 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Officers arrested a male subject for possession of control substance. The Officers recovered 0.01 lbs of Cocaine from the scene. The subject was identified as a TEXAS SYNDICATE gang member and was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang activity (cont) On 13 MAY 2011, CID Agents with assistance of THP Troopers and Zapata Co SO, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting gang and cartel members, conducted a traffic stop on a male subject on US-83 south of SH-16 in Zapata, TX. The subject was indentified as a HERMANOS PISTOLEROS LATINOS (HPL) gang member subsequently released. Southbound operations On 13 MAY 2011, CBP/OFO Officers and USBP Agents working "Operation Cooperation" at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge POE 2, Laredo, TX, initiated a secondary inspection on a red 1998 Mitsubishi Montero driven by a male subject. The agents seized $600,146 USD concealed in the spare tire. Subject, vehicle, and currency were turned over to ICE. The currency was being transported from Houston, TX, to San Luis Potosi, MX.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information On 14 MAY 2011, CBP/OFO Officers working at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo, TX, seized 28.80 liters of liquid methamphetamine concealed inside Corona beer bottles. The two females (USC), passengers on a Mexican taxi, were arrested. ANALYST NOTE: This is the third seizure of narcotics in liquid form concealed in Corona beer bottles in the Laredo Sector and the second involving Mexican taxis.
Blankenslip, Martha Meagan Myers, Mandi Ann DOB 05/31/1990 DOB 09/03/1991 USC out of Georgia USC out of Georgia
Texas Military Forces – Counter Drug AVN:
TMF UH-72 responded to a bail-out on IH-35 where 11 apprehensions were made.
TMF OH-58 patrolled south Laredo and effected the turn back of 12 subjects to Mexico, two apprehensions, and one abscond.
TMF OH-58 flew in support of the USBP BORTAC team in north and west Laredo resulting in four apprehensions, and three turn-backs at the Kirk Douglas Hill and Mines Rd. intersection.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information On 10 MAY 2011, Webb Co Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a white 2005 Chevy Cavalier in the 1900 block of S. Meadow in Laredo, TX. After obtaining verbal consent from both the male driver and passenger, the Deputy discovered 0.012 lbs of cocaine within the middle console. Both male subjects were remanded to Webb Co Jail. THP Trooper(s) conducted: • On 11 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2009 Dodge Ram pickup on FM-649 near Hebbronville, TX. The troopers observed signs of criminal activity and the search of passenger revealed 0.01 lbs of crack cocaine concealed within the socks. The subject was arrested. • On 11 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2009 Dodge Ram on El Tecolote Ranch Rd in Hebbronville, TX. The Trooper observed signs of criminal activity and requested consent to search from the two male subjects. The trooper discovered 0.01 lbs of heroin concealed within the driver's sock. Both subjects were arrested and the vehicle was seized. • On 13 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon on IH-35 mm 73 near Cotulla, TX. Both the driver and passenger had conflicting stories. A service K-9 alerted to the vehicle and a search by the Troopers revealed $91,660 USD concealed in a grocery bag behind the front passenger seat.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information On 15 MAY 2011, THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 1997 Ford pickup traveling on IH-35S near Laredo, TX. The Ford pickup was pulling a flatbed trailer with fencing materials. The Trooper discovered and seized $2,770 USD concealed on the driver. After a K-9 alert, the material on the trailer was searched and 14 of 21 wooden fence posts were found have to hollow compartments. No contraband was discovered, but it is believed that this was to be a concealment method for future smuggling attempts. The driver and passenger were released.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information DPS CID Agents with the assistance of DPS/THP Troopers and Zapata Co SO deputies: • On 13 MAY 2011, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting gang and cartel members, executed a felony warrant on a male subject for a Parole Violation on TX-16 at Jim Hogg Co/Zapata Co Line. The male subject was arrested and remanded to Zapata Co Jail. • On 13 MAY 2011, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting gang and cartel members, executed a felony warrant on a male subject for a Criminal Mischief in Zapata. The male subject was arrested and remanded to Zapata Co Jail.
• On 13 MAY 2011, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting gang and cartel members, executed a felony warrant on a male subject for a Criminal Mischief in Zapata. The male subject was arrested and remanded to Zapata Co. Jail.
Pearsall PD Officers initiated a traffic stop on a Silver 2008 Pontiac Sedan at the intersection of Power Plant Rd and CR-1058. The officer searched the driver and passenger and seized a total of 131 Xanax pills concealed in the groin area. Both subjects were arrested and charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute. The vehicle was impounded.
On 17 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Narcotics Division, assisted by the Patrol Division, seized approximately 40 lbs of cocaine roughly 2 miles west of Laredo PD HQ. The investigation is ongoing.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Laredo PD Officers arrested: • On 05 MAY 2011, a male subject for possession of controlled substance. Officers discovered 0.02 lbs of heroin at the scene. The subject was remanded to Webb Co Jail.
• On 07 MAY 2011, a male for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Controlled Substance (cocaine). Officers recovered 1.41 lbs of marijuana and 0.01 lbs cocaine from the scene. The subject was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.
• On 09 May, a male subject for Possession of Controlled Substance (Heroin). Narcotics Investigators located 0.07 lbs of heroin at the scene. The subject was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.
• On 09 May, a male subject for possession of controlled substance. The Narcotics Investigators located .125 lbs of cocaine and a Glock 17 (9mm handgun) at the scene. Subject was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.
USBP Laredo South Agents Working the riverbanks near El Cenizo, TX, seized 68.8 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information USBP Laredo South Agents: • On 12 May, initiated a vehicle stop on a 1999 Maroon Chevrolet Tahoe on Mines Rd approximately ten miles north of Laredo, TX. The driver refused to stop and USBP Agents were forced to terminate the chase. Texas Military Forces – Counter Drug Aviation assisted in following the vehicle until vehicle wrecked at the intersection of S. Wilhelm Ave & Ventura St. The driver and passenger bailed out but were apprehended by nearby USBP Agents. The search of the vehicle revealed 327.2 lbs of marijuana. The driver and contraband were turned over to DEA and the vehicle was turned over to Laredo PD. The passenger was a minor, and found to be in this country illegally. The subject was granted voluntary return back to Mexico. The subject’s criminal history includes: Aggravated Assault, Assault Causing Bodily Injury and Evading Arrest with Vehicle.
Pedro OCHOA Jr. 10/12/1983
• On 13 MAY 2011, working line watch duties near River Front St, Laredo, TX, seized 58.0 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.
• On 14 MAY 2011, tracking a group on the Paul Garza Property near Riverhill Dr, Laredo, TX, seized 72.2 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information USBP Laredo South Agents: • On 13 MAY 2011, working the riverbanks on the Hereford Ranch near El Cenizo, TX, encountered a group carrying bundles. The agents apprehended several male Mexican Nationals and seized 174.9 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA. The subjects were processed for removal.
Jesus Pablo Carlos Efren Jesus Angel Medina-Reyna Flores-Saucedo Gonzalez-Trevino DOB 10/25/1967 DOB 02/21/1992 DOB 10/21/1992
• On 14 May, working at the IH-35 Checkpoint encountered a Tractor-Trailer with 448 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was concealed under the mattress from inside the tractor’s cab. The subject, contraband and vehicle were turned over to DEA.
Ricardo Ortiz DOB 04/03/1966
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Laredo Unified Command Sector Assessment
The Laredo Unified Command had a decrease in marijuana, cocaine and heroin seizures this period. Methamphetamine seizures remained at zero. After a three-week drought on currency seizures, a total of $694,576 USD was seized for this reporting period.
Alien apprehensions decreased overall. Stolen vehicles increased from nine to ten and stolen vehicles recovered decreased from eleven to four.
Several smaller marijuana loads were seized this week, ranging from 50 to less than 500 lbs. The largest marijuana load this week was 448 lbs. Laredo PD seized 40 lbs of cocaine; however, due to an ongoing investigation, details are limited.
Significant currency seizures this reporting period included $600,146 USD by CBP/OFO and USBP, working outbound ―Operation Cooperation,‖ at the Lincoln-Juarez Bridge, Laredo, TX. THP seized $91,660 on IH-35, MM 73, near Cotulla, TX. THP also had a smaller currency seizure of $2,770 USD, discovered on the person of a male subject. This subject was driving a Ford pickup towing a flatbed trailer with fencing material. Fourteen of the 21 fence posts had hollowed ends, believed to be used for smuggling contraband.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE RIO GRANDE VALLEY UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS USBP La Grulla PD CBP – OFO La Joya PD ICE Mercedes PD USCG Mission PD Starr CO HIDTA Palmview PD DPS Palmhurst PD B R O O K S TPWD Penitas PD K E N E D Y TMF Pharr PD US Fish and Wildlife Port Isabel PD Cameron CO SO Raymondville PD Hidalgo CO SO Rio Grande City PD S T A R R Kenedy CO SO Roma PD Starr CO SO San Benito PD H I D A L G O Willacy CO SO San Juan PD Brownsville PD Weslaco PD W I L L A C Y Edinburg PD Univ of Texas-Pan Harlingen PD American (UTPA) PD Hidalgo PD Univ of Texas- Brownsville (UTB) PD C A M E R O N
Full Map/Table of Contents
CONTROLLEDCONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION INFORMATION – –LAWLAW ENFORCEMENT ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE SENSITIVE Rio Grande Valley Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 25 Marijuana 35,763.95 lbs IAs/USBP 905 Cocaine 118.14 lbs OTMs 449 Heroin 0 lbs Nicaragua 1 Methamphetamine 0 lbs Dominican Republic 3 Currency $ 180,369.00 El Salvador 127 Guatemala 111 Other 0 Honduras 102 India 31 Ecuador 5 Handgun(s) 3 Peru 1 Weapons Long Gun(s) 5 OTM Countries Bosnia 1 Explosive(s) 0 China 24 Colombia 3 Absconds 2 Romania 21 Bailouts 9 Sri Lanka 2 Criminal Arrests 52 Kosovo 1 Fugitive Arrests 7 Nigeria 1 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 31 Albania 4 Pursuits 13 Costa Rica 1 Scouts/Decoys 0 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 2 Recovered 1
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Rio Grande Valley Sector The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:
RGV UC Currency Seizures RGV UC Marijuana Seizures $1,000,000 45,000.00 $900,000 38,381.78 $872,083 40,000.00 35,763.95 $800,000 35,000.00 31,276.68 $700,000 30,000.00 $600,000 25,000.00 28,155.13 $500,000 20,000.00 $400,000 15,000.00 $300,000 $255,059
$200,000 10,000.00 Pounds ofMarijuana PoundsSeized
Amountof US CurrencySeized $100,000 $180,369 5,000.00 $0 $2,455 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
RGV UC Cocaine Seizures RGV UC Illegal Aliens 140.00 1,800 123.59 118.14 1,536 120.00 1,600 1,400 100.00 1,200 80.00 75.85 1,000 60.00 800 750 905 600 703 40.00
400 Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized
20.00 ofIAs NumberApprehended 20.76 200 0.00 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Southbound Operations The Pharr PD in conjunction with CBP are conducting Southbound Operations at the Pharr International Bridge from 0500hrs thru 0100hrs (20-hour span). Gang activity The Hidalgo Co SO Gang Intelligence Unit reported 31 gang member arrests this reporting period. These arrests were made by 11 different agencies in the RGV sector. The gang members were arrested for offenses such as: parole violation, theft of property, driving while intoxicated, possession of marijuana in drug free zone, aggravated assault causes serious bodily injury, unlawful possession of firearm by a felon, aggravated robbery, possession of controlled substance, contempt child support, evading arrest, no driver license, expired license plates, theft, unauthorized use of motor vehicle, theft from person, accident report false information, escape while arrested, federal inmate, assault on public servant and interfering with public duties. The arrestees have gang affiliation with: Vallucos Hermanos Pistoleros Po’ Boys Sureno 13
Mexican Mafia Paisa Latin Kings
Loco Trece La Buena Vista Hood
Additional information USBP Agents, assisted by DPS Air 108 providing border security in Tier 1 Operations, searched for several suspects near the District 6 canal. Utilizing the Wes Cam (FLIR), the Aircrew located groups in several areas and near District 6 and guided USBP Agents to their location. Approximately 25 suspects were apprehended, and more than 10 suspects fled back to Mexico.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) USBP Agents tracked approximately 20 subjects believed to be illegal aliens in the Chimney Park area. DPS Air 148 utilizing the FLIR and NVGs, assisted the Agents with the apprehension of 12 illegal aliens.
USBP Agents at the Falfurrias Checkpoint rescued 12 illegal immigrants sweltering in a cargo truck with no ventilation. Agents found the illegal immigrants hidden behind a load of furniture. One person was taken to the hospital for heat exhaustion. The driver was turned over to authorities. The immigrants will be processed and sent back to their home countries.
CBP Officers at the Brownsville B&M Bridge inspected an inbound 2007 Ford Fusion with Mexico license plates driven by a male Mexican citizen. A secondary inspection revealed 22.7 lbs of cocaine concealed in the firewall-center console area. The driver was arrested and vehicle was seized. Concealment located in console
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) CBP Officers: • At the Pharr POE inspected an inbound 2000 Freightliner with utility trailer with Mexico license plates driven by a male Mexican citizen. A secondary inspection revealed 1,532.2 lbs of marijuana concealed between a shipment of limes. The vehicle was seized. • At the Brownsville Gateway Bridge inspected an outbound 2003 Ford Taurus with Florida license plates, driven by a male USC. A secondary inspection revealed five rifles and two handguns wrapped in foil concealed in the trunk of the vehicle. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) Starr County SO Investigators attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet Tahoe on FM-490 near the Starr/Hidalgo county line. The driver of the Tahoe refused to stop and pursuit ensued. Once the vehicle stopped, Investigators searched the vehicle and found 361.6 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 30 bundles. Officers arrested the driver and seized the vehicle.
Starr Co SO Investigators along with ICE Agents secured an open field located behind a residence located at the intersection of Escobares Rd and Kelly Ln. Upon securing the field, Officers and Agents located 2,765.8 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 239 bundles concealed inside two chicken coups.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) Starr Co SO Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a green Ford F-250 on FM-1430 in Rio Grande City, TX. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit ensued, but ended within a quarter mile. Deputies took one male subject into custody. Upon inspection of the vehicle, Deputies found a cell phone, a blue life jacket, and 1,540.4 lbs of marijuana in the passenger seat, back seat area and bed of the vehicle. The vehicle was seized.
Starr Co SO Investigators received information of a white Ford F-250 loaded with several bundles of marijuana. Investigators found the vehicle at a CITGO gasoline station on US-83. The investigators approached the vehicle but did not find any subjects. Upon securing the vehicle, Investigators found 708.2 lbs of marijuana wrapped in several bundles.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) Starr Co So Deputy received an anonymous call from a citizen who reported that narcotics were being stored in an apartment. The Deputy, Escobares PD, and a CBP Officer with a K-9 responded to the apartment in Escobares, TX. The resident denied consent to search of the apartment. The Deputy then made contact with another resident who stated that her husband had rented two apartments for storing marijuana. The CBP K-9 Officer conducted a free air search to which the K-9 alerted to the two suspect apartments and three vehicles in the parking lot. The Deputy then executed a search warrant. A total of 933.8 lbs of marijuana was found in the two apartments and the male subject was arrested.
Roma PD: • Assisted Starr Co SO and ICE Agents in executing a search warrant at a residence in Roma. Officers conducted a free air search of the garage area and a K-9 alerted to narcotics. Officers and Agents searched the residence and located a total of 787.6 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 74 bundles. • Executed a search warrant at a residence in Roma, TX. During a search of the residence, Officers located a total of 872.2 lbs of marijuana. Officers also seized a gray 2000 Plymouth vehicle. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont)
Brownsville PD responded to the 1200 block of Anita Ct., where Officers found several bundles of marijuana. Officers seized 34.54 lbs of marijuana and arrested one male subject.
USBP Agents patrolling near Chimney Park in Mission observed a body floating in the river and notified Mission PD. Officers retrieved the body of a teenage male subject. USBP Agents stated they had attempted to stop a raft two days earlier in the same area, when the raft occupants fled to Mexico. It is suspected that the drowning victim had been one of the occupants.
Mission PD Officers and Hidalgo Co SO Deputies assigned to the narcotic taskforce unit attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a blue 2006 Chevrolet Impala. The vehicle left a residence, where it was believed to have picked up narcotics. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit ensued. Following the short pursuit, the driver of the vehicle pulled into a convenience store on the corner of Closner & Trenton Rd. Where the driver and passenger were then detained. Upon inspection of the vehicle, Officers discovered a Rock Island .45 cal. handgun hidden underneath the front passenger seat. Officers also found one bundle weighing 2.47 lbs of cocaine on the driver seat. Both subjects were arrested and transported to the Mission PD.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) Hidalgo Co SO Deputies conducted a search of a suspected drug stash house. The house was filled with thousands of lbs of marijuana, a shrine devoted to Santa Muerte, and an empty box of AK-47 ammo. Inside they found every room filled with bundles of marijuana. The 515 bundles weighed 7,553 lbs and filled the beds of five pickup trucks. Hidalgo Co SO stated that several people live in the home but no one was home at the time of the raid. During the search of the house, deputies found bricks and presses used to compress the bundles of marijuana. The empty box of AK-47 ammo was found on the ground in the backyard.
Statue of Santa Muerte
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) Rio Grande City PD Officer observed a white 1992 Nissan passenger car on Happy Alley, off of East St., being loaded with what appeared to be marijuana. The Officer approached the vehicle and found 160.2 lbs of marijuana in several bundles, sitting next to the vehicle. Rio Grande City PD Officer conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2004 Chevrolet van on N. Charco Blanco Rd. The Officer made contact with the driver and received consent to search the vehicle. The Officer found 224 lbs of marijuana wrapped in three large bundles inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested and vehicle was seized. Pharr PD K-9 assisted ICE Agents in conducting a free air search on six suspicious packages and four black suitcases found at a residence. A K-9 alerted to all packages and suitcases. Agents discovered 443 lbs of marijuana inside the six packages and 43.85 lbs of cocaine inside the four suitcases.
THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 1999 Ford Ranger on US-281 near San Manuel (Lat: 26.700000, Long: -98.112000), destined for Corpus Christi. The Trooper made contact with the driver and detected criminal indicators and signs of nervousness. A consensual search of the vehicle revealed 47 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 21 bundles concealed inside the gas tank.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) DPS Air 117 conducted surveillance of a suspected weapons transporter from central Texas to south Texas. Prior suspicious activities prompted investigators to launch an investigation. The suspect purchased weapons at a sporting goods business in central Texas and transported the purchased weapons to south Texas. ATF Agents in conjunction with DPS conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle, a GMC Yukon, and found the suspect in possession of two assault rifles, three pistols, one .45 cal pistol and $7,400 USD. Upon contact with the driver and passenger, a confession was provided to Officers stating the weapons were being transferred to drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. The weapons, cash and vehicle were all seized and the suspect was arrested on felony weapons smuggling charges. DPS Air 108 providing border security flight in Tier 1 Operations assisted THP Troopers with a pursuit on FM-681 and Moorefield Rd. The Troopers advised that the suspect fled from the vehicle on foot in a northeasterly direction. The vehicle contained approximately 500 lbs of marijuana seized by Troopers.
DPS Air 108 was advised of THP Trooper involved in a pursuit on FM-490 near the Hidalgo/Starr Co Line and had turned south on a gravel road. While en-route, aircrew was advised that multiple subjects had bailed out of the vehicle and were headed southeast. The Aircrew arrived on scene and began searching the area, locating four subjects hiding in the brush. The Troopers were guided to location and detained all four subjects. Subjects were turned over to the custody of USBP Agents.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) THP Trooper(s) : • Engaged in a pursuit on FM-490 in Starr Co. The suspect led Troopers on a pursuit through a series of country roads and crossed into Hidalgo Co. The pursuit ended near Monte Cristo Road north of Alton where the driver bailed out and fled into an orange grove. Troopers, Hidalgo Co SO Deputies, and DPS Air 108 searched the area for the suspect but were unable to locate him. Inspection of the vehicle revealed 800 lbs of marijuana. • Conducted a traffic stop on a 1999 Ford F-150 on FM-681 south of FM-490 near McCook (Lat: 26.4568300, Long: -98.3233300), for speeding and disregarding a stop sign. As the Trooper approached vehicle on passenger side, the vehicle drove away and a pursuit ensued. The vehicle traveled southbound on FM-681 and crashed into a dirt embankment. The driver of the vehicle absconded. The Trooper conducted an inspection of the vehicle and found 690 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 30 bundles in the floor boards, back seat, toolbox and bed of the vehicle.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information (cont) THP Trooper: • Conducted a traffic stop on a tractor truck that appeared to be carrying bags of cement on US-281 and Monte Cristo. A K-9 free air search revealed 796 lbs of marijuana concealed between and under the bags. The driver was apprehended and questioned.
• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Ford pickup near Alto Bonito. The Trooper made contact with the driver and observed extreme nervousness who gave an implausible reason for travel. A consent to search was requested and granted. The Trooper conducted a search of the vehicle and found $180,369 USD wrapped in air tight food saver plastic bags located inside a 5-gallon hydraulic fluid bucket. The currency and vehicle were seized.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE RGV JOIC Sector Assessment The RGV Unified Command agencies were responsible for the seizure of over 35,000 lbs of marijuana, a 14% increase from last week. Cocaine seizures remained about the same from last week to a combined agency total of 118.14 lbs. There were no Methamphetamine or Heroin seizures for the week. Currency decreased to a total of $180,369 USD. The US Border Patrol, CBP OFO, DPS Aviation, DPS THP and CID, Starr Co. SO, Roma PD, Rio Grande City PD, Hidalgo Co SO, Pharr PD, Mission PD, CBP Air and Marine, and Brownsville PD contributed significantly to the narcotic seizures.
Illegal Alien apprehensions decreased for the reporting period down from 1,536 to 905 this week. The OTM count also decreased from last week by 4% for a total of 449.
The RGV Unified Command came together to jointly address a significant incident involving USBP agents who came under fire along the river. Within a matter of hours, DPS Regional Commander executed Tier I operations and agencies responded with a significant force to engage any and all smuggling and other criminal activity in the targeted area. The LEA surge was successful in that narcotic smuggling ceased in the area of the enhancement and only a few IAs were encountered during the Tier I operation. The USBP International Liaison Unit made contact with the Mexican Military and those forces engaged by patrolling the south side of the river.
Confrontations between the Mexican Military and the Gulf Cartel and Zetas continued during this past week. The streets of Mexican cities such as Nuevo Guerrero, Reynosa, and Matamoros were scenes of running gun battles. It is currently unknown whether DTO members were arrested or became casualties. The Mexican Military continues to respond to calls by US agencies to patrol along the Rio Grande River in an effort to capture southbound criminals.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE COASTAL BEND UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 11 – 17 MAY 2011
L A V A C A W H A R T O N
D e W I T T M A T A G O R D A UNIFIED COMMAND
G O L I A D MEMBERS B E E USBP Kleberg CO SO R E F U G I O CBP – OFO Lavaca CO SO ICE Matagorda CO SO FBI Live Oak CO SO L I V E A R A N S A S O A K ATF McMullen CO SO DEA Nueces CO SO
W W E L USCG Refugio CO SO
J J I M TPWD San Patricio CO SO
L Houston HIDTA Victoria CO SO S N U E C E S San Antonio HIDTA Wharton CO SO TMF Bay City PD DPS Corpus Christi PD Aransas CO SO Driscoll PD K L E B E R G Bee CO SO El Campo PD Brooks CO SO Kingsville PD B R O O K S Dewitt CO SO Orange Grove PD Goliad CO SO Seguin PD Jackson CO SO Three Rivers PD Jim Wells CO SO Victoria PD Karnes CO SO
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Full Map/Table of Contents Coastal Bend Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Contraband Seizures Illegal Alien Apprehensions Marijuana 199.36 lbs IAs/Referrals 40 Cocaine 14.14 lbs IAs/USBP 0 Heroin 0.0 lbs OTMs 1 Methamphetamine 0.01 lbs OTM Countries Honduras 1 Currency $ 762,546.00 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 2 Xanax – 10 pills, Recovered 6 Other Soma – 1 pill, Hydrocodone – 2 pills
Handgun(s) 1 Weapons Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0
Absconds 36 Bailouts 7 Criminal Arrests 302 Fugitive Arrests 160 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 5 Pursuits 8 Scouts/Decoys 1
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Coastal Bend Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports:
Coastal Bend UC Currency Seizures Coastal Bend UC Marijuana Seizures $900,000 2,500.00 2,336.80 $800,000 $762,546 $700,000 2,000.00 $600,000 1,500.00 $500,000 $400,000 1,000.00 $300,000 $200,000 724.78
$139,976 500.00 602.81 Pounds ofMarijuana PoundsSeized
Amount of US ofUS AmountCurrency Seized $100,000 $13,594 $29,563 199.36 $0 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 IAs apprehended in the Coastal Bend Coastal Bend UC Cocaine Seizures 60.00 55.36 JOIC Sector and reported by USBP Stations Kingsville, Corpus Christi and 50.00 Falfurrias, are reported in the RGV JOIC 40.00 statistics due to the fact that above listed
30.00 USBP stations report to USBP Sector (Rio Grande Valley) HQ in McAllen. 20.00 14.14 Referrals noted on the previous page are Pounds ofCocaine PoundsSeized 10.00 7.53 2.50 IAs apprehended by Coastal Bend Unified 0.00 Command members (local and county) 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11 that ultimately turn over their apprehensions to USBP. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang Activity Known gang type apprehensions this reporting week Texas Syndicate 2 Mexican Mafia 3
Jim Wells Co SO assisted by the DPS Texas Ranger Division arrested two MEXICAN MAFIA gang members on murder charges for the ―hit‖ ordered on an individual over missing narcotics. This investigation is ongoing due to the border nexus. THP Guadalupe Co seized 0.440 lbs of cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment Compartment behind the glove box in a 2004 Ford F-150 behind glove box. pickup. One of the two male suspects is a MEXICAN MAFIA gang member. The suspects were traveling on IH-10E from San Antonio, TX to Tampa, FL.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Gang Activity (cont) Corpus Christi PD arrested a TEXAS SYNDICATE (TS) gang member on murder charges for the shooting of three women in Corpus Christi. The suspect shot the three women in a car, fatally wounding the driver. The two women in the rear seat of the vehicle died from their wounds at the hospital.
Robstown PD seized 72.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 1998 Dodge pickup. The male suspect, a TEXAS SYNDICATE (TS) gang member, was traveling on US-77N from San Benito, TX, to Houston, TX. Two other occupants were released and gang affiliation is unknown.
Marijuana concealed in gas tank
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information
THP Task Force Brooks Co seized 36.5 lbs of marijuana concealed in the rear quarter panels, rear passenger doors, and dash of a 2006 Dodge Stratus. The female driver was traveling on FM-755N from Roma, TX, to Pasadena, TX. (JOIC Note: This narrative is from last week. The pictures were obtained during this reporting cycle.)
Concealment under dash Access to rear quarter panel. above glove box.
THP Nueces Co seized 35.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the speaker box in the trunk of a 2010 Honda Accord. Two male and one female suspects were traveling on US-77N from Alamo, TX, to Tuscaloosa, AL.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Electronic Robstown PD seized a vehicle modified to conceal and piston. transport narcotics. Robstown PD conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and during a search of the vehicle. During the search, officers found several indicators that the vehicle had been modified. Wires were discovered that led to an electronic piston behind the rear passenger seat. When activated, a trapdoor in the seat opened to reveal a compartment for smuggling. Investigation revealed the Electronically controlled suspect was returning from a smuggling compartment. narcotics delivery.
Modifications to rear of passenger seats.
Victoria Co SO seized 0.008 lbs of methamphetamine and closed a meth lab that had been set up in rural Victoria Co. The Deputies were alerted by the ranch owner who advised that people had been seen at one of the ranch’s camp houses. Two male suspects were arrested and materials for the manufacturing of methamphetamine were seized.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Kleberg Co SO and USBP seized: • 68.6 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 2002 Ford F-250 pickup. One male suspect was traveling on US-77N from Brownsville, TX, to Fort Wayne, IN.
• 70.6 lbs of marijuana concealed in the spare tire and both rear passenger doors of a 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV. Two male occupants were traveling on US-77N from Brownsville, TX.
Marijuana concealed in the spare tire and door panels. • 29.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank and rear quarter panels of a 1999 Chevrolet Caviler. Two male occupants were traveling on US-77N from Brownsville, TX, to Corpus Christi, TX. • 4.23 lbs of marijuana concealed in a commercial bus passenger’s clothes. One male suspect was traveling on US-77N. • 0.97 lbs of marijuana concealed in the tailgate 2001 GMC Yukon SUV. One female suspect was traveling on US-77N from Tamaulipas, MX to Selma, NC. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Kleberg Co SO and U.S. Border Patrol seized: • 102.8 lbs of marijuana concealed in the trailer of a tractor/trailer combination. The male driver was traveling in a 2000 Kenworth truck/tractor towing a 1997 Frontier flatbed trailer on US-77N from Harlingen, TX, to San Antonio, TX.
• 136.2 lbs of marijuana concealed in a trailer pulled by a 2004 Ford F-250 pickup. The trailer was hauling a 1973 Ford Ranchero pickup. The male driver was traveling on US- 77N from Harlingen, TX, to Michigan.
Marijuana concealed inside of trailer frame.
• 37.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the dash board of a 1996 Pontiac Trans Sport Mini-Van. The female driver was traveling on US-77N from Brownsville, TX, to Louisiana.
Marijuana concealed in dash.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Kleberg Co SO and USBP seized 23.8 lbs of marijuana concealed in the rear quarter panels of a 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. The male driver was traveling on US-77N from Weslaco, TX, to Corpus Christi, TX.
Marijuana concealed inside rear quarter panels.
Kingsville PD Task Force seized $49,580 USD concealed in a knee brace on each suspect. Two suspects both concealed currency in this manner. One male suspect was a resident of Tamaulipas, Mexico, and the female was a USC. Both were traveling on US-77S from San Antonio, TX, to Brownsville, TX.
Kingsville PD Task Force seized 13.22 lbs of cocaine concealed in the radiator of a Chevrolet Tahoe. The female was traveling on US-77N. The points of Bottom of sealed radiator Bundles of cocaine inside radiator. origination and destination are unknown. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Kingsville PD Task Force seized $248,000 USD concealed in secondary axle housing on a 1999 Freightliner tractor truck towing a car hauler. Three vehicles, the truck/tractor and car hauler were also seized. The driver was traveling on US-77S. Points of origination and destination are unknown.
Bundles of currency inside axle housing
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT – LAW SENSITIVE ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Additional information Kingsville PD seized 90 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. The male driver was traveling on US-77N. A female occupant and a child were released.
Jim Wells Co SO seized $1,836 USD concealed in a bag found in a 2000 Chevrolet Impala. During the search of the vehicle, smuggling compartments were located behind the front fender wells running along the frame of the vehicle. The male suspect was traveling on US-281S from Alice, TX, to Rio Grande City, TX. Analyst Note: Los Zetas members have identified themselves with Ferrari logos. The photo below is a Zeta member assisting a suspected high level Zeta member after DPS AVN turned back the illegal crossing attempt.
Smuggling compartments on both sides of the US Visa Ferrari logo used by vehicle. cartel. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Coastal Bend JOIC Sector Assessment Marijuana seizures decreased significantly in the Coastal Bend Sector over the last reporting period from 2,336.8 lbs to 199.36 lbs. Cocaine seizures increased from 2.51 lbs to 14.14 lbs. Methamphetamine seizures decreased from 5.06 lbs to 0.01 lbs during this reporting period. Five currency seizures totaling $762,546 USD was an increase from $122,857.70 USD reported last week. Two large cash seizures which are part of an on-going investigation are not detailed in the BOSA at the request of the investigating agencies.
IA referrals increased slightly from 36 to 40. OTM referrals, absconds, and gang-related criminal arrests decreased this period. US-281S, US-77 N/S and IH-10E were the locations of large narcotic and currency seizures.
A review of the Falfurrias Checkpoint (US-281N) reports revealed that between 10 MAY and 18 MAY 2011, there were 7,209.1 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine seized. This represents a decrease from last week’s total of 14,321.2 lbs of marijuana seized. Three tractor trailers were seized attempting to conceal large marijuana loads.
A review of the Sarita Checkpoint on US-77N for the same period, indicated 49.1 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine seized. This was a decrease from last week’s total of 109.4 lbs of marijuana seized. Two commercial buses were used to smuggle 7.1 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was in luggage on one bus, and on one passenger on the other bus. No tractor trailers were found to conceal contraband materials.
Overall, marijuana and cocaine seizures were significantly reduced in the Coastal Bend Sector and at the checkpoints which are a gateway to the Coastal Bend Sector.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE THP [Carson Co.] – • 57 lbs of marijuana & 242 grams of THS [Kaufman Co.] – cocaine – trunk; Alamogordo, NM to • 30 lbs of marijuana, 0.58 lbs Tulsa, OK. of cocaine & 16 • 39 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Ukiah, CA to Hydrocodone tablets – ice Florida. chest and clothing; Dallas, TX • 11 lbs of marijuana – trunk; California to to Terrell, TX. Florida. THP [Hopkins Co.] – • 3 Kg of cocaine – quarter panel; Laredo, TX to Texarkana, TX. CID [Parker Co.] – • $298,488 USD – luggage; • $91,900 USD & 4 lbs of Louisville, KY to Duncanville, TX. marijuana – false compartment THP [Oldham Co.] – in trailer; Houston, TX to • 62.2 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Phoenix, Paradise, TX. AZ to Oklahoma City, OK. • 3.0 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Monte Rio, CA to Nashville, TN. THP [Ellis Co.] – • 3.31 lbs of methamphetamine – factory storage area under back seat; Waco, TX to Dallas, TX.
THP [Hill Co.] – • 71.5 grams of crack cocaine & 3.5 CID [Jefferson Co.] – grams of marijuana – glove • 1,075 lbs of marijuana – trailer; compartment; Dallas, TX to Waco, Houston, TX to North Carolina. TX.
THP [Chambers Co.] – • $212,285 USD, 16 grams of marijuana & 1.3 grams of crack THP [Atascosa Co.] – cocaine – body carriage and • 812 lbs of marijuana – bed of truck; luggage; Oakland Park, FL to San Diego, CA to San Antonio, TX. Statewide Houston, TX. • 65 lbs of marijuana – PVC pipes; La Villa, TX to Austin, TX. CID [Harris Co.] – • 7.4 lbs of methamphetamine – Corridor vehicle battery; McAllen, TX to Arkansas, AR. Seizures
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 14 MAY 2011: THP Abilene conducted a traffic stop on a 2003 Lincoln Navigator, bearing TX registration, and arrested two subjects. A consent to search revealed $21,071 USD concealed in a natural void behind the glove box. The money was traveling from Lubbock, TX, to Fort Worth, TX.
9 MAY 2011: THP Tyler conducted a traffic stop on a 2002 Lincoln LS, bearing LA registration, and arrested two subjects. A probable cause search revealed $28,950 USD, concealed inside a cologne box located under the passenger seat. The money was traveling from Monroe, LA, to Dallas, TX.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 13 MAY 2011: THP McKinney conducted a traffic stop on a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado, bearing LA registration. A consent to search revealed a small Ziploc bag containing a white powder. The driver and passenger were arrested and a subsequent search revealed 30, one-lb bundles of marijuana and 16 Hydrocodone pills hidden in an ice chest. The narcotics were traveling from Dallas, TX, to Shreveport, LA.
12 MAY 2011: DPS-CID Weatherford received information regarding individuals involved in a marijuana smuggling operation. A truck and trailer were identified, and a THP Weatherford Trooper conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. The stop resulted in the initial arrest of the driver for a DWI. With the assistance of Parker Co SO and Weatherford PD, a probable cause search revealed $91,900 USD and 4 lbs of marijuana, concealed inside a false compartment inside the trailer. The contraband was traveling from Houston, TX, to Paradise, TX. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 13 MAY 2011: DPS-CID Houston received information regarding a possible load driving through Houston in a 2002 Ford Mustang bearing AR registration. The vehicle was located and observed meeting with another vehicle and switching vehicle batteries. Houston PD conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. A written consent to search revealed 6 bundles of methamphetamine, totaling 7.4 lbs, concealed in the car battery. Two subjects were arrested. The meth originated in McAllen, TX, and was destined for Little Rock, AR.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 18 MAY 2011: THP Jourdanton conducted a traffic stop on a 2011 GMC Sierra, bearing TX registration, and arrested one subject. A search revealed 812 lbs of marijuana, revealed in plain view throughout the vehicle and bed of the truck. The marijuana was traveling from San Diego, CA, to San Antonio, TX.
14 MAY 2011: THP Jourdanton conducted a traffic stop on a 1994 Nissan Quest, bearing TX registration, and arrested one subject. A consent to search revealed 65 lbs of marijuana, concealed inside four PVS pipes located under the second row seats. The marijuana was traveling from La Villa, TX, to Austin, TX. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 13 MAY 2011: THP Cotulla , with the assistance of US CBP, conducted a traffic stop on a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon, bearing TX registration. A consent to search revealed $91,660 USD in a grocery bag, behind the front passenger seat. The money was traveling from Dallas, TX, to Laredo, TX.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE 13 MAY 2011: THP Vega, with the assistance of Oldham Co SO, conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Nissan Altima, bearing NV registration, and arrested one subject. A consent to search revealed 62.2 lbs of marijuana in duffle bags in the trunk of the vehicle. The marijuana was traveling from Phoenix, AZ, to Oklahoma City, OK.
10 MAY 2011: THP Borger conducted a traffic stop on a 2001 Mazda MPV, bearing CA registration, and arrested one subject. A consent to search revealed $29,020 USD, concealed inside a false compartment built into the floor, under the rear seats. The money was traveling from
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Dayton, OH, to Whittier, CA. SSIGNIFICANTIGNIFICANT EEVENTSVENTS ININ MMEXICOEXICO AND CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant Events in Mexico SINALOA – Sinaloa’s Attorney General announced the arrest 15 MAY 2011 of a top leader of ―Los Mazatlecos,‖ the faction of the Beltran Leyva cartel operating in northern Sinaloa, in the port city of Mazatlan in southern Sinaloa and in Tepic, the state capitol of Nayarit. Geovany Lizárraga Ontiveros, ―el Desaparecido,‖ was detained in the pre-dawn hours of 15 MAY 2011 in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, in an operation headed by the recently deployed elite rapid reaction squad of the state ministerial police. The suspect offered no resistance during his arrest. Lizárraga Ontiveros is alleged to be the leader of the Los Mochis cell of los Mazatlecos, whose stronghold is in the Los Mochis-Guasave area of northern Sinaloa, and is a top lieutenant of Fausto Isidro Meza Flores ―El Chapo Isidro,‖ identified as the head of the Mazatlecos. Los Mazatlecos are bitter rivals of the Sinaloa cartel and are rumored to be allies of Los Zetas. Geovany Lizárraga was traveling alone in an armored pick-up at the the time of his arrest. After his arrest the suspect was immediately transported to the headquarters of the Mexican Army’s 89 Infantry Battalion in Los Mochis. According to police reports the convoy transporting the suspect came under fire from gunmen in at least one pickup on federal highway 15 in a rescue attempt that was repulsed by state police and military reinforcements on the way to the military facility. Three civilians were caught in the crossfire on the highway and injured. Two of the wounded travelers, Antonio and Jorge Pérez Orizaba, were identified as U.S. citizens returning from a visit to see family in Michoacan. Two ministerial police officers in the convoy were injured by shrapnel and are reported in stable condition. The state Attorney General’s office also released the images of other Los Mazatlecos cell leaders that Lizárraga reportedly identified during his initial interrogation in the Army headquarters.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant Events in Mexico SINALOA – Late on 11 May 2011, a group of gunmen attacked and killed a family of five. This attack occurred while the family was traveling along a dirt road near the Pilas and Brasil villages of Choix [26.708238,-108.325281], Sinaloa. The victims were identified as follows: Enen Yacira (no last name), 9 months old; Ana Teresa Avedaño, 19 (mother of the infant); Manuel Soto Urias, 25; Eliseo Blanco Mariscal, 25; and Marcos Adolfo Blanco Mariscal, 17. No information regarding the motive behind this attack was reported.
DURANGO – Police found nine bodies over the weekend next to the bull ring in Durango city, the capital of the like-named northern Mexican state, the Public Safety Secretariat said. The bodies of the nine men were found on the morning of 15 MAY 2011 in a street by the bull ring in the city’s San Ignacio district. The investigation is ongoing, but the Mexican media reported that the men were killed by an organized crime A total of 218 bodies have been found in mass graves in Durango city since early April. Investigators suspect that the killings may have been carried out by the Sinaloa, Los Zetas and Beltran Leyva drug cartels, Mexican media reported. The mass graves in Durango have now yielded more bodies than those in the northeastern state of Tamaulipas, where 183 bodies were found in the city of San Fernando. The majority of the bodies discovered in Durango city were in the Las Fuentes neighborhood. The Sinaloa cartel, Mexico’s oldest and largest drug trafficking organization, has been trying to gain control of Durango, the press reported. Durango, one of the states most affected by drug-related violence, is reported to be the hiding place of Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquin ―El Chapo‖ (Shorty) Guzman.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant Events in Mexico SINALOA – On 11 May 2011 at approximately 2300 hours, three Grupo Elite Agents were attacked by a group of hitmen outside the Police Station in Los Mochis [25.790927,-108.991756], Sinaloa. Agent Martin Ramos Torres was killed, while two other agents were seriously wounded. Following the attack, the gunmen abandoned two vehicles and their weapons, and managed to escape. Those items left behind were identified as: a Tacoma van, a Nissan Rogue, one AK-47, two AR-15s, multiple magazines, tactical equipment, and dozens of rounds of ammo.
MICHOACAN – On 10 May 2011, the body of an unidentified male murder victim was recovered located along the Apatzingan-Cuatro Caminos highway in Michoacán. A narco message was left on top of the body that read as follows: ―This goes to all the deserters and to those who switch gangs. Sincerely, Los Caballeros Templarios.‖ CD. JUAREZ – Intelligence operations conducted by federal police in the San Jose neighborhood [31.714222,-106.442885], of Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, led to the arrest of Francisco OCAÑA Loranca, 36, (also known as Francisco Javier OCANA Loranca). This individual was identified as a Los Flacos kidnapping gang member accused of having participated in multiple kidnappings to include a taxi driver on February 2010 in Mexico State. Additional information about Los Flacos kidnapping gang was reported in this article is as follows: They commonly target businessmen. They operate in the following municipalities of Mexico State: Cuautitlan Izcalli, Tultitlan, Tepozotlan, Coacalco, Tlalnepantla, and Atizapan de Zaragoza. The gang is linked to at least nine kidnapping cases. They are known to kill their victims, even after receiving a ransom. Ransoms are exchanged at pedestrian bridges located along the Lecheria-Chamapa stretch of the Mexico-Queretaro highway and along Jose Lopez Portillo Avenue. To date, 15 Los Flacos gang members (to include Ocana) have been arrested.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in Mexico CD. JUAREZ – On 10 MAY 2011, Mexican Federal Police on patrol in colonia Jardines de Satélite observed a suspicious vehicle driving slowly through the neighborhood. After stopping the blue Chevrolet pickup with Chihuahua license plates, agents noticed several large metal tubes in the cargo compartment that led to a search of the entire vehicle. Agents discovered 350 rectangular bundles of marijuana within the vehicle. The bundles were wrapped in plastic and had a weight of 168 kilos. The agents also found five metal plates and a press used to form bundles of various sizes. Sergio Narro Fierro, 44, was arrested and turned over to the Federal Prosecutor with the seized items. Fierro was arrested by ICE in El Paso, TX, on 26 AUG 2009 for Importation and Possession of Marijuana.
SERGIO NARRO FIERRO Photo from 26 AUG 2009 (El Paso County)
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in Mexico
VILLA AHUMADA, CHIH. – On 11 MAY 2011, an ambulance was stopped at a DTO Related Deaths Juarez MX Federal Police checkpoint several miles south of the town of Villa Ahumada. The 2008 to Date fake attendants stated they were traveling 4000 to Villa Ahumada to pick up a sick person. Federal Agents conducted a search of the 3000 ambulance and discovered 360 kilos of 3111 marijuana inside a false compartment. 2000 2658 Both men were arrested and later 1000 admitted to have been paid ten thousand 1607 pesos to transport the ambulance to the 0 872 town.
CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011, 2008 2009 2010 2011 a man was shot and killed as he waited for a public bus. The The number of DTO related homicides in Cd Juárez homicide ocurred at the and surrounding areas for this reporting period is 38. intersection of Joaquín Terrazas There have been a total of 87 DTO related and Cromo streets in colonia homicides for the month of May. Barrio Alto. Ten shell casings were Figures as of 2400 hours 17 May 2011 found near the body.
CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011, three men attacked a public bus that was full of passengers traveling on Oscar Flores Blvd. near Cesareo Santos Street. One passenger was wounded. Municipal Police pursued the car involved in the attack and upon stopping the car discovered three armed men identified as off-duty Federal Police Officers.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in Mexico (cont)
CD. JUAREZ – On 14 MAY 2011, the body of a young woman was discovered inside a drainage manhole in colonia El Sauzal. The victim was gagged and her hands and feet were bound. Investigators indicated the body had been inside the drain for several hours.
CD. JUAREZ – On 16 MAY 2011, the body of a man was discovered in the trunk of a car near the intersection of Los Azteca Avenue and Profesora Emilia Pérez Payán Street in colonia Luis Olague. The deceased was gagged and his hands bound.
CD. JUAREZ – On 17 MAY 2010, a man was shot and killed inside his car on Camino Ortiz Rubio Street near the Juárez-Porvenir Highway. Close to twenty rds were fired into the vehicle.
CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2011, a taxi driver was attacked by gunmen in the S-Mart Zaragoza parking lot. The victim was uninjured in the attack, as Municipal Police arrived quickly on the scene.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in Mexico CD. JUAREZ – On 10 MAY 2011, two men were beheaded in the town of Guadalupe, D.B., and less than a mile away, a man and woman were killed inside their home, their throats slit with kitchen knives. On 11 MAY 2011, a woman was decapitated and dismembered in CD. Juarez and her head and arms were placed on the hood of a car with a narco message: ―Aquí esta su chicharrón. Ahora siguen su compadre y sus achichincles. Atte XUY.‖ (―Here’s your old lady. Next is your God Father, then the rest of your crowd. Sincerely: XUY‖). On 14 MAY 2011, a man was beheaded in CD. Juarez and his head and hands placed on the hood of his Ford Explorer. The rest of his body was located in the back of the Ford Explorer wrapped in a pink blanket. Several months have passed in the CD. Juarez area without the intense level of violence involved in these murders.
CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2010, three men were shot and killed near the intersection of Manuel Gómez Morín and San Antonio streets in the Senecú sub- division. Two of the victims were in a car and the third victim, an employee at a nearby service CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2011, two men were station, was found near the gas shot and killed inside a Hummer, and another pumps. Seventy shell casings died as he ran from the vehicle into a house were found at the scene in 9mm, located at the corner of Bellavista and Maple 7.62 x 39mm, and .223 cal. streets in colonia Felipe Angeles.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in Mexico (cont) CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011, two men were shot and killed near Laura and Guadalupe streets in colonia Lomas del Rey when the pickup they were traveling in crashed into a house. One of the deceased was later identified as the Assistant Director of the CERESO (a prison) in Nueva Casa Grandes, south of Cd. Juarez. Two state investigators were arrested by Municipal Police for entering the crime scene without identification. One was later identified as the brother of one of the victims. The arrest of the two ministeriales led to a confrontation between Municipal Police and state investigators at the Babicura Municipal Police Station. Approximately fifty state investigators converged on the entrance to the police station in an attempt to free their fellow officers from Municipal Police custody. They were met by a large group of Municipal Police who prevented their entrance into the compound. The press was on the scene and were even forced back and threatened by state investigators. Subsequently, as many as fifteen state investigators were arrested for their conduct. The chiefs from both agencies later met to work out better coordination between the agencies.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events In Mexico Six Juárez traffic officers were fired after allegedly demanding a bribe from a motorist involved in a traffic crash. The alleged bribery occurred this week when traffic officers demanded $300.00 to overlook the incident and dismiss the traffic citation, local authorities said in a press release. The driver filed a formal complaint against the officers, and after an inquiry, the officers were fired. Juárez Mayor Héctor Murguía Lardizábalsaid his administration will not tolerate misconduct or dishonest behavior from its officers. On 16 MAY 2011, the Cd. Juarez Chief of Police, who also heads the Traffic Division (Transito), held a mandatory meeting with the entire traffic division to go over policies, and to deliver a warning for the officers to conduct their jobs properly and ethically, or face the consequences. At least four-hundred and fifty CD. Juarez Municipal Police Officers and Transito Officers have been terminated since the new administration came into office. Mexican President Felipe Calderon is expected to visit CD. Juarez on Friday, 20 MAY 2011. During his visit it is expected that the issues of public security, social and educational initiatives, and employment will be discussed with members of the local and state governments. MEXICO – Thousands of bulletproof vests enter Mexico on a yearly basis. And while purchasing these vests is not illegal, the use of them by criminals puts select police forces at a disadvantage. The majority of Mexican authorities (police) are armed with .38 Supers and no bulletproof vests. Bulletproof vests, such as those used by SWAT Teams, are being seized with increased frequency by state and federal authorities throughout Mexico. These seizures are usually made after shootouts and from the interior of raided residences. Over the course of the last five years, authorities have seized more than 4,000 bulletproof vests. According to Mexican authorities a majority of bulletproof vests that are seized enter through the northern border and come from manufactures in the US to include: Pointblank Solutions in Pompano Beach, Florida; Safariland of Sierra Madre, California; Protective Products International of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; ABA American Body Armor of Jacksonville, Florida, and Browning of Salt Lake City, Utah.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events In Mexico (cont) TAMAULIPAS – Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) reports that the two gun battles took place in Tampico. Officials report that a total of six gunmen were killed and authorities seized assault rifles, ammunition, three grenades and two vehicles. Officials also report that soldiers found a decapitated body at the scene and a head found inside an ice chest is believed to belong to the body. Officials also report that a gun battle took place in the border city of Reynosa on Mexico’s Mother’s Day. Nobody was killed in the battle, but soldiers did seize vehicles, assault rifles and ammunition. TAMAULIPAS – Mexico's Federal Government announced the deployment of an additional 500 army troops to the northeastern state of Tamaulipas due to the turf battles between the Gulf Cartel and Los Zetas. The 500 soldiers "will bolster the significant presence of federal forces" already in Tamaulipas, a Federal Security spokesman stated without offering details on the total number of military personnel deployed to that state, where 183 bodies were located. According to reports, 8,435 soldiers have been deployed to combat organized crime in the 4th Military Region, which is the largest troop presence in the country's 12 Military Regions.
NUEVO LEON – On 18 MAY 2011 , a confrontation between Guadalupe Municipal Police traveling in a 12 vehicle convoy and Los Zetas operators was reported on Pablo Livas and Eloy Cavazos Avenues [25.6645 -100.2473] in Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon. This initial confrontation extended to Israel Cavazos Avenue and finally ended at the intersection of Xochimilco Avenue and the Highway that leads to Reynosa [25.6662 -100.1714]. Weapons utilized during this attack were reported as bazookas, at least four grenades, and high caliber weapons (hundreds of spent shell casings were recovered from the area surrounding the incident). In the aftermath of this incident, authorities discovered that three officers had been brutally murdered while attempting to defend themselves. Items seized from an abandoned Mazda vehicle utilized by the Los Zetas during the confrontation included: AK-47 assault rifle, mags, rds of ammo tactical equipment, radio communication equipment, and hats bearing the Los Zetas logo .
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events In Mexico (cont) TAMAULIPAS – At least 40 SUVs and pickups were stolen from a vehicle exposition in Reynosa on 07 MAY 2011. While employees were preparing to open the vehicle exposition to the public that morning, gunmen rounded up the employees and demanded the keys to the vehicles. The attackers confined the employees to an area and drove the new vehicles away. The attack likely involved preplanning, choosing escape routes and the coordinated use of a heavily armed force that likely consisted of more than 50 people in order to provide drivers for the vehicles that transported the gunmen to the exposition and for the stolen vehicles as well as security along the escape route. There have been other incidents of dealerships along the border robbed of numerous vehicles, but none with the magnitude and planning of this. The Mexican Army arrived within minutes but were unable to find the convoy of stolen trucks. No injuries were reported.
CIUDAD MIER – Mexican Navy officials detailed the rescue of two telephone company employees who were allegedly kidnapped by cartel members as they entered Ciudad Mier, across the Rio Grande and 8 miles west of Roma, TX. Officers were on patrol near the 1460km mark of the Ciudad Mier Highway when two people approached them asking for help. Two two subjects told authorities they were telephone company workers in charge of maintaining communication antennas for a company. Two of their coworkers, they said, had been kidnapped. As the telephone workers were heading to Mier, a truck carrying three armed men blocked their path and signaled them to stop. The four employees stopped, but they tried to flee on foot because they were scared of being kidnapped, authorities said. The armed men, however, were able to kidnap two of the four. In Mexico, many use the term ―levanton‖ — or ―lift‖ when translated to English — to describe this method of taking someone. After searching the area, the officers were able to locate the other two employees who had been visibly beaten. Both men told authorities they had been kidnapped and interrogated by members of a criminal organization but were abandoned after the attackers spotted the Navy officials.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events in South America with Mexico ties GUATEMALA – The massacre in Guatemala that left 27 people dead in a cattle ranch – believed to be the work of Mexico’s notorious drug, the Zetas – has forced a 30-day state of emergency. Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom, who called the killings sadistic and perverse, issued the urgent declaration after announcing that he would go to the jungle-covered region to personally direct operations aimed at rooting out what is believed to be a Mexican drug cartel that has taken up residence in Petén. Such declarations traditionally give the army emergency powers, including permission to detain suspects without warrants. The attack late Saturday and early Sunday on an isolated cattle ranch was of one of Guatemala's largest postwar massacres. Gunmen believed to belong to Mexico's Zetas cartel killed the farm laborers, including two women and two children, and left their severed heads scattered across the pastures of the cattle ranch. GUATEMALA – A high-level member of Mexico’s Los Zetas drug cartel, Hugo Alvaro Gomez Vasquez, was arrested on 18 MAY 2011. President Alvaro Colom stated that Gomez Vasquez is likely directly linked to the massacre in Peten. The information that led investigators to Gomez Vasquez was found Tuesday in a camp at the La Mula ranch, located about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the Los Cocos ranch, where the massacre occurred. Security forces members found 28 rifles, military uniforms, vests and vehicles at the ranch believed to have been used by Los Zetas to carry out the attack, Colom said. Gomez Vasquez, known as ―Comandante Bruja‖ (Commander Witch), has been linked to last Friday’s kidnapping-murders of Luis Carlos Bardales, his son, Luis Alberto, and daughter-in-law, Keiry Franco, who was the niece of Otto Salguero, the owner of the Los Cocos ranch.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant Events in Mexico
CHIAPAS – Police in Mexico’s southern Chiapas state found 513 migrants on 17 MAY 2011 inside two trailer trucks bound for the US. Some of the immigrants were suffering from dehydration after traveling for hours clinging to cargo ropes strung inside the containers to keep them upright which allowed more migrants to be crammed in on the floor. The trucks had air holes punched in the tops of the containers, but migrants indicated they lacked air and water. The trucks were bound for the central city of Puebla, where the migrants said they were to be loaded aboard a second set of vehicles for the trip to the US border. The migrants said the smugglers were charging them about $7,000 apiece to get them into the United States. Officials of Mexico's National Immigration Institute said the 113 migrants still being held are from nations that don't share borders with Mexico or are Guatemalan minors or women who require special treatment. The 400 Guatemalan migrants were returned to their country in air-conditioned buses Wednesday, a stark contrast to the sweltering, overcrowded trailers where they were found. The remaining migrants include 47 from El Salvador, 32 from Ecuador, 12 from India, six from Nepal, three from China and one each from the Dominican Republic and Honduras, as well as Guatemalan minors and women.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant Events in South America with Mexico ties COLOMBIA – Since cocaine cartels in South America began using submarines and semi-submersible craft to transport cocaine north in the 1990s, the U.S. and Colombia have been desperately seeking the specialists responsible for designing and building these craft. Recently, Argentina revealed they had arrested one of the main organizers of the sub building operation. The suspect, Ignacio Alvarez Meyendorff, is identified as working for the Colombian Norte del Valle drug cartel, and in charge of logistics for the submarine project. It's believed that Meyendorff was tracked down via information obtained by the U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI). The outer hull of the sub was made out of strong, lightweight, Kevlar/carbon fiber that was sturdy enough to keep the sub intact, but very difficult to detect with most sensors. The hull could not survive deep dives, but this boat didn't have to go deep to get the job done. The two fiberglass/Kevlar submarines found so far were obviously built to transport cocaine to North America. Neither the United States, nor anyone else who might know, are talking about how many of these subs are out there, or believed to be in operation or under construction. Similar type boats could be built for terrorist or espionage missions. A lot of evidence was collected, and apparently the U.S. DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) used this, and the ONI analysis of materials and components to develop clues about who was involved. The DEA put together pieces that led to identifying Meyendorff and locating him in Argentina. In the last two decades. since this type of smuggling "submarine" was first encountered, the Colombian military has captured over 60. Many more were apparently sunk by their crews after delivering their cargo to Mexico. (For full article: Click Here)
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Significant events In Mexico (cont) Mexican authorities released details about a massive shootout and manhunt that put the Los Indios International Bridge in Brownsville on alert. Mexico's Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) reported the shootout took place in a rural area outside Matamoros on 18 MAY 2011. SEDENA officials reported that a military helicopter was patrolling the area when soldiers spotted a convoy of 17 trucks and SUVs on a dirt road. Members of the convoy allegedly opened fire on the helicopter prompting the pilot to call for backup. Ground soldiers arrived in area and were greeted by gunfire. SEDENA officials reported that vehicles from the convoy scattered in an escape attempt. More soldiers arrived at the scene where different military patrols split up to search for the gunmen and their vehicles. The firefights and searches took place just southeast of the Los Indios International Bridge in and around rural communities such as Control, Estacion Ramirez and Lucio Blanco. SEDENA officials reported that only three gunmen were killed and that three were arrested in the incident.
Seized after the incident were the following: • 83 assault rifles • 18 handguns • 5 grenade launchers • 1 rocket launcher • 11 fragmentation grenade • 28 grenades • 315 ammunition clips • 18,274 bullets • 17 vehicles • 17.6 lbs of cocaine • 0.76 ounces of marijuana
CDG
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE OPERATION BORDER STAR UPDATES & ASSESSMENT
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE OBS Weekly Assessment Marijuana seizures decreased 4.7% from 42,296.81 lbs last week to 40,300.12 lbs this week. This BOSA reporting period ends the 20th week of the year with a 39,553.3 lbs weekly average thus far for 2011. The final 2010 weekly average was 33,354.2 lbs a week. The long-term trend line showed a downward movement of total marijuana seized (in lbs) in 2009 and 2010 around May and June. The RGV Sector had a significant seizure of 7,553 lbs of marijuana in Hidalgo Co. The marijuana, seized from multiple rooms in a residence, fit in five pickup beds (see photos below). The total estimated street value for the reported marijuana seizures during this reporting period is $35.46 million.
Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View
Marijuana (lbs) Long-Term Trendline Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average
70,000 2011 Weekly Average 60,000 60,000 50,000 47,758.71 50,000 42,296.81 40,000 40,300.12 40,000 30,000 20,000 30,000 35,145.40 10,000 20,000 0
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CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) Cocaine seizures decreased by nearly half from 266.72 lbs seized last week to 141.54 lbs this week. The Coastal Bend Sector had a noteworthy seizure of 13.22 lbs of cocaine from a radiator. The RGV Sector also had a large cocaine seizure, 22.7 lbs, at the Brownsville B&M Bridge from the center console/firewall area of a Ford Fusion with Mexican plates. The total estimated street value for reported cocaine seizures totaled $7.5 million. Reported Radiator Seizures from past 6 months Date/Time Vehicle Location Seizure 18 MAY 2011 (reported) Chevrolet Suburban US-77N – Kingsville – RGV Sector 13.22 lbs COCAINE
06 MAY 2011 1996 Chevrolet Suburban Brownsville B&M Bridge – RGV Sector 14.37 lbs COCAINE
08 APR 2011 1999 GMC Suburban Brownsville Veterans Bridge – RGV Sector 12.63 lbs HEROIN
11 MAR 2011 (reported) Chevrolet Pickup Brownsville, TX, IH-77N – RGV Sector 13.1 lbs COCAINE
10 DEC 2010 1992 Chevrolet Pickup Wharton Co, US-59 – Coastal Bend Sector $72,961 USD
Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View
Cocaine (lbs) Long-Term Trendline Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average 2,000 2011 Weekly Average 350 1,500 300 250 1,000 266.72 200 260.14 500 150 141.54 0 100 50 87.79 0 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Robstown PD Officers found several indicators that the vehicle had been modified. Wires were discovered that led to an electronic piston behind the rear passenger seat. When activated, a trapdoor in the seat opened to reveal a compartment for Speaker Box for concealment in smuggling. Investigation Electronically controlled smuggling trunk. compartment. revealed the suspect was returning from a narcotics delivery. Interesting concealment methods
On 15 MAY 2011, THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 1997 Ford pickup traveling southbound on IH-35 near Laredo. The pickup was pulling a flatbed trailer with fencing materials. The trooper discovered and seized $2,770.00 concealed on the driver. The material on the trailer was searched and 14 of 21 wooden fence posts were found to have hollow compartments. No contraband was discovered. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) Heroin and methamphetamine seizures for this week’s reporting period total 0.28 lbs and 0.01 lbs, respectively. Both Heroin and methamphetamine are down nearly 100% from last week’s 28.52 lbs of heroin seizures and 60.8 lbs of methamphetamine seizures. Bulk currency seizures increased from $673,181 USD last week to $2,188,541 USD this week. Del Rio, Laredo, and Coastal Bend had significant seizures this week totaling just over $2 million USD. In the Laredo Sector, $600,146 USD was seized from a spare tire in a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge. In the Coastal Bend Sector, $248,000 USD was seized from the secondary axle housing of a 1999 Freightliner on US-77S. In the Del Rio Sector, $549,950 USD was seized from both sides of the rocker panels of 2008 Mazda 6.
Currency Seizures ($) Long-Term View Currency Seizures ($) Short-Term View
Currency Seizures (USD) Long-Term Trendline Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average
$8,000,000 2011 Weekly Average 2,500,000.00 $7,000,000 2,188,541.00 $6,000,000 2,000,000.00 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 1,500,000.00 $3,000,000 932,448.00 1,000,000.00 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 500,000.00 673,181.70 $0 314,952.05 0.00 29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11
The street value of all contraband seized this week represents a loss to Mexican DTOs and the criminal networks that support them of approximately $45.4 million. CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) Illegal alien apprehensions decreased from 2,794 last week to 1,987 this week. OTM apprehensions decreased from 728 last week to 653 this week. Significant weapons seizures were seen in the Del Rio Sector and Rio Grande Valley Sector. At the Eagle Pass POE 1, ten rifles and one pistol were concealed in three cardboard boxes in a 2003 Ford Explorer. The vehicle was also outfitted with an electronically operated false compartment under the center console. At the Brownsville Gateway Bridge, five rifles and two handguns wrapped in foil were concealed in the trunk of a 2003 Ford Taurus with Florida license plates. RGV Seizure Del Rio Seizure
Significant Gang Activity: • Jim Wells Co SO and the Texas Rangers arrested two MEXICAN MAFIA gang members on murder charges for the ―hit‖ ordered on an individual over missing narcotics. (Border nexus) • Corpus Christi PD arrested a TEXAS SYNDICATE gang member for the death of three women. • THP – Guadalupe Co seized 0.440 lbs of cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment (see photo at right) behind the glove box in a 2004 Ford F- 150 pickup. One of the two male suspects is a MEXICAN MAFIA gang member.
CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE BOSA REVISITED FOOD CONTAINERS FOR CONCEALMENT
LAREDO SECTOR: On 08 MAY 2011, working STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 13 JAN 2011, THP STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 23 SEPT 2010, THP at the IH-35 Checkpoint, initiated a secondary Groom stopped a 2003 Ford E-250 on IH-40 Brenham stopped a 2004 Cadillac Coupe inspection on a white 1994 Chevrolet and arrested one suspect. A consent to DeVille on IH-10 and arrested 2 suspects after Silverado pickup driven by a male subject. The search revealed ½ ounce of marijuana in locating 4.95 pounds of liquid PCP concealed agents seized 11.75 lbs of marijuana some luggage and 1 kilogram of cocaine within plastic juice bottles. The PCP concealed in cereal cardboard boxes. The inside a cereal box located in a natural void originated in Houston and was destined for subject and vehicle were released. The under the rear seat. The contraband Beaumont. Both suspects in the vehicle were marijuana was turned over to DEA. originated in Phoenix and was destined for confirmed “CRIPS” gang members. (BOSA (BOSA 13 MAY 2011) Biddeford, ME. (BOSA 21 JAN 2011)
STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 24 SEPT 2010, THP – Chambers Co stopped a 2002 Chrysler Concorde on IH-10. A consent to search revealed $2,745 USD, 1 lb marijuana, and one .32 cal STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 27 AUG 2010, weapon concealed within THP Houston, Harris Co, stopped a STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 24 AUG 2010, THP seized 2.25 lbs of the cereal boxes. The 2004 Ford F-150 on FM 1960 and marijuana, $10,161 USD, a 2010 Dodge and arrested three subjects contraband originated in arrested two suspects after locating following a traffic stop on IH-35 near Lorena, McLennan Co. A search Houston, TX, and was 15.4 kilos of cocaine concealed in of the vehicle produced the marijuana and currency within four destined for Louisville MS. sealed household product boxes. resealed Lays Potato Chip bags, and one resealed Cheese Nips box. (Teletypes) (BOSA 03 SEPT 2010) (BOSA 27 AUG 2010) CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE If any comments or questions arise from this product, please contact: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS CENTER
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CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE