CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

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1 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 includes this document and any accompanying attachments and/or s.

2 Key Events and Findings The Laredo Sector noted a travel pattern of marijuana transported northbound on FM-649 from Roma to SH-359, then westbound on SH-359 to Laredo, avoiding any checkpoints along the way. In the RGV Sector, there have been three large marijuana seizures of approximately 1,000 lbs or greater in or near Escobares, TX one of which involved the seizure of various types of rifles at a private residence. The Del Rio Sector reported that in the first ten weeks of 2011, the amount of cocaine is 50% of the total seized for all of During this week s reporting period, two incidences in Fort Bend Co and Frio Co were reported involving marijuana being transported using legitimate ambulances and with three subjects each; two acting as paramedics and one as a patient. On 15 MAR 2011, the interim director of a state prison in Nuevo Laredo Rebeca Nicasio Vazquez was killed inside the prison by an inmate, less than three months after the Zetas drug cartel staged a massive jailbreak at the same facility. On 10 MAR 2011, narcobanners appeared in Morelia and Apatzingán, Michoacan announcing a previously unknown criminal organization calling themselves the Knights Templar and the successors to La Familia Michoacana, which announced its alleged breakup in January. The RGV and Coastal Bend Sectors continue to see truck tractor semi-trailer marijuana loads comingled with produce (limes, oranges, cabbage, watermelon, etc).

3 TABLE OF Dallam Hartley Sherman 287 Moore 287 Hansford Hutchinson Ochiltree Roberts Lipscomb Hemphill Sig. Mexico Events p CONTENTS Oldham Deaf Smith Parmer Castro Potter Randall 27 Swisher Carson Armstrong Briscoe Gray Donley Hall Wheeler Collingsworth Childress Statewide Corridor Seizures p Hardeman Bailey Lamb Hale Floyd Motley Cottle Foard Wilbarger Wichita Clay Cochran Hockley Lubbock Crosby Dickens King Knox Baylor Archer Montague Cooke Grayson Fannin Lamar Delta Red River Bowie Hidalgo Grant Luna Dona Ana El Paso Sector p El Paso Otero Hudspeth Hudspeth Marfa Sector p Overall Assessment p Culberson Jeff Jeff Davis Presidio Loving Reeves Ward Winkler Brewster Yoakum Pecos Gaines Andrews Ector Crane Terry Lynn Dawson Martin Midland Upton Terrell Borden Garza Howard Glasscock Reagan Crockett Scurry Sterling Mitchell Irion Val Verde Del Rio Sector p Kent Coke Sutton Stonewall Fisher Nolan Tom Green Schleicher Edwards Kinney Laredo Sector p Jones Taylor Runnels Haskell Concho Menard Kimble Real Uvalde Zavala Dimmit Throckmorton Shackelford Callahan Coleman McCulloch Mason Kerr Brown Gillespie Bandera Frio Medina La Salle Webb Young Stephens Eastland San Saba Jim Hogg Comanche Mills Llano Kendall Bexar Duval Starr Palo Pinto Blanco Atascosa Erath Comal Jack Hamilton Lampasas Burnet Live Oak Hays Parker Hood Williamson Travis Wise Somervell Coryell Guadalupe Wilson Jim Wells Brooks Karnes Bosque Bee Bell Caldwell Tarrant Johnson Goliad Denton Hill McLennan Bastrop Gonzales DeWitt San Patricio Nueces Kleberg Kenedy Willacy Cameron Dallas Falls Milam Lee Fayette Ellis Lavaca Victoria Refugio Collin Navarro Limestone Robertson Burleson Rockwall Kaufman Freestone Brazos Washington Colorado Jackson Austin Hunt Leon Rains Van Zandt Madison Henderson Grimes Waller Wharton Anderson Fort Bend Matagorda Hopkins Walker Wood Houston Montgomery Harris Brazoria Franklin Gregg Cherokee Titus Cam p Trinity San Jacinto Upshur Morris Rusk Nacogdoches Polk Galveston Liberty Angelina Cass Marion Harrison Panola Tyler Chambers Shelby San Augustine Hardin Jasper Jefferson Sabine Newton Orange Coastal Bend Sector p Rio Grande Valley Sector p

4 Operation BORDER STAR 9 15 MAR 2011

5 EL PASO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 EL PASO H U D S P E T H UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS USBP CBP OFO ICE West TX HIDTA EPIC TMF DPS TPWD US Army, Ft. Bliss CID El Paso CO SO Hudspeth CO SO Dona Ana CO SO (NM) Grant CO SO (NM) Hidalgo CO SO (NM) Luna CO SO (NM) Otero CO SO (NM) Anthony PD El Paso PD Horizon City PD Ysleta Del Sur Tribal PD El Paso ISD PD University of Texas El Paso PD El Paso Community College PD El Paso Office of Emergency Management Texas Tech University PD Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Texas Attorney General, El Paso Union Pacific Railroad PD Texas Alcohic Beverage Commission El Paso County Constables CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION LAW LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Full Map/Table of Contents

6 El Paso Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Marijuana Cocaine Heroin Methamphetamine Contraband Seizures 3, lbs lbs lbs 6.38 lbs Currency $23, Other Weapons LSD, 4 doses Codeine, 42 bottles Ecstasy, 19 pills Hydrocodone, 1,290 pills Cyclobenzaprine, 41 pills Methocarbamol, 41 pills Zolpidem, 10 pills Amantadine, 1 pill Valium, 1 pill Acetaminophen, 26 pills Handgun(s) 5 Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0 Absconds 0 Bailouts 0 Criminal Arrests 107 Fugitive Arrests 44 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 7 Pursuits 0 Scouts/Decoys 0 Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 0 IAs/USBP 297 OTMs 23 Guatemala 9 El Salvador 1 Nicaragua 1 OTM Countries Cambodia 1 Honduras 2 Brazil 5 Italy 2 India 2 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 22 Recovered 16

7 El Paso Sector Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Cocaine Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Number of IAs Apprehended The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: El Paso UC Currency Seizures $25,000 $23,680 $20,000 $15,000 $10,121 $10,000 $5,000 $2,866 $620 $0 25-Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 El Paso UC Marijuana Seizures 4, , , , , , , , , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 El Paso UC Cocaine Seizures El Paso UC Illegal Aliens Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

8 Photo courtesy of West Texas Detention Facility Gang activity Eight gang-related incidents were reported during this period involving nine arrests of members from eight different gangs. There were seven criminal and one fugitive arrests. The incidents involved: Assault on a Public Servant, Criminal Trespass, Criminal Mischief, Obstruction / Retaliation, Possession of Marijuana, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Failure To Identify, DWI, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 19 th Street Crazy Mother Fuc***s Aryan Brotherhood of Texas 6 th Street Los Fatherless Varrio Glenwood Street Folk Hated By Many The West Texas Detention Facility in Sierra Blanca supplied the JOIC with the picture to the left showing a new style of Barrio Azteca tattoo. Research is being collected on the new tattoo. This new style of tattoo has also been seen in the Otero Co Prison. According to USBP Intelligence Officers, this tattoo was on a suspect who claimed to work for the Barrio Azteca. The suspect claimed that he is an esquina who already has his feathers but hasn t earned his guaraches (sandals). The suspect claimed that the tattoo is being used by the newer members and upon sight can identify someone as a BA and what area they are from. The slides on the following page show the traditional style of Barrio Azteca tattoos that are frequently seen.

9 Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of the Americas POE seized: 10 MAR lbs of marijuana 2000 Mercedes Benz Tour Bus Concealed: Rear curb-side area near the engine compartment and rest room 10 MAR lbs of marijuana 1999 Oldsmobile Alero Concealed: Non-Factory compartment in the center console 10 MAR lbs of marijuana 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Concealed: Spare Tire

10 Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Yseltas POE seized: 11 MAR lbs of marijuana 2002 Jeep Grande Cherokee Concealed: Fuel tank 13 MAR lbs of marijuana 2003 Chevrolet Trail Blazer Concealed: Seats and rocker panel

11 Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of the Americas POE seized: 11 MAR lbs of marijuana 1996 Jeep Grande Cherokee Concealed: Seats and rocker panels 11 MAR lbs of marijuana 2001 Chevrolet Suburban Concealed: Seats, gas tank, and spare tire

12 Additional information (cont) On 11 MAR 2011, a DPS CVE Trooper conducted a traffic stop on IH-10W at mile marker 37 in El Paso Co. A warrant check by DPS El Paso Communications advised that the passenger was wanted on a federal drug conspiracy charge. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of $23,580 USD recovered from different locations throughout the vehicle and occupants. The passenger was turned over to the US Marshal Service in El Paso, and felony Money Laundering charges are pending following further investigation by DPS CID.

13 Additional information (cont) On 08 MAR 2011, Detectives with the El Paso Police Department West Texas HIDTA Stash House Unit were conducting an on-going narcotics investigation in the 3000 block of Sun Bowl, El Paso, TX. During the course of the investigation, detectives conducted a warrant check on three subjects at the residence, resulting in two arrests for outstanding warrants. A search warrant was obtained for the residence, resulting in the location of a green luggage bag containing 26 marijuana bundles with a weight of 30.4 lbs. A black duffel bag was located hidden under a pile of clothing which contained 21 marijuana bundles with a weight of lbs. The total amount of marijuana seized was approximately lbs. Three subjects were arrested. 26 bundles 30.4 lbs 21 bundles lbs Marijuana bundle exposed

14 Southbound operations Recent Southbound Operations were conducted at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA), Paso Del Norte (PDN) and Stanton Street POE s by officers with the EPPD, USBP, CBP, and the TSA/FAM VIPR team. One suspect was arrested on criminal warrants, and a stolen motorcycle was recovered. El Paso JOIC s Sector Assessment The El Paso Sector experienced an increase in seizures of marijuana, cocaine, meth, heroin, and currency during this reporting period. There was a decrease in stolen vehicles but an increase in the recovery of stolen vehicles. Of the total 3,839 lbs of marijuana seized, 1,380 lbs was seized at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA),175 lbs at the Ysleta POE, 172 lbs at the Paso Del Norte POE, and 373 lbs in the Lordsburg area. There were 32 reported marijuana seizures across the POE s totaling 2,101 lbs. There were two cocaine seizures of significance at the POEs; Santa Teresa, 13.2 kilos, and Paso Del Norte POE, 5.9 kilos. No significant trends were noted during this reporting period with respect to concealment methods of contraband, although three incidents occurred where Jeep Grand Cherokees were utilized with multiple concealment locations. Vehicle quarter panels, tires, and fuel tanks remain the predominate concealment locations in a wide variety of vehicles. During this reporting period, a 2000 Mercedes Benz Tour Bus was discovered to have 317 lbs of marijuana concealed in the rear engine area of the bus. The El Paso PD reported seven marijuana seizures totaling 1,654 lbs and nine cocaine seizures totaling 0.5 kilos. The El Paso Co SO reported two marijuana seizures totaling 51 lbs. DPS reported two marijuana seizures totaling 32 lbs and one cocaine seizure at kilos.

15 El Paso JOIC s Sector Assessment City-wide index crime continues to show a decrease by 11% compared to the same time frame last year. There is a noted 900% increase (9) in murders, a 100% increase (23) in sexual assaults, a 3% increase (2) in robberies, a 6% decrease (125) in assaults, a 12% decrease (44) in burglary, a 25% decrease (92) in vehicle theft, and a 12% decrease (61) in vehicle burglary. (Provided by El Paso PD) *Burg Vehicle, 518 Veh Theft, 370 Larceny, 2,579 Murder, 1 Sexual Aslt, 23 Robbery, 78 Aslt, 2,138 Burglary, 357 Murder Sexual Aslt Robbery Aslt Burglary Larceny Veh Theft *Burg Vehicle Citywide (YTD through Mar 12th, 2011) Offense % Change Murder % Sexual Assault % Robbery % Assault 2,138 2,013-6% Burglary % Larceny 2,579 2,183-15% Vehicle Theft % *Burglary Vehicle % Total: 5,546 4,923-11% *** Crime Rate: % *Burg Vehicle, 457 Veh Theft, 278 Larceny, 2,183 Population of El Paso: 644,638 Murder, 10 Sexual Aslt, 46 Robbery, 80 Aslt, 2,013 Burglary, 313 Murder Sexual Aslt Robbery Aslt Burglary Larceny Veh Theft *Burg Vehicle City Wide for week ending Mar 12th 2010 City Wide for week ending Mar 12th 2011

16 El Paso JOIC s Sector Assessment (cont) During this reporting period, 234 IAs were apprehended. IA apprehensions decreased by 106 from the previous week s 340. The total reported IA apprehensions within the El Paso Sector from 05 JAN through 09 MAR 2011 is 2,212 with 159 being IA apprehensions Other than Mexican (OTM). HONDO, 2 INDIA, 2 ITALY, 2 GUATE, 9 NICAR, 1 BRAZI, 5 CAMBO, 1 BRAZI CAMBO GUATE ITALY HONDO INDIA NICAR From 1/05 1/11 (119 apprehensions) From 1/12 1/18 (178 apprehensions) From 1/19 1/25 (243 apprehensions) From 1/26 2/01 (205 apprehensions) From 2/02 2/09 (140 apprehensions) From 2/10 2/15 (256 apprehensions) From 2/16 2/22 (186 apprehensions) From 2/23 3/01 (311 apprehensions) From 3/02 3/08 (340 apprehensions) From 3/09 3/16 (234 apprehensions) 234 Apprehensions between 9 MAR 15 MAR 2011 Leading IA OTMs 05 JAN 2011 to date: Guatemala 50 Honduras 24 El Salvador 20 India 20

17 MARFA UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 H U D S P E T H C U L B E R S O N R E E V E S J E F F D A V I S P E C O S T E R R E L L P R E S I D I O B R E W S T E R UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS USBP CBP - OFO ICE NPS West TX HIDTA TMF TPWD DPS Brewster CO SO Culberson CO SO Hudspeth CO SO Jeff Davis CO SO Pecos CO SO Presidio CO SO Reeves CO SO Terrell CO SO Alpine PD Fort Stockton PD Pecos PD Presidio PD CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION LAW LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE Full Map/Table of Contents

18 Marfa Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Marijuana Cocaine Heroin Methamphetamine Contraband Seizures 1, lbs 0.02 lbs 0.0 lbs 0.0 lbs Currency $5, Other Weapons Hash lbs Promethazine 5 lbs LSD 1 dose Handgun(s) 1 Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0 Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 1 IAs/USBP 61 OTMs 2 OTM Countries United Kingdom 2 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 0 Recovered 0 Absconds 0 Bailouts 0 Criminal Arrests 113 Fugitive Arrests 2 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 0 Scouts/Decoys 0

19 Marfa Sector The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Cocaine Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Number of IAs Apprehended $600,000 Marfa UC Currency Seizures 4, Marfa UC Marijuana Seizures $500,000 $400,000 $482,575 3, , , , $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0 $5,829 $26,185 $5, Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 2, , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Marfa UC Cocaine Seizures Marfa UC Illegal Aliens Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

20 Additional information (cont.) N Valentine USBP Agents in Presidio Co seized lbs of marijuana and apprehended four IAs in a cave near Chalk Gap. The marijuana and subjects were turned over to DEA. One subject shown with backpack An example of a cave along the Sierra Vieja Rim. (Not actual cave mentioned.)

21 Additional information Cont. USBP Agents Hudspeth Co seized: lbs of marijuana, $5,118 USD and apprehended one USC in a white 2009 International semi-tractor trailer. The contraband was located in multiple suitcases and a fanny pack. The marijuana, vehicle, currency, and subject were turned over to DEA. 5 lbs of Promethazine abandoned on a commercial bus. The Promethazine was turned over to Hudspeth Co SO lbs of marijuana, one dose of LSD, and apprehended 4 USCs in a silver 2010 Dodge Caliber. The narcotics, vehicle, and subjects were turned over to Hudspeth Co SO lbs of marijuana and apprehended two USCs in a blue 2007 Ford F-150 pickup truck. The marijuana, vehicle, and subjects were turned over to Hudspeth Co SO.

22 Additional information Hudspeth Co SO seized lbs of marijuana from a hidden compartment in a fuel tank around Red Bull Canyon approximately 25 miles south of Sierra Blanca, and apprehended 1 USC in a Red 1997 Ford F-250. Bolts on false compartment plate on bottom of fuel tank N CBP Units near Dryden TX., assisted by DPS Air 119, located and tracked an IA Group. Utilizing scope trucks, ground units intercepted the group and arrested 14 subjects.

23 Marfa Unified Command Sector Assessment Marijuana seizures are up slightly this week to 1, lbs compared to last week s total of 1, lbs. The largest seizure was lbs at the Sierra Blanca Checkpoint. The second largest seizure was lbs of marijuana seized by Hudspeth Co SO in Red Bull Canyon south of Sierra Blanca, TX. There was a small cocaine seizure this week of 0.02 lbs. Hashish seizures were up slightly with 0.39 lbs and one paper dose of LSD was also seized this week. Information indicates that DTOs are attempting to find more unconventional ways to smuggle their narcotics, including significant route changes. A Hudspeth Co SO deputy seized lbs of marijuana after investigating a suspicious vehicle in southern Hudspeth Co, an area noted for difficult travel. Currency seizures were down this week to $5,858 USD seized. The average weekly total for the week ending 04 MAR 2011 was $11,772. Last week s total seizure of $482,575 USD appears to be an anomaly for this area. This caused an increase in the average weekly seizure total for this reporting period to $52,964 USD. The Unified Command has identified a trend of currency being transported not only south and west, but also east along the IH-10 corridor in the Unified Command Sector. One firearm was seized this week by ATF compared with five seized last week. IA apprehensions were up across the entire area from 43 to 61.

24 DEL RIO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS V A L V E R D E E D W A R D S K I N N E Y R E A L U V A L D E USBP CBP-OFO ICE-FNU South TX HIDTA NPS USCG TPWD TMF DPS Dimmit CO SO Kinney CO SO Maverick CO SO Real CO SO Val Verde CO SO Uvalde CO SO Zavala CO SO Del Rio PD 38 th Judicial District (Volunteer) Dimmit CO Constable (Volunteer) Edwards CO SO (Volunteer) Uvalde PD (Volunteer) Z A V A L A D I M M I T Full Map/Table of Contents

25 Del Rio Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Contraband Seizures Marijuana 1, lbs Cocaine 59.4 lbs Heroin 3.75 lbs Methamphetamine 0 lbs Currency $7, Other 0 Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 2 IAs/USBP 387 OTMs 73 OTM Countries El Salvador 19 Guatemala 10 Honduras 42 Nicaragua 1 Ecuador 1 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Weapons Handgun(s) 0 Long Gun(s) 0 Ammunition 0 Stolen 1 Recovered 7 Absconds 36 Bailouts 12 Criminal Arrests 16 Fugitive Arrests 9 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 5 Scouts/Decoys 1

26 Del Rio Sector Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Cocaine Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Number of IAs Apprehended The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: Del Rio UC Currency Seizures $14,000 $12,900 $12,000 $10,000 $8,000 $7,959 $6,000 $4,000 $2,000 $0 $0 $0 25-Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 Del Rio UC Marijuana Seizures 6, , , , , , , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Del Rio UC Cocaine Seizures Del Rio UC Illegal Aliens Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

27 Southbound operations CBP-OFO and USBP are conducting Operation OUTBOUND. Maverick County SO is continuing Operation MAVERICK at the Eagle Pass POEs. Additional information USBP Agents were: At the USBP Eagle Pass Checkpoint on US-57 conducted an immigration inspection on the occupant of a Chevrolet Silverado. A K-9 alerted to the passenger side door and the vehicle was referred to secondary. A scan of the vehicle utilizing the Z-Backscatter Van displayed several anomalies inside the door panels. A total of 7.63 lbs of cocaine and 2.16 lbs of marijuana were recovered from the vehicle. The driver was placed under arrest. The subject, contraband and vehicle were turned over to ICE. Alerted by a Mobile Scope Truck Operator of eight to nine subjects crossing an open field near Thompson Ranch Rd (NW of Eagle Pass near Elm Creek, TX), carrying large bundles. When Agents approached and identified themselves, the subjects dropped their bundles and absconded. One subject was found and arrested. The bundles were recovered; they consisted of four large green duffel bags containing 29 bricks wrapped in brown cellophane. The marijuana totaled 328 lbs. The subject was found to have been previously apprehended and processed for removal as an IA. The subject and the marijuana were turned over to the DEA. Tracking a group of four individuals on a ranch north of US-90, near mm 436, when CBP-Air notified them that they had observed several duffel bags in the brush. Agents went to the location and discovered four duffel bags that appeared to have been at the location for an extended period of time. The area was overgrown and the bags were rotting. The bags contained lbs of marijuana. The DEA took custody of the contraband.

28 Additional information (cont) CBP-OFO Officers working inbound at the Eagle Pass POE, Bridge #2, referred a Ford Focus to secondary for an agricultural inspection due to the subjects having been grocery shopping in Piedras Negras, MX. During the inspection, the Officers noticed fresh paint and tampering on the speaker box in the trunk. A Buster reading and inspection of the box revealed a trap door along the back with packages concealed inside. The Officers recovered one package of heroin weighing 3.75 lbs and seven packages of cocaine weighing lbs. The narcotics, driver, and passenger were turned over to ICE. No disposition on the vehicle. Heroin and cocaine recovered from compartment in speaker box

29 Additional information (cont) USBP Agents: On US-277 near Quemado, TX, observed a Black 2006 Ford Fusion pass north and south multiple times. From a concealed location, Agents heard the sounds of the vehicle as it stopped and was loaded with something heavy. After a short pursuit, Agents stopped the vehicle. After gaining consent to search, Agents found three duffel bags in the trunk, containing 110 bricks wrapped in brown tape and clear cellophane. The bricks tested positive for marijuana, and totaled 160 lbs. The subjects and marijuana were turned over to the DEA for prosecution. Working in the Leonard's Orchard area in southern Eagle Pass observed four subjects carrying large bundles walking north towards Vanessa St. The Agents approached and identified themselves; the subjects dropped the bundles and absconded back to Mexico through the Rio Grande. A search of the area yielded three large duffel bags with 15 large bricks of marijuana. A total of lbs of marijuana was seized and turned over to the DEA. Located lbs of marijuana near Lehmann Ranch Rd in Maverick Co after Agents were advised of a sensor activation. The Agents detected the subjects in the brush running towards the Rio Grande. Five subjects absconded to Mexico. The marijuana was turned over to the DEA.

30 Additional information (cont) USBP Agents observed several military style duffel bags in the bed of a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 on Del Rio Blvd in Quemado, TX, and performed a traffic stop. The bags were found to contain 220 lbs of marijuana. The DEA took custody of the subject, the contraband, and vehicle. N Marijuana found in bed of pickup truck

31 Additional information (cont) A CBP-OFO Officer at the Eagle Pass POE observed suspicious behavior being exhibited by the driver of a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling from Mexico en route to North Carolina. The vehicle was referred into secondary screening. The Z Backscatter van (ZBV) was utilized, which revealed 34 packages of cocaine, with a total weight of lbs, concealed in the air conditioning unit in the cargo area. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized. Cargo area of Tahoe Cocaine seized from AC unit in cargo area

32 Additional information (cont) A Dimmit Co SO Deputy Constable observed a white Chevrolet Silverado with two visible occupants on SH-85 near Big Wells, TX. The Deputy Constable pulled in behind the vehicle and a registration check revealed the vehicle was stolen from Austin, TX. The Deputy Constable attempted a traffic stop, and a pursuit ensued. Both subjects bailed out eight miles east of Dilley, TX, and successfully absconded. DPS-Air, DPS-THP, USBP, and Frio County SO assisted in the pursuit and recovery of the stolen vehicle. Lack of keys Indications of break-in Broken steering column

33 Additional information (cont) A Uvalde PD Officer followed a vehicle after it failed to stop at a Designated Stopping Point on Grove St. The officer subsequently pulled the vehicle over and observed signs of criminal behavior. Upon receiving verbal consent for a search, Officers found US currency in the vehicle and on the subject's person totaling $7,959 USD. The currency was confiscated. Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment During this reporting period, there were 12 incidents that resulted in the seizure of 1, lbs of marijuana. The total is down a little over 500 lbs from last week. Since the high of 5,038 lbs from reporting the period ending 23 FEB 2011, there has been a steady drop in the number of pounds of marijuana seized. Cocaine continues to be seen in this sector, with 54.4 lbs being seized this reporting period. The total cocaine seized in the sector since 01 JAN 2011 is lbs; the total for all of 2010 was lbs. In the first ten weeks of 2011, the amount of cocaine seized is 49.89% of the total seized for all of last year. Drug Seizures for Week of 3/9/2011 through 3/16/2011

34 Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment (cont) The Del Rio Sector has noted an increase in the amount of heroin seized this reporting period, with 3.75 pounds. In addition, lbs of cocaine were concealed in the same vehicle in which the 3.75 lbs of heroin were seized combined loads are not routine. There were 34 fewer IA apprehensions this reporting period. Hondurans continue to be the largest number of OTMs apprehended. Also this period, bailouts increased by three, and the number of stolen vehicles recovered decreased by two. There were at least three bailouts in which the vehicle had not been reported stolen at the time of the bailout. Information was received regarding a bomb threat at Eagle Pass POE Bridge 31 at approx 3:35 pm on 15 MAR The threat was cleared. Stolen Vehicles Recovered 7 Total

35 LAREDO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 W E B B F R I O L A S A L L E UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS CBP ICE TPWD TMF DPS Duval CO S O Frio CO SO Jim Hogg CO SO La Salle CO SO Webb CO SO Zapata CO SO Dilley PD Laredo PD Pearsall PD D U V A L Z A P A T A J I M H O G G Full Map/Table of Contents

36 Laredo Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Marijuana Cocaine Heroin Contraband Seizures lbs 10.2 lbs 0 lbs Methamphetamine 19.9 Currency $ 3, Other -- Weapons Handgun(s) 0 Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0 Absconds 1 Bailouts 2 Criminal Arrests 12 Fugitive Arrests 1 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 0 Scouts/Decoys 0 Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 46 IAs/USBP 967 OTMs 79 Brazil 5 Dominican Republic 3 Ecuador 5 El Salvador 17 OTM Countries Guatemala 16 Honduras 30 India 2 Nicaragua 1 Paraguay 1 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 6 Recovered 4

37 Laredo Sector Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Cocaine Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Number of IAs Apprehended The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: Laredo UC Currency Seizures Laredo UC Marijuana Seizures $140,000 $120,000 $100,000 $118,100 $120,134 9, , , , , , $80,000 5, $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0 $0 $3, Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 4, , , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 Laredo UC Cocaine Seizures Laredo UC Illegal Aliens , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

38 Additional information USBP Agents: On 09 MAR 2011, received a call from a concerned citizen regarding possible smuggling activity on the Sandia Ranch property off US-83. The Agents responded to the area and located a white Ford F-250 with TX license plates. The Agents could see bundles in plain sight wrapped in clear plastic. The Agents seized 32 bundles of marijuana weighing a total of lbs. (USBP Zapata) On 09 MAR 2011, working at FM-1017 Checkpoint seized 217 lbs of marijuana from a 2003 Ford F-250 pickup truck. The Agents discovered 50 bundles of marijuana concealed in an aftermarket fuel tank compartment that was located in the bed of the truck. DEA referred the case to the Jim Hogg Co SO. Investigators took custody of the subject, vehicle, marijuana and $3,070 USD the subject had in his possession. (USBP Hebbronville)

39 Additional information On 11 MAR 2011, USBP Laredo North Agents seized 10.2 lbs of cocaine at the IH-35 Checkpoint. The cocaine was wrapped in aluminum tape and concealed under the mattress of the sleeper in a white 2001 Freightliner tractor/trailer. Two male subjects, cocaine and the tractor/trailer were turned over to DEA. On 13 MAR 2011, USBP Hebbronville Agents working the FM-1017 Checkpoint inspected a white 2001 Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by a male with a female passenger. The Agents seized 73 lbs of marijuana concealed inside a television and a grandfather clock in the bed of the truck. DEA referred the case to the Jim Hogg Co SO. Investigators took custody of the subjects, vehicle, and marijuana. Hector Javier Meza Jr. Elizabeth AGUILAR- Hernandez

40 Additional information On 09 MAR 2011, THP Troopers performed a traffic stop on a commercial ambulance for driving on an improved shoulder and defective mud flaps while traveling eastbound on US-57 at MM 454, in Frio Co. Subjects displayed suspicious behavior and consent to search was granted. The Trooper and USBP Agents, assisted by a K-9, located ten bundles of marijuana weighing 53 lbs in the roof of the Ambulance. Three subjects were arrested. Driver Passenger Acting Patient Frank Valdez Sergio Manuel Gonzalez Jesus Guillermo Longoria

41 Additional information (cont) On 12 MAR 2011, THP Troopers conducted a traffic stop on a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder. All occupants of the vehicle bailed out and absconded into the brush. A search of the vehicle revealed six bundles of marijuana, with a total weight of 262 lbs of marijuana in the vehicle. The vehicle and marijuana were seized. Note the type of bags containing the load. Analyst Note: These types of bags (sugar sacks) were noted in two seizures in last week s BOSA, being camouflaged in an identical manner. One occurred in the RGV Sector in Starr Co with the sacks containing lbs of marijuana recovered from a white van. The second occurred in the Laredo Sector in Webb Co with the sacks containing lbs marijuana abandoned near Malapie Pipeline. RGV SECTOR LAREDO SECTOR

42 Additional information N Actual smuggling map found in vehicle with route marked out. On 11 MAR 2011, THP Trooper initiated a traffic stop on a 2008 Ford F-250, pulling a home-made utility trailer on SH-359, near Laredo. The Trooper located and seized 1,080 lbs of marijuana from a false floor/generator compartment of the trailer. The male driver was arrested. The marijuana and vehicle were seized.

43 Additional information On 11 MAR 2011, Duval Co SO Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a grey 2000 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck traveling on SH-359, two miles west of Benavides, TX. The vehicle traveled through a fence line and was located abandoned. Deputies located 125 bundles of marijuana weighing a total of 1,218 lbs, in the rear compartment of the cab and in the bed of the truck. DPS AVN assisted in searching for suspects. On 14 MAR 2011, Laredo PD identified the victim of a violent murder in Laredo, TX. Twenty-three year old Alma De Hoyos was stabbed multiple times at her east Laredo apartment. One of her three children was with her at the time, and police issued an amber alert for the other two girls they believe were taken from the home. They were found hours later in west Laredo. The children's father, 38-year-old Francisco Moncada De Hoyos, is officially the suspect in the case. The following information was taken from the BOLO created at the Laredo JOIC: Francisco Moncada De Hoyos is suspected of murdering his wife, at 2904 E. Elm, Apt #5, in Laredo, Texas. De Hoyos should have an ID card from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. De Hoyos was driving a grey 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette van, VIN# 1GHDX03E1YD Vehicle was located on Pierce/Anna St, in Laredo, TX. SUBJECT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGEROUS If located contact Laredo Police Department or the Laredo JOIC at

44 Additional information (cont) Texas Military Forces Counter Drug Aviation: On 9 MAR 2011, the Aircrew patrolled the Hebbronville area and located a small group near SH-285. USBP Hebbronville Agents were notified and after a brief chase, apprehended five subjects. On 10 MAR 2011, the Aircrew assisted USBP on the Dixon Ranch in search of IA s. USBP located two subjects approximately 25 miles NW of Laredo, TX. On 11 MAR 2011, the Aircrew assisted USBP agents on the Briscoe Ranch in search for a group of IA s. The search revealed 15 subjects in the brush and ground agents apprehended all 15 subjects. On 14 MAR 2011, the Aircrew assisted USBP Laredo West Agents on the Petty Ranch in locating 13 subjects in three separate groups. The Aircrew then responded to La Mesa Ranch where Aircrew assisted USBP in locating 28 subjects. On 15 MAR 2011, the Aircrew assisted USBP Laredo West Agents in locating six subjects. On 11 MAR 2011, CBP-OFO Officers working at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo seized 3, lbs of marijuana and a tractor-trailer. MARIJUANA BUNDLES IN THE REAR OF THE TRAILER

45 Laredo Unified Command Sector Assessment The Laredo Unified Command had a significant increase in marijuana, cocaine and methamphetamine seizures for this reporting period. Currency seizures dropped and illegal alien apprehensions remained approximately the same as last week. Stolen vehicles recovered dropped from seven to six this period. IH-35 and US-83 continue to remain active corridors for illicit drug traffic, as well as, the Hebbronville areas of FM-1017 and SH-16, especially at or near the checkpoints. A map discovered during a marijuana seizure marked a travel pattern northbound on FM 649 from Roma to SH-359, then westbound on SH-359 to Laredo, avoiding any checkpoints along the way. The significant seizures this period were: 3, lbs of marijuana, seized by CBP- OFO Officers from a tractor trailer rig at the World Trade Bridge. USBP Laredo North Agents seized 10.2 lbs of cocaine from a tractor trailer rig and 19.9 lbs of meth from a Lincoln LS passenger vehicle, at the IH-35 checkpoint. There has been an increased concentration of IA apprehensions from stolen vehicles in the northern counties of the Laredo AOR. It is expected that increased use of stolen vehicles for transporting illegal aliens in this area will continue.

46 RIO GRANDE VALLEY UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 S T A R R B R O O K S H I D A L G O K E N E D Y W I L L A C Y C A M E R O N UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS Full Map/Table of Contents USBP CBP OFO ICE USCG Starr CO HIDTA DPS TPWD TMF Cameron CO SO Hidalgo CO SO Kenedy CO SO Starr CO SO Willacy CO SO Brownsville PD Harlingen PD Hidalgo PD La Grulla PD La Joya PD Mercedes PD Mission PD Palmview PD Penitas PD Pharr PD Port Isabel PD Raymondville PD Rio Grande City PD Roma PD San Benito PD San Juan PD Weslaco PD Univ of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) PD

47 Rio Grande Valley Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Contraband Seizures Marijuana 26, lbs Cocaine lbs Heroin 0 lbs Methamphetamine lbs Currency $20, Other 0 Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 12 IAs/USBP 996 OTMs 437 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 1 Recovered 1 Weapons Handgun(s) 2 Long Gun(s) 3 Explosive(s) 1 Absconds 3 Bailouts 4 Criminal Arrests 78 Fugitive Arrests 2 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 47 Pursuits 4 Scouts/Decoys 0

48 Rio Grande Valley Sector Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Cocaine Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Number of IAs Apprehended The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: RGV UC Currency Seizures $600,000 $535,897 $500,000 $547,004 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0 $20,800 $0 25-Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 RGV UC Marijuana Seizures 45, , , , , , , , , , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar RGV UC Cocaine Seizures ,200 1, RGV UC Illegal Aliens Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

49 Gang activity The Hidalgo Co SO Gang Intelligence Unit reported 47 gang member arrests during this reporting period. These arrests were made by 14 different agencies in the RGV sector. The gang members were arrested for offenses such as, parole violation, aggravated robbery, theft of property, driving while intoxicated, possession of marijuana in drug free zone, assault causing serious bodily injury, failure to ID, contempt of child support, failure to register as sex offender, assault on public servant, evading arrest, burglary of a vehicle, possession of controlled substance, sexual assault, robbery, prohibited weapons switchblade/knuckles, unauthorized use of vehicle, hindering apprehension or prosecution of known felon, criminal mischief, federal inmate, bench warrant, and murder. The arrestees have gang affiliation with: Vallucos Sureño 13 Hermanos Pistoleros Latinos Texas Syndicate Norteño 14 Texas Chicano Brotherhood Mexican Mafia Po Boys Partido Revolucionario Mexicanos Latin Kings Tri-City Bombers South Side Bandito Hidalgo Co SO Deputies arrested 31 alleged gang members as part of the on-going Operation Street Sweep. The initiative is designed to apply pressure on the gang criminal element in the county. The suspects had outstanding warrants for their arrests ranging from murder to burglary of vehicles. The suspects belonged to various street and prison gangs, including Southside Folk, Southside Banditos, Texas Syndicate, Vallucos, Loco 13 and Latin Kings.

50 Additional information CBP Officers: On 10 MAR 2011, from the Hidalgo POE inspected an inbound 2003 Ford Expedition being driven by a Mexican Male. The inspection revealed 33.8 lbs of methamphetamine concealed in the transmission of the vehicle. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized. On 13 MAR 2011, from the Hidalgo POE inspected an inbound 2001 Nissan Sentra being driven by a male Legal Permanent Resident. The inspection revealed 11.2 lbs of methamphetamine concealed in a natural void under the seat. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized.

51 Additional information (cont) CBP Officers: From the Brownsville Gateway POE inspected an outbound pedestrian USC. The male subject was found to be carrying $18,000 USD in his pants pockets. The subject was questioned and released and the currency seized. From the Hidalgo POE inspected an inbound 2001 Chevrolet Silverado being driven by a male USC. The inspection revealed 161 lbs of marijuana concealed in all four ties of the vehicle. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized. ICE agents executed a federal search warrant on a warehouse on US-281 in Edinburg, TX. Inside, they discovered a tractor-trailer with marijuana hidden in false compartments. The 8,331-pound load of marijuana was estimated to be worth more than $6 million. Agents also seized a loaded assault weapon. One subject was arrested at the scene of the seizure. The male suspect had been assigned to guard the load of narcotics.

52 Additional information (cont) USBP Agents from the Rio Grande Valley Sector seized nearly 1.5 tons of marijuana in two separate incidents. The seizures occurred near Escobares, TX, when an agent spotted tire tracks from an all-terrain vehicle and footprints leading into the brush. The agent followed the trail and found nearly 2,000 lbs of marijuana stashed throughout the brush. A freshly dug pit that was lined with plywood was also found nearby. The other seizure, also in Escobares, netted nearly 1,000 lbs of marijuana after agents observed suspicious activity near an abandoned mobile home. Upon searching the area, agents detected a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the home and saw several bundles of marijuana in plain view through the back window. Agents entered the abandoned trailer and seized the marijuana. Agents arrested a man found hiding behind a stove.

53 Additional information (cont) Starr Co SO Deputies, assisted by ICE, recovered 2,457 lbs of marijuana in 172 bundles, three rifles, two handguns, one smoke grenade, and a white bag containing several assault rifle magazines during a search of a residence in Escobares, TX. Two male subjects were arrested and turned over to ICE. Roma PD also seized eight vehicles. (1) Romarm/Draco 7.62 rifle (1) Stevens Model 87A.22 rifle (1) 308 Caliber assault rifle (1) Taurus.38 (1) Taurus.357

54 Additional information (cont) USBP, assisted by DPS Air 108, searched: East of the Anzalduas Bridge. The Aircrew searching the area just north of the Rio Grande spotted two suspects running southbound towards the river. Aircrew assisted ground Agents in apprehending one subject. The other absconded into Mexico. Near the Old Mac Pump area. The Aircrew arrived spotted two subjects hiding in the thick brush just south of the wall. The Aircrew guided USBP ground Agents into the. One subject was taken into custody by USBP Agents and the other was able to abscond into Mexico. Near the Settling Basin area just east of the Hidalgo POE. Aircrew searching the area located a large group of suspects hiding east of the Settling Basin road. Agents were able to apprehend three of the suspects and seven others were picked up by a raft and taken back to Mexico.

55 Additional information (cont) Starr Co SO Deputy was advised of a vehicle rollover in Garceno, TX. Upon arrival, the Deputy contacted a USBP Agent who stated that he was advised that the vehicle was seen by the riverbank loading up bundles in the vehicle. Another Agent spotted the vehicle and started following. As the suspect vehicle was approaching US-83, the driver lost control and crashed, causing the vehicle to roll. As the agent approached the vehicle, he observed the driver break the vehicle window with his hands. The Agent assisted in extricating the driver who was transported to the hospital. The Deputy and Agents recovered 967 lbs of marijuana. N

56 Additional information (cont) Starr County SO Deputy observed: A brown Suburban and a brown Crown Victoria traveling north on Airport Rd in Rio Grande City, TX. The Deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The Deputy observed the Suburban turn on to FM-3167, and stop. Several subjects jumped out and absconded into the woods. As the Deputy approached the vehicle, he observed eight subjects still in the vehicle. USBP arrived and took custody of the seven males and one female, all from Mexico. A red pickup truck and a blue SUV travelling north on Energy Rd off of FM-1017, near San Isidro, TX. When the drivers saw the Deputy, the drivers performed evasive maneuvers. The Deputy observed the truck turn east and stop on FM-1017 as the SUV continued on. The Deputy stopped the pickup truck, where he observed nine people still in the bed of the truck. When interviewed by the Deputy, two of the occupants were found to be from El Salvador, one from Guatemala, four from Jalisco, MX, and the other two would only state Mexico. All subjects were turned over to USBP.

57 Additional information (cont) La Joya PD engaged in a pursuit with a white sedan passenger car that was traveling northbound on Jara Chinas Rd. DPS Air 108 provided aerial assistance. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle deployed spikes (caltrops), attempting to disable the pursuing officers vehicles. The vehicle travelled westbound near mile marker 14. The suspect bailed out and fled on foot. Aircrew arrived on scene soon after the bailout and began searching the surrounding area. Aircrew located three subjects hiding in a field just north of the vehicle. La Joya PD apprehended all three subjects. Mission PD, with assistance from DPS Air 108, responded to a pursuit which involved a suspect that struck a pedestrian and fled the scene near mile marker 6 and Shary Rd, in Mission, TX. The unit pursued the vehicle for several miles. The Aircrew provided over watch support as the officer conducted a felony stop on the vehicle. Both the driver and passengers were taken into custody. The incident was believed to be gang related.

58 Additional information (cont) USBP Agents, with assistance from DPS Air 108, conducted a search of a large orchard near Jackson Rd and Military Hwy in Hidalgo, TX. The Aircrew located five suspects hiding in the orchard and along brush lines. As the Aircrew guided Agents into the location of the suspects, a short foot pursuit ensued. All suspects were apprehended by USBP ground Agents. N Sullivan City PD Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a truck on US-83. The driver of the truck refused to stop and led officers on a short pursuit. The driver eventually stopped and surrendered to officers. An inspection of the suspect vehicle revealed 383 of marijuana in 38 bundles in the back seat.

59 Additional information (cont) Alamo PD and THP Troopers engaged in a pursuit with a vehicle on Alamo Rd heading northbound. DPS Air 108 responded to the pursuit, and intercepted it shortly after the driver bailed out of the vehicle near Tower Rd and Wisconsin Rd. The Aircrew searched a large wooded area just southeast of the suspect vehicle and located the driver hiding underneath a large tree. Alamo PD Officers and Troopers took the suspect into custody. The vehicle was loaded with seven large bundles of narcotics totaling approximately 505 lbs of marijuana.

60 Additional information (cont) A La Joya PD Officer observed a suspicious vehicle and decided to follow. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, but the vehicle sped up, then pulled over and waited for the officer to exit the unit. Once the officer was out of the police vehicle, the suspect vehicle sped off again, leading officer on a pursuit on US-83E and then north on Abram Rd. The vehicle collided with an utility pole 4 miles north on Abram Rd where both subjects bailed out and absconded. The subjects were not located, but the vehicle contained lbs of marijuana.

61 Additional information (cont) The Brownsville PD responded to a residence where narcotics were being stored. Upon arrival, the Officer received consent to search and recovered lbs of marijuana. SIU Agents arrested two male residents. During questioning, an unknown male subject called one of the suspect s cellular radios and advised the suspect that they were ready and waiting at the local sports store. SIU Agents then responded to the store where they observed two males (a father and son) in front of a store. In the parking lot, Investigators found the pickup truck belonging to the arrested resident and $2, inside. The father and son were taken in for questioning but later released. A Pharr PD Officer conducted a traffic stop on a Honda Civic. A records check of the driver revealed a warrant from Pharr PD. A K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics. The Officer searched the alert point and found eight individually-wrapped cut corner baggies containing a total of 28.8 grams of cocaine. The driver was arrested and charged for Possession of a Controlled Substance.

62 Additional information (cont) A THP Trooper conducted: A traffic stop on a 2002 Ford F-150 on US-281 near San Manuel, TX. Verbal consent to search was granted and the Trooper found 36 bundles containing a total of 107 lbs of marijuana concealed in the door and gas tank of the vehicle. The driver and passenger were arrested. A traffic stop on a 2000 Ford Focus on US-83 near La Joya, TX. The Trooper smelled the odor of marijuana and observed large bundles in plain view in the back seat. Additional bundles were found in the trunk for a total of 212 lbs of marijuana. The driver and passenger were arrested. ATF recently conducted a 13 Critical Tasks seminar last week in McAllen for members of the RGV Unified Command. The seminar was a joint effort hosted by ATF and the RGV JOIC, and presented by Forensic Technologies. Fifty two (52) officers from 10 agencies attended training which included The Transfer of Evidence to the Ballistics Unit, Image Acquisition, and Hit Info to Relevant Investigative Personnel.

63 Additional information (cont) Starr Co SO Deputy responded to a call from a local rancher who reported an abandoned white F-250 pickup along the fence line near his ranch. Upon arrival, the Deputy made contact with a USBP Agent who stated that the vehicle had originated from the Zapata/Starr Co line and was suspected of criminal activity. Witnesses stated that they observed a black Silverado arrive and start unloading bundles from the abandoned truck. The subjects then fled the area knocking down fence posts as they left. CBP Aircrew arrived but could not locate the black suspect vehicle. When USBP Agents arrived, they found lbs of marijuana still in the F-250 truck bed. USBP took custody of the marijuana. Starr Co SO took custody of the vehicle which was registered in Peñitas, TX. Small chunks of marijuana left in the bed.

64 RGV JOIC Sector Assessment The RGV Unified Command agencies were responsible for the seizure of over 26,000 lbs of marijuana. This is a 100% increase from last week s 13,095 lbs. Cocaine seizures decreased from lbs last week to a combined agency total of lbs. The US Border Patrol, CBP OFO, DPS Aviation, CBP Air and Marine, Pharr PD, DPS THP and CID, Starr Co. SO, ICE, La Joya PD, Hidalgo Co SO, Sullivan City PD and Brownsville PD contributed significantly to the marijuana seizures during this reporting period. The RGV JOIC conducted a site visit of the Pharr International Bridge to ascertain surveillance capabilities and manpower resource requirements for southbound operations. The Lt and BLO met with CBP OFO and Pharr PD supervisors and were given an extensive tour of the facility. All parties welcomed assistance from the JOIC and expressed appreciation for intelligence and information sharing. Additional, the RGV JOIC conducted liaison with the San Juan Police Chief. The Mexican Military responded to requests from the USBP International Liaison Unit to search the south side of the Rio Grande. The Mexican Military conducted sweeps near the river and located several members of the DTOs who were taken into custody. The Gulf Cartel and Zeta factions continued to confront each other on the city streets of Reynosa and Miguel Aleman in Mexico. The cartels are crossing their narcotic loads further west in the USBP Rio Grande City Station Area of Responsibility (AOR). Several stash houses were located by ICE, Starr Co Sheriff s deputies and Roma PD and as a result numerous bundles of marijuana and several weapons were seized.

65 COASTAL BEND UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR 9 15 MAR 2011 L A V A C A W H A R T O N D e W I T T J A C K S O N M A T A G O R D A L I V E O A K J I M W E L L S B R O O K S B E E N U E C E S K L E B E R G G O L I A D R E F U G I O UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS USBP CBP OFO ICE FBI ATF DEA USCG Houston HIDTA San Antonio HIDTA TMF DPS Aransas CO SO Bee CO SO Brooks CO SO Dewitt CO SO Goliad CO SO Jackson CO SO Jim Wells CO SO Karnes CO SO Kleberg CO SO Lavaca CO SO Matagorda CO SO Live Oak CO SO McMullen CO SO Nueces CO SO Refugio CO SO San Patricio CO SO Victoria CO SO Wharton CO SO Bay City PD Corpus Christi PD Driscoll PD El Campo PD Kingsville PD Orange Grove PD Seguin PD Three Rivers PD Victoria PD Full Map/Table of Contents

66 Coastal Bend Sector The Unified Command provided the following reports: Contraband Seizures Marijuana lbs Cocaine.437 lbs Heroin.084 lbs Methamphetamine.003 lbs Currency $58, Other Illegal Alien Apprehensions IAs/Referrals 23 IAs/USBP 23 OTMs 0 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered Stolen 1 Recovered 7 Weapons Handgun(s) 6 Long Gun(s) 0 Explosive(s) 0 Absconds 7 Bailouts 8 Criminal Arrests 235 Fugitive Arrests 156 Gang Related Criminal Arrests 0 Pursuits 9 Scouts/Decoys 0

67 Pounds of Cocaine Seized Number of IAs Apprehended Amount of US Currency Seized Pounds of Marijuana Seized Coastal Bend Sector The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks: Coastal Bend UC Currency Seizures $1,800,000 $1,532,690 $1,600,000 $1,400,000 $1,200,000 $1,000,000 $800,000 $600,000 $400,000 $183,287 $206,536 $200,000 $58,640 $0 25-Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11 Coastal Bend UC Marijuana Seizures 7, , , , , , , , , , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Coastal Bend UC Cocaine Seizures Coastal Bend UC Illegal Aliens Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

68 Additional information THP Jim Wells seized 175 lbs of marijuana (47 bundles) concealed inside the trunk of a 2002 Chrysler Sebring traveling from Edinburg, TX, to San Antonio on US-281N.

69 Additional Information (cont) DPS Air 103 assisted DPS/CID investigators attempting to locate stolen backhoes and bulldozers in Jim Wells and Duval Counties. The Aircrew also assisted THP with a Border Star Taskforce in Victoria and Jim Wells Counties, including assistance with surveillance on a stolen mobile home. DPS Air 103 assisted Border Patrol in Falfurrias who were tracking numerous suspects. The flight crew located an abandoned vehicle in San Patricio Co, and a suspected marijuana grow house in Refugio Co. Stolen mobile home Suspected marijuana grow house Stolen vehicle recovered Thick brush search area.

70 Additional information Victoria Co SO seized $757 USD, two pistols, a stolen Chrysler Sebring, and lbs of marijuana following a pursuit and bailout. Two individuals were arrested. Bee Co SO seized 32.9 lbs of marijuana concealed inside a 2011 Jeep Cherokee SUV which was rented from Enterprise LLC, Alice, TX. The driver was traveling from Tynan, TX (near IH-37 and SH- 359), to San Antonio. Smuggling map found in vehicle. Yorktown

71 Additional information (cont) Seguin PD seized lbs of heroin, lbs of cocaine, $538 USD and one handgun from a 1999 Jeep Cherokee. The driver had 18 outstanding warrants. THP in Victoria Co seized $78,000 USD (as previously reported on 18 JAN 2011) concealed inside the driver s luggage located in a 2007 BMW 350I. Later, a second search located an additional $56, USD concealed inside a folding chair bag. Coastal Bend JOIC s Sector Assessment Marijuana seizures reported by the Unified Command decreased sharply in the Coastal Bend Sector over the last reporting period from 4, lbs to lbs. Cocaine seizures as well have decreased significantly from lbs to 0.44 lbs. Four US currency seizures totaling, $58, were reported in the Coastal Bend Sector. IA referrals, bailouts and recovered stolen vehicles have increased this reporting period. Vehicles reported stolen and absconds after bailouts have decreased. US-59N and US-281N continue to be used for transportation of marijuana.

72 Coastal Bend JOIC s Sector Assessment (cont) A review of the Sarita and Falfurrias Checkpoint reports revealed that between 10 MAR and 15 MAR 2011 there were 9,069.4 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine seized at the Falfurrias Checkpoint (US-281 N). On 15 MAR 2011 a tractor trailer was seized concealing a large load of marijuana weighing 8,070.2 lbs mixed with a load of limes. There were 11 incidents this reporting period at the Falfurrias Checkpoint. The incidents and amounts were down for this period as are the seizures in the entire sector, excluding one large load. Truck/tractor and trailers are still being used to transport large marijuana loads co-mingled with produce to the Houston area along US-281N. At the Sarita Checkpoint on US-77N, there were no reported seizures of marijuana or cocaine. Recent seizures in the Coastal Bend and RGV Sectors indicate an increase in truck/trailer combinations transporting large amounts of marijuana along US-77, US-281, and US-59 northbound to the Houston area and co-mingling the loads with produce such as watermelons, cabbage, limes, etc. 21 FEB 2011 Load 4,024.5 lbs Pharr POE (LIMES) 22 FEB 2011 Load 2,731.5 lbs Pharr POE (LIMES) 31 JAN , lbs Origin: Alamo, TX; Destination: Dallas, TX (WATERMELON) (No photos) Reported 10 MAR 2011 BOSA - 1, lbs Falfurrias Checkpoint (CABBAGE) (No photos) 25 FEB 2011 Load 3,194.5 lbs Progresso POE (LIMES) 27 FEB 2011 Load - 4,253.2 lbs THP Wharton (ORANGES) Reported 18 MAR 2011 BOSA (above) 8,070.2 lbs Falfurrias Checkpoint (LIMES) (No photos)

73 THP [Oldham Co.] oz of liquid codeine & 32 Hydrocodone tablets quarter panel of vehicle; Glendale, CA to South Carolina lbs of marijuana & 1.28 lbs of hashish luggage; Albuquerque, NM to Dallas, TX lbs of marijuana & 1 handgun trunk; California to Norcross, GA. Statewide Corridor Seizures THP [Hale Co.] 1 lb of marijuana center console and floorboard; Lubbock, TX to Plainview, TX. THP [ Carson Co.] 9 lbs of marijuana trunk; Fresno, CA to Helena, AR. $14,400 USD & 18 grams of marijuana luggage in trunk; Atlanta, GA to California. $175,900 USD pillowcase in vehicle; Martinsville, VA to Arizona. THP [Potter Co.] 118 lbs of marijuana inside tractor trailer; McAllen, unknown. THP [Kaufman Co.] 7.0 lbs of marijuana trunk on top of spare tire; San Marcos, TX to Edgefield, SC. THP [Delta Co.] 30 ecstasy tablets submerged in drink cup in center console; Paris, TX to Dallas, TX. THS [Anderson Co.] 10.2 lbs of marijuana duffle bag in trunk; Houston, TX to Tyler, LA. THP [WalkerCo.] $28,000 USD and 6 weapons air filter system; Houston, TX to Dallas, TX. THP [McLennan Co.] 3.4 kilograms of cocaine & 1.0 lb of marijuana tailgate; Austin, TX to Jackson, TN. THP [Montgomery Co.] $33,027 USD, 10 morphine tablets, 20 hydromorphone tablets, & 6 guns floor and center console; Willis, TX to Huntsville, TX. THP [Chambers Co.] 15 lbs of marijuana, 107 grams of codeine, grams of Xanax, $10,821 USD & one handgun center console, on person, under driver s seat and inside stereo speaker in the trunk; Houston, TX to Opelousas, LA.

74 11 MAR 2011 THP Brenham conducted a traffic stop on a 2002 Lincoln Blackwood towing a 2006 Nissan LL on a car dolly with Texas Dealer license plates. It was determined the two occupants were not car dealers and were in violation of dealer tag restrictions. While searching both vehicles, the air cleaner assembly was opened on the towed vehicle and a vacuum sealed bag wrapped in electrical tape was located containing $26,000 USD. An additional $2,000 was found in the pants of the passenger. 7 MAR 2011: CID Agents, along with the FBI, Houston PD, and the TDCJ Office of the Inspector General, conducted a joint operation targeting Jaqueline Gomez (wife of known MEXICAN MAFIA member Sergeant Ricardo Sanchez who is currently in jail). Following her arrest, Agents executed a search warrant at her residence in Houston and seized three handguns, a ballistic vest, 90 grams of hydroponic marijuana, one stun gun, one metal detector, drug and gang paraphernalia and $5,300 USD. Also, arrested were two of Sanchez s brothers. Jaqueline Gomez

75 13 MAR 2011: THP Amarillo conducted a traffic stop on a 2000 Freightliner TT pulling a 2000 Hyundai trailer and arrested two suspects. A consent to search revealed 91 bundles of hydroponic marijuana (totaling 118 lbs) concealed in boxes in the middle of the trailer s cargo. The suspects gave no indication as to where the marijuana originated or was destined. 8 MAR 2011: DPS/CID Lufkin executed a search warrant at a residence in South Livingston. Agents seized 1.2 lbs of cocaine, $20,462 USD and six weapons. One defendant was arrested without incident.

76 15 MAR 2011: THP Conroe, with the assistance of CID and Montgomery Co Constable s Office (Precincts 1 and 4), conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 BMW M3S and arrested one suspect. A consent to search was denied and the K-9 Unit was called to the scene. Following a positive free air search, a probable cause search revealed $30,100 USD on the front passenger floorboard in a Ziploc bag and wrapped in aluminum foil, and $2,927 USD located in the center console. A further search revealed morphine and hydromorphone pills, 6 guns and numerous police paraphernalia.

77 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICO

78 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CARRILLO PUERTO, VERACRUZ On 15 MAR 2011, a NARCOTRAINING RANCH, La Leona Ranch, discovered by the Mexican Military. The area contained a shooting range with the following materials: 17 guns, 4 grenade launcher attachments, 12,344 cartridges, 355 helmets, 191 magazines, 15 rifle grenades, 6 electric detonators, 6 ordinary detonators, 3 metal devices for anti-personnel mines, 4 vehicles, mannequins and silhouettes for training.

79 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CD JUÁREZ - On 10 MAR 2011, Juárez Mayor Héctor Murguía appointed the former police chief of Tijuana, Lt. Colonel Julián Leyzaola, a retired Mexican military officer, as the new head of the police department. The work of Leyzaola in Tijuana from DEC 2008 to OCT 2010 has been praised by Mexican President Felipe Calderón and by the US Ambassador in Mexico, Carlos Pascual, and he is well known in Mexico for his work against crime. Under his leadership, Tijuana was able to achieve a significant decrease in crime rates. Leyzaola has waged an unprecedented campaign against police corruption in the department, where many officers were known to work for organized crime. During his tenure more than 600 officers were dropped from the force and 43 lost their lives. LTC Julián Leyzaola being sworn into office by Juárez Mayor Héctor Murguía LTC Julián Leyzaola inspects a Juárez police station. CD JUÁREZ - On 10 MAR 2011, soldiers from the Mexican Army seized 790 kilos of marijuana at the railroad station. The load was concealed in a tank car on a train coming into the city.

80 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CHIHUAHUA - On 10 MAR 2011, Juan José Sierra Lara, 24, was arrested by police in colonia Campo Bello in Chihuahua city while in the possession of sixteen rifles, two handguns, 944 rds of ammo in various calibers, and assorted accessories including vests and communication equipment. Juan José Sierra Lara is a suspected member of the group Gente Nueva, a branch of the Sinaloa cártel. Weapons, ammunition, and equipment seized during the arrest.

81 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CD JUÁREZ On 10 MAR 2011, At least two men armed with pistols forced the driver and passenger out of a Chevrolet Astro Van then burned the vehicle after dousing it with gasoline. The incident occurred at the foot of the Bridge of the Americas on the Mexican side. The van belonged to Seguros USA, a Mexican insurance company. CD. JUÁREZ On 09 MAR 2011, three town sanitation workers were shot and killed inside a kiosk in the town of Barreales near Guadalupe Distrito Bravos in the Juarez Valley. Twenty 9 mm shell casings were found at the scene. CD. JUÁREZ On 10 MAR 2011, a municipal police officer was attacked by gunmen. The officer was seriously wounded in the attack which occurred as he left his home located in colonia Ciudad Moderna. This was the sixth attack on law enforcement within a 24 hours.

82 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CD. JUÁREZ On 28 FEB 2011, a five-year old boy died from wounds received during an attack which killed his parents and two other family members. The boy had been shot in the head during the incident that occurred at the intersection of Ejército Nacional and Plutarco Elías Calles streets. CD. JUÁREZ On 11 MAR 2011, an Federal police agent was shot and killed and another wounded. The incident occurred near the intersection of Acuario and Leo streets in colonia Luis Olague. Thirty-five 9 mm and seven 7.62 x 39 mm shell casings were found at the scene. CD. JUÁREZ On 11 MAR 2011, two guards from the state prison in Cd. Juárez were attacked while driving along Independencia Avenue near Custodio de la República Street. They attempted to escape their attackers by driving at high speeds causing one of their vehicles tires to blow out. The two attempted to escape on foot when they were seriously wounded. CD. JUÁREZ on 13 MAR 2011, a woman was shot and killed inside a beauty salon located near the intersection of Texcoco and Américas streets. Another woman was seriously wounded in the attack. The homicide occurred in one of the Safe zones established under the Todos Somos Juarez program.

83 Significant events in Mexico (cont) CD. JUÁREZ On 14 MAR 2011, a man whose hands and feet were bound was shot and killed and his body thrown from a bridge into Díaz Ordaz Viaduct near Francisco J. Mina Street. CD. JUÁREZ On 14 MAR 2011, the driver of a public bus belonging to the Juárez-Porvenir line was shot and killed while conducting his route along Gómez Morín Avenue in colonia Satélite. CD. JUÁREZ On 14 MAR 2011, a man was shot and killed after being pursued by attackers along De las Torres Avenue. The attackers fired an AK-47 during the chase and a number of 9 mm shell casings were also found at the scene. The victim was later identified as an attorney who had been kidnapped then released six months earlier.

84 Significant events in Mexico (cont) On 14 MAR 2011 a plan that could increase the number of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Juárez was welcomed by that city's mayor while meeting with US diplomats, Mexican officials said. US Ambassador in Mexico, Carlos Pascual, met with Juárez Mayor Héctor Murguía to discuss national security matters after last week's blow against the Barrio Azteca gang, known to operate in both El Paso and Juárez. Ambassador Pascual was in the city to gauge the mayor's feelings toward US involvement in Juárez, according to a spokesperson for the mayor. "My stance is that in Juárez we would welcome help from any institution, be it Mexican or foreign, the mayor said. He said that criminals live in El Paso and cross the border into Juárez to commit crimes. "That is why we need to collaborate with US authorities," he said. DTO Related Deaths Juarez MX 2008 to Date The number of DTO related homicides in Ciudad Juárez and surrounding communities continues to increase. There have been 45 DTO-related homicides during this reporting period. Thus far, there have been 85 killed in March, bringing the total to 539 for the year

85 Significant events in Mexico (cont) NUEVO LAREDO On 15 MAR 2011, the interim director of a state prison in Nuevo Laredo, Rebeca Nicasio Vazquez, was killed less than three months after the Zetas drug cartel staged a massive jailbreak at the facility. Nicasio Vazquez died after being stabbed in the neck four times by an inmate during a routine weapons search. Two other guards were injured while trying to help her. Nicasio Vazquez had replaced the prison s previous director, Efrain Hernandez Llamas, who disappeared 17 DEC along with 153 inmates, during a prison break. CD. VICTORIA On 15 MAR 2011, a car bomb exploded in Cd Victoria causing only minor damage to buildings and vehicles. The vehicle was parked on the sidewalk in front of the Victoria SSP (Secretary of Public Security Office) and next to a kindergarten where small children were waiting to be picked up by parents. State Police and Military personnel quickly secured the area. Five injures have been reported, but no one has claimed responsibility for the explosion. None of children playing nearby were injured.

86 Significant events in Mexico (cont) Mexican Army soldiers killed eight gunmen in a shootout that occurred during a raid on a drug cartel s camp in San Fernando, Tamaulipas. Soldiers surprised the gunmen at the camp during a routine patrol. Upon seeing the soldiers approaching the camp, the gunmen began firing at the soldiers. Eight suspected cartel enforcers were killed and another nine people were arrested. One of the detainees said she had been held captive at the camp. After the gun fight, soldiers seized a fourwheeled ATV, 11 other vehicles, eight rifles, two handguns, 63 ammo magazines, 330 pounds of marijuana, 200 rds of ammo, 58 camouflage uniforms and 11 bulletproof vests.

87 Significant events in Mexico (cont) REYNOSA - Mexican Authorities have confirmed that at least six innocent civilians, including one child, were wounded in the crossfire of a morning shootout between armed men and soldiers in Reynosa. Mexico's Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) confirmed that soldiers were pursuing a black vehicle when its occupants opened fire in the Colonia Granjas Econimicas del Norte. Authorities reported that the gunmen fired without regard to morning rush hour traffic and than fled the scene. SEDENA officials said that five adults and one child were wounded by bullets that struck the bus they were riding. Mexico's Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) has confirmed that solders have seized 11,243 lbs of marijuana. Officials reported that the seizure took place in the Poblado Guardados de Abajo area near Miguel Aleman. While soldiers were patrolling the area, they came across an abandoned building where a strong odor of marijuana was detected. Upon entering the building, they discovered the marijuana. No arrests were made and the case remains under investigation.

88 Significant events in Mexico (cont) On 10 MAR 2011, banners appeared in Michoacan announcing a previously unknown criminal organization calling themselves the Knights Templar. The messages, found in Morelia and Apatzingán, are very similar to those used by La Familia Michoacana, which announced its alleged breakup in January. The messages, addressed to the citizens of Michoacan, read: To the People of Michoacan: We inform you, that as of today, we will be performing the duties previously realized by la Familia Michoacana. We will be at the service of the people of Michoacan to handle any situation that undermines their integrity. Our commitment to society is to preserve order, prevent thefts, kidnappings, extortions, and protect the State from possible interventions by rival organizations. -Knights Templar. According to reports from the State Preventative Police, two banners were found in Apatzingán and at least five others in the Michoacan state capital of Morelia. The authenticity of the banners has not been confirmed. COLUMBIA On 15 MAR 2011, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon announced the killing of a rebel leader connected with Mexican drug cartels. Santos said a joint military and police force operation resulted in the death of Olidem Solarte, also known as Oliver Solarte, who was an important leader for the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia, which is commonly known as the FARC. Solarte, 39, was the leader of the FARC's 48th front militias and was the main contact between Mexican drug cartels and Colombia's North Valley cartels. His drug trafficking activities helped finance FARC operations. A Columbian official stated that he mainly trafficked cocaine, weapons, and explosives. A six-month investigation led to the operation, which was conducted near the Putumayo River in the municipality of San Miguel near the Ecuadorian border.

89 OPERATION BORDER STAR UPDATES & ASSESSMENT

90 OBS Weekly Assessment 2-Apr-09 2-May-09 2-Jun-09 2-Jul-09 2-Aug-09 2-Sep-09 2-Oct-09 2-Nov-09 2-Dec-09 2-Jan-10 2-Feb-10 2-Mar-10 2-Apr-10 2-May-10 2-Jun-10 2-Jul-10 2-Aug-10 2-Sep-10 2-Oct-10 2-Nov-10 2-Dec-10 2-Jan-11 2-Feb-11 2-Mar-11 Marijuana seizures increased significantly from 24, lbs last week to 40, lbs this week. The largest single seizure occurred in the RGV Sector involving a tractor trailer in a warehouse loaded with 8,331 lbs of marijuana and a loaded assault rifle. The Laredo Sector noted a travel pattern of marijuana transported northbound on FM-649 from Roma to SH-359, then westbound on SH-359 to Laredo, in order to avoid any checkpoints. In the RGV Sector, there have been three large seizures of approximately 1,000 lbs or greater of marijuana in or near Escobares, TX, one of which involved the seizure of various types of rifles at a private residence. The total estimated street value for reported marijuana seizures during this reporting period is $35.7 million. Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View Marijuana (lbs) Long-Term Trendline 70,000 60,000 Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average 70,000 59, ,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 33, , ,000 20,000 24, , Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

91 OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) During this week s reporting period, two incidences were reported involving marijuana being transported via an ambulance. The first occurred on 09 MAR 2011 on US-57 in Frio Co. Three subjects were riding in a legitimate Starr Elite Ambulance originating out of Eagle Pass destined for San Antonio. The driver and passenger wore legitimate EMS uniforms and carried current EMS certification. A subject in the back of the ambulance identified himself as the patient being transported to Baptist Medical Center in San Antonio because of a severe stomach virus. The paramedics did not possess any paperwork on the patient to confirm the story. A search of the ambulance revealed 53 lbs of marijuana in a natural void in the roof of the vehicle. The second incident occurred on 16 MAR 2011 on US-59 in Fort Bend Co. Like the first incident, there were three subjects in the ambulance: two acting as paramedics and one as a patient. The two paramedics wore legitimate EMS uniforms, but the ambulance company designated on the vehicle and uniforms went out of business in OCT The two paramedics possessed no current EMS certification. A search of the vehicle revealed 237 lbs of marijuana from a wall and medic seating area located in the rear of the ambulance.

92 2-Apr-09 2-May-09 2-Jun-09 2-Jul-09 2-Aug-09 2-Sep-09 2-Oct-09 2-Nov-09 2-Dec-09 2-Jan-10 2-Feb-10 2-Mar-10 2-Apr-10 2-May-10 2-Jun-10 2-Jul-10 2-Aug-10 2-Sep-10 2-Oct-10 2-Nov-10 2-Dec-10 2-Jan-11 2-Feb-11 2-Mar-11 OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) ANALYST NOTE: This smuggling method has been used in the past. 15 JAN 2011: Peñitas PD Officers stopped an ambulance in an area known for narcotics smuggling activity near the Rio Grande and found a small amount of marijuana in the front seat. 15 MAR 2007: Three subjects, one based in Houston, were stopped in Maumelle, AR, riding in an ambulance registered to a West Columbia, TX, residence and were smuggling marijuana from California destined for Florida. Cocaine seizures decreased significantly from last week s total, from lbs last week to lbs this week. The largest single seizure occurred in the Del Rio Sector involving 36.6 lbs concealed in a AC unit in the cargo area of a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe. The Del Rio Sector reported that in the first ten weeks of 2011, the amount of cocaine is 49.89% of the total seized for all of The total estimated street value for reported cocaine seizures totaled $3.7 million. 2,000 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1, Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View Cocaine (lbs) Long-Term Trendline Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average Feb-11 4-Mar Mar Mar-11

93 OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) 2-Apr-09 2-May-09 2-Jun-09 2-Jul-09 2-Aug-09 2-Sep-09 2-Oct-09 2-Nov-09 2-Dec-09 2-Jan-10 2-Feb-10 2-Mar-10 2-Apr-10 2-May-10 2-Jun-10 2-Jul-10 2-Aug-10 2-Sep-10 2-Oct-10 2-Nov-10 2-Dec-10 2-Jan-11 2-Feb-11 2-Mar-11 Heroin and methamphetamine seizures for this week s reporting period total 3.84 lbs and lbs, respectively. CBP-OFO at the Eagle Pass POE in the RGV Sector seized 3.75 lbs of heroin from a compartment in a speaker box. The largest single seizure of methamphetamine occurred at the Hidalgo POE involving 33.8 lbs of meth concealed in the transmission of a 2003 Ford Expedition. Bulk currency seizures decreased significantly from $2,145,520 USD for last week to $120,007 USD this week. In the RGV Sector, CBP Officers from the Brownsville Gateway POE seized $18,000 USD carried by an outbound pedestrian in his pants pockets. The Marfa Sector noted a trend of currency being transported not only south and west, but also to the east along the I-10 corridor. $8,000,000 $7,000,000 $6,000,000 Currency Seizures ($) Long-Term View Currency Seizures (USD) Long-Term Trendline Currency Seizures ($) Short-Term View Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average 2,500, , 145, ,000, $5,000,000 $4,000,000 $3,000,000 1,500, ,000, , $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $0 500, , , Mar Mar-11 4-Mar Feb-11

94 OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) The street value of all contraband seized this week represents a loss to Mexican DTOs and the criminal networks that support them of approximately $40.4 million. Illegal alien apprehensions remained constant from last week. Over the last three weeks, the amount of IA apprehensions has been over 2,500 which is significantly above the average for The amount of OTM apprehensions continued to decrease from last week from 672 last week to 614 this week. The Laredo Sector experienced the greatest decrease in OTM apprehensions. Since last month, DPS has reported three separate incidences of body armor seizures. On 11 FEB 2011, CID Agents executed a search warrant on private residence in Texas City, TX, of a suspected drug dealer. Agents seized body armor and a pistol. On 07 MAR 2011, officers of a multi-agency gang task force in Houston executed a search warrant of a private residence of a wanted felon and wife of an incarcerated MEXICAN MAFIA member. Officers seized a ballistic vest, handguns, currency, 90 grams of hydroponic marijuana, and gang paraphernalia. On 15 MAR 2011, a DPS Trooper conducted a traffic stop on 2004 Lincoln Navigator in Edinburg resulting in the seizure of two flak jackets and $7,200 USD. The vehicle originated in Aransas Pass, TX destined for Pharr, TX. Stock photo

95 OBS Weekly Assessment (cont) On 14 MAR 2011, a Campo Station Abatement Team (CSAT) agent followed a suspicious white van to Campo Border Patrol Westbound IH-8 Checkpoint in California. The primary inspection agent interviewed the occupants of the van and referred the vehicle to secondary inspection. After a complete immigration inspection, it was determined that the driver and front seat passenger were USCs were attempting to smuggle 13 IAs (Mexican Nationals). All of the occupants of the van were wearing US Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniforms. The van used in the smuggling attempt was a privately owned vehicle registered out of Yucca Valley, CA. The van was bearing stolen government plates that had been altered. The center digit (0) was altered to read as an (8). Research through multiple government agencies determined the license plates belong to a one ton cargo 4 x 2 van registered to the US Marine Corps. Driver USC with no criminal history Passenger USC with a prior conviction for marijuana possession

96 If any comments or questions arise from this product, please contact: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS CENTER Duty Phone: ; 7034 Fax: Note: Due the product size, the photographs have been set to the lowest resolution to enable distribution of the product. If you need higher resolution photos, please contact the BSOC. If you would like to receive a weekly copy of this dissemination, please contact the BSOC at TBSOC@txdps.state.tx.us