AZMEX UPDATE 30 MAR 2018
Note: Update on the Semana Santa ( Holy Week ) at AZ - Son border.
IN OPERATION SANTA BLANCA WEEK 2018
http://www.elregionaldesonora.com.mx/noticia/73436
With the objective of monitoring, protecting and guiding vacationers who come to the various events in the region,
in addition to the beaches of nearby towns, as well as avoiding criminal or vandalism in the city,
today the Municipal Public Security Secretariat ( SSPM) in coordination with the State Public Security Police (PESP) Federal Police, Civil Protection, Red Cross, Fire, Number Four Health Jurisdiction and radio clubs, launched the operation 'White Week 2018'.
Commander Adolfo Díaz Herrera, head of the Traffic Department, reported that aid and orientation posts were installed at different points on the Esperanza-Hornos highway and on neighboring roads in the Yaqui Valley, where police officers, firemen, paramedics, mechanics were located. and tow trucks, to give the attention required by the passers-by.
He indicated that special attention will be paid to punishable driving, which is why, from today, a breathalyzer will be installed on the Esperanza-Hornos section and another on Meridiano and 900, at the entrance to Pueblo Yaqui.
'The instructions of the municipal president Faustino Félix Chávez is to avoid road accidents, injured or deceased, and for the results to be as planned is very important citizen participation, that people do not drive under the influence of alcohol or other stimulants' , said Díaz Herrera.
Also, he recommended motorists to go to the Álvaro Obregón dam, where the road is in very good condition, do not exceed the speed limits and respect the traffic signs.
In addition to using the seatbelt, do not talk, or texting by cell phone, drive defensively and obey the directions of the police officers.
The Public Security Secretariat will have a total of 152 preventive, transit and operative agents during the Operation Santa Blanca 2018, while the Federal Police will be 25, in addition to the personnel of the Fire Department, Red Cross, Civil Protection, elements of the PESP and radio help.
End
Friday, March 30, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 30-3-18
AZMEX POLICY 30 MAR 2018
US 380 Sheriffs - AZ 8 of 15
HOME / SHERIFFS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION ON IMMIGRATION
SHERIFFS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION ON IMMIGRATION
Monday, March 26, 2018
Alexandria, VA – Sheriffs from around the country sent a letter to all Members of Congress outlining the need for congressional action on securing America's border.
The letter, signed by 380 sheriffs representing 40 states. was spearheaded by Sheriff Thomas Hodgson from Bristol County, Massachusetts.
"We're calling on Congress to take action now, on the security issues at the border and against sanctuary policies in our states, cities and towns.
These sanctuary policies directly undermine and limit cooperation and collaboration between local, state and federal law enforcement,
making it harder for America's sheriffs to protect our citizens and legal residents," said Sheriff Hodgson.
"Congress' inaction undermines sheriffs' ability to protect our citizens.
Sheriffs across this country have signed this letter because Congress cannot continue to weaken our efforts to make our communities as safe as possible,"
National Sheriffs' Association Executive and CEO Jonathan Thompson said.
The letter and list of sheriffs can be found here: https://www.sheriffs.org/ImmLtr.
About NSA
The National Sheriffs' Association (NSA) is one of the largest associations of law enforcement professionals in the United States, representing more than 3,000 elected sheriffs across the nation,
and a total membership of more than 20,000. NSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising the level of professionalism among sheriffs, their deputies,
and others in the field of criminal justice and public safety. Throughout its seventy-seven year history,
NSA has served as an information clearinghouse for sheriffs, deputies, chiefs of police, other law enforcement professionals, state governments and the federal government.
end
The Sheriffs in AZ who signed:
Apache County, AZ- Sheriff Joe Dedman
Cochise County, AZ- Sheriff Mark J. Dannels
La Paz County, AZ- Sheriff Bill Risen
Mohave County, AZ- Sheriff Doug Shuster
Pinal County, AZ- Sheriff Mark Lamb
Yuma County, AZ- Sheriff Leon Wilmot
Greenlee County, AZ – Sheriff Tim Sumner
Pima County, AZ – Sheriff Mark Napier
Coconino, Gila, Graham, Maricopa, Navajo, Santa Cruz, Yavapai, Counties - sheriffs all missing.
end
US 380 Sheriffs - AZ 8 of 15
HOME / SHERIFFS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION ON IMMIGRATION
SHERIFFS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION ON IMMIGRATION
Monday, March 26, 2018
Alexandria, VA – Sheriffs from around the country sent a letter to all Members of Congress outlining the need for congressional action on securing America's border.
The letter, signed by 380 sheriffs representing 40 states. was spearheaded by Sheriff Thomas Hodgson from Bristol County, Massachusetts.
"We're calling on Congress to take action now, on the security issues at the border and against sanctuary policies in our states, cities and towns.
These sanctuary policies directly undermine and limit cooperation and collaboration between local, state and federal law enforcement,
making it harder for America's sheriffs to protect our citizens and legal residents," said Sheriff Hodgson.
"Congress' inaction undermines sheriffs' ability to protect our citizens.
Sheriffs across this country have signed this letter because Congress cannot continue to weaken our efforts to make our communities as safe as possible,"
National Sheriffs' Association Executive and CEO Jonathan Thompson said.
The letter and list of sheriffs can be found here: https://www.sheriffs.org/ImmLtr.
About NSA
The National Sheriffs' Association (NSA) is one of the largest associations of law enforcement professionals in the United States, representing more than 3,000 elected sheriffs across the nation,
and a total membership of more than 20,000. NSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising the level of professionalism among sheriffs, their deputies,
and others in the field of criminal justice and public safety. Throughout its seventy-seven year history,
NSA has served as an information clearinghouse for sheriffs, deputies, chiefs of police, other law enforcement professionals, state governments and the federal government.
end
The Sheriffs in AZ who signed:
Apache County, AZ- Sheriff Joe Dedman
Cochise County, AZ- Sheriff Mark J. Dannels
La Paz County, AZ- Sheriff Bill Risen
Mohave County, AZ- Sheriff Doug Shuster
Pinal County, AZ- Sheriff Mark Lamb
Yuma County, AZ- Sheriff Leon Wilmot
Greenlee County, AZ – Sheriff Tim Sumner
Pima County, AZ – Sheriff Mark Napier
Coconino, Gila, Graham, Maricopa, Navajo, Santa Cruz, Yavapai, Counties - sheriffs all missing.
end
Wednesday, March 28, 2018
AZMEX I3 28-3-18
AZMEX I3 28 MAR 2018
Note: these drop houses have been going on for years in Phoenix area.
Thx
More than 30 detained after human smuggling investigation in Phoenix
BY KTAR.COM
MARCH 27, 2018 AT 8:19 PM
http://ktar.com/story/2003980/more-than-30-detained-after-human-smuggling-investigation-in-phoenix/
(Pexels.com Photo)
PHOENIX — More than 30 people were detained Tuesday after federal agents responded to suspected human smuggling activity at a house in Phoenix.
Lauren Mack, a spokeswoman with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said in a statement that the individuals were detained on "immigration administrative charges in conjunction with the investigation."
Mack said federal agents with the department's Homeland Security Investigations in Phoenix responded to reports of suspected human smuggling at a home near 13th Place and Broadway Road.
Citing an ongoing investigation, Mack said she was unable to provide additional information.
End.
Also:
https://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/south-phoenix/ice-dozens-detained-in-human-smuggling-investigation-at-phoenix-home
http://www.12news.com/article/syndication/spanish/mas-de-30-personas-detenidas-en-una-redada-de-ice-en-phoenix/75-532831834
Comment: interesting that the NBC TV station in Phx, Ch. 12, a English language station, only runs it in Spanish?
End
Note: these drop houses have been going on for years in Phoenix area.
Thx
More than 30 detained after human smuggling investigation in Phoenix
BY KTAR.COM
MARCH 27, 2018 AT 8:19 PM
http://ktar.com/story/2003980/more-than-30-detained-after-human-smuggling-investigation-in-phoenix/
(Pexels.com Photo)
PHOENIX — More than 30 people were detained Tuesday after federal agents responded to suspected human smuggling activity at a house in Phoenix.
Lauren Mack, a spokeswoman with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said in a statement that the individuals were detained on "immigration administrative charges in conjunction with the investigation."
Mack said federal agents with the department's Homeland Security Investigations in Phoenix responded to reports of suspected human smuggling at a home near 13th Place and Broadway Road.
Citing an ongoing investigation, Mack said she was unable to provide additional information.
End.
Also:
https://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/south-phoenix/ice-dozens-detained-in-human-smuggling-investigation-at-phoenix-home
http://www.12news.com/article/syndication/spanish/mas-de-30-personas-detenidas-en-una-redada-de-ice-en-phoenix/75-532831834
Comment: interesting that the NBC TV station in Phx, Ch. 12, a English language station, only runs it in Spanish?
End
Monday, March 26, 2018
AZMEX UPDATE 23-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE 23 MAR 2018
Woman gets three years probation for heroin smuggling
Nogales International Mar 6, 2018
http://www.nogalesinternational.com/news/woman-gets-three-years-probation-for-heroin-smuggling/article_885910f2-20b6-11e8-bf07-4f5e94d1e26d.html
An 18-year-old Tucson woman who pleaded guilty to smuggling drugs into the United States last spring was sentenced to three years of supervised probation.
Karina Soto-Alday was convicted of a Class 4 felony drug offense and sentenced Feb. 26 by Judge Anna Montoya-Paez of Santa Cruz County Superior Court.
Soto-Alday must also serve 60 days in jail with 30 additional days deferred, and she was ordered to complete 60 hours of community service.
She was caught smuggling six ounces of heroin through the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry pedestrian lanes on May 15, 2017, according to her pre-sentence report.
After a port officer noticed she had a "nervous tick on her cheek," Soto-Alday was sent to secondary inspection where a canine alerted to her groin area. She pulled out a package with a brown substance that tested positive for heroin and subsequently admitted she was going to be paid $300 by an unknown male in Tucson to smuggle the drugs.
But Soto-Alday was not immediately detained. She and her boyfriend, a Mexican national, were released back into Mexico and couldn't be reached for several weeks, her pre-sentence report says. Then on Sept. 5, after she tried to cross into the United States through the DeConcini port, Soto-Alday was detained by federal investigators and booked into the county jail.
Before her hearing, Soto-Alday provided a written statement saying her boyfriend forced her to smuggle the drugs. She said the boyfriend physically abused her, starved her, locked her in a room and threatened her with death, among other abuses.
"I was forced to do things I'd never imagined and believed it was OK. I believe I must pay for what I've done although I've suffered and went through a difficult time in my life," she wrote.
END
Woman gets three years probation for heroin smuggling
Nogales International Mar 6, 2018
http://www.nogalesinternational.com/news/woman-gets-three-years-probation-for-heroin-smuggling/article_885910f2-20b6-11e8-bf07-4f5e94d1e26d.html
An 18-year-old Tucson woman who pleaded guilty to smuggling drugs into the United States last spring was sentenced to three years of supervised probation.
Karina Soto-Alday was convicted of a Class 4 felony drug offense and sentenced Feb. 26 by Judge Anna Montoya-Paez of Santa Cruz County Superior Court.
Soto-Alday must also serve 60 days in jail with 30 additional days deferred, and she was ordered to complete 60 hours of community service.
She was caught smuggling six ounces of heroin through the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry pedestrian lanes on May 15, 2017, according to her pre-sentence report.
After a port officer noticed she had a "nervous tick on her cheek," Soto-Alday was sent to secondary inspection where a canine alerted to her groin area. She pulled out a package with a brown substance that tested positive for heroin and subsequently admitted she was going to be paid $300 by an unknown male in Tucson to smuggle the drugs.
But Soto-Alday was not immediately detained. She and her boyfriend, a Mexican national, were released back into Mexico and couldn't be reached for several weeks, her pre-sentence report says. Then on Sept. 5, after she tried to cross into the United States through the DeConcini port, Soto-Alday was detained by federal investigators and booked into the county jail.
Before her hearing, Soto-Alday provided a written statement saying her boyfriend forced her to smuggle the drugs. She said the boyfriend physically abused her, starved her, locked her in a room and threatened her with death, among other abuses.
"I was forced to do things I'd never imagined and believed it was OK. I believe I must pay for what I've done although I've suffered and went through a difficult time in my life," she wrote.
END
Friday, March 23, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 22-3-18
AZMEX POLICY 22 MAR 2018
Note: Critters Si. Your families No.
EDITORIAL: No border wall in Santa Ana Refuge under spending bill, but what about rest of RGV?
THE MONITOR EDITORIAL BOARD
Mar 22, 2018 Updated 2 hrs ago
http://www.themonitor.com/opinion/editorials/article_302522e8-2e19-11e8-9446-d38598014e6a.html
With just 13 hours to skim through a mammoth federal omnibus bill totaling 2,232 pages, members of the U.S. House on Thursday passed the $1.3 trillion measure, which includes about $1.32 billion in border wall-related funds, much of it to be used in the Rio Grande Valley. The bill was then quickly sent to the Senate where it was expected to be approved to avert a Friday deadline for a government shutdown.
Despite the voluminous size of the bill, however, specifics relating to the border wall listed in the measure were disappointingly scant and failed to detail exactly where, what and how this money is to be used. And that is concerning to us here in the RGV.
But one important provision that was specified, and is most welcomed, is that no border wall funds are to be used in our beloved Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge. That is a definite victory for environmentalists and the thousands of people who have come to the Rio Grande Valley for the past several months to participate in protests and marches to safeguard what is regarded as the "crown jewel of wildlife refuges."
Much thanks for helping to preserve this wildlife sanctuary goes to U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville, whose district includes Santa Ana, a 2,000-acre tract of land in Alamo that is home to over 400 species of birds, endangered ocelots, jaguarundi, coyotes, bobcats, armadillos and more. Rep. Vela told The Monitor's Editorial Board that he worked hard to get that language inserted into the bill.
"That's a major consolation," Vela said. "On the other hand, it (the bill) still provides hundreds of millions of dollars for wall funding."
That is why, Vela told us, he voted against the bill, which he said appropriates money for 25 miles of border wall in Hidalgo County and eight miles of border wall in Starr County.
He also rightly chastised Republican leadership for not releasing the text of the bill until 9 p.m. on Wednesday evening and then holding a 10 a.m. vote the next morning.
We note that throughout this massive FY 2018 omnibus spending bill, the words "border wall" never appear, although this has been President Donald Trump's signature promise to the American people since he began campaigning.
We hope the vague language was not an attempt by federal authorities to deceive lawmakers, and ultimately taxpayers.
The bill appropriates $445 million "for 25 miles of primary pedestrian levee fencing along the southwest border in the Rio Grande Valley Sector; $196 million for primary pedestrian fencing along the southwest border in the Rio Grande Valley Sector and $445 million for replacement of existing primary pedestrian fencing along the southwest border; $38 million for border barrier planning and design; $196 million for acquisition and deployment of border security technology."
This technology, Rep. Vela guesses, will likely include more Aerostats, ground sensors, cameras and other devices that already dot our region. The Monitor's Editorial Board has heavily advocated since 2014 for the addition of border technology — over the building of a permanent border wall — which we believe would better assist federal agents to curtail illegal immigration.
This vague, open-ended language certainly will allow the Department of Homeland Security great latitude in their design and scope and plans for the Rio Grande Valley. And it keeps taxpayers unfairly in the dark as to how their money will be spent on such a controversial issue.
"For them to pay for these border walls it's going to be really destructive for our communities and for our environment," Stefanie Herweck, who is on the executive board of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Sierra Club, told us. "Wildlife have to be able to migrate back and forth through Santa Ana through these other refuge tracks and so Santa Ana — is environmentally in terms of the wildlife corridor — a piece of that. To have every other part of that walled out is still an environmental catastrophe for the RGV."
Herweck also worries about potential flooding in Starr County that threaten wildlife and homeowners "on both sides of the river."
How much of a threat is left to be seen. But, according to the bill, the monies must be provided no less than six months from signing the bill into law and so whether we like it, or not, we should soon see construction activity begin here.
End
Note: Critters Si. Your families No.
EDITORIAL: No border wall in Santa Ana Refuge under spending bill, but what about rest of RGV?
THE MONITOR EDITORIAL BOARD
Mar 22, 2018 Updated 2 hrs ago
http://www.themonitor.com/opinion/editorials/article_302522e8-2e19-11e8-9446-d38598014e6a.html
With just 13 hours to skim through a mammoth federal omnibus bill totaling 2,232 pages, members of the U.S. House on Thursday passed the $1.3 trillion measure, which includes about $1.32 billion in border wall-related funds, much of it to be used in the Rio Grande Valley. The bill was then quickly sent to the Senate where it was expected to be approved to avert a Friday deadline for a government shutdown.
Despite the voluminous size of the bill, however, specifics relating to the border wall listed in the measure were disappointingly scant and failed to detail exactly where, what and how this money is to be used. And that is concerning to us here in the RGV.
But one important provision that was specified, and is most welcomed, is that no border wall funds are to be used in our beloved Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge. That is a definite victory for environmentalists and the thousands of people who have come to the Rio Grande Valley for the past several months to participate in protests and marches to safeguard what is regarded as the "crown jewel of wildlife refuges."
Much thanks for helping to preserve this wildlife sanctuary goes to U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville, whose district includes Santa Ana, a 2,000-acre tract of land in Alamo that is home to over 400 species of birds, endangered ocelots, jaguarundi, coyotes, bobcats, armadillos and more. Rep. Vela told The Monitor's Editorial Board that he worked hard to get that language inserted into the bill.
"That's a major consolation," Vela said. "On the other hand, it (the bill) still provides hundreds of millions of dollars for wall funding."
That is why, Vela told us, he voted against the bill, which he said appropriates money for 25 miles of border wall in Hidalgo County and eight miles of border wall in Starr County.
He also rightly chastised Republican leadership for not releasing the text of the bill until 9 p.m. on Wednesday evening and then holding a 10 a.m. vote the next morning.
We note that throughout this massive FY 2018 omnibus spending bill, the words "border wall" never appear, although this has been President Donald Trump's signature promise to the American people since he began campaigning.
We hope the vague language was not an attempt by federal authorities to deceive lawmakers, and ultimately taxpayers.
The bill appropriates $445 million "for 25 miles of primary pedestrian levee fencing along the southwest border in the Rio Grande Valley Sector; $196 million for primary pedestrian fencing along the southwest border in the Rio Grande Valley Sector and $445 million for replacement of existing primary pedestrian fencing along the southwest border; $38 million for border barrier planning and design; $196 million for acquisition and deployment of border security technology."
This technology, Rep. Vela guesses, will likely include more Aerostats, ground sensors, cameras and other devices that already dot our region. The Monitor's Editorial Board has heavily advocated since 2014 for the addition of border technology — over the building of a permanent border wall — which we believe would better assist federal agents to curtail illegal immigration.
This vague, open-ended language certainly will allow the Department of Homeland Security great latitude in their design and scope and plans for the Rio Grande Valley. And it keeps taxpayers unfairly in the dark as to how their money will be spent on such a controversial issue.
"For them to pay for these border walls it's going to be really destructive for our communities and for our environment," Stefanie Herweck, who is on the executive board of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Sierra Club, told us. "Wildlife have to be able to migrate back and forth through Santa Ana through these other refuge tracks and so Santa Ana — is environmentally in terms of the wildlife corridor — a piece of that. To have every other part of that walled out is still an environmental catastrophe for the RGV."
Herweck also worries about potential flooding in Starr County that threaten wildlife and homeowners "on both sides of the river."
How much of a threat is left to be seen. But, according to the bill, the monies must be provided no less than six months from signing the bill into law and so whether we like it, or not, we should soon see construction activity begin here.
End
Monday, March 19, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 19-3-18
AZMEX POLICY 19 MAR 2018
Note: Again, despite AP's usual dishonesty, it is about illegal immigrants.
THX
Supreme Court won't upend Arizona licenses for immigrants
Associated Press
7:28 AM, Mar 19, 2018
51 mins ago
https://www.abc15.com/news/state/supreme-court-wont-upend-arizona-licenses-for-immigrants
PHOENIX - The Supreme Court is rejecting Arizona's plea to stop issuing driver's licenses to young immigrants
known as "Dreamers" who are protected from deportation.
The justices did not comment Monday in leaving in place an appeals' court decision in favor of the immigrants who sought licenses.
About 20,000 young immigrants in Arizona are protected from deportation under a 2012 program started by the Obama administration.
The Trump administration is trying to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, but has been blocked by federal courts.
The high court recently turned down an administration request to take on the DACA controversy.
Arizona sought to prevent DACA-protected immigrants from getting licenses.
Then-Gov. Jan Brewer cited a desire to reduce the risk of licenses being used to improperly access public benefits.
END
Note: Again, despite AP's usual dishonesty, it is about illegal immigrants.
THX
Supreme Court won't upend Arizona licenses for immigrants
Associated Press
7:28 AM, Mar 19, 2018
51 mins ago
https://www.abc15.com/news/state/supreme-court-wont-upend-arizona-licenses-for-immigrants
PHOENIX - The Supreme Court is rejecting Arizona's plea to stop issuing driver's licenses to young immigrants
known as "Dreamers" who are protected from deportation.
The justices did not comment Monday in leaving in place an appeals' court decision in favor of the immigrants who sought licenses.
About 20,000 young immigrants in Arizona are protected from deportation under a 2012 program started by the Obama administration.
The Trump administration is trying to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, but has been blocked by federal courts.
The high court recently turned down an administration request to take on the DACA controversy.
Arizona sought to prevent DACA-protected immigrants from getting licenses.
Then-Gov. Jan Brewer cited a desire to reduce the risk of licenses being used to improperly access public benefits.
END
Thursday, March 15, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 14-3-18
AZMEX POLICY 14 MAR 2018
Mexican consulate reports increase in calls about immigration bullying
Tuesday, March 13th 2018, 9:18 am MST
Tuesday, March 13th 2018, 11:34 am MST
By Vicki Karr, Multimedia Journalist
http://www.tucsonnewsnow.com/story/37714446/mexican-consulate-reports-increase-in-calls-about-immigration-bullying
New campaign by Mexican Consulate
00:00 / 01:29
CC
People can visit the consulate in person or call the 24/7 hotline at 1-855-4636-395. (Source: KOLD News 13)
TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
The Mexican Consulate of Tucson says it has seen an increase in calls about immigration bullying to its nationwide hotline.
The 24-hour call center takes calls from people across the country calling about a variety of issues, from legal help to finding missing family members.
Mexican officials say many of those calls are from people who say they are being bullied because of their immigration status.
They say it includes things like taunting, slurs, social exclusion and sometimes physical abuse.
If ignored, the consulate says bullying can lead to depression, behavioral problems and even suicide.
That's why Mexico's government launched a nationwide anti-bullying campaign that includes public service announcements.
Ricardo Pineda says the goal is to bring awareness to the issue and to let people know there's help available.
"No one should be subject to this specific activity. Bullying itself is an ugly human treatment for somebody who doesn't deserve it," he said.
People can visit the consulate in person or call the 24/7 hotline at 1-855-4636-395.
Click here for more information: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx/tucson/index.php/2016-03-16-18-40-02
End
Note: ???
Court clarifies scope on inspections without court order
The SCJN explained that its criterion does not imply that a police officer can check people and vehicles at will
and in no way justify or authorize arbitrary actions
3/14/2018 7:57 PM JUAN PABLO REYES
http://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/2018/03/14/1226390
MEXICO CITY
After the criticism received by groups defending human rights by the resolution endorsing police inspections if judicial order, the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) said that its criterion does not imply that a police officer can check people and vehicles at whim.
Through an information card it was emphasized that the agent can practice an inspection only if he has a reasonable suspicion that the person who matches the characteristics reported, is at that moment committing a crime or that is not visible to the naked eye.
You may be interested: CNDH concerned about endorsement of inspections without a court order
http://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/2018/03/14/1226340
Also if in the course of an investigation information is obtained from a subject that, based on the complaint and other investigative acts, fits into the descriptions and facts, so any inspection performed outside of these parameters will be illegal and arbitrary. .
The police can only perform these acts of inspection, if and only if, it is already in the framework of a criminal investigation. This occurs when there is a aouncement of facts, even if it is formal before the MP or the Police, or informal directly before the security agents.
"This is how the police act all over the world. It is not an exclusive concept of Mexico. Several international courts have adopted this as a guide for the action of the police, "said the highest court.
In addition, in the text released on Wednesday afternoon, it was stressed that the rules and parameters that are given in the decision of the Court are general guidelines and in no way justify or authorize arbitrary actions by the police.
During the sessions on Monday and Tuesday, a minority group of ministers pointed out that the National Code of Criminal Procedures norm that empowers the police to inspect people when they have evidence that conceals instruments, objects or products related to the crime being investigated is unconstitutional.
END
Mexican consulate reports increase in calls about immigration bullying
Tuesday, March 13th 2018, 9:18 am MST
Tuesday, March 13th 2018, 11:34 am MST
By Vicki Karr, Multimedia Journalist
http://www.tucsonnewsnow.com/story/37714446/mexican-consulate-reports-increase-in-calls-about-immigration-bullying
New campaign by Mexican Consulate
00:00 / 01:29
CC
People can visit the consulate in person or call the 24/7 hotline at 1-855-4636-395. (Source: KOLD News 13)
TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
The Mexican Consulate of Tucson says it has seen an increase in calls about immigration bullying to its nationwide hotline.
The 24-hour call center takes calls from people across the country calling about a variety of issues, from legal help to finding missing family members.
Mexican officials say many of those calls are from people who say they are being bullied because of their immigration status.
They say it includes things like taunting, slurs, social exclusion and sometimes physical abuse.
If ignored, the consulate says bullying can lead to depression, behavioral problems and even suicide.
That's why Mexico's government launched a nationwide anti-bullying campaign that includes public service announcements.
Ricardo Pineda says the goal is to bring awareness to the issue and to let people know there's help available.
"No one should be subject to this specific activity. Bullying itself is an ugly human treatment for somebody who doesn't deserve it," he said.
People can visit the consulate in person or call the 24/7 hotline at 1-855-4636-395.
Click here for more information: https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx/tucson/index.php/2016-03-16-18-40-02
End
Note: ???
Court clarifies scope on inspections without court order
The SCJN explained that its criterion does not imply that a police officer can check people and vehicles at will
and in no way justify or authorize arbitrary actions
3/14/2018 7:57 PM JUAN PABLO REYES
http://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/2018/03/14/1226390
MEXICO CITY
After the criticism received by groups defending human rights by the resolution endorsing police inspections if judicial order, the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) said that its criterion does not imply that a police officer can check people and vehicles at whim.
Through an information card it was emphasized that the agent can practice an inspection only if he has a reasonable suspicion that the person who matches the characteristics reported, is at that moment committing a crime or that is not visible to the naked eye.
You may be interested: CNDH concerned about endorsement of inspections without a court order
http://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/2018/03/14/1226340
Also if in the course of an investigation information is obtained from a subject that, based on the complaint and other investigative acts, fits into the descriptions and facts, so any inspection performed outside of these parameters will be illegal and arbitrary. .
The police can only perform these acts of inspection, if and only if, it is already in the framework of a criminal investigation. This occurs when there is a aouncement of facts, even if it is formal before the MP or the Police, or informal directly before the security agents.
"This is how the police act all over the world. It is not an exclusive concept of Mexico. Several international courts have adopted this as a guide for the action of the police, "said the highest court.
In addition, in the text released on Wednesday afternoon, it was stressed that the rules and parameters that are given in the decision of the Court are general guidelines and in no way justify or authorize arbitrary actions by the police.
During the sessions on Monday and Tuesday, a minority group of ministers pointed out that the National Code of Criminal Procedures norm that empowers the police to inspect people when they have evidence that conceals instruments, objects or products related to the crime being investigated is unconstitutional.
END
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
AZMEX UPDATE 12-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE 12 MAR 2018
More jail time sought for Arizona drug smuggling lookouts
3 hrs ago
http://www.pinalcentral.com/arizona_news/more-jail-time-sought-for-arizona-drug-smuggling-lookouts/article_0b915388-bfae-5266-a470-221630ddc2d5.html
TUCSON (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking stiffer sentences for drug-smuggling lookouts who station themselves atop of southern Arizona mountains, court records show.
Border patrol agents have begun tracking the number and size of marijuana seizures made in the line of sight of lookouts, the Arizona Daily Star reported Saturday.
Those seizures are then cited by federal prosecutors when they ask judges to lengthen prison sentences for the lookouts.
Because scouts are accused of conspiring to smuggle large amounts of marijuana they don't possess when arrested, prosecutors often allow suspected scouts to plead guilty to conspiring to smuggle one backpack-load of marijuana, or about 40 pounds (18 kilograms).
But when agents report large seizures, the plea offer is upped to two backpack-loads or more, prosecutors wrote in sentencing memorandums.
The Star searched online court records since the start of 2015 and found nine scout prosecutions in the last year, including six since October, where prosecutors cited large marijuana seizures by Border Patrol agents and used those seizures to request longer sentences.
The strategy has increased a typical plea offer for a scout with no criminal history from six months to 13 months.
The U.S. Attorney's Office has wrestled for at least four years with how to prosecute drug scouts.
"The reason pleas are climbing is we're realizing and being able to prove how important these people are," federal prosecutor Adam Rossi told Judge James A. Soto at a Feb. 7 sentencing hearing in U.S. District Court in Tucson. "We have a better understanding and actual marijuana to show how important scouts are to these organizations. Without them, the billions of dollars that are made by the cartels would not be possible."
The role of a scout is to act as an "air traffic controller" for groups of marijuana backpackers in the desert west of Tucson, Border Patrol Agent Carlos Rochin testified at a February 2016 hearing in federal court in Tucson.
As backpacker groups make their way across the valley below, the scouts watch for law enforcement officers and makes sure the groups are staggered enough to not draw attention, according to a 32-page transcript of Rochin's testimony.
Scouts "hold the groups until a couple of them have gone through and then keep the flow regulated," Rochin said.
Some backpackers are professional smugglers, while a "good portion" are migrants who cannot afford to pay the smuggler's fee to cross the border and agree to haul marijuana instead, Rochin said.
End
Border Patrol in Arizona seizes marijuana, 2 teens arrested
Posted: Mar 10, 2018 10:52 AM MST
Updated: Mar 10, 2018 10:52 AM MST
http://www.kvoa.com/story/37694046/border-patrol-in-arizona-seizes-marijuana-2-teens-arrested
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - The Border Patrol says it has seized 135 pounds (61 kilograms) of marijuana worth an estimated $111,000 and arrested two Tucson teenagers who tried to flee from agents in downtown Nogales.
The patrol's Nogales station reported Friday that its agents on Thursday saw the two male teens loading several large packages into a minivan near the international boundary fence before traveling to a local grocery store parking lot.
When agents tried to stop them, the driver sped away and set off a chase through downtown before abruptly braking in front of the border crossing and bolting out of the van.
The two boys ages 16 and 17 tried to run away as U.S. border officials worked to catch them.
They found the marijuana in the van.
END
More jail time sought for Arizona drug smuggling lookouts
3 hrs ago
http://www.pinalcentral.com/arizona_news/more-jail-time-sought-for-arizona-drug-smuggling-lookouts/article_0b915388-bfae-5266-a470-221630ddc2d5.html
TUCSON (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking stiffer sentences for drug-smuggling lookouts who station themselves atop of southern Arizona mountains, court records show.
Border patrol agents have begun tracking the number and size of marijuana seizures made in the line of sight of lookouts, the Arizona Daily Star reported Saturday.
Those seizures are then cited by federal prosecutors when they ask judges to lengthen prison sentences for the lookouts.
Because scouts are accused of conspiring to smuggle large amounts of marijuana they don't possess when arrested, prosecutors often allow suspected scouts to plead guilty to conspiring to smuggle one backpack-load of marijuana, or about 40 pounds (18 kilograms).
But when agents report large seizures, the plea offer is upped to two backpack-loads or more, prosecutors wrote in sentencing memorandums.
The Star searched online court records since the start of 2015 and found nine scout prosecutions in the last year, including six since October, where prosecutors cited large marijuana seizures by Border Patrol agents and used those seizures to request longer sentences.
The strategy has increased a typical plea offer for a scout with no criminal history from six months to 13 months.
The U.S. Attorney's Office has wrestled for at least four years with how to prosecute drug scouts.
"The reason pleas are climbing is we're realizing and being able to prove how important these people are," federal prosecutor Adam Rossi told Judge James A. Soto at a Feb. 7 sentencing hearing in U.S. District Court in Tucson. "We have a better understanding and actual marijuana to show how important scouts are to these organizations. Without them, the billions of dollars that are made by the cartels would not be possible."
The role of a scout is to act as an "air traffic controller" for groups of marijuana backpackers in the desert west of Tucson, Border Patrol Agent Carlos Rochin testified at a February 2016 hearing in federal court in Tucson.
As backpacker groups make their way across the valley below, the scouts watch for law enforcement officers and makes sure the groups are staggered enough to not draw attention, according to a 32-page transcript of Rochin's testimony.
Scouts "hold the groups until a couple of them have gone through and then keep the flow regulated," Rochin said.
Some backpackers are professional smugglers, while a "good portion" are migrants who cannot afford to pay the smuggler's fee to cross the border and agree to haul marijuana instead, Rochin said.
End
Border Patrol in Arizona seizes marijuana, 2 teens arrested
Posted: Mar 10, 2018 10:52 AM MST
Updated: Mar 10, 2018 10:52 AM MST
http://www.kvoa.com/story/37694046/border-patrol-in-arizona-seizes-marijuana-2-teens-arrested
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - The Border Patrol says it has seized 135 pounds (61 kilograms) of marijuana worth an estimated $111,000 and arrested two Tucson teenagers who tried to flee from agents in downtown Nogales.
The patrol's Nogales station reported Friday that its agents on Thursday saw the two male teens loading several large packages into a minivan near the international boundary fence before traveling to a local grocery store parking lot.
When agents tried to stop them, the driver sped away and set off a chase through downtown before abruptly braking in front of the border crossing and bolting out of the van.
The two boys ages 16 and 17 tried to run away as U.S. border officials worked to catch them.
They found the marijuana in the van.
END
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 10-3-18
AZMEX POLICY 10 MAR 2018
Note: He is partially correct. There needs to be consequences beyond just addiction. Jail for dopers. Dealers? The PI has the answer.
Also, no one, not even Trump, is forcing Mexicans to traffic drugs into the U.S.
Gracias
Violence at the border is due to EU policies: Sales
By: EL UNIVERSAL | 03/10/2018 5:13
http://www.lacronica.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Nacional/10032018/1316954-Violencia-en-frontera-es-por-politicas-de-EU-Sales.html
ZACATECAS, ZACATECAS
The current dispute between the criminal groups in Mexico is due to external factors, since the violence in the border area and in the regions where the poppy is grown, is due to the change in the health policies of the United States, because, now , the great demand is for opiate drugs, said yesterday Renato Sales Heredia.
The National Security Commissioner inaugurated yesterday the First Meeting West Zone of the Conference of Secretaries of Public Security 2018, and there he mentioned that according to the official reports of the United States has increased the number of addicts who consume substitute substances of heroin and morphine .
This situation has caused them to cause alerts in other sectors.
"The decrease in resources in MediCare medical insurance, because addicts who were being treated with heroin substitutes, morphine, such as naloxone, methadone, and, suddenly, they have no resources to treat themselves. what is favored, directly or indirectly, is the black market, "he said.
To measure this new addiction that has increased in recent years in that country, he stressed that, according to official data issued by the US authorities, in 2016, 64,000 people died from drug overdoses.
Of this total, he said, almost 70% was due to opiate substances. "(That) amount that represents almost triple the intentional homicides committed last year in Mexico," he said.
END
Note: He is partially correct. There needs to be consequences beyond just addiction. Jail for dopers. Dealers? The PI has the answer.
Also, no one, not even Trump, is forcing Mexicans to traffic drugs into the U.S.
Gracias
Violence at the border is due to EU policies: Sales
By: EL UNIVERSAL | 03/10/2018 5:13
http://www.lacronica.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Nacional/10032018/1316954-Violencia-en-frontera-es-por-politicas-de-EU-Sales.html
ZACATECAS, ZACATECAS
The current dispute between the criminal groups in Mexico is due to external factors, since the violence in the border area and in the regions where the poppy is grown, is due to the change in the health policies of the United States, because, now , the great demand is for opiate drugs, said yesterday Renato Sales Heredia.
The National Security Commissioner inaugurated yesterday the First Meeting West Zone of the Conference of Secretaries of Public Security 2018, and there he mentioned that according to the official reports of the United States has increased the number of addicts who consume substitute substances of heroin and morphine .
This situation has caused them to cause alerts in other sectors.
"The decrease in resources in MediCare medical insurance, because addicts who were being treated with heroin substitutes, morphine, such as naloxone, methadone, and, suddenly, they have no resources to treat themselves. what is favored, directly or indirectly, is the black market, "he said.
To measure this new addiction that has increased in recent years in that country, he stressed that, according to official data issued by the US authorities, in 2016, 64,000 people died from drug overdoses.
Of this total, he said, almost 70% was due to opiate substances. "(That) amount that represents almost triple the intentional homicides committed last year in Mexico," he said.
END
Monday, March 12, 2018
AZMEX EXTRA2 12-3-18
AZMEX EXTRA2 12 MAR 2018
Note: Immigration status? 18 USC 922 (g)(5) (A) ?
AZ statutes : ARS 13-3102 A. 4. & A. 16. ARS 13-3101 A. 7. (e) ?
Photo at link.
thx
Man arrested in Marana with AK-47s in his car
Posted: Mar 12, 2018 3:55 PM MST
Updated: Mar 12, 2018 3:55 PM MST
Written By News 4 Tucson Staff
http://www.kvoa.com/story/37707884/man-arrested-in-marana-with-ak-47s-in-his-car
A North Las Vegas man is under arrest after state troopers found five AK-47s in his car.
Officials say 24-year-old Jorge Eduardo Pantoja-Aldaz was taken into custody during a traffic stop in Marana.
Troopers also found a small amount of cocaine in his wallet.
The rifles were seized and the suspect was booked into the Pima County jail.
end
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dps-troopers-participating-operation-stonegarden-apprehend-nevada-man
end
Note: Immigration status? 18 USC 922 (g)(5) (A) ?
AZ statutes : ARS 13-3102 A. 4. & A. 16. ARS 13-3101 A. 7. (e) ?
Photo at link.
thx
Man arrested in Marana with AK-47s in his car
Posted: Mar 12, 2018 3:55 PM MST
Updated: Mar 12, 2018 3:55 PM MST
Written By News 4 Tucson Staff
http://www.kvoa.com/story/37707884/man-arrested-in-marana-with-ak-47s-in-his-car
A North Las Vegas man is under arrest after state troopers found five AK-47s in his car.
Officials say 24-year-old Jorge Eduardo Pantoja-Aldaz was taken into custody during a traffic stop in Marana.
Troopers also found a small amount of cocaine in his wallet.
The rifles were seized and the suspect was booked into the Pima County jail.
end
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dps-troopers-participating-operation-stonegarden-apprehend-nevada-man
end
AZMEX EXTRA 12-3-18
AZMEX EXTRA 12 MAR 2018
UPDATE
Note: No info so far on actual charges. Last checked, it not illegal in AZ to have rifle(s) in vehicle.
thx
AZ DPS trooper helps catch NV man who had 5 AK-47s in car
Friday, March 9th 2018, 6:13 pm MST
Friday, March 9th 2018, 6:13 pm MST
By Tucson News Now Staff
http://www.tucsonnewsnow.com/story/37692241/az-dps-trooper-helps-catch-nv-man-who-had-5-ak-47s-in-car
Rifles found in trunk of rental vehicle. (Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
During Operation Stonegarden, an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper helped arrest a 24-year-old man from Nevada who had five AK-47 assault rifles in his vehicle.
According to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection news release the traffic stop happened Wednesday morning, March 7 on Interstate 10 near Marana.
The trooper found the weapons after he stopped the vehicle for traffic violations according to the release.
Five AK-47 assault rifles were also discovered in the vehicle's trunk, as well as a small amount of cocaine in the driver's wallet.
The rifles were seized and the driver is facing charges of trafficking of weapons, according to the release.
The case has been turned over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The vehicle the driver was in was identified as a rental vehicle.
Operation Stonegarden is a Department of Homeland Security program that grants funds to other law enforcement agencies to enhance and strengthen border security throughout the United States.
END
DPS Troopers Participating in Operation Stonegarden Apprehend Nevada Man Found with 5 AK-47s in Car
Release Date: March 9, 2018
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dps-troopers-participating-operation-stonegarden-apprehend-nevada-man
TUCSON, Ariz. – An Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper participating in Operation Stonegarden arrested a 24-year-old Nevada man and seized five AK-47 assault rifles during a traffic stop Wednesday morning on Interstate 10 near Marana.
The AZDPS trooper discovered the weapons after stopping a blue sedan for a traffic violation. During the encounter, the trooper conducted a search and discovered five AK-47s in the vehicle's trunk, as well as a small amount of cocaine in the driver's wallet.
After the trooper arrested the driver for trafficking of weapons, the rifles were seized and the case turned over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The sedan was identified as a rental vehicle.
Operation Stonegarden is a Department of Homeland Security program that grants funds to other law enforcement agencies to enhance and strengthen border security throughout the United States.
For inquiries on this seizure please contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at (602) 776-5400.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free.
END
UPDATE
Note: No info so far on actual charges. Last checked, it not illegal in AZ to have rifle(s) in vehicle.
thx
AZ DPS trooper helps catch NV man who had 5 AK-47s in car
Friday, March 9th 2018, 6:13 pm MST
Friday, March 9th 2018, 6:13 pm MST
By Tucson News Now Staff
http://www.tucsonnewsnow.com/story/37692241/az-dps-trooper-helps-catch-nv-man-who-had-5-ak-47s-in-car
Rifles found in trunk of rental vehicle. (Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection)
TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
During Operation Stonegarden, an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper helped arrest a 24-year-old man from Nevada who had five AK-47 assault rifles in his vehicle.
According to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection news release the traffic stop happened Wednesday morning, March 7 on Interstate 10 near Marana.
The trooper found the weapons after he stopped the vehicle for traffic violations according to the release.
Five AK-47 assault rifles were also discovered in the vehicle's trunk, as well as a small amount of cocaine in the driver's wallet.
The rifles were seized and the driver is facing charges of trafficking of weapons, according to the release.
The case has been turned over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The vehicle the driver was in was identified as a rental vehicle.
Operation Stonegarden is a Department of Homeland Security program that grants funds to other law enforcement agencies to enhance and strengthen border security throughout the United States.
END
DPS Troopers Participating in Operation Stonegarden Apprehend Nevada Man Found with 5 AK-47s in Car
Release Date: March 9, 2018
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dps-troopers-participating-operation-stonegarden-apprehend-nevada-man
TUCSON, Ariz. – An Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper participating in Operation Stonegarden arrested a 24-year-old Nevada man and seized five AK-47 assault rifles during a traffic stop Wednesday morning on Interstate 10 near Marana.
The AZDPS trooper discovered the weapons after stopping a blue sedan for a traffic violation. During the encounter, the trooper conducted a search and discovered five AK-47s in the vehicle's trunk, as well as a small amount of cocaine in the driver's wallet.
After the trooper arrested the driver for trafficking of weapons, the rifles were seized and the case turned over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The sedan was identified as a rental vehicle.
Operation Stonegarden is a Department of Homeland Security program that grants funds to other law enforcement agencies to enhance and strengthen border security throughout the United States.
For inquiries on this seizure please contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at (602) 776-5400.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free.
END
AZMEX UPDATE 9-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE 9 MAR 2018.
Arizona's Border Strike Force Getting Results
News ReleaseMarch 9, 2018
https://azgovernor.gov/governor/news/2018/03/arizonas-border-strike-force-getting-results
PHOENIX – The Arizona Border Strike Force continues to protect Arizona communities by stopping the flow of criminals, narcotics, weapons, and ammunition trafficked in the state.
At the direction of Governor Ducey, the Border Strike Force was created in September 2015 to target border crimes and take a collaborative approach to help secure Arizona's southern border.
In his 2018 State of the State address, Governor Ducey said:
"We made a decision: If Washington, D.C. wasn't going to secure our border, Arizona would. [The Border Strike Force] is without a doubt making Arizona – and America – a safer place, and it's worthy of our continued investment."
Housed within the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Border Strike Force focuses on identifying and dismantling border-related criminal activity through collaboration with local, state, tribal, federal, and Mexican authorities.
Notable Border Strike Force successes include Operation Sidewinder II & III, operations that led to the seizure of 5,084 pounds of marijuana and 52 felony arrests,
and Operation Organ Grinder, which resulted in the seizure of 4,038 pounds of marijuana and 73 felony arrests.
Through January 2018, the Border Strike Force has seized:
• 53,156 pounds of marijuana;
• 7,843 prescription drug pills/capsules;
• 12.4 million hits of heroin;
• 35 pounds of fentanyl;
• 258 firearms;
• 167,900 rounds of ammunition;
• And $10,000,000 in currency.
Border Strike Force operations have also resulted in over 2,480 arrests.
Due to its success, Governor Ducey's fiscal year 2019 Executive Budget includes $2.9 million to expand Border Strike Force operations in response to shifting cartel behavior.
The new funding aims to establish 24-hours-a-day, seven days-a week coverage in the critical areas of Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, and Yuma counties.
END
Arizona border officer falsely claimed to be US citizen
BY ASSOCIATED PRESS
MARCH 10, 2018 AT 12:05 PM
http://ktar.com/story/1984155/arizona-border-officer-falsely-claimed-us-citizen/
PHOENIX — A U.S. border officer who is a Mexican native claimed he was born in Texas and illegally obtained a job with the law enforcement agency charged with protecting America's borders, authorities said.
Marco Antonio De la Garza Jr., an officer in southern Arizona, faces criminal charges for allegedly telling U.S. Customs and Border Protection and others in the government that he was born in Texas.
Employment requirements for Customs and Border Protection include providing proof of U.S. citizenship. It's unclear how De la Garza was able to get his job despite not being an American citizen.
An indictment filed Wednesday in Tucson said De la Garza lied about his citizenship in October during a background check update tied to his job.
The 37-year-old officer also is accused of making false statements about his birth country last year when he sought a U.S. passport.
The agency hired him in April 2012, spokeswoman Teresa Small confirmed in an email Friday. She did not provide further comment.
Cosme Lopez, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office, declined to comment on how the officer's true citizenship had been missed when he was hired.
Customs and Border Protection issued a statement saying De la Garza was arrested on Feb. 22 in Douglas, Arizona. The agency's statement, however, didn't reveal De la Garza's job status or explain how the agency came to hire a Mexican citizen as an officer.
Over the years, the federal government has been criticized for not performing adequate background checks on people seeking jobs as border agents. The criticism usually crops up when the government considers adding a large number of officers at the United States' southern border.
Matthew H. Green, a Tucson attorney who represents De la Garza, didn't immediately return a call and email Friday.
Authorities said in court records that De la Garza claimed he was born in Brownsville, Texas, when he was actually born across the Rio Grande in Matamoros, Mexico.
Investigators said the midwife who claimed De la Garza was born in Texas had a conviction for conspiring to make false statements on birth certificates in 1984. They also said De la Garza's records from Mexico confirmed that he was registered for school using a Mexican birth record, according to court records.
He is scheduled to be arraigned on March 23.
end
Arizona's Border Strike Force Getting Results
News ReleaseMarch 9, 2018
https://azgovernor.gov/governor/news/2018/03/arizonas-border-strike-force-getting-results
PHOENIX – The Arizona Border Strike Force continues to protect Arizona communities by stopping the flow of criminals, narcotics, weapons, and ammunition trafficked in the state.
At the direction of Governor Ducey, the Border Strike Force was created in September 2015 to target border crimes and take a collaborative approach to help secure Arizona's southern border.
In his 2018 State of the State address, Governor Ducey said:
"We made a decision: If Washington, D.C. wasn't going to secure our border, Arizona would. [The Border Strike Force] is without a doubt making Arizona – and America – a safer place, and it's worthy of our continued investment."
Housed within the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Border Strike Force focuses on identifying and dismantling border-related criminal activity through collaboration with local, state, tribal, federal, and Mexican authorities.
Notable Border Strike Force successes include Operation Sidewinder II & III, operations that led to the seizure of 5,084 pounds of marijuana and 52 felony arrests,
and Operation Organ Grinder, which resulted in the seizure of 4,038 pounds of marijuana and 73 felony arrests.
Through January 2018, the Border Strike Force has seized:
• 53,156 pounds of marijuana;
• 7,843 prescription drug pills/capsules;
• 12.4 million hits of heroin;
• 35 pounds of fentanyl;
• 258 firearms;
• 167,900 rounds of ammunition;
• And $10,000,000 in currency.
Border Strike Force operations have also resulted in over 2,480 arrests.
Due to its success, Governor Ducey's fiscal year 2019 Executive Budget includes $2.9 million to expand Border Strike Force operations in response to shifting cartel behavior.
The new funding aims to establish 24-hours-a-day, seven days-a week coverage in the critical areas of Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, and Yuma counties.
END
Arizona border officer falsely claimed to be US citizen
BY ASSOCIATED PRESS
MARCH 10, 2018 AT 12:05 PM
http://ktar.com/story/1984155/arizona-border-officer-falsely-claimed-us-citizen/
PHOENIX — A U.S. border officer who is a Mexican native claimed he was born in Texas and illegally obtained a job with the law enforcement agency charged with protecting America's borders, authorities said.
Marco Antonio De la Garza Jr., an officer in southern Arizona, faces criminal charges for allegedly telling U.S. Customs and Border Protection and others in the government that he was born in Texas.
Employment requirements for Customs and Border Protection include providing proof of U.S. citizenship. It's unclear how De la Garza was able to get his job despite not being an American citizen.
An indictment filed Wednesday in Tucson said De la Garza lied about his citizenship in October during a background check update tied to his job.
The 37-year-old officer also is accused of making false statements about his birth country last year when he sought a U.S. passport.
The agency hired him in April 2012, spokeswoman Teresa Small confirmed in an email Friday. She did not provide further comment.
Cosme Lopez, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office, declined to comment on how the officer's true citizenship had been missed when he was hired.
Customs and Border Protection issued a statement saying De la Garza was arrested on Feb. 22 in Douglas, Arizona. The agency's statement, however, didn't reveal De la Garza's job status or explain how the agency came to hire a Mexican citizen as an officer.
Over the years, the federal government has been criticized for not performing adequate background checks on people seeking jobs as border agents. The criticism usually crops up when the government considers adding a large number of officers at the United States' southern border.
Matthew H. Green, a Tucson attorney who represents De la Garza, didn't immediately return a call and email Friday.
Authorities said in court records that De la Garza claimed he was born in Brownsville, Texas, when he was actually born across the Rio Grande in Matamoros, Mexico.
Investigators said the midwife who claimed De la Garza was born in Texas had a conviction for conspiring to make false statements on birth certificates in 1984. They also said De la Garza's records from Mexico confirmed that he was registered for school using a Mexican birth record, according to court records.
He is scheduled to be arraigned on March 23.
end
Thursday, March 8, 2018
AZMEX UPDATE 7-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE 7 MAR 2018
Obregon climbs to place 31 of the most violent cities
DIARIO DEL YAQUI. 8 HOURS AGO
Mexico has 12 urban centers in that category, Los Cabos being the most dangerous in the world
By: Demian Duarte
http://diariodelyaqui.mx/2018/03/07/sube-obregon-al-lugar-31-de-ciudades-mas-violentas/
Ciudad Obregón, in the south of Cajeme, became the 31st city with the most violence in the world and has the dubious honor of having sneaked, also, among the 12 most violent cities in Mexico, all of them contained in the ranking of the 50 most violent cities in the world, prepared by the Citizen Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice.
The case of Obregón, the second most important and populated city of Sonora with 339 thousand inhabitants, is reported with a rate of 48.96 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, a macabre statistic that rose in just one year eight points, because in 2016, when the municipal of Cajeme entered the ranking for the first time, there was a rate of 40.95 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, which reached the 41st place.
According to state authorities have explained, the problem of violence that Cajeme lives has to do with the dispute over the plaza between at least three drug trafficking organizations, which seek to use it for the transfer of narcotics, which during the previous months led to homicides in full daylight and in the heart of the city, which led to the setting up of a special operation of the National Gendarmerie, with the participation of the Army and the state and federal corporations, in support of the Municipal Police.
In Ciudad Obregón, 227 homicides were recorded during 2017.
In fact, Mexico as a whole was the most violent, since it went from having 7 cities in the ranking, to a total of 12 in the analysis of 2017, corresponding to Los Cabos, in Baja California Sur, the dubious honor of occupying the position, achieving a stellar premiere in the list, because previously that coastal city with high tourist profile did not appear.
Today, Los Cabos gained international notoriety because it has a rate of 111.3 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, being a small city with 328 thousand 245 inhabitants. In Los Cabos, in 2017 365 homicides were reported.
In the same order, Acapulco, Guerrero, appears as the third most violent city with a homicide rate of 106.6 per 100 thousand inhabitants. There, 910 malicious homicides were reported; It is followed by Tijuana, Baja California, which is number 5 with a rate of 100.77 and a thousand 897 murders.
La Paz, in Baja California Sur, also appears in the ranking as sixth place, with a rate of 84.79, for which it counted 259 deaths in that circumstance; Ciudad Victoria, in Tamaulipas, as place 8 with a rate of 83.32, place 12 was placed Culiacán, with a rate of 70.1, and in 20 Ciudad Juárez, in Chihuahua, with a rate of 56.16, followed by the capital of that State, in place 29, with a rate of 49.59; Ciudad Obregón follows, and the ranking closes in what corresponds to Mexico with Tepic, capital of Nayarit (47.09), Reynosa, Tamaulipas, (41.95) and Mazatlan, Sinaloa (39.32).
Mexico was crowned as the second country with the greatest problems of violence by cities in the world, with 12 ranking positions, since Brazil, with 17, was left with the first place; However, our country is above Venezuela, which has 5 cities, the United States has 4, Colombia has 3, South Africa has 3, and Honduras has 2 cities on the scale.
The average rate among the 50 cities for homicides is 59.71 per 100 thousand inhabitants.
According to the aforementioned Citizen Council, the problem is that in Mexico there is no action for the eradication of private militias that serve criminal groups, and it has also been allowed that impunity reaches the worst level of existence.
This has caused that in Mexico every 18 minutes there is a murder, accumulating 29 thousand 168 homicides in the country during 2017.
The full report and the relative analysis can be consulted in detail in the portal http://www.seguridadjusticiaypaz.org.mx.
END
Seize drugs, weapons, vehicles and money
Details Published on Wednesday March 7, 2018,
Written by César Barragán / El Diario
http://www.eldiariodesonora.com.mx/notas.php?nota=107631
Nogales, Son
Several tons of different drugs, weapons, vehicles, cash and at least 17 people arrested, was the result of the operations carried out by personnel of the 45th Military Zone of this border.
According to reports from the Secretariat of National Defense through the Commanders of the II Military Region and the 45 / a. Military Zone, the public was informed that during the period from February 1 to 28, 2018,
said military personnel arrested 17 people in flagrante delicto.
The reports indicate that the following assurances were also made;
4 tons 883 kilos, 600 grams of marijuana,
as well as 896 kilos, 900 grams of cocaine
11 kilos, 419 grams of heroin,
40 kilos, 600 grams of fentanyl and
5,200 psychotropic pills.
During the operations, the military forces also secured 17 different vehicle models,
13 long weapons and
a short weapon,
as well as nine magazines for various weapons,
716 cartridges of different calibers and
a total of 750 pesos in cash.
Official data indicates that military personnel also located and destroyed six 6 runways for clandestine aircraft.
The detainees and the insured were placed at the disposal of the corresponding federal authorities.
The activities carried out by the Armed Forces in conjunction with the civil authorities of the three levels of government are designed to reduce violence in the country; With these actions, the personnel of the Mexican Army and Air Force reaffirm their unwavering decision to strengthen the climate of peace, order and security that the Mexican people deserve.
END
Obregon climbs to place 31 of the most violent cities
DIARIO DEL YAQUI. 8 HOURS AGO
Mexico has 12 urban centers in that category, Los Cabos being the most dangerous in the world
By: Demian Duarte
http://diariodelyaqui.mx/2018/03/07/sube-obregon-al-lugar-31-de-ciudades-mas-violentas/
Ciudad Obregón, in the south of Cajeme, became the 31st city with the most violence in the world and has the dubious honor of having sneaked, also, among the 12 most violent cities in Mexico, all of them contained in the ranking of the 50 most violent cities in the world, prepared by the Citizen Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice.
The case of Obregón, the second most important and populated city of Sonora with 339 thousand inhabitants, is reported with a rate of 48.96 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, a macabre statistic that rose in just one year eight points, because in 2016, when the municipal of Cajeme entered the ranking for the first time, there was a rate of 40.95 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, which reached the 41st place.
According to state authorities have explained, the problem of violence that Cajeme lives has to do with the dispute over the plaza between at least three drug trafficking organizations, which seek to use it for the transfer of narcotics, which during the previous months led to homicides in full daylight and in the heart of the city, which led to the setting up of a special operation of the National Gendarmerie, with the participation of the Army and the state and federal corporations, in support of the Municipal Police.
In Ciudad Obregón, 227 homicides were recorded during 2017.
In fact, Mexico as a whole was the most violent, since it went from having 7 cities in the ranking, to a total of 12 in the analysis of 2017, corresponding to Los Cabos, in Baja California Sur, the dubious honor of occupying the position, achieving a stellar premiere in the list, because previously that coastal city with high tourist profile did not appear.
Today, Los Cabos gained international notoriety because it has a rate of 111.3 homicides per 100 thousand inhabitants, being a small city with 328 thousand 245 inhabitants. In Los Cabos, in 2017 365 homicides were reported.
In the same order, Acapulco, Guerrero, appears as the third most violent city with a homicide rate of 106.6 per 100 thousand inhabitants. There, 910 malicious homicides were reported; It is followed by Tijuana, Baja California, which is number 5 with a rate of 100.77 and a thousand 897 murders.
La Paz, in Baja California Sur, also appears in the ranking as sixth place, with a rate of 84.79, for which it counted 259 deaths in that circumstance; Ciudad Victoria, in Tamaulipas, as place 8 with a rate of 83.32, place 12 was placed Culiacán, with a rate of 70.1, and in 20 Ciudad Juárez, in Chihuahua, with a rate of 56.16, followed by the capital of that State, in place 29, with a rate of 49.59; Ciudad Obregón follows, and the ranking closes in what corresponds to Mexico with Tepic, capital of Nayarit (47.09), Reynosa, Tamaulipas, (41.95) and Mazatlan, Sinaloa (39.32).
Mexico was crowned as the second country with the greatest problems of violence by cities in the world, with 12 ranking positions, since Brazil, with 17, was left with the first place; However, our country is above Venezuela, which has 5 cities, the United States has 4, Colombia has 3, South Africa has 3, and Honduras has 2 cities on the scale.
The average rate among the 50 cities for homicides is 59.71 per 100 thousand inhabitants.
According to the aforementioned Citizen Council, the problem is that in Mexico there is no action for the eradication of private militias that serve criminal groups, and it has also been allowed that impunity reaches the worst level of existence.
This has caused that in Mexico every 18 minutes there is a murder, accumulating 29 thousand 168 homicides in the country during 2017.
The full report and the relative analysis can be consulted in detail in the portal http://www.seguridadjusticiaypaz.org.mx.
END
Seize drugs, weapons, vehicles and money
Details Published on Wednesday March 7, 2018,
Written by César Barragán / El Diario
http://www.eldiariodesonora.com.mx/notas.php?nota=107631
Nogales, Son
Several tons of different drugs, weapons, vehicles, cash and at least 17 people arrested, was the result of the operations carried out by personnel of the 45th Military Zone of this border.
According to reports from the Secretariat of National Defense through the Commanders of the II Military Region and the 45 / a. Military Zone, the public was informed that during the period from February 1 to 28, 2018,
said military personnel arrested 17 people in flagrante delicto.
The reports indicate that the following assurances were also made;
4 tons 883 kilos, 600 grams of marijuana,
as well as 896 kilos, 900 grams of cocaine
11 kilos, 419 grams of heroin,
40 kilos, 600 grams of fentanyl and
5,200 psychotropic pills.
During the operations, the military forces also secured 17 different vehicle models,
13 long weapons and
a short weapon,
as well as nine magazines for various weapons,
716 cartridges of different calibers and
a total of 750 pesos in cash.
Official data indicates that military personnel also located and destroyed six 6 runways for clandestine aircraft.
The detainees and the insured were placed at the disposal of the corresponding federal authorities.
The activities carried out by the Armed Forces in conjunction with the civil authorities of the three levels of government are designed to reduce violence in the country; With these actions, the personnel of the Mexican Army and Air Force reaffirm their unwavering decision to strengthen the climate of peace, order and security that the Mexican people deserve.
END
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
AZMEX UPDATE2 6-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE2 6 MAR 2018
State Land Commissioner Dunn demands feds pay for border right of way
By Angela Kocherga / Journal Staff Writer - Las Cruces Bureau
Published: Tuesday, March 6th, 2018 at 1:11pm
Updated: Tuesday, March 6th, 2018 at 4:38pm
https://www.abqjournal.com/1142070/state-land-commissioner-dunn-demands-feds-pay-for-right-of-way.html
State Land Commissioner Dunn demands feds pay for border right of way
New Mexico State Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn, at the site where he posted a no trespassing sign. Dunn is demanding the U.S. government pay for the right of way for a one-mile stretch of the border barrier built on state trust lands. (Angela Kocherga/Albuquerque Journal)
SANTA TERESA — New Mexico State Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn stood at the border fence, drill in hand, on a dirt road used by U.S. Border Patrol agents and posted a no trespassing sign Tuesday.
"They do not have access to come across our lands now," said Dunn, referring to the federal government.
Dunn came to the New Mexico border to demand the U.S. government pay for the right of way for a one-mile stretch where the border barrier was built on state trust lands.
"We'd like to bring attention to the border wall and the federal government taking away property rights without paying for it," Dunn said.
Commissioner Dunn sent a letter to Homeland Security on Feb. 15 in which he wrote, "I launched an investigation which revealed that the federal government has installed a border wall, infrastructure, and roads on state lands without the state authorization and without compensation to the state trust."
The border land just east of the Santa Teresa Port of Entry was granted to the Territory of New Mexico under the 1898 Ferguson Act. It predates a 1907 proclamation by President Theodore Roosevelt reserving a 60 foot strip of land for the federal government on the border "as a protection against smuggling of goods between the United States and Mexico."
New Mexico is seeking $19,200 for the 60 foot easement on the border land held in trust for New Mexico public schools.
"What we're after today is that we get compensation for the schools because that's who we represent," Dunn said.
New Mexico's Land Commissioner sent a letter to Homeland Security and Border Patrol asking they work out an agreement to obtain the right of way.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it is "diligently evaluating the concerns outlined by the New Mexico Land Commissioner's Office" in a statement released by the agency in Washington.
"CBP values its relationship with the New Mexico state trust lands. An important part of CBP's strategy to successfully secure the nation's borders includes developing and leveraging partnerships and dialogue with state and local stakeholders to ensure that the unique operational needs of each region are effectively met," according to the statement.
After Dunn posted the no trespassing sign, Assistant Commissioner Kris McNeil stretched yellow and red plastic tape from the sign across the road used by Border Patrol agents and tied it to the border fence.
"I'm sure it will end up being more symbolic than keeping the Border Patrol off of it. But they do not have access to come across our lands now. I think only in the event if they were in an actual chase," Dunn said.
Mick Rich, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, called closing New Mexico land to U.S. Border Patrol agents "a dangerous stunt" in a statement released by his campaign office.
"Aubrey Dunn should be ashamed of himself," Rich said. "He's endangering New Mexico's border region residents just to get his name in the paper."
Dunn is running for U.S. Senate as a Libertarian. (?)
Both candidates are challenging the Democratic incumbent Martin Heinrich.
Commissioner Dunn said, "hopefully we can work this out in the next sixty days." Otherwise, he said New Mexico might fence off state trust lands and tear down the border wall.
"If need be we can take the wall down because it's illegally on state trust lands," said Dunn.
END
State Land Commissioner Dunn demands feds pay for border right of way
By Angela Kocherga / Journal Staff Writer - Las Cruces Bureau
Published: Tuesday, March 6th, 2018 at 1:11pm
Updated: Tuesday, March 6th, 2018 at 4:38pm
https://www.abqjournal.com/1142070/state-land-commissioner-dunn-demands-feds-pay-for-right-of-way.html
State Land Commissioner Dunn demands feds pay for border right of way
New Mexico State Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn, at the site where he posted a no trespassing sign. Dunn is demanding the U.S. government pay for the right of way for a one-mile stretch of the border barrier built on state trust lands. (Angela Kocherga/Albuquerque Journal)
SANTA TERESA — New Mexico State Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn stood at the border fence, drill in hand, on a dirt road used by U.S. Border Patrol agents and posted a no trespassing sign Tuesday.
"They do not have access to come across our lands now," said Dunn, referring to the federal government.
Dunn came to the New Mexico border to demand the U.S. government pay for the right of way for a one-mile stretch where the border barrier was built on state trust lands.
"We'd like to bring attention to the border wall and the federal government taking away property rights without paying for it," Dunn said.
Commissioner Dunn sent a letter to Homeland Security on Feb. 15 in which he wrote, "I launched an investigation which revealed that the federal government has installed a border wall, infrastructure, and roads on state lands without the state authorization and without compensation to the state trust."
The border land just east of the Santa Teresa Port of Entry was granted to the Territory of New Mexico under the 1898 Ferguson Act. It predates a 1907 proclamation by President Theodore Roosevelt reserving a 60 foot strip of land for the federal government on the border "as a protection against smuggling of goods between the United States and Mexico."
New Mexico is seeking $19,200 for the 60 foot easement on the border land held in trust for New Mexico public schools.
"What we're after today is that we get compensation for the schools because that's who we represent," Dunn said.
New Mexico's Land Commissioner sent a letter to Homeland Security and Border Patrol asking they work out an agreement to obtain the right of way.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it is "diligently evaluating the concerns outlined by the New Mexico Land Commissioner's Office" in a statement released by the agency in Washington.
"CBP values its relationship with the New Mexico state trust lands. An important part of CBP's strategy to successfully secure the nation's borders includes developing and leveraging partnerships and dialogue with state and local stakeholders to ensure that the unique operational needs of each region are effectively met," according to the statement.
After Dunn posted the no trespassing sign, Assistant Commissioner Kris McNeil stretched yellow and red plastic tape from the sign across the road used by Border Patrol agents and tied it to the border fence.
"I'm sure it will end up being more symbolic than keeping the Border Patrol off of it. But they do not have access to come across our lands now. I think only in the event if they were in an actual chase," Dunn said.
Mick Rich, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, called closing New Mexico land to U.S. Border Patrol agents "a dangerous stunt" in a statement released by his campaign office.
"Aubrey Dunn should be ashamed of himself," Rich said. "He's endangering New Mexico's border region residents just to get his name in the paper."
Dunn is running for U.S. Senate as a Libertarian. (?)
Both candidates are challenging the Democratic incumbent Martin Heinrich.
Commissioner Dunn said, "hopefully we can work this out in the next sixty days." Otherwise, he said New Mexico might fence off state trust lands and tear down the border wall.
"If need be we can take the wall down because it's illegally on state trust lands," said Dunn.
END
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
AZMEX UPDATE 6-3-18
AZMEX UPDATE 6 MAR 2018
New Mexico closes section of border wall to Customs and Border Protection
By: Kyle Hanson
Posted: Mar 06, 2018 12:51 PM MST
Updated: Mar 06, 2018 12:51 PM MST
http://www.kvia.com/news/new-mexico/new-mexico-closes-section-of-border-wall-to-customs-and-border-protection/712182811
Santa Fe, NM - New Mexico Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn says a one mile section of border wall just east of the Santa Teresa port of entry has been constructed on a state land trust without permission. Dunn says he will block border patrol where they trespass.
The section of land was given to New Mexico when it was a territory back in 1898 in accordance with the Ferguson act. The act states the land trust is to be used solely for public schools.
A proclamation made by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907 reserved a 60 foot wide strip of land along the U.S. side of the border for the federal government. The move was to prevent illegal smuggling of goods into the United States. Since New Mexico acquired the land before the proclamation, permission and payment for the occupation or use of the land by the federal government is required.
Commissioner Dunn launched an investigation last month that revealed the federal government did not acquire the necessary right-of-way, priced at $19,200, before building a border wall and a road along the trust lands in Santa Teresa.
Another section further to the west was found to be in violation of the trust as the United States built a structure, electric lights, and a road outside the proclamation area on State Trust Lands. That would cost the federal government an additional $9,600.
Dunn said, "Border security is important, but so are our kids and they have a right to collect the money earned from the lands they own. Mr. Trump, tear down this wall or pay New Mexico school kids what they're owed."
U.S. Customs and border protection released a statement saying, "U.S. Customs and Border Protection is diligently evaluating the concerns outlined by the New Mexico Land Commissioner's Office and will contact them directly to address their concerns. CBP values its relationship with the New Mexico state trust lands. An important part of CBP's strategy to successfully secure the nation's borders includes developing and leveraging partnerships and dialogue with state and local stakeholders to ensure that the unique operational needs of each region are effectively met."
End
Man blew through checkpoint with meth, guns in car
Nogales International 14 hrs ago (0)
http://www.nogalesinternational.com/news/man-blew-through-checkpoint-with-meth-guns-in-car/article_44f164f4-20b6-11e8-b7e5-cbcb1646e2a0.html
A former Department of Homeland Security employee who barreled through the Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 19 in a car carrying methamphetamine and firearms was sentenced to five years of probation.
Sean Derek Golliher, 43, of Flagstaff, was sentenced Feb. 26 at Santa Cruz County Superior Court by Judge Thomas Fink, who also required Golliher to serve six months in the county jail. Another 30 days of jail time were deferred pending his successful participation in the Project SAFE anti-drug program.
According to Golliher's pre-sentence report, he drove through the checkpoint on Aug. 28, 2016, running over several traffic barricades and sending Border Patrol agents fleeing to avoid being run down.
Agents followed Golliher and he eventually pulled over. However, as they attempted to pat him down, he reportedly kept trying to reach for something under his waistband. He turned out to be wearing an empty gun holster.
Inside his vehicle, authorities found 13 plastic baggies containing a total of 27.8 grams of methamphetamine, as well as two handguns and eight loaded magazines. In addition, they found a glass pipe with residue in his front pants pocket and a butane torch.
What's more, agents found a wallet containing Golliher's U.S. Customs and Border Protection credentials, though a "retired" stamp had been removed from the ID.
His pre-sentence report says that he has been on workman's compensation from the Department of Homeland Security since 2014 due to a neck injury. It also shows that he joined the U.S. Air Force in December 1996 and was medically discharged in May 1997 due to a knee injury he sustained in basic training.
In a letter to the judge, Golliher claimed to have no recollection of the events leading up to his barreling through the checkpoint. He claimed that he was at a hotel in Nogales when two men showed up at his door and apparently injected him with something.
"The very next thing I remember is hearing a crash and seeing my windshield shattered in front of me and I'm driving down the road scared out of my mind thinking I must have hit a deer," he wrote.
He also asked the judge to allow him to change his guilty pleas to no-contest pleas.
He was convicted on one count of attempted unlawful transportation of a dangerous drug for sale, a Class 3 felony, as well as endangerment, a Class 6 felony, and a Class 1 misdemeanor DUI offense. The first conviction earned him five years of probation plus the jail time. The other two were punished with three years of probation each, with the sentences to run concurrent to (at the same time as) the five-year sentence.
END
New Mexico closes section of border wall to Customs and Border Protection
By: Kyle Hanson
Posted: Mar 06, 2018 12:51 PM MST
Updated: Mar 06, 2018 12:51 PM MST
http://www.kvia.com/news/new-mexico/new-mexico-closes-section-of-border-wall-to-customs-and-border-protection/712182811
Santa Fe, NM - New Mexico Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn says a one mile section of border wall just east of the Santa Teresa port of entry has been constructed on a state land trust without permission. Dunn says he will block border patrol where they trespass.
The section of land was given to New Mexico when it was a territory back in 1898 in accordance with the Ferguson act. The act states the land trust is to be used solely for public schools.
A proclamation made by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907 reserved a 60 foot wide strip of land along the U.S. side of the border for the federal government. The move was to prevent illegal smuggling of goods into the United States. Since New Mexico acquired the land before the proclamation, permission and payment for the occupation or use of the land by the federal government is required.
Commissioner Dunn launched an investigation last month that revealed the federal government did not acquire the necessary right-of-way, priced at $19,200, before building a border wall and a road along the trust lands in Santa Teresa.
Another section further to the west was found to be in violation of the trust as the United States built a structure, electric lights, and a road outside the proclamation area on State Trust Lands. That would cost the federal government an additional $9,600.
Dunn said, "Border security is important, but so are our kids and they have a right to collect the money earned from the lands they own. Mr. Trump, tear down this wall or pay New Mexico school kids what they're owed."
U.S. Customs and border protection released a statement saying, "U.S. Customs and Border Protection is diligently evaluating the concerns outlined by the New Mexico Land Commissioner's Office and will contact them directly to address their concerns. CBP values its relationship with the New Mexico state trust lands. An important part of CBP's strategy to successfully secure the nation's borders includes developing and leveraging partnerships and dialogue with state and local stakeholders to ensure that the unique operational needs of each region are effectively met."
End
Man blew through checkpoint with meth, guns in car
Nogales International 14 hrs ago (0)
http://www.nogalesinternational.com/news/man-blew-through-checkpoint-with-meth-guns-in-car/article_44f164f4-20b6-11e8-b7e5-cbcb1646e2a0.html
A former Department of Homeland Security employee who barreled through the Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 19 in a car carrying methamphetamine and firearms was sentenced to five years of probation.
Sean Derek Golliher, 43, of Flagstaff, was sentenced Feb. 26 at Santa Cruz County Superior Court by Judge Thomas Fink, who also required Golliher to serve six months in the county jail. Another 30 days of jail time were deferred pending his successful participation in the Project SAFE anti-drug program.
According to Golliher's pre-sentence report, he drove through the checkpoint on Aug. 28, 2016, running over several traffic barricades and sending Border Patrol agents fleeing to avoid being run down.
Agents followed Golliher and he eventually pulled over. However, as they attempted to pat him down, he reportedly kept trying to reach for something under his waistband. He turned out to be wearing an empty gun holster.
Inside his vehicle, authorities found 13 plastic baggies containing a total of 27.8 grams of methamphetamine, as well as two handguns and eight loaded magazines. In addition, they found a glass pipe with residue in his front pants pocket and a butane torch.
What's more, agents found a wallet containing Golliher's U.S. Customs and Border Protection credentials, though a "retired" stamp had been removed from the ID.
His pre-sentence report says that he has been on workman's compensation from the Department of Homeland Security since 2014 due to a neck injury. It also shows that he joined the U.S. Air Force in December 1996 and was medically discharged in May 1997 due to a knee injury he sustained in basic training.
In a letter to the judge, Golliher claimed to have no recollection of the events leading up to his barreling through the checkpoint. He claimed that he was at a hotel in Nogales when two men showed up at his door and apparently injected him with something.
"The very next thing I remember is hearing a crash and seeing my windshield shattered in front of me and I'm driving down the road scared out of my mind thinking I must have hit a deer," he wrote.
He also asked the judge to allow him to change his guilty pleas to no-contest pleas.
He was convicted on one count of attempted unlawful transportation of a dangerous drug for sale, a Class 3 felony, as well as endangerment, a Class 6 felony, and a Class 1 misdemeanor DUI offense. The first conviction earned him five years of probation plus the jail time. The other two were punished with three years of probation each, with the sentences to run concurrent to (at the same time as) the five-year sentence.
END
AZMEX F&F EXTRA 6-3-18
AZMEX F&F EXTRA 6 MAR 2018
Note: More on the video at the link.
Slain Border Patrol Agent's Brother Pleads for Trump, Sessions to Reopen 'Fast and Furious' Case
http://insider.foxnews.com/2018/03/06/slain-border-patrol-agent-brian-terrys-family-wants-president-trump-reopen-fast-furious
The brother of a murdered Border Patrol agent is calling on President Donald Trump to keep a promise he made on the campaign trail and reopen the "Fast and Furious" case.
Brian Terry was killed in 2010 by an illegal immigrant with a weapon used in the botched "gun-walking" program Operation Fast and Furious.
His brother, Kent Terry, tweeted at Trump on Saturday, asking him to "reopen the books" and get to the bottom of the scandal that cost his brother his life.
"We need to find out the truth, exactly what happened, how it happened, why it happened. We need Mr. Trump, President Trump, to unseal the documents, reverse executive privilege so that we know what happened, and that we can hold the people accountable that are responsible," Terry said on "Fox & Friends" Tuesday.
He said people at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Justice Department need to be held accountable for the government-approved operation that allowed thousands of guns to pour into Mexico.
"Everybody's still actively working, nobody's been punished, maybe just a slap on the hand, and that's about it," Terry said. "There needs to be justice for my brother. He deserves it. He spent 22 years serving his country as a law enforcement officer, a Marine, and that's what he deserves."
He said he never believed President Obama's Attorney General Eric Holder when he said that those responsible for his brother's death will be held accountable, but he's hopeful that Trump will help his family get the answers they've been seeking.
"When I met Mr. Trump back on the campaign trail, he was very apologetic for the actions that the previous administration did," Terry said. "He was very sincere about getting answers. He said it was shameful and that I think Mr. Sessions should step up and reopen the case, re-investigate it and hold those accountable."
Watch the full interview above, and see Jason Chaffetz react below.
END
Don't forget:
The Obama regime's "Fast & Furious" Mexican Lives didn't Matter.
Neither did law enforcement lives.
Thx
Note: More on the video at the link.
Slain Border Patrol Agent's Brother Pleads for Trump, Sessions to Reopen 'Fast and Furious' Case
http://insider.foxnews.com/2018/03/06/slain-border-patrol-agent-brian-terrys-family-wants-president-trump-reopen-fast-furious
The brother of a murdered Border Patrol agent is calling on President Donald Trump to keep a promise he made on the campaign trail and reopen the "Fast and Furious" case.
Brian Terry was killed in 2010 by an illegal immigrant with a weapon used in the botched "gun-walking" program Operation Fast and Furious.
His brother, Kent Terry, tweeted at Trump on Saturday, asking him to "reopen the books" and get to the bottom of the scandal that cost his brother his life.
"We need to find out the truth, exactly what happened, how it happened, why it happened. We need Mr. Trump, President Trump, to unseal the documents, reverse executive privilege so that we know what happened, and that we can hold the people accountable that are responsible," Terry said on "Fox & Friends" Tuesday.
He said people at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Justice Department need to be held accountable for the government-approved operation that allowed thousands of guns to pour into Mexico.
"Everybody's still actively working, nobody's been punished, maybe just a slap on the hand, and that's about it," Terry said. "There needs to be justice for my brother. He deserves it. He spent 22 years serving his country as a law enforcement officer, a Marine, and that's what he deserves."
He said he never believed President Obama's Attorney General Eric Holder when he said that those responsible for his brother's death will be held accountable, but he's hopeful that Trump will help his family get the answers they've been seeking.
"When I met Mr. Trump back on the campaign trail, he was very apologetic for the actions that the previous administration did," Terry said. "He was very sincere about getting answers. He said it was shameful and that I think Mr. Sessions should step up and reopen the case, re-investigate it and hold those accountable."
Watch the full interview above, and see Jason Chaffetz react below.
END
Don't forget:
The Obama regime's "Fast & Furious" Mexican Lives didn't Matter.
Neither did law enforcement lives.
Thx
Thursday, March 1, 2018
AZMEX POLICY 26-2-18
AZMEX POLICY 26 FEB 2018
Note: Mexico does not recognize their tribal lands.
The tribe VC doesn't seem to know that people can and do, legally cross the border? Every day.
Gracias
Tribal leader repeats vow to fight Arizona-Mexico border wall
BY KTAR.COM | FEBRUARY 26, 2018 AT 3:33 PM
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 26, 2018 AT 9:34 PM
http://ktar.com/story/1968983/tribal-leader-repeats-vow-fight-arizona-mexico-border-wall/
PHOENIX — A leader has reiterated his decision to fight a proposed border wall between the United States and Mexico that would cut tribal lands in two.
"I will do everything I can to oppose this wall," Tohono O'odham Nation Vice Chairman Verlon Jose said during an interview with The Guardian. "I have to. That's what I'm here for. I will oppose it."
Jose, whose tribe has moved between southwestern Arizona and Mexico for decades, said the wall would cut his community and its way of life in half. "I would feel very sad," he said. "I can't see my homeland, no matter which side I stepped on.
Related Links
Tohono O'odham: Border wall between US, Mexico won't be built on our Arizona land
Poll: Nearly half of Arizona sees Donald Trump's border wall as a waste of money
Tempe company says it can build 700-mile border wall in six years
Trump seeks $18 billion to extend border wall over 10 years
"I couldn't see my family, I could not reach out to my friends … to greet them, to feel them, to let them know that we're OK."
Jose has been a vocal opponent of the wall since President Donald Trump made it a key promise during his campaign.
Two years ago, he told KJZZ that the ancestral lands — which includes more than 60 miles of the international border — are more important to the community than politics.
"Over my dead body will a wall be built," Jose said at the time, describing some community members' sentiments.
"I don't wish to die but I do wish to work together with people so we can truly protect the homeland of this place they call the United States of America. Not only for our people but for the American people."
The Tohono O'odham reservation begins west of Lukeville and ends east of Sasabe. It is southwest of Tucson.
The tribe has about 34,000 members, about 2,000 of which live in Mexico.
End
Note: Mexico does not recognize their tribal lands.
The tribe VC doesn't seem to know that people can and do, legally cross the border? Every day.
Gracias
Tribal leader repeats vow to fight Arizona-Mexico border wall
BY KTAR.COM | FEBRUARY 26, 2018 AT 3:33 PM
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 26, 2018 AT 9:34 PM
http://ktar.com/story/1968983/tribal-leader-repeats-vow-fight-arizona-mexico-border-wall/
PHOENIX — A leader has reiterated his decision to fight a proposed border wall between the United States and Mexico that would cut tribal lands in two.
"I will do everything I can to oppose this wall," Tohono O'odham Nation Vice Chairman Verlon Jose said during an interview with The Guardian. "I have to. That's what I'm here for. I will oppose it."
Jose, whose tribe has moved between southwestern Arizona and Mexico for decades, said the wall would cut his community and its way of life in half. "I would feel very sad," he said. "I can't see my homeland, no matter which side I stepped on.
Related Links
Tohono O'odham: Border wall between US, Mexico won't be built on our Arizona land
Poll: Nearly half of Arizona sees Donald Trump's border wall as a waste of money
Tempe company says it can build 700-mile border wall in six years
Trump seeks $18 billion to extend border wall over 10 years
"I couldn't see my family, I could not reach out to my friends … to greet them, to feel them, to let them know that we're OK."
Jose has been a vocal opponent of the wall since President Donald Trump made it a key promise during his campaign.
Two years ago, he told KJZZ that the ancestral lands — which includes more than 60 miles of the international border — are more important to the community than politics.
"Over my dead body will a wall be built," Jose said at the time, describing some community members' sentiments.
"I don't wish to die but I do wish to work together with people so we can truly protect the homeland of this place they call the United States of America. Not only for our people but for the American people."
The Tohono O'odham reservation begins west of Lukeville and ends east of Sasabe. It is southwest of Tucson.
The tribe has about 34,000 members, about 2,000 of which live in Mexico.
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