6/22/2014
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The Department of Public (DPS) surge has begun amid the increase of immigrants illegally crossing into the Rio Grande Valley.
DPS was directed by Texas lawmakers to “begin conducting amplified border security operations,” according to DPS spokesperson Tom Vinger.
The state law enforcement agency will assist federal and local law enforcement along the border in the Rio Grande Valley.
They will work to combat crime and Mexican cartels until the end of this year.
The move comes after Texas Gov. Perry, Texas House Speaker Joe Straus and Lt. Gov. Dewhurst directed a surge on the border.
Unaccompanied minors entering the Rio Grande Valley more than doubled last year’s numbers, the state lawmakers addressed in a letter.
“The purpose of this operation and the millions in funding is to have more DPS troopers where their focus will be on security gaps that are left open by federal agents who are overwhelmed dealing with a large number of immigrant,” Texas State Senator Chuy Hinojosa said in a press release.
Checkpoints along roads will not be set up during the law enforcement surge.
“Due to operational security and law enforcement safety, the department will not provide details of border security operational plans,” DPS Said.
DPS said they will be dedicated to fighting crime committed by “ruthless Mexican cartels”.
“This will ensure drug smugglers and human traffickers do not take advantage of this situation,” Hinojosa said in a statement.
Since DPS cannot enforce immigration laws they contact federal authorities who can then detain immigrants suspected to be in the country illegally.
“Until the federal government fulfills its duty, it falls on the State of Texas to address those obligations,” Perry, Straus and Dewhurst wrote.
The surge along the border will cost about $1.3 million per week.
DPS is expected to give a report of costs to the 84th legislature, which begins in January 2015.
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