January 05, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers started the New Year with its first major narcotics seizure, Monday, when it confiscated marijuana concealed in a sea cargo container.
Customs and Border Protection officers, working seaport operations at the Bayport Terminal, examined the container and discovered more than 885 pounds of marijuana concealed in pallets of tile. This seizure is estimated to be worth more than $440,000.
The shipment originated in Mexico and was destined to Chicago.
“Criminal organizations are enterprising,” said Jeffrey O. Baldwin Sr., CBP’s Houston director of Field Operations. “However, we will take every opportunity to disrupt illegal activity occurring in our area of operations, and this seizure is an example of that commitment.”
The marijuana will be destroyed.
The last major marijuana seizure by CBP for the Houston area was recorded in August 2008 when CBP officers seized more than 2,200 pounds of marijuana hidden in a shipping container.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
El Paso CBP Officers Stay Vigilant during the New Year Holiday Week
January 04, 2010: El Paso, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at El Paso area ports of entry made several marijuana seizures during the New Year holiday week. CBP officers confiscated a total of 359 pounds of marijuana.
One of the seizures was of a U.S. citizen male who had a baggie of marijuana strapped to his groin area under his clothing. The seizure was one of nine drug busts CBP officers made during the period.
“Our officers and agriculture specialists have worked hard throughout the holiday season to intercept illegal substances and wanted criminals, while dealing with large amounts of travelers,” said Ana Hinojosa, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Each seizure or fugitive arrest makes our community and our country that much safer.”
In the largest seizure of the period, CBP officers at the El Paso port of entry confiscated 107.54 pounds of marijuana on Tuesday. The seizure was made after a 1999 Ford Expedition entered the port from Mexico. A CBP officer at the primary inspection booth noticed inconsistencies on the door panels of the vehicle. CBP drug sniffing dog “Aura” searched the vehicle and alerted to the passenger’s side rear door. The vehicle was taken to a separate inspection area where an extensive inspection of the entire vehicle was conducted. CBP officers discovered 96 marijuana-filled packages concealed in the doors.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents arrested 20-year-old Krystal Millan of Glendale, Ariz. and 20-year-old Christopher Gonzalez of Tucson, Ariz. in connection with the failed smuggling attempt.
In addition to the drug busts, CBP officers working at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and New Mexico made a total of 18 seizures of agricultural items. Violators paid $3,525 in penalties in association with the violations. Prohibited food products seized included apples, sweet limes, oranges, live plants, live cactus, pomegranate, guavas, pork chorizo, pork ham, and avocados with seed.
CBP officers recorded 95 immigration violations at area ports this week including 21 imposters. CBP officers remain vigilant. Their thorough and diligent document exam process combined with their interview techniques helped in catching two alien smugglers. Imposters generally will use a legitimate entry document assigned to another person and present it as their own. Violators generally lose their documents, can be prosecuted and go to jail and/or are returned to Mexico.
CBP officers seized documents from 74 intended immigrants. In these cases, individuals will use a legally issued border-crossing card (laser visa) to live or work in the U.S., which is not authorized. They also lose their documents and are generally returned to Mexico.
CBP officers working at area ports made a total of 14 fugitive apprehensions during the period.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
One of the seizures was of a U.S. citizen male who had a baggie of marijuana strapped to his groin area under his clothing. The seizure was one of nine drug busts CBP officers made during the period.
“Our officers and agriculture specialists have worked hard throughout the holiday season to intercept illegal substances and wanted criminals, while dealing with large amounts of travelers,” said Ana Hinojosa, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Each seizure or fugitive arrest makes our community and our country that much safer.”
In the largest seizure of the period, CBP officers at the El Paso port of entry confiscated 107.54 pounds of marijuana on Tuesday. The seizure was made after a 1999 Ford Expedition entered the port from Mexico. A CBP officer at the primary inspection booth noticed inconsistencies on the door panels of the vehicle. CBP drug sniffing dog “Aura” searched the vehicle and alerted to the passenger’s side rear door. The vehicle was taken to a separate inspection area where an extensive inspection of the entire vehicle was conducted. CBP officers discovered 96 marijuana-filled packages concealed in the doors.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents arrested 20-year-old Krystal Millan of Glendale, Ariz. and 20-year-old Christopher Gonzalez of Tucson, Ariz. in connection with the failed smuggling attempt.
In addition to the drug busts, CBP officers working at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and New Mexico made a total of 18 seizures of agricultural items. Violators paid $3,525 in penalties in association with the violations. Prohibited food products seized included apples, sweet limes, oranges, live plants, live cactus, pomegranate, guavas, pork chorizo, pork ham, and avocados with seed.
CBP officers recorded 95 immigration violations at area ports this week including 21 imposters. CBP officers remain vigilant. Their thorough and diligent document exam process combined with their interview techniques helped in catching two alien smugglers. Imposters generally will use a legitimate entry document assigned to another person and present it as their own. Violators generally lose their documents, can be prosecuted and go to jail and/or are returned to Mexico.
CBP officers seized documents from 74 intended immigrants. In these cases, individuals will use a legally issued border-crossing card (laser visa) to live or work in the U.S., which is not authorized. They also lose their documents and are generally returned to Mexico.
CBP officers working at area ports made a total of 14 fugitive apprehensions during the period.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
Monday, January 04, 2010
CBP K-9 Team in Douglas Finds Marijuana in Dash
January 01, 2010: US Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a marijuana smuggling attempt when a K-9 team detected $30,000 of marijuana concealed in a non factory compartment deep in the dash of a vehicle. On December 30 at about 4 p.m. CBP officers became suspicious of a 1995 Volkswagen Jetta that was being driven by a 20-year-old woman from Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico. CBP officers utilized a narcotics detection K-9 team to search the vehicle and discovered marijuana concealed in a non-factory compartment concealed deep in the dash area.
The total weight of marijuana was nearly 20 pounds with an estimated street value of $30,000. CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The woman was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further questioning.
Brownsville CBP Officers Apprehend Fugitive Wanted for Reckless Endangerment
January 01, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Los Indios International Bridge apprehended a male wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant by the U.S. Marshals Service for First Degree Reckless Endangerment with a Dangerous Weapon.
On December 31, 2009 CBP officers came in contact with a male pedestrian as he arrived at the Los Indios International Bridge for inspection. Checks of a law enforcement database at primary alerted officers to a possible match to an outstanding arrest warrant for 31-year-old Brendon Kevin Dawson, a citizen of Belize from Kenosha, Wisc. Dawson was referred to secondary for further inspection and verification of the outstanding arrest warrant. In secondary, CBP officers verified Dawson’s identity and confirmed that he is the subject of active arrest warrant from the U.S. Marshals Service in Wisconsin for a first degree reckless endangerment with a dangerous weapon charge.
CBP officers arrested Dawson and subsequently turned him over to the custody of the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office. Brendon Kevin Dawson was transported to the Carrizales-Rucker county jail where he remains incarcerated pending extradition to Wisconsin to face pending charges.
“This wanted fugitive was identified using a CBP database at primary. This is a good arrest by CBP officers in a continued effort to stop wanted fugitives from circumventing the laws of the United States,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville.
On December 31, 2009 CBP officers came in contact with a male pedestrian as he arrived at the Los Indios International Bridge for inspection. Checks of a law enforcement database at primary alerted officers to a possible match to an outstanding arrest warrant for 31-year-old Brendon Kevin Dawson, a citizen of Belize from Kenosha, Wisc. Dawson was referred to secondary for further inspection and verification of the outstanding arrest warrant. In secondary, CBP officers verified Dawson’s identity and confirmed that he is the subject of active arrest warrant from the U.S. Marshals Service in Wisconsin for a first degree reckless endangerment with a dangerous weapon charge.
CBP officers arrested Dawson and subsequently turned him over to the custody of the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office. Brendon Kevin Dawson was transported to the Carrizales-Rucker county jail where he remains incarcerated pending extradition to Wisconsin to face pending charges.
“This wanted fugitive was identified using a CBP database at primary. This is a good arrest by CBP officers in a continued effort to stop wanted fugitives from circumventing the laws of the United States,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Border Patrol Seizes SUV Loaded with Marijuana
December 31, 2009): Yuma, Ariz. – Border Patrol agents intercepted a drug smuggling attempt and seized more than 900 pounds of marijuana early today near San Luis, Ariz. Border Patrol agents in Arizona were able to chase down this Ford Bronco and seize almost a thousand pounds of marijuana that was loaded in the back cargo area.
At about 1:30 a.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the Yuma Station observed a 1989 Ford Bronco drive up to the primary border fence several miles east of the San Luis, Ariz. port of entry. When the vehicle stopped near the fence, several individuals who had been waiting atop the fence loaded large bundles into the vehicle.
The driver then sped away from the border at a high rate of speed. Despite attempts by the driver to blend in with local traffic, Border Patrol agents spotted the Bronco and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to yield to the agents’ emergency equipment and then turned around and headed back toward the border.
Agents successfully deployed a tire deflation device, flattening three of the vehicle’s tires. The vehicle eventually came to a stop just north of the border fence where the driver and two other occupants exited the Bronco and climbed the fence into to Mexico to evade arrest.
Agents discovered 34 plastic-wrapped bundles of marijuana stuffed inside the vehicle. A total of 929 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $743,200 was seized. The marijuana and Ford Bronco were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
During the month of December, Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents prevented more than 5,000 pounds of marijuana from being delivered to American streets.
At about 1:30 a.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the Yuma Station observed a 1989 Ford Bronco drive up to the primary border fence several miles east of the San Luis, Ariz. port of entry. When the vehicle stopped near the fence, several individuals who had been waiting atop the fence loaded large bundles into the vehicle.
The driver then sped away from the border at a high rate of speed. Despite attempts by the driver to blend in with local traffic, Border Patrol agents spotted the Bronco and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to yield to the agents’ emergency equipment and then turned around and headed back toward the border.
Agents successfully deployed a tire deflation device, flattening three of the vehicle’s tires. The vehicle eventually came to a stop just north of the border fence where the driver and two other occupants exited the Bronco and climbed the fence into to Mexico to evade arrest.
Agents discovered 34 plastic-wrapped bundles of marijuana stuffed inside the vehicle. A total of 929 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $743,200 was seized. The marijuana and Ford Bronco were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
During the month of December, Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents prevented more than 5,000 pounds of marijuana from being delivered to American streets.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Agents Investigate New Tunnel Found in Nogales
Wednesday, December 30, 2009:A sink hole found in a Nogales city street two days before Christmas, west of the DeConcini port of entry, prompted city officials to contact the Nogales Border Patrol Station on Tuesday to investigate. The city had placed a steel plate over the sink hole as a temporary fix to facilitate street traffic during the pending holiday.
The tunnel originates from the Grand Avenue Storm drainage system in Mexico. A plug of red brick and mortar was used to conceal the tunnels entrance. A rope, a bucket, and digging tools were found inside the incomplete tunnel. Smuggling organizations often use existing drainage tunnels to aide their smuggling attempts. Remediation will be completed on the uncompleted tunnel soon.
“Tunneling attempts present a threat to our homeland security,” said Nogales Station Patrol Agent in Charge Alan F. White, “We aren’t just worried about drugs and illegal aliens, but also about the potential of terrorists and their weapons entering our nation in this manner. We will continue to maintain our vigilance to ensure that we stop any threat before it enters our country.”
This is the second illicit tunnel discovered in Nogales, Ariz., since October this year. Last fiscal year, a total of 20 tunnels were discovered. Cooperation between the Border Patrol and the City of Nogales has proven to be fruitful as they work together to remediate tunnels and repair damaged city infrastructure. Tunneling is a clear indicator of the frustration smugglers are experiencing and illustrates their willingness to use any means to continue illegal operations.
Border Patrol Seizes More than $850,000 of Methamphetamine
December 29, 2009): El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Indio Station and working the Highway 111 checkpoint seized more than 26 pounds of methamphetamine. A red luxury sedan entered the Highway 111 checkpoint on Monday evening for inspection. During the primary inspection, a Border Patrol canine team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle. The canine alerted to the trunk and the vehicle was referred to secondary for further inspection. A subsequent scan of the vehicle using a large-scale imaging system revealed an anomaly under the spare tire located in the trunk of the vehicle. Agents discovered 12 vacuum-sealed bags of a crystalline substance in the area beneath the spare tire. The crystal substance tested positive for the properties of methamphetamine.
The methamphetamine weighed approximately 27 pounds and has an estimated value of more than $850,000. The driver, the vehicle and methamphetamine were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
El Centro Sector has witnessed a significant increase in the amount of narcotics being seized this year. In the few months since the fiscal year began on October 1, the El Centro Sector has already surpassed last fiscal year’s total amount seized of heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Officers Make First Significant Marijuana Seizure at New Anzalduas Border Crossing
December 28, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Anzalduas and Hidalgo international bridges seized approximately 248 pounds of marijuana in two separate and unrelated enforcement actions. The combined estimated street value of the marijuana is close to $198,000.
On December 23, CBP officers working at the Anzalduas/Reynosa International Bridge came in contact with a northbound 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe towing a utility flatbed trailer. The driver of the Tahoe was identified as David Rodriguez, a U.S. citizen, age 20 from Mission, Texas. Rodriguez was accompanied by his 19-year-old wife and two minor children, ages one and two.
At primary, officers noted discrepancies to the trailer’s undercarriage. After the initial primary inspection, a CBP officer referred the vehicle, flatbed trailer and occupants to secondary for further inspection. In secondary, “Jango," a narcotics detector dog, alerted officers to narcotic odors emanating from the utility trailer. A non-intrusive imaging system scan indicated anomalies under the trailer floor. While conducting an intensive examination of the utility trailer, CBP officers found 104 marijuana packages hidden under the trailer’s floor.
The marijuana packages weighed approximately 123 pounds with an estimated street value of close to $98,000. CBP officers arrested Rodriguez on federal drug charges. After his arrest, Rodriguez was transferred to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate this failed smuggling attempt. Rodriguez’s spouse and children were released.
On the same day, CBP officers at the Hidalgo/Reynosa International Bridge came in contact with a northbound 1996 Ford Explorer. The driver of the Explorer was identified as Diana C. Ramirez, a Mexican citizen, age 21 from Houston, Texas. Ramirez was accompanied by a 13-year-old female passenger.
A CBP officer referred the driver, passenger and Explorer to secondary for further inspection. In secondary, officers noted discrepancies to the Explorer’s four tires. While in secondary, "Laika," a narcotics detector dog, alerted officers to narcotic odors emanating from the Explorer’s four tires. A non-intrusive imaging system scan revealed anomalies inside the Explorer’s four tires. CBP officers dismantled the tires and all tires were found to conceal metal containers full of marijuana. In total, CBP officers removed 24 marijuana packages that were found hidden inside the metal containers. The marijuana packages weighed approximately 125 pounds with an estimated street value of close to $100,000. CBP officers arrested Ramirez on federal drug charges.
After her arrest, Ramirez was transferred to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate this failed smuggling attempt. The 13-year-old minor was released to the custody of the local office of the State of Texas Child Protective Services. Pending appearance before a U.S. Magistrate, both Rodriguez and Ramirez remain incarcerated.
Hector A. Mancha, CBP port director, Hidalgo/Pharr and Anzalduas said, “The Anzalduas crossing became operational less than 10 days ago and this is the first significant seizure at the Anzalduas International Bridge.” Mancha further said, “I commend our frontline officers and K-9 teams for their great enforcement work during the holiday season and for intercepting these two drug loads.”
Monday, December 28, 2009
Black Tar Heroin Hidden in Woman’s Boots
December 28, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge discovered $129,000 in black tar heroin hidden in the boots of a female; one U.S. citizen was arrested. On December 27, primary CBP officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge encountered a woman as she applied for entry into the country as a pedestrian. At primary CBP officers referred the pedestrian for secondary inspection. Once in secondary the woman was identified as Jessica Gayle Smith, a 21-year-old U.S. citizen from Brownsville, Texas. CBP officers’ examination of the woman resulted in the discovery of two packages concealed within her boots. "Boger," a narcotics detector dog, further alerted officers to the odor of narcotics emanating from the footwear. CBP removed one package from each boot and seized a combined total of 2.3 pounds of black tar heroin.
The black tar heroin in this enforcement action has an estimated street value of nearly $129,000. Jessica Gayle Smith was arrested by CBP officers and turned over to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate the seizure and processed her on federal drug charges.
“Brownsville CBP officers’ enforcement on primary resulted in the discovery of this load of black tar heroin. I congratulate our officers for stopping these dangerous drugs from being brought into the country,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director in Brownsville.
Southbound Operations Seize Nearly $17,000 Exiting the U.S.
December 28, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Douglas port of entry stopped an illegal exportation of nearly $17,000 while screening traffic going into Mexico. On December 23 at about 3:30 p.m., CBP officers were screening traffic going into Mexico as part of a southbound operation. The officers selected a 2003 Honda Accord being driven by a 34-year-old man from Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico.
Further inspection revealed that the man was attempting to smuggle nearly $17,000 out of United States. The CBP officers found the illegal currency concealed in the man’s briefcase and the glove-compartment of the vehicle he was driving.
CBP officers seized the illegal currency. The man was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further questioning.
Further inspection revealed that the man was attempting to smuggle nearly $17,000 out of United States. The CBP officers found the illegal currency concealed in the man’s briefcase and the glove-compartment of the vehicle he was driving.
CBP officers seized the illegal currency. The man was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further questioning.
Day Before Christmas Officers Seize Marijuana at Naco Port of Entry
December 28, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a drug-smuggling attempt the day before Christmas, when they seized nearly 70 pounds of marijuana concealed in various hidden compartments of a vehicle. On December 24 at about 11 a. m. CBP officers were screening travelers when they became suspicious of a 1998 Chevrolet Pick-up truck being driven by a 72-year-old man from Cananea, Sonora, Mexico.
Using high-tech tools, CBP officers searched the man’s vehicle and discovered that the quarter panels, the third door, the front dash, the bench seat, and the air filter all contained packages of marijuana. The total weight of marijuana was nearly 70 pounds with an estimated street value of $106,000.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
Using high-tech tools, CBP officers searched the man’s vehicle and discovered that the quarter panels, the third door, the front dash, the bench seat, and the air filter all contained packages of marijuana. The total weight of marijuana was nearly 70 pounds with an estimated street value of $106,000.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
Friday, December 25, 2009
460th Police Department Listed
December 25, 2009: With the addition of the Pittsfield Police Department (Massachusetts), Police-Writers.com now lists books written by police officers from 460 state and/or local law enforcement agencies. The book, Rising Through the Ranks: Leadership Tools and Techniques for Law Enforcement, was written by the current Chief of Police, Mike Wynn; and, is one of the 2379 books written by 1081 police officers in the United States.
For more information, visit the website:
http://www.police-writers.com/
For more information, visit the website:
http://www.police-writers.com/
RUDY GIULIANI running scared?
DECORATED NY COP’S New Book, NYPD Blue Lies, sends “AMERICA’S MAYOR” RUDY GIULIANI running scared?
(New York, NY)—Is it possible that the hard hitting, book which has sold out at Barnes & Noble and Amazon, NYPD Blue Lies; by former NYPD Sergeant Charles Castro has send Rudy Giuliani running scared?
Rudy Giuliani has announced that he will not run for office, instead he will give his support to the weak Republican Rick Lazio. Lazio who was defeated years ago by Hillary Clinton is set to challenge a top democrat, either U.S. Senator Gillibrand or the equally weak NY Gov. David Paterson.
Although Castro thinks that Giuliani would have been a stronger candidate he feels that Rudys past is “not all that pretty”.
In Castro’s book he exposes the harmful effects of Giuliani’s lack of leadership, the violation of citizen’s rights, racial tension caused by Rudy, and about how Rudy condoned police corruption. “The Giuliani administration gave the appearance that they were holier than thou, yet they were just as dirty as any administration before them. Cops that committed sickening crimes against women, Latinos, and blacks were treated with kid gloves”. “I dare anyone to challenge my claims”.
“I think Rudy will wait for along time before he considers running for office again, his exploitation of September 11, abuse of power and weakness against dirty cops has come back to haunt him”.
Charles Castro led the fight thirteen hundred blacks & Latinos and ultimately won—a $27 million anti-discrimination class action lawsuit against Giuliani and the city of New York.
(New York, NY)—Is it possible that the hard hitting, book which has sold out at Barnes & Noble and Amazon, NYPD Blue Lies; by former NYPD Sergeant Charles Castro has send Rudy Giuliani running scared?
Rudy Giuliani has announced that he will not run for office, instead he will give his support to the weak Republican Rick Lazio. Lazio who was defeated years ago by Hillary Clinton is set to challenge a top democrat, either U.S. Senator Gillibrand or the equally weak NY Gov. David Paterson.
Although Castro thinks that Giuliani would have been a stronger candidate he feels that Rudys past is “not all that pretty”.
In Castro’s book he exposes the harmful effects of Giuliani’s lack of leadership, the violation of citizen’s rights, racial tension caused by Rudy, and about how Rudy condoned police corruption. “The Giuliani administration gave the appearance that they were holier than thou, yet they were just as dirty as any administration before them. Cops that committed sickening crimes against women, Latinos, and blacks were treated with kid gloves”. “I dare anyone to challenge my claims”.
“I think Rudy will wait for along time before he considers running for office again, his exploitation of September 11, abuse of power and weakness against dirty cops has come back to haunt him”.
Charles Castro led the fight thirteen hundred blacks & Latinos and ultimately won—a $27 million anti-discrimination class action lawsuit against Giuliani and the city of New York.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the city
Not a thug was stirring oh my what a pity;
And the flat saps were hung by the jail with care,
In hopes they wouldn’t be used in there.
The brass were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of paperwork danced in their heads;
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/night_before_christmas.html
Not a thug was stirring oh my what a pity;
And the flat saps were hung by the jail with care,
In hopes they wouldn’t be used in there.
The brass were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of paperwork danced in their heads;
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/night_before_christmas.html
South Texas Border Patrol Agents Seize $5 Million Worth of Marijuana
December 23, 2009: Early this morning, U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Zapata, Texas station seized a load of marijuana weighing more than three tons. Responding to reports of suspicious activity in the vicinity of Falcon Shore Drive, agents observed a travel trailer with cellophane-wrapped bundles visible through the windows. A Border Patrol canine team detected the possible presence of contraband in the trailer.
Agents searched the trailer and found 284 bundles. The bundles contained marijuana with a total weight of 6,254 pounds and an estimated street value of $5 million.
Agents also apprehended one male subject who was found in a vehicle parked near the trailer.
The subject, trailer, and contraband were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Agents searched the trailer and found 284 bundles. The bundles contained marijuana with a total weight of 6,254 pounds and an estimated street value of $5 million.
Agents also apprehended one male subject who was found in a vehicle parked near the trailer.
The subject, trailer, and contraband were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Spring 2010 Rural Law Enforcement Technology Institute, May 2-7, 2010, Coronado (San Diego), Calif.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2010
Description:
For the eighth year, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is sponsoring a Rural Law Enforcement Technology Institute. This technology institute will be held May 2-7, 2010, in Coronado (San Diego), Calif., and is targeted/designed for the command staff/supervisory personnel of rural and small law enforcement agencies containing fewer than 50 sworn officers. Law enforcement personnel will learn about and discuss technology initiatives and issues affecting the rural and small law enforcement community. Participants will receive information and assistance on existing and developing technologies, work through problems relating to technology implementation, and exchange technology lessons learned that are important to the rural and small law enforcement community.
As part of the program, participants are required to give a brief (no more than 15 minutes) PowerPoint presentation on a technology issue that their department has encountered or is in the process of implementing (e.g., implementation of a crime mapping program, new communications system or automated booking station). The presentation can be either an issues to be dealt with or a lessons-learned format, depending on whether the program has been completed, and must be submitted on CD-ROM with the application.
There is no registration cost and all travel, food and lodging expenses are paid. However, only 35 individuals will be selected to attend. Previous attendees of the NIJ Rural Law Enforcement Technology Institute or the NIJ Technology Institutes for Law Enforcement or Corrections are not eligible to attend.
For a copy of the application form go to:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/training/rural-institute.htm
The deadline for submitting an application is February 1, 2010. Applications not received by that date and/or applications submitted without a CD-ROM containing the PowerPoint presentation will not be considered. The application and PowerPoint CD-ROM should be mailed to the following address:
Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center
ATTN: Rural LE Tech Institute
101 Bulldog Lane
Hazard, KY 41701
For additional information, please contact Scott Barker, Deputy Director-Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center, at (866) 787-2553 or e-mail ruletc1@aol.com
Description:
For the eighth year, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is sponsoring a Rural Law Enforcement Technology Institute. This technology institute will be held May 2-7, 2010, in Coronado (San Diego), Calif., and is targeted/designed for the command staff/supervisory personnel of rural and small law enforcement agencies containing fewer than 50 sworn officers. Law enforcement personnel will learn about and discuss technology initiatives and issues affecting the rural and small law enforcement community. Participants will receive information and assistance on existing and developing technologies, work through problems relating to technology implementation, and exchange technology lessons learned that are important to the rural and small law enforcement community.
As part of the program, participants are required to give a brief (no more than 15 minutes) PowerPoint presentation on a technology issue that their department has encountered or is in the process of implementing (e.g., implementation of a crime mapping program, new communications system or automated booking station). The presentation can be either an issues to be dealt with or a lessons-learned format, depending on whether the program has been completed, and must be submitted on CD-ROM with the application.
There is no registration cost and all travel, food and lodging expenses are paid. However, only 35 individuals will be selected to attend. Previous attendees of the NIJ Rural Law Enforcement Technology Institute or the NIJ Technology Institutes for Law Enforcement or Corrections are not eligible to attend.
For a copy of the application form go to:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/training/rural-institute.htm
The deadline for submitting an application is February 1, 2010. Applications not received by that date and/or applications submitted without a CD-ROM containing the PowerPoint presentation will not be considered. The application and PowerPoint CD-ROM should be mailed to the following address:
Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center
ATTN: Rural LE Tech Institute
101 Bulldog Lane
Hazard, KY 41701
For additional information, please contact Scott Barker, Deputy Director-Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center, at (866) 787-2553 or e-mail ruletc1@aol.com
Border Patrol Agents Seize Cash, Cocaine in Blythe
December 23, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Blythe Station seized more than $80,000 in cash and two pounds of cocaine in separate smuggling attempts over the weekend. On December 18, Border Patrol agents arrested two individuals traveling in a 2008 Gray Chrysler 300. During the vehicle stop, a K-9 team alerted to the vehicle. A search of the trunk yielded several bundles of U.S. currency totaling $82,075. The money was turned over to the Blythe Narcotics Enforcement Team and the two individuals were released pending an investigation.
The next day, agents arrested two more individuals traveling in a 2001 Gold Chevrolet Impala. A K-9 team responded to the vehicle stop and quickly alerted to the vehicle. Agents searched the vehicle and found a plastic wrapped bundle of cocaine in the speaker box. The cocaine weighs a little more than two pounds and has an estimated street value of $74,720. The cocaine and suspects were turned over to the Narcotics Task Force Office of Palm Springs. Since October 1, 2009, the Blythe Border Patrol Station has seized approximately $235,000 in cash.
The next day, agents arrested two more individuals traveling in a 2001 Gold Chevrolet Impala. A K-9 team responded to the vehicle stop and quickly alerted to the vehicle. Agents searched the vehicle and found a plastic wrapped bundle of cocaine in the speaker box. The cocaine weighs a little more than two pounds and has an estimated street value of $74,720. The cocaine and suspects were turned over to the Narcotics Task Force Office of Palm Springs. Since October 1, 2009, the Blythe Border Patrol Station has seized approximately $235,000 in cash.
CBP Seizes $3.2 Million Worth of Belts with Counterfeit Design
December 22, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials at Los Angeles/Long Beach seaport complex seized 11,676 belts displaying a counterfeit Burberry design. The belts have an appraised domestic value of $23,954. Had the items been legitimate the value would have been over $3.2 million. On December 18, CBP officials seized the belts for infringing on the Burberry pattern trademark. The shipment arrived from China and the final destination was the state of New Jersey. CBP officers and import specialists work closely with trademark and copyright owners to identify counterfeit and pirated products.
In this case, the Burberry design looked authentic, but the import specialist conducting the inspection was not deceived and forwarded the images to representatives of Burberry LTD to authenticate. Burberry representatives confirmed the belts were not branded to Burberry’s specifications and CBP concluded the design to be counterfeit.
“CBP maintains a very aggressive program to intercept shipments containing commodities which violate any trade laws of the United States,” said Kevin Weeks, director of CBP Los Angeles Field Operations. CBP officers and import specialists in cooperation with other law enforcement agencies and the trade community are working together to reduce the importation of counterfeit products.
The items have been seized and following the normal forfeiture procedures, the belts will be destroyed if they are forfeited to the government.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Mastermind of ‘La Tómbola,’ Massacre in Toa Baja
Alexis Candelario Arrested on Armed Career Criminal Charges Alleged Mastermind of ‘La Tómbola,’ Massacre in Toa Baja, P.R.
December 16, 2009: On November 10, a sealed complaint against Alexis Candelario Santana was authorized by U.S. Magistrate Judge Justo Arenas charging federal firearms violations under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and (924)(e). Last night Candelario Santana was arrested by Customs and Border Protection agents in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The announcement of the arrest was made today by Rosa Emilia RodrÃguez-Vélez, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, along with federal and state law enforcement agents.
Candelario Santana is the alleged mastermind of the massacre which occurred on October 17, 2009, in the business establishment known as “La Tómbola” in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, where eight people were killed and 20 injured.
“The arrest of Candelario Santana is the result of the joint efforts of a task force of federal and state prosecutors and law enforcement agents who worked tirelessly to locate and capture him. We will continue working with our state and federal law enforcement partners to conclude the ongoing investigation into the events of October 17,” said U.S. Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodriguez-Vélez.
This arrest was part of the joint efforts of the FBI, DEA, Puerto Rico Police Department, ATF, ICE, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Puerto Rico Department of Justice.
"Thanks to our continuous collaboration with federal, state and local partners we are able to protect the U.S. borders from criminals, while facilitating legal trade and travel". Miguel Isaac, director of Marine Operations for CBP. Penalties for the firearms offenses alleged in the complaint range from 15 years to life imprisonment, and fines up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Contreras, of the Violent Crimes Unit. The investigation into Candelario Santana’s criminal activities is ongoing.
December 16, 2009: On November 10, a sealed complaint against Alexis Candelario Santana was authorized by U.S. Magistrate Judge Justo Arenas charging federal firearms violations under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and (924)(e). Last night Candelario Santana was arrested by Customs and Border Protection agents in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The announcement of the arrest was made today by Rosa Emilia RodrÃguez-Vélez, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, along with federal and state law enforcement agents.
Candelario Santana is the alleged mastermind of the massacre which occurred on October 17, 2009, in the business establishment known as “La Tómbola” in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, where eight people were killed and 20 injured.
“The arrest of Candelario Santana is the result of the joint efforts of a task force of federal and state prosecutors and law enforcement agents who worked tirelessly to locate and capture him. We will continue working with our state and federal law enforcement partners to conclude the ongoing investigation into the events of October 17,” said U.S. Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodriguez-Vélez.
This arrest was part of the joint efforts of the FBI, DEA, Puerto Rico Police Department, ATF, ICE, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Puerto Rico Department of Justice.
"Thanks to our continuous collaboration with federal, state and local partners we are able to protect the U.S. borders from criminals, while facilitating legal trade and travel". Miguel Isaac, director of Marine Operations for CBP. Penalties for the firearms offenses alleged in the complaint range from 15 years to life imprisonment, and fines up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Contreras, of the Violent Crimes Unit. The investigation into Candelario Santana’s criminal activities is ongoing.
CBP Officers Seize More than 600 Ecstasy Pills at Brownsville Port of Entry
December 21, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge discovered $12,400 in Ecstasy concealed under the clothing of a male body carrier; one U.S. citizen was arrested. On December 19, CBP officers at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge referred a pedestrian for secondary inspection. At secondary the man was identified as Oscar Javier Rodea, a 23-year-old U.S. citizen from Brownsville, Texas. CBP officers’ examination of the male’s clothing and person resulted in the discovery that the male had a package containing a total of 620 pills of Ecstasy hidden under his clothing.
The Ecstasy, also known as methylenedioxymethamphetamine or MDMA, in this enforcement action has an estimated street value of $12,400. Oscar Javier Rodea was arrested by CBP officers and turned over to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate the seizure. After thorough review of the case, the pedestrian was processed by the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office on state drug charges.
“CBP officers working the primary inspection area maintained their alertness and applied their experience and inspection skills which greatly contributed to the interception of this load of narcotics. The continued training our officers receive has had outstanding result with this seizure of hundreds of Ecstasy pills,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville.
The Ecstasy, also known as methylenedioxymethamphetamine or MDMA, in this enforcement action has an estimated street value of $12,400. Oscar Javier Rodea was arrested by CBP officers and turned over to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate the seizure. After thorough review of the case, the pedestrian was processed by the Cameron County District Attorney’s Office on state drug charges.
“CBP officers working the primary inspection area maintained their alertness and applied their experience and inspection skills which greatly contributed to the interception of this load of narcotics. The continued training our officers receive has had outstanding result with this seizure of hundreds of Ecstasy pills,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville.
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