http://www.elpasotimes.com/apps/pbcs.dl ... 5510180328

Local news Tuesday, October 18, 2005

In brief: Mexico says crime starts on both sides of border

Times staff reports

The Mexican foreign ministry reacted to the border security plan from Gov. Rick Perry, saying it "will be alert to make sure that the rights of Mexicans are respected," a statement read.

Perry announced last week that he would give border law enforcement agencies $9.7 million to beef up security.

"It is in the interest of both Mexico and the United States to have a safe border. To do this, there must be close bilateral cooperation based on the principle of shared responsibility. Organized crime originates and operates on both sides of the border," the statement read.

Police questioned in Juárez officer's slaying

JUAREZ -- State police officers who work the night shift in Juárez are being questioned about the shooting death Saturday of one of their co-workers a block from the police station, state police said.

Héctor Nevárez Espinoza, 24, was found inside a van riddled with bullets from an AK-47. It was not clear Monday whether the van belonged to the victim. Internal affairs investigators are questioning 20 officers as well as a taxi driver and other witnesses, police said.

Home counseling group gets $114,756 grant

Project BRAVO Inc. has received $114,756 for housing counseling services from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, announced Monday.

The Housing Counseling Program supports the delivery of a variety of housing counseling services to home buyers, homeowners, low- to moderate-income renters and the homeless.

Its main goal is to expand homeownership opportunities and improve access to affordable housing.