Central Texas poses high threat for drug cartels, gangs

Posted: Mar 27, 2013 4:42 PM PDT
By Mike Iliopoulos - email

CENTRAL TEXAS -
The threat of drug cartels and gangs in Texas is growing, especially right here at home.

Mexican drug cartels show the most significant threat to the state for organized crime. According to a report from the Texas Department of Public Safety, McLennan, Bell and Williamson counties show a high concentration of gang activity.

Currently, six of the eight most dangerous cartels have command and control networks working in the state. The majority of smuggling routes come through the Central Texas area on interstate highways, bringing drugs and people into the country, and transporting cash, weapon and stolen cars back to Mexico.

Interstate 35 is a popular route used by cartels to smuggle illegal substances. Gang activity has been growing in the state with reports of more than 100,000 members in as many as 2,500 gangs. Nationally, gang membership estimates increased 40% from 2009-2011.

Many of these gangs are working directly with Mexican drug cartels.

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