http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mp ... an/3231051

Perry increases border security with more troops, equipment
By POLLY ROSS HUGHES
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle Austin Bureau


AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry is beefing up law enforcement along the violence-plagued border with about 100 extra state troopers and $1.2 million for communications equipment.

"It will be a sizable enough contingent that the people who live there will see the increased security," said Kathy Walt, Perry's spokeswoman.

Walt said the additional troopers will enhance security on the Texas side of the border to ensure that residents and visitors feel safe in the wake of Mexican drug cartel violence.

Earlier this week, Laredo Mayor Betty Flores sent Perry a letter pleading for his help.

"It is with great urgency that I write you this letter requesting financial assistance from the state of Texas to help the city of Laredo combat violence that is a direct result of the organized crime and violence occurring in our neighboring city of Nuevo Laredo," Flores wrote in a letter dated June 13. "In two separate incidents a few days ago, two individuals were gunned down in broad daylight at Laredo places of business; one of the individuals was from Nuevo Laredo."

The governor decided to expedite the equipment grant so federal, state and local law enforcement officials who use radios with different frequencies will be able to communicate with each other.

Walt said the grant money will flow from the criminal justice division in the governor's office to the South Texas Development Council.

She said a $5 million homeland security grant is in the works for the region so law enforcement and emergency warning agencies can better communicate.