Posted on March 29, 2010

El Paso Area Law Enforcement Officers Targeted

Monica Balderrama, KFOX-TV (El Paso), March 25, 2010

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Barrio Azteca gang members say they plan to kill law enforcement officers in the El Paso area as retaliation, the [Department of Homeland Security] said.

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The officer safety alert stated that the Barrio Azteca gang may authorize the attempted murder of law enforcement officers as retaliation.

Last week, the FBI and DEA conducted a sweep of Barrio Azteca members, resulting in the arrest of dozens alleged gang members. The gang has ties with the Juárez drug cartel and is under scrutiny for its possible involvement in the murders in Juárez of three people tied to the U.S. Consulate. FBI officials said the threat is uncorroborated but want to warn officers anyway.

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Orta said now more than ever his officers do radio checks to make sure they know where everyone is at all times. And he makes sure he watches his own back so he can make it home after his shift.

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