State lawmakers tackle border violence

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Rape, human trafficking, child prostitution, drug trafficking and grisly murders mar the image of the Texas border and are happening more often in all cities in the state.

Texas Director of Homeland Security Steve McGraw said it is all due to the most powerful motive out there.

"This is all about money," he said. "And, they'll continue to try to move people and drugs, regardless of the type of drugs...into the U.S. and move bulk cash, stolen vehices and weapons back into Mexico to support their operations."

The violence coming from the Mexican drug cartels has gotten worse throughout the years. And despite Texas pouring millions of dollars into the effort to combat it, the cartels' power in Texas has gotten greater. Still, McGraw said combat operations are working.

"These proactive patrols, these helicopters doing patrols at night, supporting law enforcement operations on the ground..it's had a measurable impact on cartel activity," he said. "I can trust one thing: The cartels don't like it. Anything the cartels don't like, we like."

McGraw said it would take continued support from the state legislature to get the cartel problem under control.

The committee also heard from Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson on the ability to ensure judicial readiness during an emergency or disaster.

Assistant Director of Emergency Management Jack Colley also spoke on the state's preparedness when it comes to dealing wth all types of natural disasters in the state.