Perry activates border-violence plan

AUSTIN (KXAN/AP) - Gov. Rick Perry activated Tuesday a secret spillover violence contingency plan, citing an increasing threat of violence crossing the Texas border from Mexico.

A general idea of what to come was outlined, though Perry's office said details would not be released because of security concerns.

"With the growing threat of violence in Mexico spilling over the border, we have taken important measures to increase the law enforcement presence along the Texas border and have placed additional resources on standby to combat any potential situation," said Perry.

The plan includes increased surveillance of border activity and increased ground, air and maritime patrols.

Additional resources ready for rapid deployment also have been placed on standby. Those resources include Texas Department of Public Safety tactical teams and Trooper Strike Teams, as well as Texas Ranger Recon Teams prepared to deploy based on the threat.

Perry's office said a porous border places Texas and the nation at risk from international terrorists, organized crime cartels and transnational gangs.

The governor's office reminded Texans that Perry has a standing request with the federal government for 1,000 National Guardsmen to support civilian law enforcement efforts to enhance border security.

"It is imperative that the federal government immediately provide additional resources to prevent spillover violence, but with the safety of Texans on the line, we can't afford to wait," said Perry.

Perry said Texas will continue filling in the gaps - until the federal government fulfills its responsibility of securing the border - by putting more boots on the ground, providing increased law enforcement resources and leveraging technology along the border.

"Texas has a unique cultural and economic relationship with Mexico, and we are committed to a common interest of shutting down these criminal enterprises," Perry said. "We will continue to closely monitor this situation, and take any necessary action to ensure the safety of our citizens and to protect continued legitimate cross-border trade and travel."

Since January 2008, a reported 4,700 homicides have been committed across the border from El Paso in Ciudad Juarez, making it one of the most violent cities in the world. It is known to many as the most dangerous city in the world.