By KRWG News
Las Cruces – Border law enforcement agencies along the New Mexico-Mexico border are getting $375,000 from the federal government to curb smuggling, drug trafficking and other crime.
U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman announced the funding Monday.
The New Mexico Democrat said the funding will provide much needed support given that agencies in southern New Mexico continue to see their resources and manpower stretched thin due to ongoing drug and smuggling activity in the area.
The Southwest Border Law Enforcement Alliance plans to use the funding to purchase equipment to improve communication capabilities, surveillance and officer protection.
The alliance is made up of the sheriff departments in Dona Ana, Hidalgo, Grant, Luna and Otero counties and the police departments of Deming, Sunland Park, Lordsburg and Las Cruces.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.