By KRWG News
Las Cruces – Five southern New Mexico counties will share $4 million in federal funds aimed at bolstering security efforts along the Mexican border.
Dona Ana and Luna counties will receive the largest shares, $1.2 million each. Hidalgo County will get $750,000, while Grant and Otero counties each were awarded $400,000.
Rep. Harry Teague, D-N.M., says the funds were secured through a federal government program called Operation Stonegarden. He says the program provides support to local-level law enforcement, such as sheriffs offices and police departments, on border issues.
The funding can be used for overtime pay or to purchase equipment needed for border security activities such as purchase of all-terrain vehicles, night vision equipment and communications devices.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.