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Zapata, TX – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced $375,000 in federal funds to support border security in Zapata County. The funds, provided by Operation Stonegarden, will be used by the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office to pay overtime and acquire essential equipment, including patrol units, License Plate Recognition systems (LPRs), and advanced communication radios.

This grant will impact the 13,849 residents of Zapata County.

“Every year, the resources provided by Operation Stonegarden assist our local law enforcement in their efforts to protect our border communities. By providing resources for more manpower and essential equipment, these federal funds allow our local law enforcement to carry out the necessary operations to enhance security along our southern border,” said Dr. Cuellar, a Senior Member of the House Appropriations Committee. “I helped start Operation Stonegarden in 2008 and have since secured nearly $10 million in Operation Stonegarden funds for Zapata County. This has meant more security for the people at the border to feel safe at home, work, and school. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I will continue to provide the necessary funding our local law enforcement agencies need to keep our South Texas communities safe and secure. Thank you to Zapata County Sheriff Raymundo Del Bosque, Border Patrol, and our local, state, and federal officers for their commitment to helping secure our southern border.”

“We are immensely grateful to Operation Stonegarden for their continued support and investment in our community's safety. With this funding, we will be able to enhance our operational capabilities, ensure the safety of our residents, and effectively combat crime in Zapata County. These resources will enable our dedicated officers to remain vigilant and responsive, even in the face of challenging circumstances,” said Zapata County Sheriff Raymundo Del Bosque.

Since 2008, Zapata County has received $9,708,823 in Operation Stonegarden funding. This funding has allowed the county to cover extraordinary expenses incurred to reinforce border security.

For more information on the Operation Stonegarden Grant Program, click here.

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