Date of Graduation

Spring 2012

Degree

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Department

Defense and Strategic Studies

Committee Chair

John Rose

Abstract

The objective of this thesis was to analyze the current situation along the U.S. Southwest border with Mexico regarding the security efforts of U.S. and Mexican law enforcement agencies, and offer policy recommendations. The focus was on the Texas border in order to narrow the scope of this study. The key variables studied were: (1) drug and weapon smuggling by the Mexican cartels; (2) security measures law enforcement agencies have in place and how the cartels get passed them; (3) how to further protect citizens from the violence. This research indicated that many security measures are in place along the border; however more needs to be done. The conclusion reached is that a security network between the U.S. law enforcement agencies and the Mexican military needs to be created in order to end cartel influences in Southwest border towns.

Keywords

southwest border, drug trafficking organizations, law enforcement agencies, points of entry, interagency cooperation, security measures

Subject Categories

Defense and Security Studies

Copyright

© William Jack Cornelius

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