FBI probe of threats sought
Big News Network
Thursday 16th February, 2006 (UPI)


The FBI has been asked to probe reported death threats to families of
sheriff's deputies in West Texas after a standoff with men dressed as
Mexican soldiers.

The investigation, reports the El Paso Times, was sought by U.S. Rep.
Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, who said in a letter to the agency, It is my
understanding that the threats were made by members of a
drug-trafficking gang in Mexico.

An FBI spokeswoman in El Paso said her agency has not yet started an
investigation, but did not rule it out.

The threats reportedly came after a Jan. 23 standoff when deputies
pursued drug smugglers to the U.S.- Mexico border near Sierra Blanca,
the newspaper reported. The suspects were then joined by armed men in
military-style clothing and crossed into Mexico.

Mexican officials have denied the involvement of their military.