crackdown info sheet mar 12
TRANSCRIPT
Joint Counterdrug Task ForceOPERATION CRACKDOWN
Information Sheet
Crackdown is the operational name of a program in which Texas Military Forces Soldiers and Airmen demolish structures associated with the drug trade. To date, this program has demolished more than 1,200 structures, varying from frame houses, to an abandoned warehouse, to a 40,000 sq./ft. former nursing home.
The Texas Military Forces Law Enforcement Support Joint Counterdrug Task Force is responsible for the coordination and organization of all Crackdown missions.
Before demolition begins all structures must meet strict criteria which includes: The city must send a letter requesting a Crackdown Mission. Once it has been approved a Memorandum of
Understanding is signed between the Texas Military Forces and the Requesting City. Each target structure must have a have a connection to the drug trade. The requesting city must provide a statement
certifying that the target site is connected to the drug trade, with police reports used to document an ongoing history of drugs at the target site.
All utilities must be disconnected from each structure, to include gas, water and electric. The owner of the property must sign a Hold Harmless agreement giving the Texas Military Forces permission to
demolish the structure on his/her property. If the owner does not agree to the demolition of his structure, the Texas Military Forces will not demolish the structure.
Each target structure must be inspected for hazardous materials, including asbestos, chemicals, etc. If hazardous materials are located, they must be removed prior to the mission’s start. Involvement with drug laboratories or the handling of hazardous materials by the Texas Military Forces is prohibited.
The Historical Commission must approve each structure for demolition regardless of when the structure was built. Law enforcement must physically secure the target site prior to the arrival of Texas Military Forces. An officer is
required to be on site throughout the duration of the mission. Supported communities must obtain clearances, court orders, warrants and/or permits for destruction, and arrange for
the removal and disposal of materials; no waste material will be left on the demolition site.
Operation Crackdown enhances military readiness by allowing Air and Army National Guard members to utilize their equipment in a “real world” mission. Improved readiness for Texas Military Forces soldiers and airmen proves to be a winning combination for the public safety of citizens and their children by supporting communities in the demolition of structures used by the drug trade.
Operation Crackdown missions have been held in the following cities:San Antonio (over 100+ structures) Angleton San AngeloTaylor Robstown GrangerElgin Driscoll Kingsville
Richmond Bishop EdenCorpus Christi (400+ structures) Galveston CalvertDallas Harlingen
The most successful Crackdown missions are ones in which communities use the Crackdown mission as a point around which to build or reenergize their community anti-drug activities.
Point of Contact: Capt Samantha Martinez SSG Michael LeslieOffice: (512) 782-6262 (512) 782-5633Email: [email protected] [email protected]
Fax (512) 782-5695
Updated: 17 February 2012 Crackdown Info.doc