Letter to the Hon. Kevin K McAleenan - Congressman Gonzalez Requests Answers about Concertina Wire Removal on U.S.-Mexico Border

Letter

Commissioner McAleenan,

I write today to express serious concerns that I share with my constituents about the militarization of our border, and the deployment of concertina wire. On behalf of our local leaders, who have already expressed their concerns to the agents and leadership on the ground, I request that your agency take personal responsibility for ensuring complete removal of this dangerous wire.

The deployment of this wire, as well as the militarization of the border is having a palpable effect on U.S.-Mexico relations and the daily lives of many who live in border communities like mine. We have U.S. Citizens who work in Mexico, Mexican citizens who work in the U.S., and relationships between companies on both sides of the border that are suffering due to the presence of U.S. troops, concertina wire, and other elements associated with armed conflict. My constituents and I understand that wire is being removed in certain areas, and there are plans to remove more. As such, I am requesting further information about these plans and ask that you please respond to my questions below about this process with specificity.

Where was concertina wire deployed in Texas? Your response may include a map showing the location, or written statements providing reasonable information showing the same.
How much of the wire was permanently affixed to other border deterrent measures, and where?
When can we expect the wire you identified in response 1 and 2 to be removed?
Have you had reports of injuries to U.S. Citizens because of the wire?
Have you had reports of wildlife getting caught in the wire?
If you are not able to provide a response to 4 or 5 above, why not?

Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Fred Castro, Legislative Counsel, at fred.castro@mail.house.gov, or via phone at (202) 225-2531.

Regards,

Vicente Gonzalez

Member of Congress

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