Zapata, TX—Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $375,000 in federal funds to support border security in Zapata County. The money will be used by the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office to pay for overtime hours, operating expenses, and new equipment—resources that are necessary for the security of the community.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Stonegarden Grant Program (OPSG) provides funding to law enforcement agencies with the objective of enhancing border security. Up to $90,000,000 is available in total OPSG funding for FY2022, including $39,875,000 for the state of Texas. OPSG funds are allocated based on the risk to the security of the border.

 “Every year, the resources provided by the Stonegarden Program assist our local law enforcement in their efforts to protect our border communities. By providing new, updated equipment and more man power, these funds allow our local law enforcement to carry out the necessary operations to enhance security along our southern border—helping us fight  the war on drugs and human trafficking,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Since 2008, I have secured over $9.3 million in Operation Stonegarden funds for Zapata County and delivered over $142 million in total OPSG funding for TX-28. As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I will continue to provide the necessary funding our local law enforcement agencies require to keep our South Texas communities safe and secure.”

Congressman Cuellar Continued. “I want to thank Zapata County Sheriff Raymundo Del Bosque, as well as the local, state, and federal officers for their commitment to helping secure our southern border.”

“I appreciate Congressman Henry Cuellar for helping us in acquiring more funding through  Operation Stonegarden.  This funding will assist us in providing The Zapata County Sheriff’s Office with state of the art equipment and overtime. Operation Stonegarden will assist us in protecting Zapata County and provide and enhance border security operations.  The safety and the security of all the citizens and families of Zapata County is my priority,” said Zapata County Sheriff Raymundo Del Bosque.

Since 2008, Zapata County has received $9,308,823 in Operation Stone Garden 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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