AUSTIN, Texas – A Texas Senate panel examined the growing use of illicit drones and the trafficking of stolen fuel along the Texas-Mexico border.
Lawmakers heard that small unmanned aircraft can be used by criminal organizations for surveillance and smuggling, complicating the work of local, state and federal agencies. The hearing also addressed fuel theft and cross-border distribution networks that can generate revenue for organized crime.
The committee discussed coordination, technology and possible changes in state law as agencies work to track drone activity and disrupt trafficking operations.
