Armed Cartel Incursions From Mexico: Best Options For Prevention And Response
Abstract
As violence continues to increase in Mexico, and the value of supply lines between the U.S. and Mexico increase in importance to drug cartels, the need for a plan to deal with these groups forcing their way into the U.S. increases. The only entity able to match weapons and tactics with the former special-forces members of several cartel private armies is the Department of Defense. The purpose of this paper is to consider what level of prevention or response is available, and viable, under U.S. law and the rules of engagement, when a threat of an armed and violent incursion into southwestern sovereign U.S. territory by Mexican drug cartels increases. This paper will address the historical and current conditions that justify planning for this situation. Three different courses of action will be examined in light of what legal requirements and rules of engagement would apply, as well as what additions or modifications would be necessary. Finally, the best course of action will be chosen after comparing the strengths and weaknesses of all three options.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 04, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA503152
Entities
People
- Davin E. Rieke
Organizations
- Naval War College