Texas Authorities Respond to Allegations of Migrant Abuse and Harsh Border Tactics

The Texas Department of Public Safety has responded to allegations of migrant abuse along the U.S.-Mexico border, disputing claims made in an email by a state trooper. The trooper alleged "inhumane" treatment of migrants and claimed they were directed to physically push migrants into the Rio Grande river. The department spokesperson stated that the trooper misunderstood the order, which was meant to verbally direct migrants to go to a port of entry. The trooper also alleged that commanders told them not to distribute water to migrants, which the department denied. The department acknowledged that the barriers along the border are dangerous but stated that they are meant to deter crossings. The allegations are being investigated, but the department claims there is no systemic abuse of migrants. The U.S. Department of Justice is aware of the reports and is working with relevant agencies to assess the situation.