In the small, rural Jackson County, Texas, sheriffs and deputies have been tackling an unprecedented surge in cartel-related crime through the collaborative efforts of the multi-agency Operation Lone Star (OLS) Task Force. Led by Goliad Sheriff Roy Boyd, OLS has been crucial in combating the influx of cartel operatives, human smugglers, and drug traffickers moving through the region, particularly along Highway 59, a major corridor used for trafficking between Houston and Mexico.
Outgoing Jackson County Sheriff Kelly Janica, who has been on the front lines of the operation, expressed frustration with the federal response to the growing crisis. “The Biden administration created an unmitigated disaster,” Janica said, echoing concerns about the lack of federal support for small counties facing cartel violence. His efforts, alongside new incoming sheriff Rick Boone, helped initiate the OLS task force in response to the escalating violence that has plagued these rural communities for decades.
OLS has provided the necessary resources for small counties to combat organized crime in ways that were previously not possible. For Janica, OLS represents a pivotal moment in his law enforcement career. “Operation Lone Star was one of the best things in my career,” he remarked, citing its success in dismantling human trafficking operations, apprehending fugitives, and recovering stolen vehicles.
The coalition has grown, now including over 50 agencies from across the state, working together with the common goal of pushing back against cartel influence. Boone, who took over as sheriff after Janica’s retirement, emphasized that the task force’s success lies in its collaborative nature. “It’s not just a county deal,” Boone explained, noting that cities, local law enforcement, and state agencies such as the Department of Public Safety (DPS) have all contributed to the effort. “It’s a team effort.”
The results of OLS have been remarkable, with the task force capturing major smuggling operations and disrupting cartel activities. As the nation continues to grapple with the growing threat of cartel violence, Boone expressed pride in the success of the task force. “Other states, like Missouri, are looking at us as a frontrunner,” he said, highlighting the impact OLS has had beyond Texas.
Despite the successes, challenges remain. The border crisis continues to strain local law enforcement, and Jackson County remains a crucial checkpoint in the fight against cartel crime. However, with Operation Lone Star’s model now seen as an example for other states, law enforcement leaders are hopeful that collaborative, resource-driven efforts will continue to make strides in the ongoing battle against organized crime.
