FBI ASKED TO PROBE DALLAS DRUG BUSTS

DALLAS -- The FBI has been asked to investigate nearly 60 drug busts by
Dallas police in which fake drugs or tiny amounts of the real thing mixed
with drywall were used as evidence against defendants.

"These cases have raised questions in the mind of the public that reflect
not just on police procedures, but on the integrity of the entire criminal
justice system," District Attorney Bill said. "It is essential to have an
independent agency involved so the results of the investigation will
restore public trust."

The Drug Enforcement Administration said Thursday that it would only look
into police policies and procedures. The FBI typically handles cases
involving allegations of public corruption.

Dallas Police Chief Terrell Bolton has said the department was conducting
an internal review of 70 drug purchases initiated by a paid informant since
1999. He pledged the department's support in the FBI investigation.

Prosecutors are working to dismiss at least 59 drugs cases. Several of the
defendants have been deported and at least three are imprisoned, Hill said.

Two undercover narcotics officers and one paid confidential informant have
been put on administrative leave.