FBI ARRESTS 10 TEXAS POLICE OFFICERS ON THEFT, DRUG-TRAFFICKING CHARGES

SAN ANTONIO -- Twelve people, including 10 law enforcement officers, were
arrested Thursday on federal charges of theft and drug-trafficking.

The FBI arrested eight San Antonio police officers and a Bexar County
constable on charges they used their badges and guns to protect drug shipments.

A Bexar County sheriff's deputy was charged with stealing $2,000. Two San
Antonio residents also were arrested.

"We are sickened and shocked by the inexcusable actions of these officers,"
said San Antonio Police Chief Al Philippus.

In an investigation that began in 1997, FBI agents posed as drug dealers
and asked officers to protect their bogus cocaine shipments, said Roderick
Beverly, special agent in charge of the FBI's San Antonio division.

Philippus said the department will investigate to determine if any of the
officers' supervisors should be disciplined.

All of the officers under indictment have been placed on administrative
leave. The officers face sentences of 10 years to life in federal prison if
convicted. U.S. Attorney Bill Blagg said the arrests should not damage
public trust in the police.