TULIA REACHES ITS CITY LIMITS

Unity Vital In Wake Of TABC Bust

It is understandable if emotions are running high in Tulia these days.

The controversy and racial allegations regarding a 1999 drug sting that
resulted in the arrest of 43 individuals, 40 of whom happened to be black,
has not totally subsided, and for many people, probably never will.

Now another controversy involving law enforcement and charges of racism
threatens to reignite the flames of division in a community that has seen
more than its share.

It is time to take a deep breath and gain perspective before yet another
controversy splits the community.

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is refuting allegations of racism
related to a May 25 bust of a graduation party in Tulia.

TABC executive director Rolando Garza released a public letter stating
support for the investigation, which was part of TABC's Safe Prom/Safe
Graduation program.

However, Garza, while denying any influence of race in the investigation,
did say the TABC believes things could have been handled differently.

More than 20 citations were issued for minor in possession of alcohol at
the home of Mario Rosales. The bust occurred in Tulia's Hispanic community,
and those involved have levied allegations of racism and improper treatment
against the TABC.

Even though those charged will not be prosecuted, the possibility exists
for more racial strife.

TABC agents Manuel Rios and Trevor McGill were terminated because of
unprofessional conduct during the bust. Both have appealed the decision,
and Garza declined to discuss the terminations pending the appeal.

The terminations seem to support at least the claims of improper conduct,
but Rios and McGill should be afforded the opportunity to address the
allegations under TABC policy.

In the meantime, the Tulia community cannot permit another controversy,
even on a smaller scale, to divide the town along racial lines.

To a certain extent, a scar may still be present from 1999.

It would be unfortunate for a town that can boast of "the richest land and
the finest people" to have to recover from an old wound.