“The motive behind the murder of two U.S. Consulate employees and a Detention Officer with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office remains under investigation by Mexican Authorities and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is the lead U.S. Agency. Not withstanding the article published in today’s El Paso Times , it is our understanding from our counterparts in the FBI there is no evidence to support the theory that any of the three victims were specifically targeted. Although a former Barrio Azteca gang member by the name of Ricardo Valles de la Rosa has stated otherwise, it must be remembered that he is a career criminal whose credibility may be suspect. I am confident that once the FBI has fully investigated this case and all possible motives, they will make this information known to the public. For members of the Sheriff's Office to comment or speculate on the investigation would be irresponsible and possibly compromise the integrity of the investigation. The public should rest assured we remain vigilant and ready to respond to any threat against a law enforcement member or citizen of our community.

In regard to Detention Officer Arthur Redelfs specifically, I would like to re-emphasize that he was a model officer in good standing with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. He received several commendations and letters of recognition throughout his 10 - year career. Any statement that Officer Redelfs may have "mistreated" anyone is without merit given his record of performance. Records of this Office contain no information that he ever was complained upon for mishandling or mistreating an inmate. Officer Redelfs' family and members of the public need not doubt that Officer Redelfs was a true professional who dedicated his life to a profession that is dangerous and yet necessary to protect this community from individuals like those who viciously killed him and his wife. He served with honor and will always be remembered as a true hero who made a positive difference in our community”

SHERIFF RICHARD WILES – EL PASO COUNTY, TX