Butler County Sheriff's Office

[Public Info Officer]

For Immediate Release…. June 1, 2007

Sheriff Receives “Thank You” from Mexican Consulate

Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones has received a letter of thanks from Martin Alcala, the Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis, for courtesies extended to Consul Lorena Alvarado and Vice-consul Elsa Villa during their recent visit to the Sheriff’s Office and Jail on May 18, 2007. The Mexican Consulate had previously requested to meet personally with Sheriff Jones to discuss items of mutual concern. Arrangements were then made for Consul Alvarado and Vice-consul Villa to meet privately, here, with the Sheriff. After their meeting, they were given a tour inside the Butler County Jail, and were permitted to speak with several Mexican prisoners currently housed here.

In his letter to Sheriff Jones, Consul Alcala expressed thanks for the Sheriff’s assistance with the visit, and indicated a desire to strengthen a relationship with the Sheriff’s Office with an opportunity for both sides to benefit from open and clear communications. He appreciated the “frankness and openness of our discussions” and hopes to continue an open dialogue from now on.

Sheriff Jones was pleased with the meeting, also, and was able to gain a better understanding of the role and function of the Mexican Consulate, which is basically to assist Mexican prisoners only with family and personal issues – not to interfere with criminal proceedings or court-ordered incarcerations. Sheriff Jones stated, “It was a good visit, good meeting, and a good exchange of information. I also hope we can continue with open and productive dialogue. When we communicate, we can better address problems and issues as they arise.”

Prepared by: Sgt. Monte Mayer
Public Information Officer