(March 1, 2006)--A South Texas rancher and a sheriff were among the witnesses who testified Wednesday during a U.S. Senate committee hearing on violence along the Mexican border.

The hearing before the Senate Immigration, Border Security and Citizenship subcommittee, chaired by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, focused on the increasing crime and violence along the border, assaults on federal agents and the efficacy of physical barriers in providing border security.

“Combating border violence will take a concerted and thoughtful effort by all parties involved,” Cornyn said at the hearing.

“I believe it is important that the federal government use all of its resources to gain control of the border.”

Val Verde County Sheriff Wayne Jernigan and Falfurrias rancher Lavogyer Durham were among those who testified during the hearing.

Cornyn and Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., are the authors of legislation aimed at strengthening bolder security and reforming immigration laws.

“The legislation that Sen. Kyl and I have introduced tackles this problem on every front,” Cornyn said.

The Senate Judiciary Committee begins debate Thursday on immigration reform, which Cornyn says is key to border security.

The full Senate could take up the measure by the end of March.

“It is not possible to separate the increase in border violence and incursions from our broken immigration system,” Cornyn said.

“When half a million illegal aliens can come across our border each year, it’s no wonder criminals and drug traffickers believe they are above the law. Unless and until Congress addresses the immigration problem across the board, we will continue to experience an unacceptable level of violence along the border.”

Click Here To Read Sen. Cornyn’s Opening Statement