Guerra denied access to Pecos prisoners

PECOS - County lawyers in this West Texas city have told attorney Juan Angel Guerra that he cannot meet with his clients inside a prison plagued by riots.

In a letter sent to Guerra, Willacy County's former district attorney, Reeves County officials state that his visit would be unsafe.

"We are doing everything possible to meet your request," Reeves County Attorney Alva Alvarez wrote. "However, since the facility was destroyed, there is no secure place for you to meet with your clients at this time."

Before receiving notice of the county's decision, Guerra headed to the Reeves Detention Center in Pecos, which is managed by the GEO Group.

Guerra said he would file a request to a federal judge to gain access to nearly 200 clients.

In her letter, Alvarez said the county hopes to accommodate Guerra in the near future.

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