S.Amdt. 5928

The amendment, known as the Nicholas Douglas Quets United States-Mexico Rapid Response for Victims of Crime Act, aims to add a new section to the bill to create a binational rapid response protocol. The purpose is to ensure timely coordination and communication between the United States and Mexican authorities when responding to and investigating serious crimes committed against United States citizens in Mexico.

The amendment seeks to add the following to the bill:

• Establishment of a Protocol: The Secretary of State and the Attorney General are tasked with negotiating a protocol with the Government of Mexico to handle serious crimes, which include homicides, kidnappings, disappearances, and violent crimes involving cartels or organized criminal groups.

• Key Goals: The protocol is intended to provide:

  • Prompt notification of authorities and secure communication channels.
  • Procedures for securing crime scenes and protecting physical evidence.
  • Sharing of forensic information, intelligence, and investigative leads.
  • Designated points of contact for extradition requests and communication with victims' families.
  • Joint training and planning opportunities.

• Accountability and Reporting: The Secretary of State must provide progress reports to congressional committees every 180 days until the protocol is established, and implementation reports annually after it is in place.