SAN DIEGO — U.S. Border Patrol agents seized a total of $253,550 worth of marijuana and liquid methamphetamine this week in two separate attempted drug smuggling events.

ALPINE ---- New state legislation introduced Aug. 24 might eliminate the new annual $150 State Responsibility Area (SRA) fees for state fire prevention services.

The Alpine Fire Protection District Board of Directors unanimously adopted a resolution two days earlier opposing the new fees of $150 per residential building in forested or wildfire-prone areas. The $126 million raised would support state fire prevention efforts, officials said.

El CAJON— A Crest man pleaded guilty Aug. 16 to animal cruelty that involved the beating of his puppy that was so severe the dog had to be euthanized.

Phillip Shawn Rich, 26, will be sentenced Sept. 21 by El Cajon Superior Court Judge William McGrath. Rich could receive three years in prison, probation, or be housed in a special program for veterans, said Deputy District Attorney Ryan Karkenny.