News from the South - Texas News Feed
The 9@9: Judge extends block on federal aid freeze; 10% tax hike on Chinese goods; Broccoli recall
SUMMARY: Texas National Guard soldiers are now authorized to make immigration arrests under a pact signed by ex-Governor Greg Abbott with Customs and Border Protection. The FBI faces a deadline from the DOJ for information on January 6th case employees, stirring concern among staff. Meanwhile, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to freeze federal grants. President Trump introduced new tariffs on Chinese imports, while also pausing tariffs on Canada and Mexico. A study revealed alarming levels of microplastics in human brains. Additionally, the FDA issued a serious recall for contaminated broccoli and United Healthcare agreed to a $2.5 million settlement for unauthorized telemarketing calls.

The 9@9 features some of the biggest stories making headlines at home, around the country and across the globe. Here’s what’s trending.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Harris County District Attorney says communication breakdown led to release of sex assault suspect
SUMMARY: Eric LaTroy Brown, 40, is currently wanted for allegedly raping a University of Houston student at knifepoint in a campus parking garage. He was released from jail less than 24 hours after the attack due to a communication breakdown in the Harris County District Attorney’s office. A prosecutor initially accepted charges for resisting arrest, but a subsequent review failed to link Brown to the sexual assault, leading to his release. District Attorney Shan Chang acknowledged the system’s failure and emphasized plans to improve case handling and ensure better coordination among law enforcement to prevent future incidents.

Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare admitted Friday the office “made mistakes in this case” and a breakdown of communication led to the release of the suspect in a sexual assault at the University of Houston.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
SA Zoo discusses safety measures after highly contagious bird flu detected in New Braunfels park
SUMMARY: Bird flu, confirmed in several Texas cities, is impacting egg prices and raising concerns for animal safety. Texas Parks and Wildlife reported positive tests for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 22 black vultures and three ducks at Landa Park. The San Antonio Zoo is maintaining strict protocols to protect its over 10,000 animals. Dr. Tara Hadley emphasized readiness to implement precautions like wearing masks and gloves. While daily testing isn’t currently necessary, the zoo is prepared for increased bird flu cases. The CDC recorded 68 human cases this year, but the public risk remains low. People can help by avoiding contact with wild birds.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is in New Braunfels. San Antonio is in preventative mode.
News from the South - Texas News Feed
Lottery Commission, former director accused of defrauding Texans
SUMMARY: Following a Senate Finance Committee hearing about alleged manipulation of a $95 million Lotto Texas jackpot, former Texas Lottery Commissioner Gary Grief faces serious accusations. A Houston Chronicle investigation revealed Grief may have partnered with Lottery.com to orchestrate a scheme that began in 2017, involving potentially illegal arrangements to print lottery tickets and bypass regulations. Allegations also suggest Grief enabled a conspiracy to distribute fraudulent tickets globally and manipulate lottery rules, all while facilitating significant ticket purchases for the jackpot. Calls for investigations by Texas authorities are growing, with ongoing lawsuits and claims of unethical practices surrounding the incident.
The post Lottery Commission, former director accused of defrauding Texans appeared first on www.kxan.com
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