Cafeteria stabbing guilty plea

In Wharton, a high school student named Leroy Scarlett, who was part of an October 2022 cafeteria stabbing, admitted guilt. He faced charges for organized criminal activity related to his actions. The court sentenced him to four years of deferred probation, a $500 fine, and 250 hours of community service.

Suspect dealing with 11 charges

In Wharton County, a 26-year-old suspect named Jamel Henderson is dealing with 11 charges. Two of these charges are related to theft. Currently, he is being held in the Wharton County Jail, and his bail amount is $159,000.

Fuel Theft Bust

Two guys, Idalberto Miranda from Las Vegas and Jose Valdes-Rivera from Houston, were caught red-handed stealing diesel at Love’s Travel Stop in Hungerford. They used stolen credit cards to pump about 164 gallons of diesel, costing around $646. Turns out, they were suspects in similar thefts in Houston a couple of weeks ago. Both were … Read more

Early Voting

Over 1,200 Wharton County voters have already cast their primary ballots. With 25,946 registered voters, the turnout is expected to rise. The first three days saw the highest activity in El Campo with 515 votes, followed by Wharton with 356, and East Bernard with 88.

Hog Show Victory

Kathleen Arias, a long-time competitor since third grade, won the grand champion title at this year’s Victoria Livestock Show’s hog judging. She was thrilled to impress her dad and team with her first win. Deana Leinen took home the reserve champion award. The event had hundreds of hogs.

Day of Caring

Matagorda County United Way is hosting its 14th Annual Day of Caring on April 26th. They’re offering free minor home repairs for seniors or disabled homeowners. Volunteers will do all the work, which can include painting, yard work, and small carpentry projects. Applications are available now and due by March 22nd. They’re also looking for … Read more

Border Security

Wharton County Sheriff’s Department is seeking state grants for border control efforts. Sheriff Shannon Srubar will request to apply for Operation Lone Star and Operation Stonegarden grants at the next commissioners court meeting this morning. Lone Star helps Texas border officers tackle illegal immigration, while Stonegarden is the federal version. Other topics include a Cinco … Read more

El Campo City Projects

El Campo City Council is meeting tonight to discuss an $8 million bond for sewer and road repairs. This includes $1.8 million for emergency repairs on South Wharton Street, and $2.8 million for planned sewer improvements. They’re also considering a $3.8 million request for road improvements. Other topics include demolition projects, a potential Farmers Market, … Read more

Employee and resident arrested

Two people linked to a local nursing home are in jail. Cassity Jones, an ex-staff member, is accused of lying on official records about an assault on a resident. He’s held on a $30,000 bond. The company he worked for, Colonial Living, says they’re cooperating with the investigation. Michael McCloud, a former resident, is accused … Read more

Fish Restocking

Starting Monday, fishing at the Riverside Park duck pond in Victoria won’t be allowed, except for city-hosted events. The pond was stocked with fish last October, and young catfish will be added in March. This closure lets the fish grow and establish their population. Signs will notify residents, and violators may be ticketed.