Alleged Human Smuggling

In a joint effort, deputies from Goliad and Jackson Counties arrested three individuals in Roma for alleged human smuggling and criminal activities. The suspects, accused of using hideouts to detain migrants before moving them to Houston, were apprehended as part of Operation Lone Star. Each held on a $175,000 bond, they have since been released.

Suspect Surrenders

In Wharton, 20-year-old Allyn Perez turned himself in to the police. Perez faces two charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Currently, he remains in custody with no bond set. Local authorities commend the peaceful surrender, hoping it aids in the swift resolution of the case.

Orbeez Gel Guns

In recent days, Bay City Police have rushed to multiple incidents involving Orbeez gel guns. These toys, which can look like real guns, caused panic as people mistook them for actual gunfire. Police urge parents to address this with their kids, as misuse of these gel guns can lead to criminal charges.

Teens Face Court Delay

The court hearing for four former students of Industrial I.S.D. has been pushed to June 6. It’s the third time the date has shifted since Christopher McRory, Cullen Stumfoll, Braxton Warren, and Zach Kuchler first appeared. They’re accused of a serious assault on a bus in April ’23.The teens allegedly assaulted a fellow student on … Read more

Victoria’s First Charity Race

Over 200 people braved the foggy Saturday morning to run in Victoria’s first charity race, supporting the local police. Stephen Carnes won the men’s race, and a young team from Peach Perfect Gym pushed through the humidity to finish. The event raised over $8,000, funding police equipment and community programs, including a women’s leadership conference.

Drugs and More

Brian Patrick Huggins, 44, from El Campo, was arrested last week for possessing less than a gram of meth after a traffic stop on West Fifth. He was taken to Wharton County Jail and released on a $15,000 bond. Meanwhile, Jace William Castillo, 18, also from El Campo, was arrested the same day on a … Read more

Wharton ISD Meeting

At Thursday night’s Wharton ISD meeting, trustees spent 45 minutes on the consent agenda, discussing the math program, financial report, and teacher development. Trustee Curtis Evans suggested raising questions with Superintendent Michael O’Guin before meetings to save time. Concerns about payments to the Boys & Girls Club for tutoring were also discussed. The board will … Read more

New Bag Policy

As the school year wraps up, Wharton ISD is introducing a new rule which started on Monday. Students won’t be allowed to bring backpacks or large bags to school. Instead, they can only carry a small purse or clutch, no larger than 6x9x5 inches. This change aims to enhance campus security and streamline daily routines.

Actor Prokop Arrested

Victoria police arrested 33-year-old actor Matthew Ray Prokop, known for “High School Musical 3,” on Saturday for domestic violence. He faces charges of aggravated assault with a weapon and resisting arrest, with bonds set at $77,500. Prokop, a Victoria native, moved to Los Angeles at 15 to pursue acting. This isn’t his first brush with … Read more

Graduation Night

Despite a stormy evening, Boling High School celebrated its 2024 graduation indoors with enthusiasm Thursday. The ceremony honored 74 graduates and remembered two students who passed away. Valedictorian Kenna Gibson’s speech highlighted personal growth over future plans. The event concluded with traditional ceremonies, proud families, and the graduates ready to pursue their dreams.