Texas News

45 arrested, $74K seized in Newton County dog fighting bust

Authorities in Newton County, Texas, arrested 45 people and seized $73,858 during a raid on an alleged dog fighting ring under Operation Pitbull. Deputies, assisted by state agencies, intervened while a fight was in progress, rescued two injured dogs and transported them for emergency veterinary care. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office said the case began after months of community complaints and remains under active investigation, with additional charges possible.

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Houston Humane Society asks community to foster pets this holiday season

Houston Humane Society is asking Houston-area residents to provide short-term foster homes for dogs and cats during the holiday season. The nonprofit supplies food, crates, and veterinary care for foster pets and offers flexible options, including weekend-only fostering. Staff use foster stays to learn about each animal’s behavior in a home and to improve adoption chances with better photos and information. Residents interested in fostering can contact Houston Humane Society by phone at 713-433-6421 or by email at info@houstonhumane.org.

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Whooping cough cases rise 58% in Austin-Travis County, APH warns

Austin Public Health reports that Austin-Travis County has recorded more than 130 whooping cough (pertussis) cases so far this year, marking a 58% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Health officials say the rise spans multiple age groups and neighborhoods and emphasize vaccination, early diagnosis, and isolation during the contagious period as key steps to limit spread. The department continues to monitor case data, coordinate with state health authorities, and provide guidance to schools, childcare facilities, and healthcare providers across the county.

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Buddhist monks set out on a 2,300-mile journey from Texas to Washington

A group of Buddhist monks is walking 2,300 miles from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., on a “Walk for Peace” to promote unity, compassion, and inner peace. The route spans 10 states and includes community events at temples, malls, and parks. Two monks were injured near Dayton, Texas, when a truck struck their escort vehicle and pushed it into them on U.S. 90, according to police. Organizers say the walk, rooted in Buddhist pilgrimage tradition, will continue as they coordinate with law enforcement and medical officials.

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Defense Health Agency investigates claims tied to Army gynecologist

The Defense Health Agency has launched an internal review of its protocols and procedures after allegations that an Army gynecologist sexually exploited patients at a military medical facility. The agency is examining patient safety measures, use of chaperones, complaint handling, provider oversight and training on professional conduct across the military health system. Officials say the review will assess whether existing safeguards are sufficient and may lead to policy and procedure changes in Army, Navy and Air Force medical facilities.

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$10M lawsuit targets UH, fraternity over alleged hazing

A former University of Houston student has filed a $10 million hazing lawsuit in Harris County against UH and a campus fraternity, alleging severe physical and psychological injuries from pledge activities. The complaint claims violations of anti-hazing laws, negligence, and failures in supervision and enforcement of university policies. The plaintiff seeks compensatory and punitive damages and requests a jury trial. The case remains pending in state district court, with no trial date yet set and no formal responses filed by the defendants in the public record at this time.

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$3 billion dementia fund in Texas paused after lawsuit

A lawsuit challenging Texas’ November 4 election has halted implementation of a $3 billion dementia research and care fund. Plaintiffs allege that voting machines malfunctioned and compromised the ballot measure that authorized the program. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick criticizes the case and defends the voter-approved fund. The court will review claims about machine reliability, election procedures, and the validity of the statewide vote before any dementia funding moves forward.

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Houston council proposal on HPD ICE warrants meets union pushback

Houston City Council Member Letitia Plummer is proposing a change to Houston Police Department policy on when officers contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement over ICE warrants, shifting “shall contact” to “may contact” to allow officer discretion. The Houston Police Officers’ Union opposes the move, calling it illegal and unnecessary and warning of possible funding risks. The debate centers on compliance with Texas Senate Bill 4, the handling of low-level violations, and the impact on immigrant communities. The proposal needs one more council signature to advance to formal discussion.

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Texas flags aggressive equine virus traced to World Championship Barrel Racing finals

Texas agricultural officials issued an urgent alert after veterinarians confirmed an aggressive Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 outbreak in horses linked to the World Championship Barrel Racing finals in Waco. The Texas Department of Agriculture detailed clinical signs, transmission risks, and strict biosecurity measures for owners, trainers, and facilities. The department urged isolation of exposed horses, disinfection of equipment, temperature monitoring, and close coordination with veterinarians to limit spread and protect the state’s equine population and industry.

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