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EducationHidalgo County program lets DWI offenders attend STC to clear their record
South Texas College has initiated a program allowing individuals convicted of DWI to earn a degree or certification, potentially leading to case dismissal. In collaboration with the Hidalgo County District Attorney's Office and the 275th District Court, the program aims to enroll 10 offenders, with 10 already participating. Candidates must not have caused any fatalities in their cases. Upon successful completion, the district attorney will recommend case dismissal, making them eligible for expungement. STC will also assist graduates in finding employment opportunities. Interested individuals can consult their probation officer or judge for application details.
NationalICE whistleblower warned of unprecedented lowering of standard during hiring spree
A whistleblower from ICE has raised concerns about the agency's hiring practices, claiming that many new officers were hired without proper background checks, violating federal regulations. The complaint, filed by a unit chief in ICE's Office of Professional Responsibility, highlights a backlog in vetting as the agency rapidly hired 12,000 officers to support a mass deportation initiative. The whistleblower warned that this rush compromises security and increases risks of misconduct. ICE acknowledged some applicants received job offers before background checks were completed, and the Office of Inspector General is currently investigating these hiring practices.
Public SafetyWhy Mexican cartels are increasingly using car bombs and other explosives
Mexican drug cartels are increasingly utilizing car bombs and explosives, raising concerns about escalating violence. The latest incident occurred in Ojocaliente, Zacatecas, where a car bomb explosion injured 11 people and damaged over 60 homes. Authorities reported 23 explosive attacks in Zacatecas this year, with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel vying for control. Experts suggest that these tactics are intended to intimidate rivals and pressure the government. While Mexico has historically resisted labeling cartel violence as terrorism, the Trump administration's designation of certain cartels as foreign terrorist organizations has intensified the discussion around this issue.
PoliticsWith voters squeezed by high costs, Texas candidates race to claim affordability mantle
As Texas faces rising living costs, candidates are increasingly focusing on affordability in their campaigns. With prices for essentials like housing, food, and healthcare surging, voters express concern over the cost of living. Republican Ken Paxton proposes tax breaks for families, while Democrat James Talarico suggests abolishing the gas tax. Governor Greg Abbott aims to eliminate school property taxes. Despite a median household income increase, many Texans still struggle financially, leading to a shift in voter priorities from immigration to inflation. Candidates are challenged to present concrete plans to address these economic pressures ahead of the November elections.
BusinessTexas Comptroller closes Crunch Fitness in Pharr over nearly $400K in unpaid taxes
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has shut down Crunch Fitness in Pharr due to unpaid taxes totaling $398,133.76, accrued from September 2019 to July 2025. The closure, which took place on Friday, was supported by the Texas Department of Public Safety. A spokesperson for the Comptroller's office stated that efforts were made to negotiate with the gym's owners to settle the tax debt prior to enforcing a lien on the property. Channel 5 News is currently seeking additional information and will provide updates as they become available.
Public SafetyMistrial is declared in Lindsay Clancy child killings case after jury deadlocks
A mistrial was declared in the Lindsay Clancy murder case after jurors in Plymouth, Massachusetts, could not reach a unanimous verdict regarding her responsibility for the deaths of her three children. Clancy, a former nurse, admitted to the killings but claimed she was suffering from postpartum psychosis. The jury deliberated for seven days, with reports of a juror's potential bias affecting the process. Clancy remains charged with murder and is expected to stay in a psychiatric hospital. Prosecutors have not yet decided on a second trial, emphasizing that the case is about justice for the children, not broader issues of mental health.
NationalICE officer lied about shovel and broom attack before Minnesota shooting, Justice Department alleges
Christian Castro, an ICE officer, has been indicted for allegedly lying about being attacked with a broom and shovel before shooting a Venezuelan man in Minnesota during an immigration operation last winter. Castro pleaded not guilty to six counts of making false statements in a Texas federal court. He was taken into custody after turning himself in and is awaiting a judge's decision on his release with an ankle monitor. The federal indictment aligns with charges from Minnesota officials, who accuse him of assault and false reporting. The case has sparked internal turmoil within the Justice Department regarding civil rights investigations.
Health2 New World screwworm quarantine areas lifted in Texas, congressman says
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has lifted quarantine restrictions for two previously listed "infested" zones in Texas where the New World screwworm had been found, a South Texas congressman says.
BusinessTexas Comptroller seizes Pharr Crunch Fitness for nonpayment of taxes
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has seized a Pharr Crunch Fitness gym for nonpayment of taxes, according to Kevin Lyons, an agency spokesperson. The Crunch Fitness building, located at 500 N Jackson Road in Pharr, had a notice taped to the door on Friday stating: "The State Comptroller's Office has seized
Public SafetyCBP: Agents rescued 8 migrants from locked train car
U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Del Rio, Texas, sector say they recently rescued eight migrants, including a child, who had been locked inside a train car.
Public SafetyMcAllen police seek man wanted on several felony warrants
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — McAllen police are searching for a man wanted on several felony warrants stemming from a domestic-related investigation. Jakobie Deanthony Harris, 23, of McAllen, is wanted on two counts of violation of certain court orders, a third-degree felony; two counts of continuous violence against the family, a third-degree felony; injury to a
EducationPSJA’s Audie Murphy Middle School Recognized as Purple Star Campus for Two-Year Term
Audie Murphy Middle School in Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD has been designated a Purple Star Campus for the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years. This recognition from the Texas Education Agency highlights the school's dedication to supporting military-connected students and their families. To achieve this designation, the school must meet specific criteria, including appointing a military liaison and providing resources for military families. Principal Dr. Lydia Treviño emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for these students. Other PSJA schools, including Memorial Early College High School and Dr. William Long Elementary, have also received similar designations.
NationalImmigration Ruling Deals a Heavy Blow to Venezuelan Asylum Seekers
The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) issued a precedent-setting ruling on Friday that significantly alters the assessment of fear of persecution for Venezuelan asylum seekers in the U.S. The case, 'Matter of A-E-V-M,' involved a Venezuelan woman who arrived in the U.S. in 2014 on a student visa. Her husband applied for asylum in 2015, citing political persecution due to their opposition to the Maduro government. The BIA determined that the recent change in Venezuela's leadership could affect the validity of asylum claims based on fear of the Maduro regime. However, individual cases will still be assessed for specific risks of future persecution.
Public SafetyDPS investigating fatal crash north of Palmview
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating a fatal crash north of Palmview. According to a DPS spokesperson, one person died from injuries sustained in the two-vehicle crash on Texan Road and Mile 6 Road. Troopers are currently at the scene. This is a developing story.
NationalWhy Does the U.S. Not Celebrate Labor Day on May 1? Here’s an Explanation
Labor Day in the United States is celebrated on the first Monday of September, honoring workers' achievements. In contrast, many countries observe International Workers' Day on May 1, which originated from a significant strike in the U.S. in 1886 advocating for an eight-hour workday. The Haymarket Square protests in Chicago led to tragic violence and a controversial trial. In 1889, the holiday was established in Paris to commemorate these events. During the Cold War, the U.S. distanced itself from May 1 due to its association with communism, leading to the establishment of Labor Day in September instead.
Public SafetyTexas Game Wardens Urge Safe Boating This Labor Day Weekend
Texas Game Wardens are urging boaters to prioritize safety this Labor Day weekend as high temperatures draw many to lakes and rivers. They emphasize the importance of wearing life jackets, with statistics showing that 84% of boating fatalities involved individuals not wearing one. In 2025, Texas reported 178 boating incidents, leading to 50 deaths. Wardens will be patrolling to ensure compliance with safety regulations, including avoiding alcohol and using engine cut-off switches. Boaters are encouraged to have a float plan, know the rules, and monitor weather conditions to ensure a safe outing on the water.
NationalTrump Proposes Tax Exemption Loss for Schools Offering Race-Based Aid
The Trump administration has proposed a new rule that would revoke tax-exempt status for private schools and universities that provide aid based on race. This move aims to eliminate diversity programs targeting Black, Hispanic, and other minority students. The Treasury Department's regulation, if finalized, would take effect after May 2027. Officials argue that such policies discriminate against white and Asian American students. Critics, including higher education leaders, claim this proposal undermines access to education for working-class Americans and people of color. The rule could impact up to 18,000 educational institutions across the U.S.
PoliticsHarlingen city commissioners approve rate increases for water, sewer
Harlingen city commissioners have approved new rate increases for water and sewer services, which will take effect on October 1. The minimum water charge for most residential meters will rise from $9.91 to $12.39, while the minimum sewer charge will increase from $7.73 to $9.66. The Harlingen Waterworks System indicated that these increases are necessary to fund various infrastructure projects, including enhancements to the wastewater plant's capacity, the replacement of a major wastewater line, and upgrades to a lift station in northern Harlingen.
CommunityRio Hondo residents push for more transparency on outer parkway plans
Residents of Rio Hondo are expressing concerns over a proposed $350 million highway project that would connect I-69E north of Harlingen to the east. With four potential routes under consideration, property owners are seeking clarity on how the project may impact their land. AJ Mata, a local resident, attended a recent public meeting but felt the format limited open discussion. The Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority (CCRMA) stated that the meeting aimed to address specific property concerns but acknowledged the need for more public Q&A opportunities. The project could affect 115 to 129 properties, with up to 11 homes possibly displaced. Public feedback is welcome until September 14.
CommunityEdinburg’s New Arts District Gains Official State Status
The Texas Commission on the Arts has officially designated Edinburg as a new Arts District, joining Brownsville, Galveston, and Lufkin. This recognition increases Texas's cultural districts to 61, promoting tourism and economic development through local arts. The Edinburg Arts, Culture & Event Center serves as the district's hub, hosting various community events and performances. The designation allows local arts organizations to apply for state grants, enhancing support for artists and programs. An official celebration is planned for October 2026, where the Texas Commission will present the formal proclamation, highlighting Edinburg's creativity and cultural heritage.