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Texas border deployment going through 'realignment': officials

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Texas border deployment going through 'realignment': officials


Illegal border crossings in south Texas are down, and the state is in the process of making some adjustments to Operation Lone Star. 

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Details about the revamping came out Thursday during a hearing before members of the State Senate Committee on Border Security. The committee is gathering information to prepare for the regular session, which starts in January. 

Officials with the State National Guard revealed that two of the four operation base camps, one in Laredo and one north of Eagle Pass, will be shut down. A base camp near Del Rio is also being downsized. 

The change is because of the new and larger forward base camp that opened in Eagle Pass earlier this year. Morale among guard members reportedly has improved after mission assignments got better focus and facility upgrades were made by the state. 

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Major Gen. Thomas Suelzer, the Adjutant General for the State of Texas, told the committee that 18 different states have sent National Guard members to Texas to help with Operation Lone Star.

“What we say to these states is, we will obviously accept all the help we can get. We will ask, we have these types of missions. Is there any type of mission you wouldn’t want to do, or you would like to do? Would you like to send an engineering set of personnel to do engineering and put up a barrier, or do you want to do security points? And then we go through kind of a negotiation process that goes through a state process that would occur during any state declared emergency and solidify that and then they come out. So, we’ve had states that have come out, agreed to come for a whole year, some that have agreed to come for just a few months,” said Suelzer.

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The committee was also told that deployments of state troopers have also been reduced to seven-day rotations. Recent trooper academy graduations are helping to address a staffing shortage, which is now at 540 vacancies, and that has reduced longer deployments.

However, DPS Director Steve McCraw and others who testified said more resources are needed to address the stress related to the continued deployments.

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“There was a time one of our operations, we called it Operation Strong Safety. And many members called it Operation Imminent Divorce. And that because it was a longer-term deployment at the time, and we had to send larger numbers, and we didn’t have the benefit of being able to enhance trooper positions in the area of operation. So, there’s no question that it’s very difficult to be, you know, all places at all times and maintain the level of intensity that need to be in and still have family life and be able to be, you know, so we can sustain our workforce,” said McCraw.

Operation Strong Safety took place in 2014 during a surge in migrants. The last time there was a force reduction on the border was back in 2022. The committee was told a larger scale back of personnel on the border is not advised because there is still the threat of another surge in illegal crossings and El Paso remains a hot zone, especially for a dangerous gang known as TDA.

“They’re still probing. They are still cutting fences. They are still trying to create the type of gaps we saw before, and rush hundreds in, and take that combative, riotous type of stance that they’ve done before. So, they have not gone away,” warned McCraw.

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During the hearing, McCraw noted there was a 56,000% increase in the number of Venezuelans apprehended in Texas between 2000 and 2023. According to McCraw, since February 2021, there have been over 93,000 arrests in Texas of individuals classified as criminal migrants. Several cases involve things like drunk driving, but 4,100 cases involved felonies like sexual assault and murder. Since 2021, about $11 billion has been allocated to Operation Lone Star. 

Immigration advocates who testified Thursday called it a wasteful program and a boondoggle. Jaime Puente, director of Economic Opportunity, claimed Operation Lone Star has not significantly affected the number of migrants apprehended compared to other border states like Arizona.

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“State leadership continues to establish policy based on dehumanizing rhetoric and unverified claims of success. Texans deserve policies that harness the productive power of people seeking refuge and asylum in the United States, not the wasteful, destructive policies of Governor Abbott’s Operation Lone Star,” said Puente.



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Austin, TX

Teakell Law, Dallas Advocate for Federal Tax Violations, Embezzlement, and Federal Drug Case Defense Across Texas, Expands to Houston, Austin TX

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Teakell Law, Dallas Advocate for Federal Tax Violations, Embezzlement, and Federal Drug Case Defense Across Texas, Expands to Houston, Austin TX


Dallas, Texas–(Newsfile Corp. – September 26, 2024) – John R. Teakell Criminal Defense Attorney, based in Dallas, continues to expand its impact across Texas, offering comprehensive legal defense in cases involving federal tax violations, embezzlement, and federal drug charges. With a deep understanding of federal law and an extensive background in criminal defense, the firm is poised to offer aggressive representation for individuals and businesses facing complex legal challenges. Now eyeing Houston and Austin, Texas, the firm aims to address the growing demand for defense services in these major cities.

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Dallas advocate for federal tax violations, embezzlement, and drug case defense expands services to Houston and Austin, providing expert legal representation across Texas.

As federal prosecutors intensify efforts against white-collar crime and drug offenses, Teakell’s law office remains at the forefront of defending clients accused of these serious offenses.

From tax fraud investigations to embezzlement schemes and drug trafficking charges, John R. Teakell offers clients tailored defense strategies aimed at mitigating potential penalties and securing the best legal outcomes. Given the high stakes associated with federal crimes, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines, the firm’s approach prioritizes rigorous examination of all evidence and development of robust legal defenses.

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Individuals facing federal tax violations, such as tax evasion or fraudulent returns, can be subject to severe consequences under federal law. Likewise, accusations of embezzlement—often involving misuse of funds from corporations or government entities—carry equally harsh penalties. John R. Teakell’s expertise in navigating federal courts, combined with in- depth knowledge of federal tax law, allows the firm to provide comprehensive defense for those charged with these serious offenses. Those seeking a consultation or legal representation can visit www.teakelllaw.com or contact the law office at 214-523-9076.

In cases involving federal charges, particularly those related to federal drug laws or tax fraud, the consequences can be severe. Federal prison sentences are dictated by strict sentencing guidelines, leaving individuals facing a criminal offense subject to both minimum sentences and, in some cases, maximum sentences. The criminal penalties for these offenses can be life- altering, and securing a strong defense is critical to protecting constitutional rights and achieving a favorable resolution. A federal defense attorney well-versed in federal offenses can challenge the prosecution’s case and raise reasonable doubt where applicable.

Federal drug charges, such as simple possession or larger cases involving drug trafficking, often carry harsh penalties. The United States legal system, guided by federal law, holds individuals accountable through rigorous criminal investigations that may lead to criminal prosecution. For those facing these challenges, a federal drug crimes lawyer is essential to navigating the complexities of federal custody, securing the best possible defense, and potentially minimizing sentences.

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A crucial aspect of defending against criminal charges related to illegal drugs or criminal tax evasion is scrutinizing the methods used by law enforcement, particularly the validity of a search warrant or any false statements involved. Under Federal sentencing guidelines, individuals accused of filing false returns on their tax return or possessing illegal substances could face severe consequences, including a life sentence in extreme cases. Criminal defense lawyers play a pivotal role in challenging these accusations, especially when prior criminal records or a minimum penalty are factors.

For criminal defense law firms dealing with federal cases, the stakes are often heightened by the involvement of federal agencies and the broader implications of criminal activity or illegal activity. Whether defending clients against fraudulent statements, tax fraud penalties, or criminal tax investigations, the expertise and track record of a firm can be instrumental in pursuing a successful outcome. The costs of prosecution-both financially and in terms of personal freedom-are significant, making it vital for anyone accused of a federal crime to seek immediate legal representation.

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The firm’s defense in federal drug cases spans a wide range of charges, from possession to trafficking and conspiracy. With Texas continuing to be a focal point for federal drug enforcement efforts, particularly in cities like Houston and Austin, Teakell Criminal Defense Attorney is expanding its services to ensure that individuals accused of federal drug crimes receive the strongest defense possible. By utilizing thorough investigations and tapping into extensive knowledge of drug laws, the firm works tirelessly to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect the legal rights of defendants.

Listen to A Deep Dive into Federal Criminal Defense with Texas Attorney John Teakell on the Attorney Post podcast.

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Specializing in federal tax and drug cases, this Dallas attorney broadens practice to Houston and Austin, ensuring dedicated defense for clients facing serious federal charges.

About John R. Teakell Criminal Defense Attorney

John R. Teakell brings over 20 years of courtroom experience with a focused background in criminal law and securities. His comprehensive understanding of both federal and state crimes, along with his expertise in navigating the complexities of federal and state court systems, allows him to adeptly handle cases ranging from misdemeanors to federal death penalty cases. Specializing in white collar crimes, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, and SEC litigation, Mr. Teakell has earned a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and effective defense strategies.

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To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/224311



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Austin, TX

Texas Lists Five RBs on First-Ever SEC Injury Report

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Texas Lists Five RBs on First-Ever SEC Injury Report


AUSTIN — The Texas Longhorns have released their first-ever SEC student-athlete availability report ahead of Saturday’s conference opener against Mississippi State.

The initial list released Wednesday evening includes nine players. Injuries continue to hit the running back room, as the Longhorns have five running backs listed on the report. This includes CJ Baxter and Christian Clark, who suffered season-ending injuries in training camp.

CJ Baxter, Running Back – OUT

Christian Clark, Running Back – OUT

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Velton Gardner, Running Back – OUT

Derek Williams Jr., Defensive Back – Doubtful

Colin Page, Running Back – Doubtful

DeAndre Moore Jr., Wide Receiver – Questionable

Quinn Ewers, Quarterback – Questionable

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Jelani McDonald, Defensive Back – Questionable

Quintrevion Wisner, Running Back – Questionable

The only contributing running backs not listed were Jaydon Blue, Jerrick Gibson and Ryan Niblett. It’s unclear what injury Gardner, a graduate transfer from SMU, is dealing with and when he suffered the ailment.

As for Ewers, Steve Sarkisian said Monday that he would currently be listed as questionable, and nothing has changed as of now on that front. Ewers practiced on Monday after suffering an abdominal injury in the win over UTSA that kept him out for last week’s game against Louisiana-Monroe.

“We’ll see how he goes throughout the week and monitor how he responds to tomorrow coming off of today’s practice,” Sarkisian said of Ewers. ” … He’s got to do enough to show me he can play.”

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The Longhorns will release updated injury reports on Thursday and Friday before dropping a final one Saturday that can list players as game-time decisions if they haven’t already been ruled out.

If Ewers is unable to go, Arch Manning will get his second-career start in the program’s SEC debut.

No. 1 Texas and Mississippi State kick off from Austin on Saturday at 3:15 p.m. CT.



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Will San Antonio take a harder stance on anti-LGBTQ bills in Austin next year?

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Will San Antonio take a harder stance on anti-LGBTQ bills in Austin next year?


SAN ANTONIO – At least some city council members want San Antonio to take a harder stance on LGBTQ-related legislation when the Texas Legislature convenes in January.

Efforts to restrict LGBTQ rights are frequently high-profile parts of Texas’ biennial legislative sessions, including bills to block transgender people from using the bathroom that matches their gender identity, keep transgender students from playing on school sports teams that match their gender identity, or restrict some public drag performances.

But while city priorities like maintaining local rule-making authority and increasing housing affordability are included in San Antonio’s proposed legislative program, LGBTQ issues are not — at least, not explicitly.

City staff briefed members of the council’s Intergovernmental Relations Committee Wednesday on the six-page draft document, which broadly lays out what types of issues city government affairs staff will support or fight during the legislative session in Austin.

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Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez (D2), San Antonio’s first openly gay councilman, said he was concerned the city would not make enough of an effort to support or oppose legislation affecting the LGBTQ community.

“The LGBTQ+ community has been a target of attack and a clear focus of the state,” McKee-Rodriguez said during Thursday’s meeting. “And I don’t see anything in here — outside of (the) protection of our nondiscrimination ordinance, which doesn’t go far enough — I don’t see anything that indicates that level of support.”

City staff said they have taken stances on similar issues in the past. Assistant City Manager Jeff Coyle said the general view is that LGTBQ bills fall under upholding the city’s NDO ordinance.

However, Coyle said it also depends how close a particular bill relates to city operations.

A move to restrict drag queens from reading to children at libraries, for example, would fall within the city’s jurisdiction. However, bills related to school districts or penalizing doctors for performing gender reassignment surgery might not.

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Councilman Manny Pelaez (D8), the committee’s chairman and a 2025 mayoral candidate, said he supports the city being more explicit and aggressive, though he said, “We all know what’s going to happen” at the Republican-controlled Capitol.

“We also know that the usual refrain will be thrown back at us, which is, ‘I can’t believe you guys are using tax dollars to advocate for, you know, what (Cornerstone Church) Pastor (John) Hagee disagrees with,’” Pelaez said. “Well, I’m OK with advocating for something that, you know, bigots and racists don’t agree with.”

First-term councilwoman Sukh Kaur (D1) questioned whether leaning in on LGBTQ issues would affect the city’s ability to lobby effectively on other issues. Though Coyle said it would, he clarified that anything the city does that conflicts with state leadership could affect other areas.

“But, of course, as a person of color in that community, I definitely want some language there for support,” Kaur said.

Though staff agreed to be more explicit in the wording of the legislative programs, it wasn’t clear how much that would affect their actual lobbying activities.

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“We can put stronger language in there that exists today, but there are going to be some areas that we’ve got to make sure we’re within our swim lanes, so to speak,” Coyle told council members.

The full city council had been scheduled to discuss the legislative program next week. However, Pelaez also suggested city staff return to the committee with updated language.

The 89th Texas Legislature convenes Jan. 14, 2025, for its regular session, but members may begin filing bills as early as Nov. 11.

Read the city’s draft legislative agenda below.

Copyright 2024 by KSAT – All rights reserved.

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