Cumby Man Charged with Credit/Debit Card Abuse
June 30, 2017 – Sulphur Springs Police responded to a local outlet shoe store on Industrial Drive Thursday around 4:30 p.m. Cole William Peterson, 17, of Cumby had attempted to make a purchase with a credit/debit card but store personnel were aware the unapproved transaction made was performed on a card that did not belong to Peterson.
Peterson admitted to the officer that he had taken the card from the cardholder’s residence to make the purchase at the store.
Peterson is in Hopkins County jail charged with Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse, a State Jail Felony, and is held on a $5,000 bond.
Sulphur Springs Man Arrested for Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon
Sulphur Springs Police were called to the 800 block of College Street Thursday evening around 11 p.m. When they made contact with the victim, they were told that Robert Jay Aaron, 28, had grabbed the female victim and knocked her to the ground holding a knife to her throat.
Aaron is in Hopkins County jail charged with Aggravated Assault Date/Family/House with a Deadly Weapon, a Felony 1.
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital-Sulphur Springs Honors Associates for Years of Service
(Sulphur Springs, TX) – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs honored their associates for years of service with a dinner at the Sulphur Springs Country Club.
Associates were treated to a special meal and received certificates of achievement and some type of monetary award based on their years of service.
Mary Talley, who works in our Operating Room, received her 45 year pen. Associates received awards for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service, with a combined total of 260 years of service.
Administration and Board of Directors would like to thank these associates for their years of service to our organization; they truly extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ each and every day.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report June 21-27, 2017
June 21st
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2298 near Mineola, at approximately 12:59 a.m., in reference to a possible disturbance. When deputies arrived on scene, it appeared the individuals were not causing a disturbance of any kind.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 2345 near Alba; at approximately 1:24 a.m. Deputies assisted the individual with a courtesy ride.
Deputies responded to a disturbance near Lake Holbrook, at approximately 3:22 a.m. The actor left the scene prior to arrival. Deputies located the vehicle on HWY 80 near Mineola. Jeffery Littrell, 26, of Tyler, was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated-Second Offense.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 10:07 a.m., in reference to a criminal trespass. The actors were located and issued Criminal Trespass Warnings.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 8695 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:50 a.m., in reference to a theft. A known actor stole multiple items from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a reckless driving call on CR 1660 near Alba, at approximately 8:55 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2311 near Mineola, at approximately 9:21 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the house was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1570 near Alba, at approximately 9:30 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. When deputies arrived on scene, they were advised an assault occurred. The actor left the scene, prior to the deputies’ arrival. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
June 22nd
At 7:00 a.m., horses were reported out on CR 2460 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1785 near Yantis, at approximately 1:35 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. The actor was found on foot on FM 2946 near Yantis. Terry Montgomery Jr., 30, of Yantis, was arrested for a warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3540 near Hawkins, at approximately 5:51 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity. The reporting party then requested extra patrol.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 69 near Como, at approximately 7:26 p.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole tools from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1558 near Alba, at approximately 10:02 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
June 23rd
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2377 near Alba, at approximately 12:55 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. The reporting party’s mailbox was damaged from an unknown person backing into it.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4294 near Winnsboro, at approximately 3:43 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. When deputies arrived, they noticed an abandoned vehicle that looked wrecked.
At 5:17 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2869 near Winnsboro.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service, at approximately 8:11 p.m., to CR 2840 near Mineola. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service, at approximately 9:12 p.m., to Lloyd St near Quitman. They were unable to locate, due to the individual not living in Wood County anymore.
June 24th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4165 near Quitman, at approximately 12:28 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Everything was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 1:09 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Everything was in order and secure.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 1:20 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Everything was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to W Loop near Mineola, at approximately 2:46 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Everything was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2150 near Quitman, at approximately 5:26 a.m., in reference to an alarm. There were no signs of forced entry and the house was secure.
At 9:32 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 3880 near Hawkins.
At 9:52 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1416 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4870 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:23 a.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a hedge trimmer and a chainsaw from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 11:45 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1413 near Quitman.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3582 near Winnsboro; at approximately 2:04 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any individuals.
Deputies were dispatched to Arapaho near Quitman, at approximately 6:03 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. When deputies arrived on scene, all parties were advised to separate for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3440 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:51 p.m., in reference to a burglary of a building. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged some of the reporting party’s property. This case is still active.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4930 near Quitman, at approximately 7:18 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. The actor caused damage to the reporting party’s vehicle, but left prior to the deputies’ arrival. Deputies located the actor in his parked vehicle on CR 2245 near Mineola. Richard Brasher, 51, of Mineola, was arrested to Public Intoxication.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on HWY 80 near Mineola, due to an illegal turn. Larry Allen, 68, of Mineola, was arrested for a traffic violation.
Deputies responded to a shots fired call on CR 1858 near Yantis; at approximately 11:34 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
June 25th
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 2869 near Hawkins; at approximately 12:01 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate an individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4330 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:33 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole two TV’s from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 1885 near Yantis, at approximately 10:10 a.m., due to the vehicle not having a front license plate. Francisco Comenero, 46, of Pickton, was arrested for Expired Registration, No Insurance, and Resisting Arrest, Search, or Transport.
At 5:37 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966 near Quitman.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 4649 near Winnsboro; at approximately 6:33 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service, at approximately 10:37 p.m., to Pueblo Path near Hawkins. Christine Lott, 50, of Hawkins, was arrested for a Criminal Trespass Warrant.
June 26th
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 4860 near Winnsboro; at approximately 12:31 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
At 3:27 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 515/West of FM 69 near Yantis.
At 7:41 a.m., cows were reported out between FM 312/FM14 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to Deerpath Lane near Hawkins, at approximately 11:34 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, burned several items from the reporting party’s property.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3220 near Quitman; at approximately 12:55 p.m. Parties were separated after the deputies arrived, due to a verbal altercation.
In reference to a request to speak to an officer, deputies spoke with the subject over the phone regarding a civil issue on CR 3163 near Quitman. Civil advice was given to the subject.
Deputies were dispatched to Lake Holbrook, at approximately 6:19 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. The individuals were located and advised to turn down their music.
At 8:23 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154/CR 3230 near Quitman.
June 27th
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on PR 8692 near Winnsboro; at approximately 12:37 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2154 near Quitman, at approximately 1:25 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the house was secure.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 4761 near Winnsboro; at approximately 2:12 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2258 near Mineola, at approximately 1:44 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1801 near Mineola, at approximately 5:02 p.m., in reference to an alarm. The homeowner advised it was a family member that set it off. Everything was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4450 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:57 p.m., in reference to a criminal trespass. Deputies attempted to serve a Criminal Trespass Warning, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to Hearthside Path near Hawkins, at approximately 9:04 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated after the deputies arrived, due to a verbal altercation.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2117 near Quitman, at approximately 11:27 p.m., in reference to an assault. The actor left the scene prior to the deputies’ arrival. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Between the dates of June 21st and June 27th, Wood County Sheriff Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Police Departments, EMS, and Child Protective Services.
Total Jail Count – 149 prisoners – 119 males and 30 females.
Sheriff Castloo would like to remind everyone…if you have any information on these or any other crimes, please contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office at 903-763-2201 or Crime Stoppers at 903-763-CASH.
July and August-Hot News! By Johanna Hicks
July and August – Hot News!
By the time this column goes to print, the 2017 “Kids’ Camp: Fun, Food, Fitness” will be in the history books. Forty-two children in grades 1 thru 4 took part in the 3-week summer day camp which featured a variety of experiences from hands-on food preparation to logging a combined 24,990 minutes (equaling 1,249.5 miles) of physical activity. Fire safety, water and sun safety, bullying, and weather safety were other topics covered.
Several parents have asked how their children can participate in the future. Registration forms are delivered to all Sulphur Springs campuses housing grades one thru four in May each year. If your child did not receive the information, be sure to ask your school principal next year.
Seventeen 4-H members and adult chaperones from Hopkins County will be traveling to Multi-County 4-H Camp in Lone Star in July. Camp workshops will include: “Fun with Food”, which will include a hands-on project and fun Jeopardy-style nutrition game; Nature; Archery; Healthy Lifestyles (team games); Ropes Course; and STEM. In addition, the youth will participate in team building and leadership activities, enjoy free time with canoes, paddle boats, the Blob, or swimming pool, ping pong, and delicious food!
The camp will take place July 10 thru 12, and each participant will receive a t-shirt and items they make during some of the camp sessions. Hopkins County usually has the largest attendance of any county at this 4-H camp, and Mario and I will both be leading workshops.
Just as the summer seems to be passing quickly, another camp will take place for students who have just finished grades 5 and 6. Skills Camp is the result of feedback from parents who wanted a summer activity for their children who were too old for “Kids’ Camp.” Now in its third year, the 2017 Skills Camp will feature art, upcycling, woodworking, and baking/cooking. These topics were selected from surveys at the 2016 camp, and each session will be hands-on.
The 4-session day camp is full, but again, for those wanting to get in on the action next year, registration forms will be delivered to 5th and 6th graders in Sulphur Springs. Due to the nature of this camp, we must limit registration to the first 12 students, so it pays to be watchful for the forms!
“Let’s Sew Stuff” Summer Sewing workshop
Due to popular command, a summer sewing workshop has been scheduled for August. Because of my own work schedule, the earliest I could schedule the workshop is August 15, 16, and 17. This workshop is open to adults and youth of all ages. Unfortunately, most school teachers will have already returned to their schools for duty, but students will still be on summer vacation.
The sewing workshop will be two-fold. For those interested in making a t-shirt quilt, a list of materials to bring will be provided. For those wanting to learn to sew, or needing a refresher, I’ll have some simple make-and-take projects available. You may also bring your own projects and I’ll help you. The cost of the workshop is $15, payable at the first session, to help cover costs of some of the materials I will be providing.
The workshop will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 15, and we will stay until 2:00 p.m. or until the last one wants to go home (within reason). The other two days, we will plan to start at 9:00 a.m. (or earlier, depending on group response) and stay until the last one wants to go home (again, within reason).
I’ll have some sewing machines available, as well as a few rotary cutters and cutting mats, but if you want to bring your own, that’s great! Ironing boards and irons will also be available. Refreshments will be provided, but you will need to bring a lunch or we can order in.
The workshop is limited to the first 8 people, and I already have three, so please call 903-885-3443 to sign up. Give us your name, address and phone number so we can follow up with you on items to bring.
Cooking Well with Diabetes
The revised version of “Cooking Well with Diabetes” has now gone state-wide, and I’m proud to have served on the revision committee. The 4-lesson series has been scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursday, September 12, 14, 19, and 21, at the Extension Office. Two times are being offered in order to accommodate busy schedules – 1:30 or 6:00 p.m. Cost of the series will be $25, payable at the first session, but you will need to call 903-885-3443 to reserve a seat. Please state which time you prefer.
Sessions will include: Carbohydrate Foods, Making Foods with Fat Better For You, Double-Pleasure Side Dishes-Reducing Sodium and Increasing Fiber, and Celebrating Sensibly with Diabetes. The series will include cooking demonstrations, handouts including recipes, and sampling. More information will be available as the dates draw closer.
Closing Thought
I always prefer to believe the best of everybody – it saves so much time. Rudyard Kipling
Johanna Hicks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Family & Consumer Sciences
1200-B W. Houston
P.O.Box 518
Sulphur springs, TX 75483
903-885-3443 – phone
903-439-4909 – Fax
[email protected]
Comparison of Herbicides By Mario Villarino
Recently I got a request from one of our producers related to herbicide applications and the role of generic products today. After asking several questions related to the topic, I came to the conclusion that cost per application was the main concern. According to F. Menalled, MSU Extension Service Cropland Weed Specialist there has been a proliferation of generic herbicides, look-alike products with different commercial names but the same active ingredient, which is the component responsible for its ability to control the target pest. Generic herbicides are the fastest growing sector in crop production chemicals, but will they work well for you and save you money?
There are three main reasons of why generic herbicides have become so popular in recent years.
The main reason for the proliferation of look-alike products is the expiration of patents. Agricultural chemical formulations are patented for only 17 years. During those years, only the company that has developed the product is allowed to produce and commercialize it. After that period, any company can synthesize the herbicide and commercialize it under a different name. In addition, because of the cost of development, registration and commercialization of new products has increased so much in recent years, companies may collaborate on some projects. So, when the product is finally released into the market, each company has the new technology available for sale. An example is that some herbicide resistant crops have been produced as a joint venture of several agri-chemical companies.
Another reason for multiple brands of the same herbicide is technology licensing. To obtain quicker return for their investment, agri-chemical companies may license their technology and allow more than one company to produce the same active ingredient. One advantage of generic products is their cheaper price. Because generic manufacturers did not pay the cost of developing the herbicide, they are able to sell the generic products cheaper than the brand name alternative. Regardless, of what company makes the herbicide, the core issue is whether generic herbicides are as good as brand-name ones. Generic products have same active ingredients than the original brand name herbicides. Thus, generic and brand name herbicides should have the same performance.
However, generic and brand name herbicides are not required to have the same inactive ingredients. For soil applied herbicides, the inactive ingredients would only influence handling and mixing properties of the formulation. Thus, performance should not be affected. Inactive ingredients of post-emergence products have a broader influence, including how well the product sticks to the leaf surfaces as well as other factors. The inactive ingredients of post-emergence products include solvents, stabilizers, emulsifiers, surfactants and other additives. These additives can make a difference in the performance of the product you are buying and are usually lumped in the labels as inert ingredients with no additional information revealed to the buyer.
Nevertheless, products are extensively tested before release, and differences should be minimal unless one of the inactive ingredients is missing altogether. Another difference between generic and brand name herbicides could be the physical form of the active ingredient. Although several herbicides might get recommended at using at the same rate, they might not exactly be the same product. Although they have the same chemical formula the elements of the molecules are arranged slightly differently; they are “isomers” of each other. The concept of isomers is easy to be understood if we think in a pair of gloves. At casual glance the right and the left glove look identical. However, the fingers are arranged differently and the right glove does not perfectly fit on the left hand and vice versa. So it is with the two isomers of the same molecule. Specifically, the s-isomer is more active than the r-isomer, because it fits the herbicide binding site better.
In conclusion, generic products tend to perform as good as their brand-names counterparts, provided that they have the same inactive ingredients and isomer structure. When evaluating whether generic products fit your farm, you should compare their cost, safety and relative performance. The bottom line is that you should not use a significantly inferior product, even if it is cheaper.
For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
Affiliated Driving Class Well Attended at Seniors Center
Tira News June 30, 2017
Mick and Linda Petty, Rick and Judy Petty, and Ken and Suzi Chapman traveled last week to Lake Tahoe, California and spent 3 days there, and then one day in Reno, Nevada. Activities included zip lining for the guys, a visit to the Donner Memorial State Park and Museum, sightseeing, a visit to Virginia City and some gambling. Linda said they all had a great time and saw some really beautiful country.
Regina Payton shared this report. “This week a large bulldog wandered onto mom’s porch and made himself at home. She didn’t feel comfortable going outside, so I encouraged her to call Mark Hixon. He is well acquainted with dog rescue and all of the local animal rescue groups. It was late by the time Mark came over, but when he drove up, the dog ran to him – responded well to a male. He took it home, got on the web and put word out about the dog. That same evening, now almost midnight, a couple called, described the dog who had been missing almost two weeks. Anyway, it was a late night/early morning reunion, and a happy ending for everyone.”
Kim and Lee Beck spent the weekend in San Antonio visiting son, Jackson and his wife Courtney. While stopping for breakfast in Georgetown on Friday morning, they ran right into Chet Garner, the host of The Daytripper! He has been to Sulphur Springs and filmed the square and surrounding area. Kim says, “The Daytripper comes on KERA and is worth the watch for your favorite Texas small towns” and I agree with Kim. I record the show to watch when I have the time.
Landon and Laiken Joslin took Dixie back to Kountze on Saturday, and then spent the night at Piney Shores Resort on Lake Conroe. On Sunday, they enjoyed a trip to the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari in Jacksonville, before returning home. Tiffany Vaughn kept the boys, Rylan, Brailon, and Slaiden, while their parents had their weekend getaway.
Grace and Linda Ellen Vaughn and Tiffany and the kids joined us for lunch on Sunday.
Don’t forget about the Tira Homecoming this Sunday at the Tira Methodist Church and cemetery grounds. Bring a covered dish and spend some time visiting and sharing memories.
I always need and appreciate input from my friends to help keep me informed of news in our community. If you have any news pertaining to Tira residents, past or present, please contact me, Jan Vaughn, at 903-945-2190 or 903-438-6688 or [email protected].
Indictments Handed Down Wednesday, June 28, 2017
A Hopkins County Grand Jury handed down 47 indictments during their June session Wednesday, June 28, 2017. A variety of charges were involved including Aggravated Assault, Tamper Fabricate Evidence, Theft of a Firearm, Burglary of a Habitation, and others. Several arrests are pending but the indictments for those previously arrested include:
Paige Spencer Whitworth was indicted for Aggravated Assault Date/Family/House with a Weapon. The charge is a first degree felony. A woman in Florida called a Hopkins County resident regarding someone who lived in her rent house locally. The renter, according to the property owner was being harmed by the renter’s boyfriend. The local resident called Hopkins County Sheriff’s office. While in route to the address, it was found that the female renter was being threatened by Paige Spencer Whitworth, 48, of Pickton. Whitworth apparently had possession of a gun while in the disturbance. When officers arrived the victim was hesitant to speak with officers and not very cooperative concerning the events according to the officer’s report. As officers continued to investigate, Whitworth was loud and verbally abusive and non-cooperative with officers. The officers separated the two to continue the investigation. It was found that Whitworth and the victim had gotten into an argument at which point the victim locked Whitworth out of the house due to possible harm. Whitworth then produced a small handgun and began banging and beating on the door and walls with it. The victim had recorded the events audio on her cellphone.
Roddric Katrell Dill, 23, was indicted for three counts of Forgery Financial Instrument. He was westbound on I-30 when he met Sgt. Harry Washington and Deputy Adrian Pruitt, who were working interdiction Monday. Dill was found to be in possession of a firearm. However, as a felon, that was unlawful. Upon further investigation, it was found that Dill had over $5,000 in counterfeit bills taped to his upper body.
Ronny Travis Moreland was indicted for stalking.
Andrew Angel Garcia, 23, was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1, less than 1-gram. Sulphur Springs Police were dispatched to the Irwin Lane/Hines Drive area Tuesday morning in reference to a subject stalking a female at Walmart. Garcia, 23, of Sulphur Springs was said to be hiding behind a truck when officers arrived. As officers searched the area, a homeowner called 911 to advise that the subject, Garcia, came in the back door of their home and ran through the house. Officers found Garcia lying on the ground in front of the house. He was arrested and transported to Hopkins County Jail. During book-in, he stated that he had a black satchel. The satchel was found behind the house at the corner of Irwin and Hines. A name tag “Andy” from a fast food establishment was on the strap of the satchel. Inside the satchel were found two small clear plastic baggies containing a clear crystal like substance believed to be methamphetamine.
Brandon Braswell
Brandon Braswell, 30m was indicted for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Theft of a Firearm and for Tamper Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair. A traffic stop at the 112 mile marker by Cumby Police at 1:22 a.m. Tuesday morning led to the arrest of Braswell, 30, Memphis, Tennesee, Shantoine Derenzo Powell, of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and Cordero K Ragland, 25, of Memphis, TN. The odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle led to a probable cause search and the discovery of a stolen firearm in the passenger front seat pouch near the backseat. All three were taken to Hopkins County Jail and charged with Unlawful Possession of a firearm. At the jail Braswelll placed something in his mouth. When asked to open his mouth, a green leafy substance was noted. He was ordered to spit it out. The substance was found to be marijuana. Braswell was able to Tamper/Fabricate Evidence. As a felon, he was also charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Powell was charged with Theft of a Firearm. Ragland was charged with Theft of a Firearm and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.
Shantoine Derenzo Powell, 2017
Shantoine Defenzo Powell was indicted for Theft of a Firearm.
RAGLAND, CORDERO 2017
Cordero K Ragland was indicted for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Theft of a Firearm.
Christorpher Lee Skeen was indicted for Tamper Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair.
Scott Allen Taylor was indicted for Driving While Intoxicated 3rd or more.
Charles James Williams was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1, less than 1-gram in a Drug Free Zone.
Kala Janae George was indicted for Abandon Endanger Child Criminal Negligence. Special Crimes Unit conducted an investigation involving a 3-year old child that tested positive for methamphetamine. The mother also tested positive for meth with a high level of meth in her system. SCU secured a warrant for the arrest of George, 25, of Pickton.
Robert Charles Mathews was indicted for Tamper/Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair. A bag of marijuana and digital scales with methamphetamine residue was not all Mathews, 33, of Winnsboro had in his possession when stopped by a Hopkins County deputy on FM 3019 at CR 2396. Mathews was nervous when stopped and was told to exit the vehicle. A pat down followed for the safety of the officer. When the contraband was found in the vehicle following consent to search, Mathews said he had nothing else in his possession. However, at the jail book-in, a baggie of meth was found in his shoe.
Quentin Ty Adis Latham was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 3 more than or equal to 28-grams but less than 200-grams and for Tamper/Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair. Walking on the wrong side of the road is dangerous and especially if you have contraband on your person. Latham, 17, of Sulphur Springs was stopped by Sulphur Springs Police. He did possess contraband. He was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 3, more than 28-grams but less than 200-grams in a Drug Free Zone. He also was charged with less than 2oz of marijuana. He is in Hopkins County Jail being held on $17,000 in bonds.
Tuwun D. Fleming was indicted for Theft of Firearm.
Glenn Anthony Epps, 37, was indicted for Manufacture Delivery Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 more than 1-gram but less than 4-grams. His first arrest occurred on November 23 at his residence. During the search at that time by the Special Crimes Unit, a rectangular mirror containing a quantity of suspected crack cocaine weighing over 1-gram was in plain sight on top of the inside AC unit. Another clear bag containing over 1-gram of suspected crack cocaine was observed on the end table next to the bed. The Epps’ residence was within 1000 feet of a daycare center, a drug free zone, enhancing the charges. Several more arrests for similar charges were made in December.
Calvin Jerome Davis, Jr. was indicted for Theft of Firearm and Tamper/Fabricate Evidence with Intent to Impair. Hopkins County Interdiction officer Harry Washington and Criminal Investigator Corley Weatherford made contact with Davis, 29, of Killeen Wednesday. Davis was wanted for possession of marijuana in Killeen but had in his possession a stolen firearm which he tried to hide from the officers. He had also tried to hide his identity with false identifying information. Davis attempted to hide the stolen firearm in the back of the patrol vehicle when arrested on the Killeen warrant. Also in a bag he was carrying were numerous bottles of Promethazine Hydrochloride along with his Texas driver’s license and Social Security card.
Darin Lee Gibson was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 less than 1-gram. A hollowed bolt with the nut serving a cap did not feel the proper weight when the DPS Trooper found it in the center console of a vehicle he stopped on State Highway 11 in Hopkins County. Inside the hollowed bolt was a yellow plastic baggie containing methamphetamine. The trooper inventoried the Chevrolet Suburban after noting the invalid driver’s license of the driver and gaining consent to search the vehicle.
Issac Tyrell Dotson was indicted for Theft of Property more than $2,500 but less than $30,000. The 32-year old Como man was charged with Theft of Property over $2500 to $30,000 after he was found in possession of a Mule ATV reported stolen Monday. Cpl Todd Evans and Investigator Dennis Findley found the property on County Road 560, Winnsboro behind the house in which Dotson was living. Dotson admitted taking the property and that he did not have permission to do so. He said he was planning to surprise the owner of the ATV by fixing the motor. Dotson did have the phone number to the owner of the ATV and lived on the owner’s property.
Terri Annette Douglas was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 less than 1-gram. Hopkins County Deputies initiated a traffic stop in the Como Pickton School Zone around 8:33 p.m. Tuesday. During the stop, Douglas, 32, of Longview showed signs of nervousness. She admitted to having a marijuana joint in a cigarette package. With consent a search of the vehicle revealed additional contraband. At Hopkins County jail in the dress out room, a clear baggie containing a crystal like substance believed to be methamphetamine was found. The substance was tested and proved positive for meth.
Dayton Wallace Hargett was indicted for Burglary of a Habitation. Hopkins County Investigator Wade Sheets said the arrest of Hargett, 29, of Hughes Springs finalized the arrests for the burglary of Weaver Baptist Church and a residence on CR 3600. Three individuals were arrested and Hargett fled the scene of the arrest. The group had pushed open a set of double doors to gain access to the church according to the findings of Hopkins County Deputies Kelly Wiser and Todd Evans, who responded to the call of a possible burglary of the church building. Deputies were told of an address on County Road 3531, the location of a possible suspect. Under Miranda, the suspect admitted to making entry inside the church. The individuals admitted taking the property when deputies told the four that they would finger print a red cup found on the church porch. Property taken in the church burglary and another recent burglary were discovered inside the residence on the county road.
Penny Deeann Conger-Prince was indicted for Organized Criminal Activity. Three individuals were arrested and charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity when they were apprehended at Weaver Baptist Church during a break-in Thursday afternoon. A fourth individual fled the scene but Hopkins County Deputies have his identifying information. The group pushed open a set of double doors to gain access to the church according to the findings of Hopkins County Deputies Kelly Wiser and Todd Evans, who responded to the call of a possible burglary of the church building. Deputies were told of an address on County Road 3531, the location of a possible suspect. Under Miranda, the suspect admitted to making entry inside the church. The individuals admitted taking the property when deputies told the four that they would finger print a red cup found on the church porch. Property taken in the church burglary and another recent burglary were discovered inside the residence on the county road. The attempted burglary was found as members of Weaver Church began preparing to host a dinner for pastors in the Rehoboth Baptist Association that took place Thursday night at 6 p.m. Among items taken was the briquette and tea that had been prepared for the dinner.
Lauren Serene Maxwell was indicted for engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 3). See story above.
Ryan Albert Shores was indicted for Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (Felony 3). See story above.
Kathie Jane Stroney was indicted for Burglary of a Habitation.
Jason Jarrett was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 less than 1-gram. Jarrett, 17 of Clarksville was arrested for possession of heroin following a traffic stop Tuesday. Jarrett had the heroin in the watch pocket of his jeans.
John Christian Keaveny was indicted for Driving While Intoxicated 3rd or More.
Joe Lee Cathey was indicted for Aggravated Assault Date/Family/House with a Weapon.
Don Cornelius Aubrey was indicted for Tamper Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair.
Damian Cunning was indicted for Bribery and for Tamper/Fabricate Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair. A $20 bill in his billfold just added to his problems when Cunning, 22, of Arkansas offered the bill to a Hopkins County Deputy in exchange for not charging him with several offenses committed. Cunning was a passenger in an auto stopped at the 132-mile marker on I-30 Eastbound. The driver of the auto had called 911 when she became afraid of Cunning. When the deputy arrived, the driver stated that Cunning had hit her multiple times at their hotel and also while traveling the roadway in Greenville. She had stopped the auto out of fear. She also told the officer that Cunning had thrown a “joint” into the ditch prior to the arrival of the officer. A field sobriety test showed Cunning to be intoxicated and a danger to himself and others. On the way to jail, the deputy noted Cunning reaching into his pants and putting something in his mouth. Told to spit out what he had placed in his mouth, Cunning spit out a key. A little later on the way to jail, the deputy notice Cunning again putting something in his mouth, this time it was a plastic baggie of suspected marijuana. Reminding Cunning of the charges against him, Cunning then offered the officer the $20 bribe. When Cunning was placed in jail and the officer returned to his patrol vehicle, another baggie of suspected marijuana was found in the patrol vehicle back seat.
Civic Center Issues Statement Regarding Tuesday’s Trustee Escape
On Tuesday, June 27th, around 8:00 a.m., a trustee escaped the custody of Civic Center staff in a premeditated and planned escape. Thanks to efforts of local and state law enforcement agencies, the inmate was apprehended less than twelve hours later and is back in custody. Through various social media outlets, some members of our community have expressed concern and dissatisfaction with our county’s trustee program. As the department manager directly responsible for the incident that occurred yesterday, I’d like to take an opportunity to address those concerns and replace speculation with fact.
Since the escape is still under investigation, I cannot address the specific plan that the inmate carried out. What I can tell you is that somehow, this inmate planned this attempt and arranged to have a vehicle pick him up while he was on work detail here at the Civic Center. He didn’t escape our staff’s attention. He was granted permission to take a bathroom break and on his way to the restroom, he simply ran out a side door to a waiting vehicle. He wasn’t out of sight for more than five minutes. If we’re being honest, we know that he probably would have gotten into the vehicle whether or not our staff watched him or not. He was intent on carrying out his plan.
The inmate in question had been on the Civic Center staff for nearly two months and quite frankly was a good, hard worker. Given his age, his non-violent offender status, the fact that he and my staff were working together in the same building and his reputation working with our staff full time for many weeks, our staff allowed him to go to the restroom without immediate supervision. The staff member that allowed him to go to the restroom without supervision will be disciplined and the inmate is now back in custody and I have every confidence that he will pay the high price for his escape.
This incident is not a reflection of our sheriff, Lewis Tatum. This is not a poor reflection of the Hopkins County Sheriff’s department and their staff. This is also not a poor reflection on the Hopkins County trustee program. It is simply an unfortunate incident that occurred with my staff, under my supervision, and will be handled appropriately.
The fact is that our county departments and our partners rely heavily on our trustees. The trustee program is a positive, two way relationship. First, our trustees are men and women that are being detained for crimes that they committed and while they are serving their sentence are afforded the opportunity to take an active, hands-on role in serving the community they might have hurt with their offense. They also receive valuable on-the-job training in areas that they might have otherwise not been exposed. They are learning the value of a good, hard day’s work. These offenders are also receiving positive role modeling from the jailors that supervise them. I’m confident that any of these jailors can attest to the positive changes they’ve seen come about in the lives of some of the trustees that they have supervised. This program is a part of an offender’s rehabilitation. This program is a testament to the belief that a person that has made poor choices and broken the law can be lawfully punished and at the same time can be given a chance and an opportunity to make positive changes in their life.
Secondly, the trustee program is a positive benefit to our county residents. At the Civic Center alone, our trustee crew saves Hopkins County taxpayers no less than $127,000 per year in salaries and benefits. These inmates do the work that is crucial to keep our facility a premiere facility in the state and brings in tens of millions of dollars annually to our community through visitors and tourism. The inmate crews saved Sulphur Springs Independent School District money by acting as the demolition crews that help pave the way for a brand new auditorium, football field, baseball field, and parking lots for events like the Hopkins County Stew Contest. Inmate crews keep the courthouse looking magnificent and in working order. Inmate crews raise animals and tend a farm that saves money for the Sheriff’s department. Inmates set up stages and set out chairs for events all over the city in an effort to make sure that Sulphur Springs is the Celebration City! Their hard work will be on display this weekend as they build the stage, set up and clean up after a concert and fireworks show that benefits our whole community.
Friends, please don’t let all the good that comes from the county trustee program be dismissed because of one non-violent offender that got away from my department. As the person ultimately responsible for the incident, I am giving you my apology and hope for your forgiveness. Let’s not let one bad apple ruin the bunch. Let’s not dismiss all the hard work that these men and women do for our community. Finally, let’s not deprive them of the chance to be rehabilitated and become positive contributors to society in the future.
I’m happy to answer any questions or concerns that don’t interfere with this particular incident investigation.
Blessings,
Adam Teer,
General Manager
Hopkins County Regional Civic Center
