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LONGVIEW — Two horses and two calves were seized Monday afternoon from a northwest Longview property after city officials said neighbors grew tired of feeding them. That’s according to KETK and the Longview News-Journal. “They felt compassion for the animals and after seeing they were neglected, they stepped up,” said Buck Farrar, environmental health supervisor for the city of Longview. “You could tell by looking at these animals it wasn’t just a few days without food. This was a chronic problem that was going on for days.” Richard Fincher, executive director of Safe Haven Equine Rescue, said the animals’ pen was not stocked with food or water. “There’s no hay, nothing really for them to feed on. The water trough, I took pictures of it, and it’s empty,” he said. Continue reading Officials Seize Livestock after Complaints of Animal Neglect

TYLER — A 32 year veteran with the Tyler police department has retired. The retirement ceremony for Officer Sandra Nauls-Mast was held Tuesday afternoon at the Tyler Police Department. Sandra Nauls-Mast was one of the first female African American Police Officers hired at the Tyler Police Department. She currently serves as the second shift Airport Officer at the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. Continue reading Tyler Officer Sandra Nauls-Mast Retires

TYLER — Saying he’s fulfilling a campaign promise to equip Smith County Sheriff’s Office deputies and personnel with the tools they need to do their jobs, Sheriff Larry Smith announced Monday that 49 Tasers are now on the streets. According to KETK, Smith added that all personnel for whom the device is applicable have completed taser training. Smith says Tasers are conducted electrical weapons (CEWs) and are used worldwide by law enforcement to temporarily incapacitate dangerous, combative or high-risk subjects who pose a risk to law enforcement officers or themselves. According to Smith, Tasers are generally recognized as a safer alternative to other uses of force. Continue reading Sheriff’s Office Adds 49 Tasers

TYLER — Habitat for Humanity and PATH are announcing a partnership that closely coordinates efforts for future home ownership opportunities for the economically disadvantaged people of Smith County. PATH’s newly designed Transitional Housing Program (THP) provides assistance to low-to-moderate income families who are deemed ready and capable of breaking through the barriers that have been holding them back from self-sufficiency. Officials say the 18-24 month program includes ongoing case management, education, mentoring, accountability, and assistance. The stated goal for every family enrolled will be to prepare for ongoing success in home ownership or a market-rate rental home. Continue reading Habitat for Humanity and PATH Announce New Partnership

QUITMAN — A Wood County man is expected to have charges filed against him after he allegedly stabbed his father in the chest, then reportedly cut the older man’s throat over drugs. According to KETK, on Saturday, officials with the Wood County Sheriff’s Department responded to a 911 call inside a housing addition off Farm Road 2869 in regard to an assault. When authorities arrived, they found a man with knife-inflicted injuries to his throat and chest. When EMS arrived, the victim was taken to a Tyler hospital. Also on scene of the reported assault was the victim’s son, who was also taken to a local hospital after allegedly overdosing on methamphetamine and cocaine. Continue reading Man Accused of Stabbing Father and Cutting His Throat over Drugs

BULLARD — The Bullard High School solar car gets a little work done after a four-car crash on its way to Texas Motor Speedway. KETK reports the crash happened along Interstate 35. Wet roads are to blame. A vehicle swerved in front of the truck towing the team’s car. No injuries were reported, but the solar car got a little banged up. The team was still expected to compete in the 2013 Winston Solar Car Challenge beginning today. The race is a 1400-mile journey from the Texas Motor Speedway to the California Science Center in Los Angeles.

NACOGDOCHES — A man and two juveniles have been arrested in connection to recent fuel thefts from several East Texas school districts. Authorities with the Nacogdoches Sheriffs Department tell KETK that diesel and gas had been taken from the Nacogdoches, Martinsville, Garrison, Chireno, Woden, and Alto ISDs, as well as a Cherokee County work barn. Officials believe that there may have been additional thefts that have not yet been discovered. Continue reading Three Arrested in Connection to Fuel Thefts

GLADEWATER – Last week KTBB news reported a story from the Longview News-Journal that incorrectly reported autopsy results in the June 24th drowning of Timothy Matthew Carson. The Longview News Journal now reports “Tests for illegal and prescription drugs were conducted, but none were found” in Carson’s system. The paper has gone on to report that “his blood alcohol level was 0.329 and cause of death was ruled accidental drowning.”

KAUFMAN (AP) – A court document is among the windows into the alleged motive for the slayings of two Texas prosecutors. The document details an interview Kaufman County ex-Justice of the Peace Eric Williams gave a probation officer after he was convicted last year of stealing three county computer monitors. Williams said in the presentence investigation report that his life had taken a “drastic turn” and the conviction would amount to a “life sentence.” Continue reading Suspect in DA Killings: Life Took “Drastic Turn”

TYLER — Here’s a quick look at other work planned in the Tyler District of the Texas Department of Transportation.

PALESTINE – Work associated with the Texas Department of Transportation’s annual preventative maintenance program known as District-Wide Seal Coat is scheduled to continue this week in Anderson County as it moves through all eight counties of the Tyler District, treating nearly 300 miles of roadway before concluding work in August. Several days of rain in the past week delayed the crew moving into Anderson County. The rain pushed work scheduled for SSE Loop 256 to Sunday. Continue reading TxDOT Project Updates

NACOGDOCHES — One man is arrested after being found in possession of marijuana early Sunday morning. According to KETK, Nacogdoches Police were called to the 2900 block of EJ Campbell Boulevard around 1:50 after police received a call from a neighbor stating someone was inside her home. Upon investigation, officers found a man, related to the resident, in possession of marijuana. Authorities arrested Sheldon Allen, 21, for possession of marijuana. He was taken to NLEC for booking.

LUFKIN — Two minors were arrested in Lufkin for possession of drug paraphernalia. According to KETK, Lufkin Police were called to the 100 block of North John Reddit Drive around 4:30 Sunday morning for a beer theft. Upon arrival, officers found both occupants of the vehicle allegedly intoxicated. Further investigation revealed that one of the occupants allegedly had marijuana hidden in his sock. Lufkin Police arrested Vincent Cantu and Vivian Garza, 20, both of Lufkin. They were taken to Angelina County Jail and charged with minors in possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

NACOGDOCHES — Nacogdoches police have been arrested two men for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. According to KETK, Nacogdoches Police were called to the 3200 block of North Street in Nacogdoches shortly after 7:15 Saturday evening. Officers were responding to reports of a narcotics distribution occurring at that location. After officials made contact with the residents of the home, they found both residences to be in possession of marijuana and cocaine. Police arrested Shekinula Jones, 38, and Artha Griffin, 40, both of Nacogdoches. Both Jones and Griffin were arrested for possession of marijuana. Griffin was also charged with possession of a controlled substance. They were taken and booked into NLEC.

TYLER — Participants and guests observe the official kickoff of the 80th Texas Rose Festival during a weekend event at Tyler’s Willow Brook Country Club. Rachel Vanderpool Clyde is Queen of the 2013 Festival. She says it’s a real honor to be a part of the activities during this landmark year. The Festival runs October 17-20; the theme is “Raindrops on Roses and Other Favorite Things.” You can visit http://www.texasrosefestival.com to find complete information.

MARSHALL — One week after Florida jurors found George Zimmerman not guilty in the murder of Trayvon Martin, 19, hundreds of people gathered Saturday at the Harrison County Courthouse for a peaceful protest rally. According to the Longview News-Journal, the rally joined a number of nationwide protests Saturday against the verdict. Protesters held signs asking for “Justice for Trayvon” and for Florida to change its Stand Your Ground law. Protesters were encouraged to register to vote and sign a petition asking for Florida’s Stand Your Ground law be changed. The petition will be sent to Florida Governor Rick Scott.

AUSTIN (AP) — Federal investigators say an East Texas state psychiatric hospital could lose Medicare funds because of deficient patient care. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has given the Terrell State Hospital 90 days to fix things or lose Medicare funding. The Austin American-Statesman reports the $4.6 million is about 9% of the hospital’s $49 million budget. In its letter, the federal agency said nursing, laboratory, food, anesthesia and respiratory services were deficient. The hospital’s infection control and physical environment for patients weren’t adequate. Also, federal, state and local laws weren’t followed. The agency gave the hospital until October 6 to fix the problems or lose funding. A Texas Department of State Health Services spokeswoman said the 90 days will allow the problems to be remedied. .

LONGVIEW — Longview police are asking for the public’s help to identify a suspect after a woman was assaulted Thursday in her home. According to KETK, the woman told police a man wearing a black T-shirt and blue basketball shorts was standing across the street from her Birch Street home, watching her as she arrived home that afternoon. According to police, the victim said she tried to make the man leave. He demanded money and attacked her, breaking several items and causing her non life-threatening injuries. The victim was able to get to a phone and called 911. The suspect fled before officers arrived. Anyone with information in this case is asked to call Longview police at (903) 237-1170.

LONGVIEW — Life, as tough as it has been recently, was is looking up for Spike Dillinger. Officials with the Northeast Texas Humane Society say the pit bull mix would be adopted by a Longview couple early this week. Continue reading Pet Adopted; Reward Still Offered in Dog Shooting Case

LONGVIEW — Police in Longview report they’ve arrested four suspects in two separate robberies. Thursday afternoon just before 5:30, officers were dispatched to Broughton Park in the 800 Block of Martin Luther King Blvd for a fight in progress. When officers arrived, they located a victim who had been assaulted and robbed by several males. The victim said the robbers displayed guns during the robbery, and he was able to identify the suspects. Two of the suspects were located near the park, and another suspect was found hiding inside a slide at the park, according to police. Continue reading Four Arrested in Two Robberies

LONGVIEW — Longview police investigate an incident involving a robbery and an assault. Thursday afternoon just before 3:45, officers were dispatched to a robbery just occurred in the 100 Block of Birch Street. When officers arrived, the victim told them that when she came home, she noticed a black male wearing a black t-shirt and blue basketball shorts standing across the street from her residence watching her. Continue reading Police Seek Tips after Woman Assaulted, Robbed at Home

TYLER – The East Texas Food Bank earns another 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator. Food Bank officials attribute the honor to “sound fiscal management practices and commitment to accountability and transparency.” This is the fifth consecutive year that the Food Bank has earned this top distinction. According to ETFB press materials, only 4% of the charities rated have received at least five consecutive 4-star evaluations.

HENDERSON — The last seven months, Rusk County has had 12 accidents, which have killed 16 people, and those staggering numbers have the community concerned. According to KETK, that’s why the first ever traffic fatality summit in Rusk County was put together Thursday afternoon. Community leaders, law enforcement officials, and others from across and outside Rusk County were attendance. Among the meeting’s speakers were engineers with TxDOT as well as representation from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Continue reading Rusk County Road Deaths Have Community Wanting Answers

LONGVIEW — A standoff in May left its mark on one of Longview’s SWAT vehicles. Now it’s being repaired. KETK and the Longview News-Journal report the Lenco Bearcat took about 30 rounds during the May 9th standoff with a former nurse on Eden Street. The vehicle was used to help evacuate neighbors from the area. The glass on the windshield was also weakened substantially after being hit several times. The vehicle will be out of commission until all of the repairs have been made.

TYLER — A 25-year-old Tyler man faces enhanced charges following a major wreck. Police responded to WSW Loop 323 and Jacksonville Highway around 12:15 Thursday afternoon on a report of a multiple car crash in the intersection. The driver who allegedly caused the crash was later identified as Daniel Massad. Police say Massad was driving a Dodge pickup eastbound on Loop 323 when he ran a red light at Jacksonville Highway, striking a vehicle in the intersection. Massad also struck a second vehicle waiting in traffic after the first impact, according to police. Continue reading Hit and Run Suspect Faces Enhanced Charges

CENTER — A kidnapped boy was found safe early Friday in Center. KETK reports the 11 year old boy was in his mother’s car and the mother had gone into a convenience store. While in the store, the car was stolen and the youth kidnapped. Center police reported the car and boy were found shortly before 1:00 Friday morning. More details were pending.

PALESTINE — An Anderson County man is in critical but stable condition in a Tyler hospital following a shooting. Brandon Lee Lively, 26, of Palestine was first taken to a Palestine hospital with a bullet wound in his chest. He was then flown to Tyler. The shooting is said to have occurred on West Huffsmith Street, the home of Justin Edward Anderson, 24. Investigators arrested Anderson and charged him with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in the Anderson County Jail.

LONGVIEW — LeTourneau University has hired LETU alumnus Dr. David Dittenber as assistant professor of civil engineering, effective August 1. Dittenber holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering, mechanical concentration, from LeTourneau University, a Master of Science in civil engineering and a doctoral degree in civil engineering from West Virginia University. While at West Virginia University, he was a National Science Foundation graduate research fellow and an American Society for Engineering Education/NSF engineering innovation fellow. Continue reading Engineering Professor Added at LeTourneau University

SACRAMENTO, CALIF. – Small, nonfarm businesses in 13 Texas counties, including some in East Texas, are now eligible to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA). These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by the drought that began July 9, 2013, in the following primary counties, announced Alfred E. Judd, Director of SBA’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West. Continue reading SBA Disaster Loans Available to East Texas Small Businesses

LUFKIN — Planned Parenthood is closing three Texas clinics, including one in East Texas. They are in Bryan, Huntsville, and Lufkin. Rochelle Tafoya is with Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast. She says it’s due to the legislature slashing the budget for women’s health care services by two thirds in 2011. Tafoya says, “We are saddened. We can’t express how deeply distressed we are as an organization that women who live in underserved areas of Texas will be losing a trusted provider.” She says for many of the women her agency serves, this was their only healthcare provider, and she calls being forced to make this decision tragic. Of the clinics, only Bryan offers abortion services.

ATHENS — An Athens man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for cocaine charges. Officials say Marcquis Deevermont Utley, 34, was sentenced after pleading guilty to the second degree felony offense of possession of a controlled substance. According to KETK, the plea came July 9 in Judge Carter Tarrance’s 392nd Judicial District Court. Continue reading Man Gets 14 Years on Cocaine Charges