East Texan’s 15-Year Standoff Ends, Tax Fight Remains

TRINIDAD (AP) – An East Texas man’s 15-year self-imposed standoff in an assault case has ended, but he refuses to leave his ranch in a nearly $35,000 back taxes dispute. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports John Joe Gray recently learned Anderson County dropped a 1999 felony assault charge against him. Gray was accused of biting an officer during a traffic stop and jumping bail. Gray and his family have lived in isolation since 2000, growing food, using solar power, and having a shortwave radio. Gray faces a Jan. 31 deadline to begin paying the taxes; he’s 12 years behind. The 66-year-old Gray said Thursday he’ll take up arms if officials try to seize his ranch near Trinidad. Henderson County Sheriff Ray Nutt has urged Gray to seek donations for the tax bill.