INSIDER
What happens when you make false statements
Read full article: What happens when you make false statementsLegal jargon can be really tough to grasp, especially when you're hearing it tossed around in a courtroom. That's where KPRC 2's Legal Analyst, Brian Wice, steps in. He's here to break down those tricky terms and explain what they mean, particularly when it comes to understanding what happens when someone gets caught in a lie in our legal system.
Houston PD investigation into suspended sexual assault cases not completed by mayor’s July 1st goal
Read full article: Houston PD investigation into suspended sexual assault cases not completed by mayor’s July 1st goalDepartment says investigative process of the investigation done, reviews are next steps
Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 years
Read full article: Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 yearsProsecutors have announced a deal with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to drop securities fraud charges that were pending against him for nearly a decade.
Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 years
Read full article: Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 yearsProsecutors have announced a deal with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to drop securities fraud charges that were pending against him for nearly a decade.
Judge rejects attempts to toss indictments against Texas AG Ken Paxton, keeps April trial on course
Read full article: Judge rejects attempts to toss indictments against Texas AG Ken Paxton, keeps April trial on coursePaxton’s securities fraud trial will kick off on April 15. He has been under indictment for nearly nine years. He has pleaded not guilty.
A bag of chips leads to tragedy: Legal analysis unpacks complex self-defense claims in deadly Humble shooting
Read full article: A bag of chips leads to tragedy: Legal analysis unpacks complex self-defense claims in deadly Humble shootingLegal expert weighs in on self-defense claims in tragic Humble gas station shooting
Why do public corruption cases take so long? Convicted public servants remain free years after conviction
Read full article: Why do public corruption cases take so long? Convicted public servants remain free years after convictionWe should start by saying the vast majority of public servants do indeed serve Houstonians. However, there are others who do otherwise, according to federal and state prosecutors.
Impeachment trial highs and lows, program helping families, breast cancer summit, and more on Houston Newsmakers
Read full article: Impeachment trial highs and lows, program helping families, breast cancer summit, and more on Houston NewsmakersKhambrel Marshall provides more insight on Attorney General Ken Paxton’s impeachment trial.
AJ Armstrong seeks appeal in capital murder conviction; has until Sept. 15 to file motion for new trial
Read full article: AJ Armstrong seeks appeal in capital murder conviction; has until Sept. 15 to file motion for new trialAntonio Armstrong Jr. is still fighting for his innocence three weeks after a jury found him guilty of murdering his parents while they slept in their home in 2016.
Ukraine and Taiwan’s issues, AJ Armstrong verdict, fourth Trump indictment and more on Houston Newsmakers
Read full article: Ukraine and Taiwan’s issues, AJ Armstrong verdict, fourth Trump indictment and more on Houston NewsmakersUnited States Rep. Michael McCaul, who serves the 10th congressional district, is focusing on Ukraine and Taiwan.
What’s next for AJ Armstrong after jury convicts him of capital murder
Read full article: What’s next for AJ Armstrong after jury convicts him of capital murderAntonio Armstrong Jr., who was found guilty Wednesday in the 2016 murder of his parents, is expected to return to court Friday as he moves forward in the appeals process.
Former President Donald Trump’s latest indictment, back to school advice and more on Houston Newsmakers
Read full article: Former President Donald Trump’s latest indictment, back to school advice and more on Houston NewsmakersWe're talking about the latest on former President Donald Trump and back to school, all coming up on Newsmakers.
Ken Paxton moves one step closer to trial on long-delayed securities fraud charges
Read full article: Ken Paxton moves one step closer to trial on long-delayed securities fraud chargesThe impeached attorney general appeared in a Houston courtroom, where lawyers from both sides agreed to return in October to set an expected trial date on charges that have been pending since 2015.
Who is Janie Santana? The mother of Rudy Farias, boy who disappeared 8 years ago
Read full article: Who is Janie Santana? The mother of Rudy Farias, boy who disappeared 8 years agoDetectives said no charges have been filed at this time, pending a full investigation. Santana is also not charged at this time for filing fake reports or providing fake names
The Evidence Room, Episode 16 - “193″
Read full article: The Evidence Room, Episode 16 - “193″Was it a seduction? Was it a slaughter? In a new episode of our award-winning docuseries 'The Evidence Room,' KPRC 2 Investigates opens the case file on Susan Lucille Wright, a notorious killer who stabbed her husband to death in their northwest Harris County home in 2003.
U.S. Supreme Court delays decision on abortion pill until Friday night
Read full article: U.S. Supreme Court delays decision on abortion pill until Friday nightThe Supreme Court has given itself until 11:59 p.m. on Friday to decide whether a Texas U.S. district judge’s ruling that found the abortion drug Mifepristone unsafe should stand.
What’s next in abortion pill battle? KPRC 2 legal analyst explains court challenge
Read full article: What’s next in abortion pill battle? KPRC 2 legal analyst explains court challengeOn Friday, the Supreme Court temporarily kept in place federal rules for the use of an abortion drug while it takes time to fully consider the issues raised in a court challenge.
Houston Newsmakers: KPRC 2 Legal Analyst discusses Donald’s Trump indictment and the legal road ahead
Read full article: Houston Newsmakers: KPRC 2 Legal Analyst discusses Donald’s Trump indictment and the legal road aheadFormer president Donald Trump says his indictment this week by the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is a witch hunt.
Galveston man sues 3 women for wrongful death after allegedly helping his ex-wife obtain abortion pills, lawsuit says
Read full article: Galveston man sues 3 women for wrongful death after allegedly helping his ex-wife obtain abortion pills, lawsuit saysMarcus Silva of Galveston alleges three of his ex-wife’s friends helped her illegally get abortion pills to end her pregnancy.
Former Spring ISD 3rd grade teacher gets probation after accepting plea deal for child sex abuse
Read full article: Former Spring ISD 3rd grade teacher gets probation after accepting plea deal for child sex abuseA mother says her worst fears have come true now that a former teacher from Spring Independent School District who she says constantly molested her two young daughters while in the 3rd grade will avoid jail time.
Lee High School student accused of recording fellow student in bathroom, court docs say
Read full article: Lee High School student accused of recording fellow student in bathroom, court docs sayA Lee High School student, for the moment, can’t return to school after court documents reveal she recorded a fellow classmate using the restroom.
‘I don’t feel safe’: Frustrated residents say broken cameras, vehicle gate may be cause of more than 50 cars getting broken into at SW Houston apartment complex
Read full article: ‘I don’t feel safe’: Frustrated residents say broken cameras, vehicle gate may be cause of more than 50 cars getting broken into at SW Houston apartment complexAs many as 50 vehicles were broken into Sunday night while parked inside a parking garage at the Ashford Apartments located off Dairy Ashford.
Grand jury will consider case involving customer who fatally shot robber at SW Houston taco shop, police say
Read full article: Grand jury will consider case involving customer who fatally shot robber at SW Houston taco shop, police sayHouston police said on Monday that the case involving a customer who fatally shot a robbery suspect at a southwest Houston taco shop will be referred to a grand jury.
‘We can’t move on with our lives’: Grandparents stand by A.J. Armstrong ahead of third trial in parents’ murder
Read full article: ‘We can’t move on with our lives’: Grandparents stand by A.J. Armstrong ahead of third trial in parents’ murderPre-trial motions began Wednesday in the case against Antonio “A.J.” Armstrong, the man accused of shooting and killing his parents at their southwest Houston home six years ago.
Jury selection begins Monday in retrial of Antonio ‘AJ’ Armstrong, man accused of murdering parents in 2016
Read full article: Jury selection begins Monday in retrial of Antonio ‘AJ’ Armstrong, man accused of murdering parents in 2016A retrial for a man accused of killing his parents in 2016 begins Monday.
Deputy constables arrest 17-year-old who they say threatened to shoot up his former charter school in Katy
Read full article: Deputy constables arrest 17-year-old who they say threatened to shoot up his former charter school in KatyA 17-year-old is in the Harris County Jail after Precinct 5 Deputy Constables allege he made threats to shoot up his former charter school in Katy.
Two city of Houston departments tied to William-Paul Thomas’ bribery scheme
Read full article: Two city of Houston departments tied to William-Paul Thomas’ bribery schemeWhen William-Paul Thomas, a former city employee in the Mayor’s Office, took money in exchange for breaking the rules, he necessarily involved at least two other City of Houston departments.
Harris County judge facing charges, accused of showing bias against prosecutors
Read full article: Harris County judge facing charges, accused of showing bias against prosecutorsThe State Commission on Judicial Conduct has recommended Judge Franklin Bynum be suspended over allegations that consist of him being biased against prosecutors and easy on defendants.
Harris County judge charged with official oppression after allegedly unlawfully arresting former TV journalist Wayne Dolcefino
Read full article: Harris County judge charged with official oppression after allegedly unlawfully arresting former TV journalist Wayne DolcefinoVeteran former T.V. Journalist Wayne Dolcefino is calling on the state agency that investigates judicial misconduct to take disciplinary action against Harris County Judge Darrell Jordan.
‘Defcon 1′: Two more lawsuits to be filed against former Texans QB Deshaun Watson, bringing total to 26, sources say
Read full article: ‘Defcon 1′: Two more lawsuits to be filed against former Texans QB Deshaun Watson, bringing total to 26, sources sayLegal woes continue for former Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson as attorney Tony Buzbee is in the process of filing two more lawsuits against the embattled NFL star, bringing the total number to 26, KPRC 2 has learned.
Department of Justice to review actions by officers in Uvalde’s massacre at the request of town’s mayor
Read full article: Department of Justice to review actions by officers in Uvalde’s massacre at the request of town’s mayorOn Friday night, KPRC 2 Legal Analyst Brian Wice referenced potential criminality in the calling for a thorough investigation into law enforcement during the massacre in Uvalde.
‘Steel-caged death match’: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she expects to be indicted in ongoing investigation
Read full article: ‘Steel-caged death match’: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she expects to be indicted in ongoing investigationIn a Wednesday morning tweet posted by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the 31-year-old made it clear that she expects to face criminal charges in an ongoing investigation involving the Texas Rangers and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
Jacket containing DNA focus of trial for man accused of killing 11-year-old Josue Flores, prosecutors say
Read full article: Jacket containing DNA focus of trial for man accused of killing 11-year-old Josue Flores, prosecutors sayOpening statements in the trial for the man accused of killing 11-year-old Josue Flores wrapped up Monday and the first witness got on the stand.
New search warrant requests Google Docs in probe involving Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, team
Read full article: New search warrant requests Google Docs in probe involving Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, teamA new search warrant has emerged in the criminal investigation focused on how an $11-million dollar vaccine outreach contract was awarded by Harris County to Elevate Strategies.
Harris County contract investigation stretches out over 14 months, according to law enforcement
Read full article: Harris County contract investigation stretches out over 14 months, according to law enforcementWhen the Texas Rangers executed search warrants at the offices and residences connected to members of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s inner circle on March 11, the takeaway was clear according to KPRC 2′s Legal Analyst Brian Wice.
‘Nothing but political theater’: Court docs reveal investigation of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s office, $11M COVID-19 vaccine outreach contract
Read full article: ‘Nothing but political theater’: Court docs reveal investigation of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s office, $11M COVID-19 vaccine outreach contractCourt records revealed new details about the investigation into Judge Lina Hidalgo’s office and a nearly $11 million dollar contract for COVID-19 vaccine outreach.
Texas Rangers execute search warrant at office of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo
Read full article: Texas Rangers execute search warrant at office of Harris County Judge Lina HidalgoThe Texas Rangers executed a search warrant Friday at the office of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. Sources told KPRC 2 that the warrant was related to a contract for COVID-19 vaccine outreach, but no official word has been released.
Attorney Tony Buzbee releases update about plaintiffs’ case against Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson
Read full article: Attorney Tony Buzbee releases update about plaintiffs’ case against Texans quarterback Deshaun WatsonTony Buzbee released new information about his plaintiffs’ case against Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Oscar Rosales: What we know about the man wanted in shooting death of Pct. 5 Cpl. Charles Galloway
Read full article: Oscar Rosales: What we know about the man wanted in shooting death of Pct. 5 Cpl. Charles GallowayThe man accused of fatally shooting Harris County Precinct Five Constable Corporal Charles Galloway worked as an auto body mechanic at multiple body shops throughout Houston’s southwest side, sources confirmed.
Travis Scott to refund Astroworld Festival attendees, will not perform in Las Vegas, NBC News reports
Read full article: Travis Scott to refund Astroworld Festival attendees, will not perform in Las Vegas, NBC News reportsHouston rapper Travis Scott announced he will provide full refunds for all attendees who bought tickets to Astroworld Festival after a “crowd surge” left eight dead on Friday night, sources told NBC News on Monday.
Mug shot: Twin claims he was sleeping when he stabbed 17-year-old sister, prosecutors say
Read full article: Mug shot: Twin claims he was sleeping when he stabbed 17-year-old sister, prosecutors sayThe bond for Benjamin Elliot is set at $100,000. He didn’t appear in court, he’s in the mental health unit. Prosecutors say he admitted to stabbing his sister in the neck, but claims he was dreaming/sleeping at the time. They say when he realized it wasn’t a dream and he had stabbed his sister, he called 911 and the operator told him to perform CPR. Then, he alerted his parents who can be heard screaming on the 911 call.
Houston Police Union calls for judge’s resignation after man who was given low bond shoots two HPD officers
Read full article: Houston Police Union calls for judge’s resignation after man who was given low bond shoots two HPD officersThe president of the Houston Police Officer’s Union is calling for a Harris County judge to step down after allowing a habitual offender who has since been accused of shooting two Houston police officers to bond out of jail.
Examining Harris County District Attonery Kim Ogg’s high profile cases
Read full article: Examining Harris County District Attonery Kim Ogg’s high profile casesLegal experts tell KPRC 2 Investigates that politics may be a factor in the selection of high-profile cases, many of which are dropped, dismissed, or fail to secure convictions.
Houston-area counties waiting to see how Texas Supreme Court responds to mask mandates lawsuits
Read full article: Houston-area counties waiting to see how Texas Supreme Court responds to mask mandates lawsuitsGovernor Greg Abbott has the numbers on his side when it comes to the Texas Supreme Court and his executive order instituting mask mandates, according to KPRC 2 Legal Analyst Brian Wice,
Houston Newsmakers: Mask mandates take center stage
Read full article: Houston Newsmakers: Mask mandates take center stageMillard House II says HISD has not taken anyone to court over mask mandates and doesn’t plan to. He is a guest on this week’s Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall and says his decision to require masks for HISD students and staff was not meant to make waves. “This was not a decision that we wanted to see as a controversial decision or an opportunity to push back against government officials,” he said. “That’s not what this was about. This was about keeping children safe.”
Woman claims self defense after man shot to death at River Oaks home, police say
Read full article: Woman claims self defense after man shot to death at River Oaks home, police sayA homeowner in River Oaks told police that she shot a man who had been a house guest after he got physical with her and refused to leave.
High-ranking members of Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Office facing sexual misconduct lawsuit
Read full article: High-ranking members of Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Office facing sexual misconduct lawsuitA lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct involving high-ranking members of the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Office is expected to file Monday morning.
22 lawsuits against Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson will be consolidated, presented to 1 judge
Read full article: 22 lawsuits against Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson will be consolidated, presented to 1 judgeKPRC 2 News has learned all 22 civil lawsuits filed against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson have been consolidated and for pre-trial discovery will go in front of one judge.
Legal filing could reveal identities of women accusing Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct, attorney says
Read full article: Legal filing could reveal identities of women accusing Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct, attorney saysA new legal filing is out Thursday from the attorney representing Deshaun Watson.
2 of Houston’s most prominent attorneys go toe-to-toe in statements about Deshaun Watson case
Read full article: 2 of Houston’s most prominent attorneys go toe-to-toe in statements about Deshaun Watson caseTwo of Houston’s most prominent attorneys traded barbs in statements regarding the Deshaun Watson case.
KPRC 2 legal analyst answers FAQ on Deshaun Watson case
Read full article: KPRC 2 legal analyst answers FAQ on Deshaun Watson caseThe lawsuits filed accusing Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual assault have garnered national attention. I sat down with KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice to discuss what could be next. And unfortunately for Rusty Hardin and Deshaun Watson, Tony Buzbee has put a crooked number up on the board in the court of public opinion with the sheer number of lawsuits. But as it is right now, we are in for the long haul.”These are civil lawsuits, not criminal. What a lot of our viewers may not know is that on the civil side, that doesn’t apply.”What does this mean for Deshaun Watson as a football player, not necessarily as a citizen accused?
EXCLUSIVE: Sources share copy of NDA that 1 of Deshaun Watson’s accusers says player sent to her
Read full article: EXCLUSIVE: Sources share copy of NDA that 1 of Deshaun Watson’s accusers says player sent to herA portion of the document provided to KPRC 2 by sources is highlighted in this graphic. HOUSTON – Sources shared with KPRC 2 a non-disclosure agreement that Deshaun Watson sent to one of his accusers on Thursday night. While nothing on the form is filled out, it has the name Deshaun Watson typed in at the top. Maybe you don’t want that extra signed copy circling.”The woman accuses Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct. If that proves true, Wice said a non-disclosure agreement would not hold up.
The name ‘Jane Doe’ appears to be a hardship for Deshaun Watson’s defense team
Read full article: The name ‘Jane Doe’ appears to be a hardship for Deshaun Watson’s defense teamHOUSTON – The name Jane Doe has become to be a hardship for the defense team for Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. Watson is accused of contacting these women, many of who are licensed massage therapists, on Instagram, according to the lawsuits. “Over the course of the last ten days, Deshaun Watson must feel like a hitchhiker in a west Texas hailstorm. “…in the one case in which we have been able to identify a plaintiff, we have strong evidence showing the allegation is false,” said Watson’s defense attorney Rusty Hardin. “I think it’s a double-barreled shotgun that Deshaun Watson finds himself facing right now.
Criminal complaint filed by Galveston county judge to investigate power outages during winter storm
Read full article: Criminal complaint filed by Galveston county judge to investigate power outages during winter stormHOUSTON – Galveston County Judge Mark Henry says he wants tough action. He’s blaming those deaths on power outages that lasted longer than expected during the winter storm. A criminal complaint filed Monday with the Galveston County District Attorney’s office could lead to an investigation and charges filed at the DA’s discretion. It wasn’t hard to find people who agree with Judge Henry’s decision to call for a criminal investigation. “Why were residents cut off and left off, while office building s downtown remained powered on the entire time,” Judge Henry said.
Houston Newsmakers: Conspiracy, lies lead to Capitol insurrection
Read full article: Houston Newsmakers: Conspiracy, lies lead to Capitol insurrectionWASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 06: A protester holds a Trump flag inside the US Capitol Building near the Senate Chamber on January 06, 2021 in Washington, DC. Congress held a joint session today to ratify President-elect Joe Biden's 306-232 Electoral College win over President Donald Trump. Congress held a joint session today to ratify President-elect Joe Biden's 306-232 Electoral College win over President Donald Trump. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)1 (2021 Getty Images)What drove thousands of Trump supporters to Washington, D.C. on January 6th? Thousands of them rioted and attacked the U.S. Capitol during a joint session of Congress, upset with election results that showed former Vice President Joe Biden beating President Trump.
Susan Wright, woman who killed husband in 2003 by stabbing him 193 times, freed from prison
Read full article: Susan Wright, woman who killed husband in 2003 by stabbing him 193 times, freed from prisonHOUSTON – Susan Wright, who captured headlines around the globe in 2004 when the housewife and mom went on trial for murder, was released from prison Wednesday morning. Wright was convicted in 2004 of stabbing her husband, Jeff, 193 times and burying him behind the carport of their northwest Harris County home in January 2003. According to a spokesman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Wright was officially released from custody at 9:30 a.m. A supervisor at the Gatesville, Texas prison confirmed to KPRC 2 that Wright had left the facility. She arrived at a home in Harris County early Wednesday afternoon and had little to say to the media that was outside the home. RELATED: Susan Wright gets email saying her children died, but they didn’tA Harris County jury convicted Susan Wright of murder and sentenced her to 25 years in prison.
Former HPD captain arrested in bizarre conspiracy case unable to be arraigned due to COVID-19
Read full article: Former HPD captain arrested in bizarre conspiracy case unable to be arraigned due to COVID-19HOUSTON – Since Tuesday, there have been nationwide headlines involving former HPD Captain Mark Aguirre. Aguirre was due to be arraigned Thursday morning but his arraignment was postponed after his attorney informed the court that Aguirre has COVID-19. The Liberty Center is run by conservative activist Steve Hotze, known for spreading conspiracy theories. Dr. Michael Adams, the chair of the political department at Texas Southern University, says social media is a huge factor in conspiracy theories because of digital accessibility and engagement. Adams calls conspiracy theories “gaslighting.” A form of manipulation meant to question your own reality.
Devil worshipper charged in 2016 slaying accused of another killing months after posting $25K bond
Read full article: Devil worshipper charged in 2016 slaying accused of another killing months after posting $25K bondHOUSTON – A Houston story made international headlines four years ago -- an 18-year-old is accused of killing his 16-year-old friend during a satanic ritual. Edward O’Neal, the suspect in the case, admitted to KPRC 2 during a jailhouse interview in 2016 that he worshipped the devil. Fast forward to the present, O’Neal is back in jail after being accused of killing again nearly ten days ago. His return to jail comes months after being released on a $25,000 bond in the 2016 homicide case. “The $64,000 question, no pun intended, is why he is out on a $25,000 bond?” Wice asked.
Postal service ordered again to search for mail-in ballots
Read full article: Postal service ordered again to search for mail-in ballotsHOUSTON – As the counting continues in several states a judge has issued another order to the United States Postal Service to locate any other mail-in ballots that have yet to be delivered. The order is focusing on states that have extended vote delivery deadlines including North Carolina and Pennsylvania. “That means he can find the postal service in contempt. It means he can call them out.”The postal service says in order to expedite the process ballots were scanned when they arrived but not when they were sent out of facilities making it appear as if they hadn’t been delivered. “But beyond that, I think the integrity and the reputation of the United States Postal Service is at stake.”Wice says he can’t guarantee the judge’s orders will make a difference but he believes they can make a difference, which is why the orders were issued.
Legal analyst gives thoughts on The Luhnow Interview
Read full article: Legal analyst gives thoughts on The Luhnow InterviewThe day after The Luhnow Interview, we spoke with KPRC Legal Analyst Brian Wice about possible legal implications. “Based on my review of the transcript of the interview, I believe Jeff has nothing to fear,” said Wice. As a veteran criminal defense attorney and KPRC legal analyst, what did you think about MLB’s investigation as it related to Luhnow? Why didn’t the commissioner grant Luhnow’s request to take a lie detector test? Second, Manfred knew that Jeff would not have volunteered to take a lie detector test unless he was confident he would pass.
Paxton fought $300 hourly rate for attorneys prosecuting him, but OKs it for “rookie” lawyer in donor’s case
Read full article: Paxton fought $300 hourly rate for attorneys prosecuting him, but OKs it for “rookie” lawyer in donor’s caseSpecial prosecutors Brian Wice, left, and Kent Schaffer enter the Collin County Courthouse during a pre-trial motion hearing for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2015, in McKinney. Paxton personally signed off on paying Cammack $300 an hour — exactly the rate promised to the two attorneys appointed to take Paxton to trial, who have not been paid since 2016 as Paxton’s political allies and defense attorneys call that figure exorbitant. Paxton has dismissed those allegations from his top staff as “false” accusations from “rogue employees.”Citing their policy, federal authorities have declined to confirm whether they are investigating Paxton. The issue of prosecutor pay in the securities fraud case against Paxton was raised by a Paxton donor, Jeff Blackard, in December 2015, when he sued, calling the fees exorbitant. Defense attorneys for Paxton did not immediately return a request for comment Monday.
Judge directs not guilty verdict for final defendant in Arkema case related to Harvey fire
Read full article: Judge directs not guilty verdict for final defendant in Arkema case related to Harvey fireHOUSTON – A judge issued a directed verdict Thursday against the final defendant in the criminal case brought against Arkema related to the fire at the company’s Crosby plant during Hurricane Harvey. KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice said the directed verdict was issued because there was insufficient evidence to bring the case to a jury. Comardelle was the only remaining defendant in the case after the charges against Arkema CEO Richard Rowe and Michael Keough, the company’s logistics officer, were dropped. Hardin said Arkema was the only company being investigated but never addressed the other companies on the Houston Ship Channel. Hardin said it was unprecedented for prosecutors to make it a crime and targeted Arkema for not anticipating Hurricane Harvey’s impact.
Attorney: Texans deny credentials to photographer who sued Deshaun Watson
Read full article: Attorney: Texans deny credentials to photographer who sued Deshaun WatsonHOUSTON – Nine days after Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson signed a four-year, $156 million contract extension, a lawsuit filed in federal court accused him of copyright infringement. The next day, Tuesday, the Texans denied credentials to the photographer who filed the lawsuit, his attorneys said. Houstonian and freelance sports photographer Aaron Sprecher took the photos in question. Watson posted them on his Instagram account without permission and without credit, and did not take down the photos when asked, the lawsuit alleged. Sprecher just learned that he has been denied credentials to future Texans games,” the statement continued.
Court denies Paxton’s appeal in Harris County mail-in ballot application case for now
Read full article: Court denies Paxton’s appeal in Harris County mail-in ballot application case for nowHOUSTON – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s appeal to last week’s court ruling that allows Harris County to send mail-in ballot applications to all registered voters was denied Tuesday. According to the decision issued by the 14th Court of Appeals, Paxton’s request for an injunction was denied because Paxton and Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins had reached a previous agreement in the Texas Supreme Court. In Texas, voters can cast their ballot by mail if:They will be away from the county of residence on Election Day and during the early voting period. “As surely as night follows day, this case will ultimately be decided in the Texas Supreme Court,” KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice said. Wice went on to add that based on its batting average in these matters, “The Attorney General’s office will be the prohibitive favorite.”There are approximately 2.4 million registered voters in Harris County.
Legalities of enforcing the mask mandate in Houston
Read full article: Legalities of enforcing the mask mandate in HoustonHOUSTON A month after being told to cover up, Houstons mayor now says people who dont follow the governors mask order could be fined. When youre in public, youre around other persons, please put on your mask or you run the risk of receiving a citation, Mayor Sylvester Turner said on Monday. I think thats a good idea. Ultimately, nobody goes to jail because they cant pay, said KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice. But Wice pointed out that cant pay and wont pay are two different things.
Video shows tense moments between judge and Wayne Dolcefino before contempt of court charge
Read full article: Video shows tense moments between judge and Wayne Dolcefino before contempt of court chargeHOUSTON – A courtroom confrontation that lasted only two minutes landed a well-known former investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino behind bars. Dolcefino recorded the video with a pen camera while pressing Harris County Criminal Court Judge Darrell Jordan for answers regarding legal documents Dolcefino requested from the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. ”Judge Jordan was tasked with appointing special prosecutors to do their job. “At the time, Wayne walked in the court and had his exchange with Judge Jordan. KPRC 2 reached out to Judge Jordan for comment on the story.
Harris County continues to grapple with a huge backlog of criminal cases
Read full article: Harris County continues to grapple with a huge backlog of criminal casesHOUSTON As Harris County puts the final pieces in place to resume jury assembly and selection, the backlog of felony and misdemeanor cases continues to grow. When you cant have trials, everything else behind that backs up, said Harris County prosecutor JoAnne Musick. The Supreme Court of Texas halted all jury trials and jury selection because of the pandemic, and the court recently extended that order until September 1. The halt in trials is a large part of the reason the Harris County Jails population remains above 8,000 inmates. The Harris County Sheriffs Office even had to create a so-called Zoom Team to help keep cases moving through the courts.
New charges illustrate culture within HPD Narcotics unit, legal analyst says
Read full article: New charges illustrate culture within HPD Narcotics unit, legal analyst saysHOUSTON More than a year after the raid on Harding Street, six former Houston police officers are now facing charges. Five of them are accused of falsifying government documents used in narcotics investigations. Its not as serious as the three levels of felonies above it, said KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice, a criminal defense attorney. Wice said the charges appear to indicate a problem with the culture inside the departments narcotics division. The charges could have a wider impact, possibly leading some of the cases involving the former officers to be dismissed, Wice said.
Former investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino charged with contempt of court
Read full article: Former investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino charged with contempt of courtHOUSTON – On Tuesday, well-known investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino was charged with contempt of court and sentenced to three days in jail and six months probation. According to court documents, Dolcefino went up to Judge Darrell Jordan as he sat on the bench and demanded to interview him. Wice argued Dolcefino was not technically in contempt of court. However, Judge Jordan begged to differ. He says Dolcefino will not get special treatment for being a well-known journalist.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg under fire for job-threatening email
Read full article: Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg under fire for job-threatening emailThat is exactly what Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg and her team are claiming Wednesday, following an email Ogg sent to prosecutors Tuesday. “If at the end of the day Kim Ogg sent this email then there is more to this than certainly meets the eye,” said KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice. “Generally, Kim Ogg is not as polarizing and political as this email suggests,” said Mark Jones a Political Science Professor at Rice University. Nonetheless, nearly 24 hours after sending the email, an attorney in Ogg’s office sent a follow-up email stating that Ogg sent the email out too early. However, Ogg’s email address was used to send the email to the office.
Mayor Turner says Houston won’t enforce $1,000 fine for residents not wearing a mask
Read full article: Mayor Turner says Houston won’t enforce $1,000 fine for residents not wearing a maskTurner made his position clear regarding Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo's nose and mouth cover order. In an interview with KPRC 2 Investigates, Gamaldi called the order unconstitutional. So that means you have discretion, discretion, discretion," he said. "If Harris County did it, Fort Bend is going to do it, and it's the best thing to do," said Fort Bend resident Shandle Pearson. On Thursday afternoon, Fort Bend said it would not be issuing a mask covering order.
Grand jury makes ‘unprecedented’ visit to the site of deadly Harding Street raid
Read full article: Grand jury makes ‘unprecedented’ visit to the site of deadly Harding Street raidHOUSTON – KPRC 2 has learned a grand jury has visited the Harding Street site, where a deadly shootout with Houston Police Department happened in January 2019. KPRC 2 saw Harris County Constable Precinct 1 deputies and representatives from the Harris County District Attorney’s Office at the home. Transported via shuttle, the grand jury was taken inside the home for approximately a 20-minute tour. A botched January raid at a home on Harding Street led to a months’ long investigation and three people charged in connection with the deaths of Rhogena Nicholas and Dennis Tuttle. "That the grand jury is given an opportunity to see Rhogena and Dennis’ home is welcome news, but we also know that an independent forensic evaluation of the Harding Street incident is vitally necessary.”
What’s next for woman accused in the kidnapping of Austin mom, baby? Legal analyst weighs in
Read full article: What’s next for woman accused in the kidnapping of Austin mom, baby? Legal analyst weighs inHOUSTON – When it comes to solving a murder, KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice says more often than not law enforcement is attempting to beat a small window. TIMELINE: Here are the key events in the Austin mom strangulation case“We don’t know anything other than the cause of death. We don’t know where it happened, we don’t know how it necessarily happened, other than the fact that this poor woman died from manual strangulation," Wice said. Once murder charges are ultimately filed in the case, Wice says the county where the murder took place should be the venue for a murder trial. However, important to note that no murder charges have been filed nearly six days after the discovery of Broussard’s body.
Jury in AJ Armstrong trial sends second note to judge indicating a deadlock
Read full article: Jury in AJ Armstrong trial sends second note to judge indicating a deadlockDeliberations in the murder trial of A.J. Armstrong will resume Friday morning, after Thursday's discussion ended with a deadlocked jury.
Sept. 29: Government shut down a good thing?
Read full article: Sept. 29: Government shut down a good thing?A government shutdown would be a good thing. That's according to former Rep. Tom DeLay who gives his first TV interview on "Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall" since his convictions for money laundering and conspiracy were overturned. "They'll win it if they shut it down," DeLay said as he talked about the success of the government shutdown that occurred when he was in Congress. Wice talks about the legal reasons the decision was made. Great conversation and information on this week's "Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall."