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Predawn Multi-Agency Operation Leads to Arrests and Drug Seizures

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March 21, 2025 – In the early predawn hours, a meticulously planned joint effort involving multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies took decisive action against drug-related crime in Yoakum and Lavaca County. The first phase of the operation took place within the Yoakum city limits, where officers executed a search warrant that led to the arrest of one individual. The operation then continued to a residence north of Hallettsville in Lavaca County. This second search resulted in two additional arrests and the seizure of illegal drugs.Participating agencies included the Austin County Sheriff’s Office, Austin County EMS, Sealy Police Department, Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office, Lavaca County OEM, Lavaca County/Colorado County EMS, Cuero Police Department, Hallettsville Police Department, and Shiner Police Department. The seamless collaboration and coordination among these agencies underscore the importance of inter-agency relationships in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.The Yoakum Police Department expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation of all participating agencies. They reaffirmed their dedication to removing drugs and drug dealers from the streets, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in achieving their mission.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug-related activities and maintain public safety in the region.

Cuero Online News contacted the Yoakum Police Department for additional details about the arrests. However, officials stated that information was not currently available and could not be provided until Monday. Further updates will follow as new information is released.

Do you have an interesting story, event, or announcement you’d like to share with our community? Send us an email: cueroonlinnews@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

Betty Carroll – December 16, 1932 to March 19, 2025 (92)

YOAKUM: Betty Carroll, 92, passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2025. She was born on December 16, 1932, to Henry and Adela (Menke) Witte, in a small community outside of Weimar, TX.

Betty graduated from Weimar High School in 1953. Afterward, she worked at the Columbus Eye Clinic, where she met her future husband, Billy Carroll, in 1956. The two married on July 14th, 1957, and shortly after they moved to Yoakum, TX. There, she became a homemaker, supporting her husband on their dairy farm for 47 years.

A devout Christian, Betty was a long-time member of the Fordtran Church of Christ. She and Billy raised two children on the farm. After Billy’s passing in 2004, Betty took on the role of matriarch, raising beef cattle and continuing to lead the family with strength and grace.  Betty was kind, humble, and always had a sweet smile on her face. She had a thoughtful nature, often sending cards to loved ones on special occasions to let them know she was thinking of them. She had a strong faith and spirit, which helped her to survive cancer twice and overcome many other challenges throughout her 92 years of life.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, painting, sewing, taking trips with friends, and playing bunco. Betty had a deep appreciation for nature, finding joy in watching butterflies, birds, and wildflowers outside her window. She was also fond of her cats and proud of her cattle.

Betty is survived by her two children, daughter Ann Seidenberger, and son, Mark Carroll and daughter-in-law, Kathy; five granddaughters and their spouses—Lara Seidenberger, Courtney and Dominic Rickicki, Lesley and Justin Janak, Ashley and Taylor Lee, and Lisa and Trent McKee; as well as six great-grandchildren. her sister, Ruby Jane Remmert.  Betty is also survived by numerous extended family members, including her nieces Lynn Richter, Jan Schott, and Amy Lowery.

She was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Adela Witte; her beloved husband, Billy Carroll, and her sister, Adeline Richter. She was deeply cherished by all who loved her, and she will live on in our hearts forever.

Public viewing beginning at 10 a.m., Sunday, March 23, 2025, with Funeral Service at 2 p.m., at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Mr. Glen Schmidt officiating. Burial to follow at Hebron Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers are Lara Seidenberger, Courtney Rickicki, Ashley Lee, Lisa McKee, Lynn Richter, Zenith Stevens, Kaye Stevens, Wiona Balch, Judy Hughes and Cheryl Carroll.

Memorials may be given to Fordtran Church of Christ or Hospice of South Texas.

The family expresses special thanks to Citizens Hospital staff and Hospice of South Texas for their exceptional care of our Mom.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.

Dennis Erwin Brandl, Jr – June 5, 1941 to March 1, 2025 (83)

YOAKUM: Dennis Erwin Brandl, Jr, age 83, passed away March 1, 2025. He was born June 5, 1941, in Yoakum to Dennis Brandl Sr and Daisy Treybig Brandl.

Dennis worked in the oil and gas business for over 50 years. He began with Hughes Tool Company and then Alice Specialty Company. He transitioned to drilling for Blocker Drilling, Big E Drilling and finally Unit Drilling as a Vice-President located in Houston. After leaving Unit Drilling, Dennis used his expertise to work as a drilling consultant to drill wells in the Gulf Coast, Permian Basin and Rocky Mountains. Dennis had many hobbies at different parts of his life. He loved animals, riding horses, hunting, operating his cigarette boat and truly loved being a gentleman farmer on his farm/ranch in Witting, Texas. After high school, he served in the U.S. Navy on the Destroyer, the USS Sproston. Dennis was a loving husband and father and will be missed by all his family.

Survivors: wife, Marie Elizabeth Frerichs Brandl; sons, Bradley Brandl and David Brandl; sisters, Deanna Barnard (James), Suzanne House and Sandra Ehlers; brother-in-law, Wayne Kucera.

Preceded in death by parents; sister, Cindy Kucera.

Graveside Service 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 28, 2025, at Yoakum Oak Grove Cemetery with Rev. Warren Hornung officiating. After the graveside service, friends and family will gather at Rosie’s Hideaway in Witting, Texas from 1-4 p.m.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656.

Texas Senate Bill (SB 10) Mandates the Display of the Ten Commandments

March 19, 2025 -The Texas Senate wrapped up a long and eventful legislative session spending hours deliberating and approving a series of proposals aimed at reinforcing traditional values in education and community spaces. The session concluded with a Health and Human Services Committee Hearing, which extended into the evening, adjourning just after 9 PM yesterday.

Among the key measures passed was Senate Bill 10 (SB 10), introduced by Senator King. This legislation mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in all elementary and secondary classrooms across Texas, underscoring its role in promoting moral and ethical education for students.

The U.S. Supreme Court has previously ruled against similar measures, such as in the 1980 case Stone v. Graham, where the Court struck down a Kentucky law requiring the Ten Commandments to be posted in public schools. However, recent Supreme Court decisions, like the 2022 Kennedy v. Bremerton School District case, have shifted the legal landscape, potentially giving proponents of SB 10 more confidence in its constitutionality.

If passed, SB 10 is likely to face legal challenges, and its fate may ultimately depend on how courts interpret the balance between religious expression and the separation of church and state.

The Senate also approved Senate Bill 11 (SB 11) which grants school boards the authority to implement policies allowing students and employees the opportunity to participate in prayer or read religious texts, such as the Bible, during the school day. Participation is voluntary and this bill emphasizes the importance of providing space for personal faith and reflection within educational settings. The bill prohibits coercion and ensures that participation does not interfere with instructional time.

However, this legislation raises constitutional questions under the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits government actions that favor one religion over another. Critics argue that while the bill mentions “religious texts,” its emphasis on the Bible could be seen as promoting Christianity, potentially alienating students and staff of other faiths or those who are non-religious. Public schools are meant to serve individuals of all religious backgrounds, and promoting one religion could be viewed as exclusionary

Another significant measure was Senate Bill 18 (SB 18), which stipulates that municipal libraries in Texas hosting certain events, such as “Drag Queen Story Hour,” will no longer be eligible for state or other public funding. This legislation seeks to align state resources with programming that reflects family-friendly and community-centered values.

The legality of Senate Bill 18 (SB 18), which would deny state or public funding to municipal libraries hosting events like “Drag Queen Story Hour,” is likely to face significant legal scrutiny. Critics argue that such legislation could violate the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects freedom of speech and expression. By targeting specific events or viewpoints, the bill may be seen as discriminatory and an attempt to suppress certain forms of expression.

Courts have historically ruled against laws that appear to restrict free speech based on content or viewpoint. For example, in Rosenberger v. Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia (1995), the U.S. Supreme Court held that the government cannot discriminate against speech based on its viewpoint when providing public funding.

If SB 18 becomes law, it is likely to face legal challenges on these grounds. Opponents may argue that it unfairly targets LGBTQ+ events and violates constitutional protections. Proponents, on the other hand, may argue that the bill is about aligning public funding with community values rather than restricting speech.

The outcome will depend on how courts interpret the balance between free speech rights and the state’s authority to allocate public funds.

Lawmakers described these measures as critical steps to create a positive and productive learning environment while addressing concerns about societal influences affecting children and families.

“This legislation reflects our commitment to protecting the values that our children and grandchildren grow up with,” said one advocate of the bills. “It’s about safeguarding the future and ensuring that our schools and communities serve as sources of guidance and inspiration.”

The Texas Senate will now prepare to send these proposals to the House for further review and consideration. The day’s efforts mark a pivotal moment in advancing policies aimed at shaping a values-driven future for the state.

Shine a Light for Child Abuse Awareness Month with Friends of Dewitt County

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March 19, 2025 – April is Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time to come together as a community to shed light on the serious issue of child abuse and to promote hope and healing for affected children. Friends of Dewitt County is proud to lead this charge with a meaningful initiative that invites everyone to take a stand in support of this vital cause.

As part of our efforts to raise awareness, we’re offering Child Abuse Awareness signs for just $20 each. These vibrant signs make a bold statement, whether displayed in your yard or at your business. Each purchase helps to support children and families in need while spreading an essential message throughout our community.

To amplify your support, each sign comes with a symbolic blue light bulb. Blue represents the color of child abuse prevention, and by lighting up your space, you help shine a beacon of awareness and advocacy for this important cause.

Friends of Dewitt County will deliver signs locally, making it easy for you to get involved and show your support.

Remember, this isn’t just a local effort. This is a statewide cause, and anyone in Texas can participate. Along with your sign, you’ll receive information for the Texas Child Abuse Hotline, so we can all stay connected and vigilant in protecting children.

Let’s work together to make Child Abuse Awareness Month a time for action, reflection, and community engagement. Your support truly makes a difference.

To order a sign or learn more, contact Friends of Dewitt County today. Thank you for helping us bring hope and healing to children and families in need!

1 979-777-9979

ccwb.fdcc@gmail.com

https://dewittkids.org/

dccwb.fdcc@gmail.com

Mark Your Calendar for Family Literacy Night at Cuero Junior High

March 9, 2025 – Join us for a night of fun, learning, and valuable resources at Cuero Junior High’s Family Literacy Night on Monday, March 24, 2025, from 5:00–6:30 PM.

This exciting event offers a range of opportunities for families to stay informed and engaged:
– Parent Portal Assistance: Get help setting up alerts for grades, missing assignments, and attendance.
– Important Testing Information: Learn about upcoming testing dates to help your student stay prepared.
– Family Resources: Discover tools and support available to help your family thrive.

And don’t miss out on the Scholastic Book Fair, open from 3:30–7:00 PM, where you can find the perfect books to inspire your young readers!

Make it a family outing—mark your calendar and bring everyone along. We look forward to seeing you there!

Vicki Harmon Barnes – May 2, 1936 to March 19, 2025 (88)

Vicki Harmon Barnes, 88, of Cuero passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2025.  She was born May 2, 1936, in Newcastle, TX to Eugene and Nora Collins Harmon.  She worked for Texas Electric Company in Monahans, TX as a customer service representative for twenty years.  She was a member of First Baptist Church of Cuero and loved her church family.  She kept close tabs on all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved getting new pictures from them.  She enjoyed living in the country and never met a dog she didn’t like!  Her love and compassion for friends and family will be missed.

She is survived by her daughter, Judi (Ben) Colwell; her son, Harvey (Sharon) Haynes; grandchildren, Courtnie Sanders, Jeff (Jennifer) Haynes, Keith (Amber) Haynes, Toni Marie Haynes, Jeffrey Colwell (Bryan Branch), Joel (Teri) Colwell; great-grandchildren, Zach McDaniel, Jayme Haynes, Jaxon Haynes, Sterling Haynes, Hayden Haynes, Grayson Haynes, Justin Colwell, Trevor Colwell, Ryan Colwell, Tyler Colwell, Bre Branch, Nate Branch and Macie Colwell.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Bobby Harmon.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025, 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church with Dr. Glenn Robertson officiating.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pet Adoptions of Cuero or First Baptist Church of Cuero.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Vicki Harmon Barnes, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Public Safety Alert: Assistance Needed in Locating Wanted Suspects (Arrested)

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Yoakum, Texas March 19, 2025 -The Yoakum Police Department is urgently seeking the public’s help in locating two individuals wanted for Aggravated Robbery. Authorities believe the suspects may be in the El Campo or Eagle Lake area and are considered armed and dangerous.

Suspect 1: Daniel Joseph Gonzales
Suspect 2: Kaleb Anthony Mraz

The police urge anyone who encounters these individuals to exercise extreme caution. Do not approach them under any circumstances. Instead, immediately notify local law enforcement.

If you have any information about their whereabouts, please contact the Yoakum Police Department at 361-293-5234 or reach out to your local law enforcement agency.

Your cooperation is vital to ensuring the safety of our community. Thank you for helping to keep our neighborhoods secure.

Stay vigilant and safe!

CAMAL House Seeks Community Support Amid Potential Meat Shortages

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Cuero, Texas March 19, 2025 – CAMAL House, a vital lifeline in Cuero, TX for over 30 years, is calling on the community for help as it faces potential meat shortages in the coming weeks. This 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers and sustained by generous community donations, provides crucial food assistance to local families in need.

With nearly 500 households relying on CAMAL House every month, the organization is doing everything possible to meet demand. However, securing meat from traditional sources has become increasingly difficult.

“We are committed to supporting our community, but we’re struggling to source the meat we need,” shared a representative of CAMAL House. “If anyone is able to donate livestock, such as a cow, for processing, it would make an incredible difference.”

CAMAL House is appealing to local ranchers, farmers, and individuals who may be able to contribute. Donations of livestock or other support will help ensure families in Dewitt County continue to receive nutritious food during this challenging time.

CAMAL House is located at 118 W. Main Street, Cuero, TX. Donations can also be sent to P.O. Box 524, Cuero, TX, United States, Texas. For more information or to coordinate a donation, please call 1+361-275-5022 or email: camalhousecuero@gmail.com

Let’s join together to support CAMAL House and continue its proud legacy of feeding families in need. Every effort counts!

 

Leon Royce Long – September 9, 1955 to March 12, 2025 (69)

BANDERA: Leon Royce Long, 69, passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2025. He was born September 9, 1955 in Hallettsville to the late Hubert Vernon Long and Myrtle Ruth (Hairell) Long.

Leon was a simple hardworking man, He found joy in life’s simple pleasures-hunting, fishing, watching football, and sharing stories with friends and family. A skilled welder by trade, he provided a steady and honest living for his loved ones. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love for the outdoors, and the time he spent with those he cared for the most.

Survivors are his daughter, Wendy Robledo and husband Jorge of Minnesota; three grandchildren,  Jorge Robledo III, Trinity Gordon (Aaron), and Kendon Robledo; sisters, Ruth Ryland of Sweeny, Tx, Juanita Edwards of Victoria, Tx and Marjorie Friedel of Yoakum, Tx.; brothers , Vernon M. Long Sr. of Yoakum, Billy W. Long (Susan) of Gonzales, Tx., and Wesley Long (Tammy) of Montgomery, Tx.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Myrtle Long; his beloved wife, Carol (Winkenwerder) Long; infant twin sister, Lynda Joyce Long, sisters, Wanda Elaine Williams, and Shirley M. Fuller;  brother, Kenneth Ray Long.

Visitation 1 p.m., with Funeral Service at 2 p.m., Friday, March 21, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, followed by burial at Salem Cemetery.

Pallbearers Ben R. Long, Wes S. Long, Charlie Williams, Holly R. Long, Kenneth R. Long and Billy S. Long.

Memorials may be given to any food bank in Leon’s honor.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.