Bob McCreery, president of McCreery Aviation, points to the company’s sign at the entrance of its headquarters in McAllen, Texas, as the South Texas fixed-base operator prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary. Founded in 1946 by J.F. “Mac” McCreery, the family-run company has grown from a small post-war flight school into a full-service aviation provider at McAllen International Airport, serving aircraft owners, business aviation, and international travelers across the Rio Grande Valley. Image Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – One of South Texas’s longest-operating aviation companies is preparing to mark a major milestone. McCreery Aviation Company plans an event in April to celebrate its 80th anniversary, President Bob McCreery said in a recent interview. McCreery said the company is targeting April for a gathering that will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and bring together customers, friends, and associates, though details are still being finalized.
Founded in 1946 by J.F. “Mac” McCreery, the company began as a small flight school in Mercedes, Texas, after World War II, then moved to McAllen in 1948 to expand operations. At that time, McAllen’s aviation facilities consisted of grass runways and minimal infrastructure. Mac McCreery, a trained flight and gunnery instructor, saw potential in the region’s climate and demand for aviation services and established a flight training operation that grew over time.
Mac’s son, Bob McCreery, who joined the business in 1979 after studying at Sam Houston State University, said he “grew up playing around the airport paths” and worked in early roles, including fueling aircraft and assisting maintenance crews. Under his leadership, the company expanded from those modest beginnings into a full-service fixed-base operator (FBO).
Today, it offers a wide range of services, including aircraft maintenance, flight training, air charter, avionics installation and repair, parts sales, ground support, aircraft storage, and fueling at McAllen International Airport. (MFE). McAllen International Airport, the region’s busiest airport, serves as a hub for commercial and general aviation in the Rio Grande Valley.
McCreery Aviation has developed a reputation for broad capabilities. The company holds Stage Three accreditation through the International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH), a safety program that fewer than 50 FBOs nationwide have achieved. “It’s like academic accreditation,” McCreary told Texas Border Business in a 2025 profile, noting that the certification requires strict procedures, inspections, and training.
The company’s services attract a diverse clientele, including local aircraft owners, business jet owners, and international travelers. Its McAllen location near the U.S.-Mexico border means a significant portion of activity comes from Mexican cities such as Monterrey and Tampico. McCreery said about half of the company’s business comes from customers flying in from Mexico to take advantage of on-site U.S. Customs operations.
McCreery emphasized the role that people have played in the company’s history. “We’re a team,” he said, noting that some long-tenured employees work alongside newer technicians. He said his daughter has also entered the family business, contributing to human resources and accounting. The company’s longevity and continued family involvement set it apart in an industry where many independent fixed-based operators have consolidated or closed.
Since 1946, McCreery Aviation has been a cornerstone of South Texas aviation, providing unparalleled service and expertise to the aviation community. From flight training, aircraft maintenance, aircraft sales, to aircraft ground handling and servicing, we have proudly served our community with dedication and precision. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to continuing our legacy of excellence.
The planned anniversary event comes as McCreary Aviation prepares for future growth while reflecting on its legacy. McCreery said he looks forward to the celebration to honor decades of service to the region’s aviation community and the partners who have contributed to the company’s evolution.
Exact plans for the April event are pending, but the 80th anniversary is expected to highlight McCreery Aviation’s sustained presence in South Texas aviation and its role in connecting the Rio Grande Valley to destinations across the U.S. and beyond.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized cocaine valued at more than $1.7 million hidden within a commercial truck. USCBP image
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LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently seized cocaine valued at more than $1.7 million hidden within a commercial truck.
“This seizure reflects the tireless dedication of our frontline CBP officers to our border security mission and their effective use of technology,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “This is a significant amount of cocaine that will not reach our streets nor poison our communities.”
The seizure occurred on Feb. 26 at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge when a CBP officer referred a commercial truck hauling an empty trailer for secondary inspection. Following a canine and nonintrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered 54 packages containing a total of 129.63 pounds of alleged cocaine. The narcotics have a street value of $1,730,836.
CBP seized the narcotics. Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the seizure.
Front row, from left, Dr. Tyler King, Melissa R. Cigarroa, Mayor Pro Tempore Vanessa Perez, Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño and his wife, Rosa Márquez de Treviño, Alyssa Cigarroa, Gilbert Gonzalez, and U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar pose during the Laredo Day gathering in Washington, D.C. In the back row is Ricardo “Rick” Garza. King, Cigarroa, Perez, Alyssa Cigarroa, Gonzalez, and Garza serve on the Laredo City Council. Image courtesy Congressman Henry Cuellar.
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Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Community leaders, federal officials, and members of Congress gathered in Washington, D.C., for the annual Laredo Day celebration, which recognizes the people, heritage, and economic importance of Laredo and South Texas.
U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar hosted the gathering, which brought together Democrats and Republicans to highlight the leadership and contributions of the Laredo community.
Cuellar described the event as a celebration of the region’s culture and influence. “Yesterday in Washington, D.C., was Laredo Day, a celebration honoring the people, heritage, and spirit that help make South Texas so special,” Cuellar said in a social media post.
The congressman said the annual event is an opportunity for lawmakers and officials from across the country to connect with leaders in Laredo and to recognize the city’s national significance.
“Laredo plays a vital role in the economic success and national security of the United States,” Cuellar said. He noted that Laredo serves as the nation’s top land port of entry, with billions of dollars in trade moving through the city each year and supporting jobs across Texas and the United States.
Several members of Congress attended the gathering, including James E. Clyburn, Mark Takano, Adriano Espaillat, and Joaquin Castro.
Cuellar also acknowledged the presence of representatives from federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of War and the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as other federal partners.
During the event, Cuellar recognized community member Raul Salinas with a ceremonial gesture marking his birthday. “It was especially meaningful to present my dear friend, Raul Salinas, with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition of his birthday,” Cuellar said.
Cuellar thanked local leaders and organizations that helped organize the celebration, including Victor D. Treviño, the City of Laredo Government and its administration, the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, and Palenque Grill.
The annual gathering highlights Laredo’s economic role as a gateway for international trade and provides an opportunity for federal officials and local leaders to recognize the city’s continued influence in national commerce and public policy.
McALLEN, Texas – Leaders from government, industry, education, and healthcare gathered at the McAllen MXLAN Economic Summit 2026 to discuss the future of the regional binational economy and the role of technology, workforce development, and collaboration in shaping growth in South Texas and Northern Mexico.
The summit opened with welcoming remarks from Tony Aguirre, a McAllen city commissioner, who emphasized the region’s entrepreneurial culture and the importance of partnerships and investment.
McAllen City Commissioner Tony Aguirre, John Quiñones, Emmy Award Winning Journalist & Host of What Would You Do?, and Commissioner Rolando Rios. Photo by Noah Mangum González.
“We’re going to talk about opportunities, and it’s because of the culture and the entrepreneurship in this region that, if we don’t have something, we can develop it,” Aguirre said. “It will take partnerships, and it will take investment, without a doubt. But this is our future, and there is no stopping this area.”
Aguirre said the region’s development extends beyond the city itself. “This is not only about McAllen; it’s about the entire Rio Grande Valley and Northern Mexico. We’re all in this together, because it is our youth who will benefit from every decision and everything we do.”
Ike Tawil. Photo by Noah Mangum González.
Ike Tawil, McAllen city manager, said the region is positioned for continued growth and stressed the importance of collaboration. “This is an incredible region that is ready to explode,” Tawil said. “The important topics you are going to hear about today and that you will hear from the city over the next year are things that we hope you will draw on and use in your investments and endeavors in McAllen and throughout the region.”
Tawil said the city often leads regional initiatives but emphasized that the benefits extend across borders. “This is not just about McAllen,” he said. “We often carry the heavy load and lead the way, but we hope these pathways that we are forging benefit us, our neighbors, and those even south of the border.”
Aaron Demerson. Photo by Noah Mangum González.
He also acknowledged the leadership of Javier Villalobos, mayor of McAllen, and members of the city commission.
State-level perspectives were provided by Aaron Demerson of the Texas Economic Development Corporation and Albert Treviño of the Texas Workforce Commission.
Demerson highlighted Texas’s economic performance and national rankings. “In Texas, we often say it ain’t bragging if it’s true,” Demerson said. “The fact of the matter is that we’re taking care of business, and those are stats and facts that really resonate and make a difference.”
Alberto Treviño. Photo by Noah Mangum González.
Treviño discussed workforce challenges and the need to expand training models. “Apprenticeships have been around for centuries, and why? Because they work,” Trevino said. “Apprenticeships aren’t just for plumbers, electricians, and welders. We need to think outside the box.”
The summit featured two panel discussions focused on emerging technologies. The first addressed the integration of artificial intelligence in advanced manufacturing, while the second examined AI’s expanding role in healthcare.
Joanne Wang. Photo by Noah Mangum González.
During a keynote presentation, Joanne Wang discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of work and emphasized the importance of leadership and culture in technology adoption. “This whole AI implementation transformation is not an IT project. It is a cultural project,” Wang said. “If we take people, human, out of the equation, what does technology mean? It means nothing.”
The event concluded with an inspirational address from journalist John Quiñones, host of the television program What Would You Do?. Quiñones spoke about ethical decision-making and shared lessons from his career.
“It’s not what we do when everyone’s watching. That’s easy,” Quiñones said. “It’s what we do even when no one is watching. It’s all about doing the right thing.”
Organizers said the summit aimed to bring together leaders from across sectors to explore economic opportunities, technological change, and the workforce strategies needed to sustain growth in the Rio Grande Valley and the binational region.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz holds a plaque recognizing him as the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association’s 2026 Mr. South Texas, standing alongside past distinguished recipients and Laredo business leaders. Cruz is the only Republican to receive the Mr. South Texas designation and was previously awarded the Key to the City of Laredo, also as the only Republican recipient. Courtesy photo, Office of Sen. Cruz.
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
Laredo, Texas, February 2026- U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas has been named the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association’s 2026 Mr. South Texas during a co-hosted event by WBCA and Texas Community Bank in Laredo, Texas. The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) is the nonprofit organization that plans and runs the Washington’s Birthday Celebration, one of the longest-running annual festivals in the United States, held each January and February in Laredo.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz speaks at the podium before a packed audience at the Laredo Country Club during an event recognizing him as the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association’s 2026 Mr. South Texas. Courtesy photo, Office of Sen. Cruz.
Event organizers said the recognition reflects Cruz’s longstanding engagement with South Texas and his focus on issues affecting the region. Cruz has made securing presidential permits for Texas-Mexico border bridge projects a legislative priority.
Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño said, “Senator Cruz has been a strong advocate for Texas and Texas jobs, Texas infrastructure, and policies that protect and strengthen our international trade.” He added that “Billions of dollars move to Laredo each month, supporting manufacturers and producers, farmers, small businesses, and logistic workers across the state.” Treviño said strong federal advocacy is critical to keeping ports competitive, secure, and efficient, and credited Cruz with supporting efforts to improve border infrastructure and reduce regulatory uncertainty.
Treviño noted that Cruz previously received the Key to the City of Laredo and said he is “the only Republican ever to have received this honor.” During the ceremony, the mayor also presented Cruz with the designation of Honorary Ambassador of the Republic of the Rio Grande, stating, “Be it known that Ted Cruz, United States Senator, is hereby appointed Honorary Ambassador of the Republic of the Rio Grande.”
Watch a clip from Senator Cruz’ Speech in Laredo below:
Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina described Cruz as “a true champion of South Texas” and cited his role in securing the permit for the 4/5 International Bridge project. “Not until one day, I walked up to Senator Cruz, and I said, Senator, I need your help. And right away, he got that permit for us,” Tijerina said.
Tijerina also emphasized Laredo’s role in national trade, stating, “Sixty-three percent of America’s trade comes through here.” He told Cruz, “By championing this effort, you didn’t just stand up for South Texas or for Texas — you stood up for the entire United States.” During the event, Tijerina presented Cruz with a commemorative belt buckle bearing his name.
In remarks to attendees, Cruz said, “Well, thank you very much. I’m deeply humbled. I’m honored. I’m proud to be with such good friends down here in South Texas and Laredo.” He added, “It’s an incredible privilege every day to fight for the men and women here to fight for jobs, to fight for opportunity, to fight for security.”
Cruz said his focus since taking office has been “jobs, jobs, jobs,” and expressed optimism about the region’s future. “I could not be more optimistic for the future of South Texas,” he said.
Referring to his 2024 reelection campaign, Cruz said he won statewide by one million votes and carried the Hispanic vote statewide by six points, which he described as the first time a Republican had done so. He also said he carried South Texas, calling it another first for a Republican candidate.
Following the event, Cruz said, “It is the honor of a lifetime to have been named WBCA’s 2026 Mr. South Texas.” He added, “Laredo and Webb County hold a special place in my heart, and I’m proud to fight for South Texas each and every day in the U.S. Senate.”
The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) released the 11th edition of its “State of Energy Report,” offering a detailed analysis of national and state trends in oil and natural gas employment, wages and other key economic factors for the energy industry in 2025. Image for illustration purposes
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AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) released the 11th edition of its “State of Energy Report,” offering a detailed analysis of national and state trends in oil and natural gas employment, wages and other key economic factors for the energy industry in 2025. TIPRO’s “State of Energy Report” series was developed to quantify and track the economic impact of the domestic oil and natural gas sector with an emphasis on the state of Texas.
According to TIPRO, the industry supported 2,043,859 direct jobs in the U.S. last year, with total direct and indirect jobs tied to the industry reaching more than 19 million. The U.S. oil and natural gas sector paid a national annual wage averaging $84,574 and had a combined payroll of $173 billion. Total U.S. goods and services purchased in 2025 by the oil and natural gas industry reached $722 billion from over 900 business sectors, notes TIPRO. Direct Gross Regional Product (GRP) also exceeded $1 trillion last year.
In Texas, the oil and gas industry once again led the nation in industry employment last year, accounting for 23 percent of all oil and gas jobs in the nation, as outlined in the association’s new report. The industry supported a total of 476,777 direct jobs in Texas in 2025, with total direct and indirect employment of 2.5 million. Total U.S. goods and services purchased by the Texas oil and natural gas industry reached $263 billion last year, 81 percent of which came from Texas businesses, benefiting virtually every business sector in the state. Direct GRP equaled $385 billion in 2025, supporting 36 percent of the state economy.
The Lone Star State again was the nation’s top oil producer, supplying nearly 2.1 billion barrels of oil to energy markets in 2025, setting a new record. TIPRO reports that Texas also broke a new record in natural gas output last year with over 13.5 trillion cubic feet of gas produced. U.S. crude oil production averaged a record 13.6 million barrels per day in 2025. Further, U.S. natural gas production in 2025 averaged a record 107.7 billion cubic feet per day.
“Despite facing a number of unique challenges, the U.S. oil and gas industry continued to offer significant economic support in 2025, while providing reliable and affordable energy to meet growing domestic and global demand,” said Ed Longanecker, president of TIPRO. “Thanks to record production, driven significantly by the Permian’s improved well-productivity, domestic demand was met and natural gas continued to supply affordable and reliable power. We applaud the Texas oil and natural gas industry and the policymakers that understand its importance,” added Longanecker.
Geopolitical tensions around the world continued to be a prevalent issue with conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine fostering uncertainty and volatility across global energy markets. In 2025, Europe accounted for approximately 50 percent of total U.S. liquified natural gas exports, while 38 percent of U.S. LNG went to Asia and 12 percent was sent to Latin America and other regions. Overall, U.S. LNG exports for the year reached 89.1 million metric tons, a slight increase from 88.3 million metric tons in 2024.
American LNG, driven in large part by Texas natural gas production, continues to be an essential resource for our allies, as nations work to meet heightened energy demand while shifting away from their dependence on Russian energy supplies. In 2026, LNG exports are expected to average 14.5 billion cubic feet per day, an increase from the previous year. With President Trump’s reversal of the Biden Administration’s pause on permits for LNG export terminals, the U.S. oil and gas industry can resume its role as a reliable trade partner to our nation’s allies. TIPRO remains optimistic about the Trump-Vance Administration and the continued support of U.S. energy. The growth of domestic natural gas markets is closely reflected in increased U.S. LNG exports as well. The capacity to export LNG competitively on the global markets hinges upon the ability to maintain and grow production of natural gas domestically.
“TIPRO will continue to advocate for policies at all levels of government to strengthen the U.S. oil and natural gas industry, ensuring Texas remains the nation’s leading producer while supporting jobs, economic growth, energy security, and reliable, affordable energy for consumers and industry,” said Longanecker.
A core priority is comprehensive permitting reform. TIPRO supports streamlining and expediting federal, state, and local permitting processes for exploration, production, infrastructure, pipelines, and LNG export facilities. Current delays, overlapping reviews, and lengthy timelines increase costs, discourage investment, and hinder timely development. TIPRO encourages decisive action to establish clear deadlines, eliminate unnecessary redundancy, and provide regulatory certainty for operators while preserving strong safety and environmental protections.
Additionally, Texas is experiencing a significant increase in electricity demand due to a surge in population and emerging industries such as data centers and artificial intelligence. By 2030, ERCOT anticipates that peak load could reach about 152 GW, almost doubling its historic record, posing both challenges and opportunities for the grid’s future stability and growth. Experts predict that ERCOT will continue to rely on natural gas’ share of electricity generation for load growth, accounting for approximately 30.3 percent of the grid’s total generation in 2025 and 33.9 percent of generation by 2030.
Given the U.S. power sector’s sustained reliance on natural gas for electricity generation, the occurrence of occasional severe weather events that require dispatchable generation, and the electrification of our economy, natural gas is set to remain a critical energy resource for the power sector in the coming year, reinforced TIPRO.
What does Oil & Gas mean for Texas?
Texas led the nation in oil and gas jobs with 476,777 people employed in this industry. 23 percent of all oil and gas jobs nationwide were located in Texas last year.
When incorporating direct, indirect, and induced multipliers for oil and gas employment, the industry supported a total of 2,509,121 jobs in Texas last year.
Texas was the leading state by employment in 16 out of the 19 sectors used to define the oil and natural gas industry in 2025.
Oil and gas jobs in Texas paid an annual average wage of $133,439, 74 percent more than all average private sector jobs in the state. The highest average industry wages were in Alaska last year ($150,986). Iowa had the lowest average oil and gas wages in the country ($36,192).
Texas had the highest oil and gas payroll in the country in 2025 ($64 billion), with California coming in at a distant second ($15 billion), followed by Louisiana ($10 billion).
Texas had the highest number of oil and gas businesses in the nation last year with 23,483, followed by California (9,593), Florida (7,728), Georgia (6,494) and Pennsylvania (5,737).
Oil production in Texas reached a new record of nearly 2.1 billion barrels in 2025. New Mexico had the second highest oil production with 797 million barrels, followed by North Dakota with 426 million barrels produced, subject to revisions.
Texas led the country in natural gas production with a record 13.5 Tcf produced in 2025, followed by Pennsylvania with 7.8 Tcf.
Texas had the highest rig count in the country in 2025 with an average of 272 active rigs. The number of rigs in Texas decreased from 277 in January to 253 in December. New Mexico had the second highest average rig count (98) in the country last year.
In 2025, direct Gross Regional Product for the Texas oil and natural gas industry was $385 billion. Using the typical multiplier effect of 2.5, the Texas oil and natural gas industry supported 36 percent of the Texas economy.
The Texas oil and natural gas industry purchased U.S. goods and services in the amount of $263 billion, 81 percent of which came from Texas businesses.
The Texas oil and natural gas industry paid a record $27 billion in state and local taxes and state royalties in Fiscal Year 2025.
Texas oil and natural gas operators paid over $8 billion in severance taxes in 2025.
The “State of Energy Report” series is published exclusively by TIPRO. A full list of the data sources used to develop this analysis can be viewed in the methodology section of the report.
Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8, and the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as theyturn their clocks forward to make sure the devices are working. Image for illustration purposes
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AMERICAN RED CROSS – Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8, and the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as theyturn their clocks forward to make sure the devices are working.
“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half, as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Vanessa Valdez, Regional Communications Manager for the Texas Gulf Coast Region. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire, and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place.”
Courtesy image
Home fires are most of the disasters that we respond to every eight minutes in the U.S. Day and night, we provide comfort and address people’s urgent needs like food, lodging and recovery support.
SMOKE ALARMS When turning your clocks forward this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.
Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.
Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late.
Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.
HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,577 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.
As spring break approaches and warmer weather draws visitors to the Texas coast, Texas Game Wardens encourage everyone planning recreational fishing, boating or beach activities to make safety a part of their plans. Image for illustration purposes
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Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
AUSTIN — As spring break approaches and warmer weather draws visitors to the Texas coast, Texas Game Wardens encourage everyone planning recreational fishing, boating or beach activities to make safety a part of their plans.
Spring break is often the first peak of summer-like weather, bringing increased activity along the coast. Visitors are encouraged to take a few simple precautions to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
Check local weather and marine forecasts before heading out. High winds, rough waves, sudden storms and lightning can create hazardous conditions for both swimmers and boaters.
Beachgoers should remain alert for rip current conditions. If riptides are present in one area, they are likely to occur further up or down the coastline.
Proper safety equipment is critical for anyone spending time on the water. Wearing a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket is strongly recommended for all water-related activities and is required for children under 13 while aboard a vessel that is underway.
Boaters should do a safety check before leaving the dock. This ensures they have all required equipment, including, but not limited to: life jackets for everyone onboard, a throwable flotation device, a sound-producing device and current vessel registration.
Boaters are also encouraged to file a float plan with a trusted person on land before departing. This information can significantly reduce search times if assistance becomes necessary.
Texas Game Wardens want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable spring break. By taking a few simple precautions and planning ahead, visitors can help make their time on the Texas coast both safe and memorable.
Information source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)
State District Judge Luis Singleterry of the 92nd District Court sentenced Michael Nathaniel Hernandez Contreras, 28, of Alamo, after Contreras pleaded guilty to five criminal cases involving aggravated sexual assault, family violence, and failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County
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A repeat sex offender will spend the next 55 years behind bars after a Hidalgo County judge sentenced him on Wednesday, March 4. State District Judge Luis Singleterry of the 92nd District Court sentenced Michael Nathaniel Hernandez Contreras, 28, of Alamo, after Contreras pleaded guilty to five criminal cases involving aggravated sexual assault, family violence, and failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements.
The cases stem from incidents investigated by multiple law enforcement agencies across Hidalgo County. Contreras remained at large for several months before investigators located and arrested him in July 2025 with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Contreras was sentenced to 55 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for an aggravated sexual assault committed July 30, 2024. A Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office investigation revealed Contreras used force to sexually assault a woman he met through social media.
Contreras also received 20 years in prison for attempted aggravated sexual assault committed on Sept. 17, 2022. According to reports, Contreras forced himself on the victim in a parking lot and threatened to kill her. Officers with the Mission Police Department responded and stopped the attack.
Contreras was sentenced to 20 years in prison for assault of a pregnant woman stemming from an incident Feb. 26, 2025. A McAllen Police Department investigation determined Contreras struck his pregnant girlfriend multiple times in the torso and face while driving her to work.
Contreras received another 20-year sentence for continuous violence against a family member stemming from multiple assaults in February 2025. A Donna Police Department investigation found Contreras bit a woman’s arm and punched her in the shoulder and face.
Contreras faced enhanced punishment ranges on several of these charges due to a previous conviction for sexual assault of a child in 2017. Contreras also received a 20-year sentence for failure to register as a sex offender. After completing his 2017 sentence, Contreras failed to report and used a false address for registration purposes.
Assistant District Attorneys Troy Tijerina and John Goodman II prosecuted the cases.
District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios commended the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and the McAllen, Donna, and Mission police departments for their investigations.
“Sex offenders who continue to prey on members of our community — and who refuse to comply with the requirements the law places on them — will face the full weight of justice,” Palacios said. “This office will not relent in protecting the vulnerable and holding repeat violent offenders accountable.”
Community leaders, healthcare professionals, and DHR Health officials gather for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new DHR Health medical campus in Rio Grande City, marking a major step toward expanding healthcare access and physician training in Starr County. Image Noah Mangum González / Mega Doctor News / Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business / Mega Doctor News
RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas — Community leaders, healthcare professionals, and public officials gathered March 5, 2026, to dedicate the new DHR Health medical campus in Starr County, a project designed to expand access to healthcare and strengthen the region’s long-term medical workforce.
Marissa Castañeda, senior executive vice president at DHR Health, opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and highlighting the significance of the investment. “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Marissa Castañeda and I serve as a senior executive vice president at DHR Health,” she said. “Thank you for joining us and welcome to this historic dedication ceremony and our medical campus preview here in Starr County.”
Castañeda said the project represents more than new facilities. “Today we celebrate more than just new buildings. We celebrate expanded access to care, new opportunities for physician training, groundbreaking clinical research, and a healthy future for our beloved community,” she said.
