The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrested a confirmed Gulf Cartel member this week in Starr Co. as part of a joint operation with the United States Border Patrol (USBP) during Operation Lone Star. Photo: Texas DPS
Texas Border Business
WESLACO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) arrested a confirmed Gulf Cartel member this week in Starr Co. as part of a joint operation with the United States Border Patrol (USBP) during Operation Lone Star.
On Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, just after 4:30 p.m., a DPS Trooper attempted to stop a silver Chevy Blazer for a traffic violation on US 83 in Rio Grande City, Texas. The driver refused to stop, and a high-speed vehicle pursuit began. The driver, along with three passengers, eventually exited the vehicle and took off toward the rear of a nearby residence. Troopers immediately located and apprehended the driver and the three passengers, who were identified as three illegal immigrants.
The driver, Juan Gonzalez, 24, of Rio Grande City, Texas, was charged with three counts of smuggling of persons and evading arrest. The three illegal immigrants from El Salvador and Mexico were referred to Border Patrol.
Through further investigation, with the assistance of DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID) and Border Patrol, Gonzalez was identified and confirmed as a Gulf Cartel member with ties to the cartel operating in Miguel Aleman, Mexico.
The United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas, filed federal charges in the case, and Gonzalez was taken into federal custody.
The City of Edinburg unveiled the 13 Hometown Heroes who will each represent a mile marker along the 2026 half-marathon race route. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg
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Edinburg, Texas – In anticipation of the Hometown of Heroes Half-Marathon on Sunday, March 8, 2026, the City of Edinburg is thrilled to share the 13 honorees selected to represent a mile marker along the race route.
During a heartfelt unveiling press conference on Thursday, February 26, at the Edinburg Arts, Culture, and Events (ACE) Center, these community members, surrounded by family and friends, were honored for their extraordinary contributions to Edinburg and for exemplifying what it truly means to be a hometown hero.
The honorees are as follows:
Richard Alamia:Mr. Alamia is a distinguished attorney, former City of Edinburg Mayor, and a dedicated public servant whose career has spanned nearly five decades.
Rudy de la Viña:Mr. de la Viña has dedicated his entire adult life to serving the community. He served as an Edinburg Councilman from 1981-1987 and as Mayor of Edinburg from 1987-1993.
Joe Filoteo:Coach Filoteo became the Head Basketball Coach for Edinburg High School in 1983. His time with the Bobcats was historic, as he reached his 500th career victory in 2006. He retired after 43 years of dedication and service to Edinburg CISD.
Heberto “Beto” Garza:For more than 30 years, Mr. Garza has been a cornerstone of academic excellence at Edinburg North High School, exemplifying the City of Edinburg’s mission, vision, and ideals through unwavering dedication to student achievement and community pride.
Omar Govea:Mr. Govea, a graduate of Edinburg North High School, is a proud United States Marine who served his country from 2006 to 2010. His commitment to Edinburg runs deep, as he serves on the Leadership Steering Committee for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, is a member of the City of Edinburg’s Zoning Board of Adjustments, and was recently appointed to the Veterans Committee.
Judge Homer Jasso Sr.:Born and raised in El Tule, Judge Jasso served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1968. After returning home, he eventually ran for Justice of the Peace. Known for fairness, the community called him “the people’s judge.”
Elias Longoria Jr.:Mr. Longoria has served on several non-profit organizations’ boards and committees, including the Edinburg Boys and Girls Club, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, the Edinburg Housing Authority, and served on the Edinburg City Council for four years as Mayor Pro-Tem.
Joaquin D. Lozano:Mr. Lozano, a United States Marine, served two combat deployments and 8 years total in the military. He has been a Special Education teacher for Edinburg CISD for over 12 years.
Andy Piñeda: A U.S. Army Veteran, Mr. Piñeda has played a big part in helping the Vaquero football team achieve an impressive 9-3 record, undefeated at Vackar Stadium in their inaugural season. In his free time, Mr. Piñeda volunteers with the Edinburg Parks and Recreation Department, helping coach and mentor young athletes.
Eloy Pulido: Eloy Pulido was elected as Hidalgo County Clerk in 1994. He subsequently became Hidalgo County Judge in 1998, serving for 4 years. Mr. Pulido began his political career as an elected member of the ECISD Board of Trustees from 1990-1993 and enjoyed a career as an Administrator until retiring in 2024.
Rolland Hugh Pursley:Mr. Pursley dedicated 31 years to the Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department. In 2006, he was hired by the City of Edinburg as Deputy Chief of Edinburg FD, a position he held until his retirement in 2019. Following his retirement, he returned to serve as a volunteer firefighter once again, marking 50 years of service in 2025.
Leo Reyes:Coach Reyes is active within the City of Edinburg, serving as a Youth Volunteer Football, Basketball, and Baseball Coach. He currently serves as a sports official with the City of Edinburg Parks and Recreation Department and is the President of the 10K Advisory Committee, where he was instrumental in establishing the Miracle Mile Race for children and individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Alejo Salinas:Dr. Salinas’ career in education has spanned multiple positions, including serving Hidalgo County as a teacher, principal, Superintendent of Schools, clinical instructor, and Edinburg Councilman. With 52 years of Public Education under his belt, Dr. Salinas has dedicated his life to community service.
The names of each hero will be placed on markers for each of the 13 miles of the half-marathon, which families of the honorees can take home with them after the event.
To register for the Hometown of Heroes Half-Marathon, visit https://cityofedinburg.com/active_edinburg/. For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (956) 381-5631.
Charro Days Fiesta. Image Courtesy of “Visit Brownsville Texas” Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas — Mr. Amigo 2026, Mexican singer Alex Fernández, took center stage this week as Brownsville celebrated the 89th anniversary of Charro Days Fiesta, reaffirming a decades-long tradition that honors the friendship between Brownsville and its sister city, Matamoros.
Alex Fernández. Image: @AlexFdezMusica via facebook
Fernández, recognized for promoting goodwill and cultural understanding between the United States and Mexico, joined dignitaries and community leaders throughout the festivities, including the beloved Hands Across the Bridge ceremony and other Mr. Amigo Association events that highlight the region’s binational spirit.
The vibrant colors of folklórico dresses, the rhythm of mariachi music, and the unmistakable sense of unity filled the streets as residents and visitors gathered for one of the Rio Grande Valley’s most cherished celebrations.
Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr.
Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr. joined the festivities, celebrating alongside families and community partners.
“We had a great time early today celebrating the 10th Annual Charreada at UTRGV alongside the 89th Charro Days Fiesta, Mr. Amigo Association events, and the Sombrero Festival,” Mayor Cowen shared on his social media as events unfolded across multiple venues.
The 2026 Charro Days Fiesta will take place from February 21 to 28, 2026, bringing a full week of parades, cultural events, and community gatherings to Brownsville.
Major 2026 Highlights: Baile del Sol Street dance kickoff, Children’s Parade, Illuminated Parade, Color Guard Parade, and the Grande International Parade, Charro Days Carnival and from February 26–March 8, 2026 – Sombrero Festival at Washington Park
The weeklong celebration continues to serve as a major cultural and economic driver for the region.
Since its founding in 1938, Charro Days has symbolized the enduring bond between Brownsville and Matamoros. Originally created to lift community spirits during challenging economic times, the fiesta has evolved into a vibrant showcase of Mexican heritage, border culture, and regional unity.
One of the most touching traditions, Hands Across the Bridge, took place at the Gateway International Bridge, where residents and officials from both cities met at the midpoint to clasped hands in a powerful visual representation of friendship that transcends borders.
“This morning, we gathered for Hands Across the Bridge, a meaningful Charro Days tradition that reflects the friendship between Brownsville and Matamoros,” Mayor Cowen shared.
Festivities also included the 10th Annual Charreada hosted at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. The traditional Mexican rodeo featured skilled charros demonstrating precision roping, horsemanship, and time-honored ranching techniques — emblematic of Mexico’s national sport. Families filled the stands, many dressed in traditional attire, celebrating a living heritage passed down through generations.
“For nearly nine decades, Charro Days has honored the friendship between Brownsville and our sister city, Matamoros, while celebrating the culture and traditions that define our community. Thank you to UTRGV, our community partners, and everyone who helped make today’s celebration possible,” Mayor Cowen shared on his social media account.
As anticipation builds for February 2026, the message continues to resonate across the Rio Grande and Mexico:
NADBank announced that the Bank has received 21 project proposals requesting a total of $225 million in financing under the first call for projects of its Water Resiliency Fund (WRF). These proposals aim to advance critical drought-response investments across the Rio Grande Valley. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
SAN ANTONIO, Texas – John Beckham, Managing Director of the North American Development Bank (NADBank), announced that the Bank has received 21 project proposals requesting a total of $225 million in financing under the first call for projects of its Water Resiliency Fund (WRF). These proposals aim to advance critical drought-response investments across the Rio Grande Valley.
John Beckham, Managing Director of the North American Development Bank (NADBank). Courtesy image
Launched November 3, 2025, the initial Texas round focused on urgent water conservation and system-efficiency improvements within irrigation districts serving Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties, a region facing persistent drought conditions and reduced river flows that threaten both municipal water deliveries and agriculture.
The application period closed on February 10th with 21proposals submitted by 13 irrigation districts. According to the submitted applications, only about 20% of the funding has been secured for their projects, leaving a total estimated $180 million financing gap.
Preliminary review indicates that the proposed infrastructure improvements (primarily canal lining and canal-to-pipe conversions) could conserve more than 55,000 acre-feet of water annually. To put the impact in perspective, that volume equals approximately 49.5 million gallons per day, enough to meet the drinking water needs of roughly 600,000 residents.
“The overwhelming response to our first call for projects reinforces both the urgency of the challenge ahead and our decision to focus the first call on the Rio Grande Valley,” said John Beckham, NADBank Managing Director. “By investing in infrastructure that conserves water and reduces losses, we are strengthening municipal water systems, supporting agriculture, and building long-term resistance to drought and extreme weather.”
NADBank staff are currently evaluating submitted proposals applying the WRF priority criteria. Initial results are expected in the April-May timeframe, followed by detailed technical and financial due diligence for top-ranked projects and a final funding announcement of selected projects expected to be made in late summer.
The Water Resiliency Fund represents a strategic, binational response to intensifying drought conditions across the U.S.–Mexico border region; prioritizing projects that deliver measurable water savings, strengthen water availability for communities and safeguard long-term economic stability.
Information source: North American Development Bank (NADBank)
A 61-year-old Honduran national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for illegally reentering the country again. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – A 61-year-old Honduran national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for illegally reentering the country again.
U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. has now ordered him to serve 38 months in federal prison. In imposing the sentence, the court noted his repeated removals and criminal history. Not a U.S. citizen, he is again expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.
Coto-Martinez has multiple previous convictions for illegal reentry. Authorities first removed him in July 2005 and again in December 2010, July 2016, and twice more in 2022. He returned illegally after each removal.
Most recently, he was ordered removed Feb. 27, 2022, but law enforcement found him again in the Houston area Oct. 25, 2025, with no authorization to be in the United States.
Coto-Martinez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ekua Assabill prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act, which would close a loophole in current law to prohibit illegal aliens from possessing firearms or ammunition provided to them by a government entity, such as a police department. Image fr illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
Senator John Cornyn
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act, which would close a loophole in current law to prohibit illegal aliens from possessing firearms or ammunition provided to them by a government entity, such as a police department:
“No one who enters the U.S. illegally should get to enjoy our God-given constitutional rights, including the right to keep and bear arms,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This bill would close a loophole in current law to ensure illegal aliens cannot possess firearms or ammunition, and I’m glad to support it.”
Additional cosponsors include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).
Background:
While illegal aliens are generally prohibited from possessing firearms, there is a loophole in current law that allows them to possess a firearm if it’s provided by a governmental entity for official use. However, there have been examples of police departments hiring aliens who overstayed a visa and have a removal order. For example, in early February, ICE arrested a New Orleans Police Department traineewho had been hired and issued a firearm despite being removable.
The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act would close this loophole by clarifying that any person who is in the country illegally may not possess a firearm even if provided by a governmental entity for official use. Notable exceptions include police officers from friendly nations visiting the U.S. for law enforcement purposes and visitors specifically admitted to the U.S. for a hunting trip or a shooting competition.
The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act has been endorsed by Gun Owners of America, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Federation for American Immigration Reform, and Immigration Accountability Project.
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act of 2026. Images: Public Domain via wikimedia commons. Bgd for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act of 2026. This bipartisan legislation would amend the existing Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to speed up benefit determinations and extend benefits to additional public safety officers.
Sen. Cruz said, “Officer John Barnes was critically wounded during the Santa Fe High School shooting and flat-lined twice while protecting students and teachers. Nearly eight years later, he is still waiting for the benefits he earned through his sacrifice. This delay is unacceptable. My bill ensures our brave law enforcement officers receive timely and fair support when they need it most.”
Sen. Gillibrand said, “Public safety officers risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe. When tragedy strikes and an officer loses their life or becomes permanently disabled in the line of duty, we must look out for them and their family. I’m proud to introduce this legislation, and I will keep working across the aisle to make sure first responders and their families receive the support they deserve for their sacrifices.”
Officer John Barnes said, “On May 18, 2018, my fellow officers and I ran toward danger to protect our community in Santa Fe. I was gravely injured in the line of duty, and while the physical wounds have been life-altering, the years-long wait for a determination on the benefits my family and I were promised has been incredibly difficult. No officer who puts their life on the line should have to spend years navigating bureaucratic delays just to receive the support they have earned. I am deeply grateful to Senator Cruz and Senator Gillibrand for fighting to ensure that officers and their families receive timely decisions and the certainty they deserve. This legislation is about accountability, fairness, and honoring the commitment our nation makes to those who serve and I hope to see it become law.”
Representatives Randy Weber (R-Texas-14) and Dave Min (D-Calif.-47) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The bill is partly named in honor of Officer John Barnes, who demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Santa Fe, Texas, shooting tragedy, suffering a disabling shotgun blast in the process. Despite applying for PSOB benefits, Officer Barnes and his family have experienced an excruciating nearly eight years of waiting for a determination from the DOJ since the 2018 shooting.
Congress established the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) Program in 1976 to provide death benefits to survivors of officers who have died in the line of duty. Since then, PSOB has been amended to provide disability and education benefits and to expand benefit eligibility.
Despite these amendments, beneficiaries often experience delayed adjudication of death and disability claims. Additionally, not all public safety officers who become permanently disabled as a result of a line-of-duty injury are able to receive benefits under the program’s current eligibility rules. This legislation expands eligibility and speeds up benefit determinations.
Specifically, the Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act of 2026 would:
Extend partial PSOB eligibility to officers who are permanently, but not totally, disabled and are unable to perform any gainful work as a public safety officer as a direct result of the injury
Require the BJA to complete a death or disability determination within 270 days of receiving a complete claim
Expedite processing for officers already certified for benefits through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) or the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)
Direct BJA to implement GAO recommendations to establish updated program processes and administrative procedures
Sen. Cruz previously introduced the Officer John Barnes Act in June 2024 and February 2025.
A Hidalgo County judge has sentenced Juan Jesus Reyes Jr., 34, of Edinburg, Texas, to 25 years in prison following his conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Image courtesy of the City of Edinburg.
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG – A Hidalgo County judge has sentenced Juan Jesus Reyes Jr., 34, of Edinburg, Texas, to 25 years in prison following his conviction for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
A jury found Reyes guilty on Dec. 10, 2025, after a four-day trial in the 476th District Court. On Feb. 26, 2026, Judge Luis Singleterry imposed the 25-year sentence.
The conviction stems from a road rage incident that occurred on Feb. 26, 2023, in Progreso, Texas. Evidence presented at trial showed that Reyes and two co-defendants pursued a 16-year-old driver and his two juvenile passengers following a traffic dispute. Testimony and surveillance video demonstrated that Reyes attempted to force entry into the victims’ vehicle while stopped at a traffic signal. He then chased the vehicle for several miles.
Video evidence further showed Reyes slashing one of the vehicle’s tires. After the vehicle stopped near a relative’s residence, Reyes pursued the teenage driver on foot and stabbed him in the back as the victim attempted to seek safety inside the home.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Troy Tijerina and John Goodman II. During sentencing, prosecutors emphasized the violent and unprovoked nature of the attack and the need to deter similar acts of roadway violence in Hidalgo County.
Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios commended the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office for its investigation.
“Road rage and street violence have no place in our community,” Palacios said. “This conviction reflects our commitment to protecting families and holding violent offenders accountable.”
Because of a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to smuggle undocumented immigrants, Reyes was subject to an enhanced punishment range under Texas law.
A federal jury convicted a Venezuelan national Monday on five counts related to the sex trafficking of a 16-year-old starting in Columbia and extending to Richmond, Kentucky and San Antonio. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas
SAN ANTONIO – A federal jury convicted a Venezuelan national Monday on five counts related to the sex trafficking of a 16-year-old starting in Columbia and extending to Richmond, Kentucky and San Antonio.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Nelson Adrian Perez-Martinez, 23, harbored, provided, transported, obtained, advertised, and maintained a 16-year-old undocumented Venezuelan orphan. Co-conspirator Giannys Alexandra Ramirez-Fernandez, 21, began a relationship with the girl when the child was 13 years old and living with her adopted parents in Colombia. Ramirez-Fernandez was 17 years old at the time. The two crossed illegally into the United States in December 2022, residing in Richmond, Kentucky. Perez-Martinez, a friend of Ramirez-Fernandez from Venezuela, crossed illegally into the U.S. in December 2023 and joined them in Kentucky in June 2024. Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez decided to take their victim to San Antonio where they would have her engage in prostitution. Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez intended to keep any money she earned. The three traveled via bus in July 2024 from Richmond to San Antonio for that purpose.
An investigation revealed that Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez accompanied the minor to approximately six different motels in San Antonio from July 19 to July 30, 2024. The three shared a room at each location, paid for in cash by proceeds from the child’s commercial sex acts.
On Oct. 1, 2025, Perez-Martinez was charged in a five-count indictment with aiding and abetting the sex trafficking of children, aiding and abetting the benefitting from sex trafficking of children, conspiracy to sex traffic children, aiding and abetting coercion and enticement of a minor, and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The fees collected from the minor’s commercial sex acts were knowingly used by Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez for food, shelter, transportation, and other items. The two conspirators lived solely off of the proceeds for approximately six weeks.
Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez were arrested on July 30, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation into domestic sex trafficking. An undercover San Antonio Police officer with the Human Exploitation Unit responded to an advertisement posted on a website for escort services. Posing as a customer, the officer contacted the phone number on the advertisement and was instructed to meet at the Studio 6 motel on Pasteur Court in San Antonio. Once the undercover was in the motel room with the minor, the girl agreed to prostitution services, and the officer signaled for the arrest team. Simultaneously, Perez-Martinez and Ramirez-Fernandez were arrested, as they were identified as spotters for the operation.
“When we tolerate the stolen innocence of children, we slowly lose our soul as a nation,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons. “In the Western District of Texas, we have zero tolerance for aliens who enter our country illegally and commit heinous crimes like those committed in this case. We will use all resources available to us to hold accountable those, like the defendant here, who seek to enrich themselves via the sexual abuse of children.”
The trial for Perez-Martinez began Tuesday, Feb. 17, and on Monday, Feb. 23, the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts. In October, an initial trial for Perez-Martinez resulted in a hung jury.
Ramirez- Fernandez pleaded guilty to three counts of a superseding indictment. She faces 10 years to life in prison and has an ICE immigration detainer in place to facilitate her deportation after she serves her sentence. Her sentencing hearing is currently set for April 20. U.S. District Court Judge Fred Biery is presiding over the case and has not yet set a date for the sentencing of Perez-Martinez.
Homeland Security Investigations and the San Antonio Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia McNab and Sade Bogart are prosecuting the case. Megan Ramirez, with the office’s Advanced Litigation Support unit, provided technical assistance to the trial team leading up to and during the trial.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Cousins Homer Flores and Miguel Vasquez say their journey as part of the first-ever cohort of South Texas College’s Police Academy in Starr County reflects a lifelong commitment to public service, family support and a determination to serve their community. STC image
Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas –For cousins Homer Flores and Miguel Vasquez, the journey to becoming peace officers has always been about more than a career. Earning the badge has been about family, grit and a shared commitment to serving the community they call home.
Their dream came full circle recently as both graduated together from the first-ever Starr County Police Academy, part of a historic cohort of nine cadets who are now preparing to serve across the region.
As members of the graduating class, both men are preparing to transition from corrections officers to patrol with the Starr County Sheriff’s Office and hope their story inspires others considering a career in law enforcement.
For Flores, the path to law enforcement began years earlier at the Starr County Jail, where he began earning valuable experience in 2020. Inspired by his father, a longtime captain with the Starr County Sheriff’s Office, Flores said he always envisioned a future in public safety and encouraged Vasquez to join him in the academy.
“I started off at the jail and I really liked it. I was getting good experience, so I told Miguel that maybe he should come apply,” Flores said. When we heard the academy was coming to Starr County, I told him we should go together. We worked full-time and came to school full-time.”
Vasquez, who previously worked in the oil fields before transitioning to corrections, said the opportunity allowed him to return to a long-standing interest in Criminal Justice with the dream to build a lasting career.
“The money in the oil fields was good, but it wasn’t a long-term thing I wanted,” Vasquez said. “I had always been intrigued by Criminal Justice, so when he (Flores) told me about the opportunity at the jail and later the academy, I just took that step. Now we’re here getting ready to head out into the field.”
The 26-week academy offered through STC provides comprehensive training for aspiring law enforcement officers including firearms and defensive tactics, as well as criminal and traffic law.
While most coursework takes place at the Starr County campus, cadets also train using advanced technology at STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE) in Pharr, which features a state-of-the-art shooting simulator, driving simulator and immersive virtual reality training.
The cousins said they leaned on each other throughout the demands of training. Their days often began early with academy coursework and ended late after work shifts, sometimes traveling between both campuses in Rio Grande City and Pharr.
In between, they studied together, quizzed each other and stayed focused on their goal.
“We spent about 16 hours a day together between the academy and work,” Flores said. “If one of us had a question, we’d run it by each other. We made sure we stayed on the same page and kept up with the standards.”
Balancing training with personal responsibilities required discipline with sacrifice. Flores, a father of two young children, said having the academy in Starr made the journey manageable.
“Being able to attend close to home was a big factor for me,” he said. “It helped me balance family, work and school. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.”
For Vasquez, the experience reinforced the importance of perseverance and support.
“You’re going to have challenges, but you push through,” Vasquez said. “You develop your own support system with family, friends and fellow cadets. That’s what gets you through.”
