According to court documents, Waldemar Perez, 49, worked as a correctional officer at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Bastrop from approximately May 23, 2021, to May 11, 2023. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas
AUSTIN – A former Bastrop federal correctional officer made his initial appearance in a federal court in Austin and pleaded guilty to one count of bribery.
According to court documents, Waldemar Perez, 49, worked as a correctional officer at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Bastrop from approximately May 23, 2021, to May 11, 2023. While employed there as a public official, he developed a business and practice of smuggling prohibited items into FCI Bastrop and providing them to prisoners in return for bribes. Perez would receive prohibited items from the prisoners’ friends and relatives outside the facility, secretly transport the items into the prison, hide them in various locations, and notify the prisoners where to find them.
During the two years that Perez engaged in the bribery scheme, he received tens of thousands of dollars in bribes from prisoners or others paying on their behalf. In one instance, on May 3, 2023, Perez received an electronic transfer of $300 as a bribe to smuggle prohibited items such as cigarettes and electronic cigarettes into FCI Bastrop and provide them to one inmate.
Perez faces up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
The FBI and Department of Justice Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Buie is prosecuting the case.
During the operation, officers took Phillip Nicholas Couch and a 15-year-old juvenile into custody without incident. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas — On Tuesday, January 20, Edinburg Police Department investigators, with assistance from the SWAT team and patrol officers, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 2900 block of Del Rey W.
During the operation, officers took Phillip Nicholas Couch and a 15-year-old juvenile into custody without incident. Both individuals are accused of involvement in the December 15, 2025 aggravated robbery that occurred at the AMC Theatre located at 3003 S. Expressway 281. In that incident, a victim was allegedly robbed of more than $6,000 worth of clothing and jewelry.
This remains an ongoing investigation, and no further details are available at this time.
Left to right: David Villegas, Ismael Sosa-Saenz, Leah Muell. Photo: Texas DPS
Texas Border Business
CRANE – Starting in July 2024, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) conducted a targeted conspiracy investigation involving methamphetamine distribution in Crane County, which led to the arrest of three suspects over the course of a year. Agencies participating in this operation included the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Midland and Alpine Offices, the Crane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Crane Police Department.
As a result of this investigation and subsequent prosecution by the US Attorney’s Office, the following suspects have been convicted of Federal Conspiracy Charges related to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and have been sentenced to federal prison.
These investigations highlight the partnership among federal, local, and state law enforcement agencies working together to combat narcotics in our communities. Remember, you can report suspicious behavior through the iWatch Texas program via the mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. All reports are confidential.
Governor Greg Abbott announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of potential winter weather impacts expected across the state beginning Thursday. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of potential winter weather impacts expected across the state beginning Thursday.
“Based on current forecasts, the State of Texas is acting to ensure Texans have the resources they need before severe winter weather impacts communities across Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “As temperatures could drop below freezing and regions of Texas face snow, ice, and freezing rain, it is crucial that Texans remain weather-aware, check DriveTexas.org before traveling, and heed the guidance of state and local officials. I thank emergency management personnel and first responders for working tirelessly to keep Texans safe.”
According to the National Weather Service, an arctic cold front is expected to bring dangerously cold temperatures and wind-chills to the state through the early part of next week. Additionally, a storm system is expected to move through the state, bringing the possibility of freezing rain, sleet, and snow that could create hazardous travel conditions into the weekend and cause impacts to infrastructure. Areas most at risk of wintry weather are northwest, north, and northeast Texas. Freezing rain and sleet are more likely to impact areas across west, central, south-central, east, and southeast Texas. Cold rain is expected for areas in deep south Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.
At the direction of the Governor, TDEM has activated the following state emergency response resources to support weather response operations:
Texas Department of Transportation: Winter weather roadway equipment and crews pre-treating and treating roadways; personnel and equipment to assist with traffic control and road closures
Texas Division of Emergency Management: The State of Texas Incident Management Team; personnel working with local partners to update warming center maps
Texas National Guard: High-profile vehicles and personnel to support stranded motorists
Texas A&M Forest Service (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System): All-Hazard Strike Teams consisting of firefighters, engines, and equipment such as motor graders to assist with snow/ice clearance; saw crews
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens to support local law enforcement; high-profile vehicles to assist stranded motorists
Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordinating with utility providers across the threat area
Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Texas Department of Public Safety: Texas Highway Patrol Troopers to patrol Texas roadways
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Public Works Response Team): Personnel to assist with public works needs
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents
Texas Department of State Health Services (Emergency Medical Task Force): Winter and Severe Weather Packages including medics and ambulances
Texas Health and Human Services Commission: Personnel to provide information on available services through the 2-1-1 Texas Information Referral Network
Texas Education Agency: Monitoring school district needs across the state
Texas Department of Information Resources: Monitoring technology infrastructure
Texans are urged to stay weather-aware, check road conditions before any necessary travel, and follow instructions from local officials.
Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu. Courtesy photo
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu represents Precinct 2 on the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, where he oversees county services and infrastructure projects affecting parts of Pharr, San Juan, Alamo, South McAllen, Hidalgo, and surrounding areas. According to information published by Hidalgo County and the Precinct 2 office, Cantu’s work has centered on transportation, recreation, flood control, and youth development.
One of the major initiatives promoted by the Precinct 2 office is the development of hike and bike trails. According to the commissioner, the Precinct 2 Hike and Bike Trail connects San Juan to Pharr and is planned to link into McAllen’s existing trail system. Construction has also begun on a 15-mile trail project in the City of Hidalgo and South McAllen. The county has described these projects as part of an effort to improve mobility and outdoor access for residents.
The commissioner’s office has also focused on inclusive parks. Precinct 2 reports that it was the first in the county to build inclusive playgrounds designed for children of all abilities. According to county statements, another inclusive park is planned for San Juan. The county has said these parks are intended to ensure children with disabilities can use public recreational spaces alongside other children.
Drainage improvements are another major area of work. Hidalgo County has reported completing drainage projects in Pharr, San Juan, Alamo, South McAllen, and Hidalgo to reduce flooding in areas with a history of stormwater problems. He also states that the projects were targeted at neighborhoods that experience the most frequent flooding.
Youth programs have also been highlighted in Precinct 2 updates. According to information released by the county, two new Boys & Girls Clubs were developed with support from Precinct 2, one in San Juan and another in South Pharr. He has also announced plans for a Teen Vocational and Technical Center, which officials say will provide workforce-related education opportunities for young people.
Transportation infrastructure has been one of the largest areas of investment. Eddie has stated that nearly $100 million in federal funding has been secured for road projects. These funds are being used to expand and improve major roadways, including Nolana, Taylor, Eldora, Cesar Chavez, and Dicker roads. County officials say the goal of these projects is to improve traffic flow, safety, and overall quality of life.
According to him, the guiding principles behind these efforts are investment in children, responsible use of taxpayer funds, and inclusive community development. Public information released by the county emphasizes that the projects are intended to serve residents across cities and unincorporated areas of the precinct.
Eddie Cantu serves as one of the Hidalgo County Commissioners on the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court, which oversees county policy, budgeting, and infrastructure planning.
An Army soldier assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, releases a drone during Operation Winter Falcon 26 at the Drawsko Combat Training Center in Oleszno, Poland, Jan. 13, 2026. The drone operation demonstrated the effectiveness of unmanned aerial systems for future joint defensive operations in Poland. Photo by Army Pfc. Andre Gremillion Jr. Courtesy of US Department of War
Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, conducted an armored live-fire exercise and technology demonstrations during Operation Winter Falcon 26 at the Drawsko Combat Training Center in Oleszno, Poland, Jan. 13.
The event demonstrated how modern military operations rely on integrating multiple systems, including unmanned aerial systems and counter-UAS capabilities, to strengthen defensive capabilities. The demonstration reflected how the United States and its NATO allies are modernizing to reinforce defenses in Poland and across the alliance.
Polish and U.S. forces fired their M1A2 Abrams tanks side by side on the firing line. This marked the first time Polish forces fired their M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks alongside U.S. forces, demonstrating both the platform’s firepower and the coordination among partner nations. The commander of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, Army Col. Matthew Kelley, emphasized the importance of communication when building relationships to deliver interoperability.
“We train to be ready for anything that might happen in the future,” Kelley said. “There is no way you could do that on your own.”
The commander also spoke about the importance of training in Poland and the value it brings to his troops.
“The strength of our allies together is how we demonstrate that resolve, that commitment, and you’ve [got to] do that in the place you may have to defend,” he said.
After the live-fire exercise, a static display of UASs featured drones that can provide reconnaissance for ground and armored forces and engage enemy vehicles while the pilot remains in a secure position.
Polish vehicles, such as the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and the AH-64D Apache helicopter, were displayed alongside U.S. technology systems to counter opposing UAS.
The static display illustrated how both UAS and counter-UAS systems complement armored platforms such as the Abrams by providing reconnaissance, identifying potential threats at a distance and preventing adversaries from locating friendly forces.
When presented together, the systems demonstrated the growing role of UAS and counter-UAS technologies in reinforcing NATO’s defensive posture along Poland’s eastern region.
Operation Winter Falcon 26 underscored the importance of innovation for NATO’s armed forces in modern military operations. By linking armored elements, such as the Abrams tank, with UAS, U.S. and NATO forces demonstrated how coordinated technologies enhance readiness and strengthen overall defense.
A federal jury found Dr. Osama Nahas, 70, McAllen, and Isabel Pruneda, 54, Edinburg, guilty March 1, 2024, of conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, healthcare fraud and conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute following a two-week trial. Pruneda was also convicted for aggravated identity theft. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
McALLEN, Texas – A doctor and clinic employee have been sentenced following their convictions for receiving illegal kickbacks after ordering unnecessary lab tests and prescriptions.
A federal jury found Dr. Osama Nahas, 70, McAllen, and Isabel Pruneda, 54, Edinburg, guilty March 1, 2024, of conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, healthcare fraud and conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute following a two-week trial. Pruneda was also convicted for aggravated identity theft.
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now imposed a 120-month-term of imprisonment for Nahas, while Pruneda received 97 months. Both must also serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. At the hearing, the court characterized Nahas and Pruneda as “predators” who exploited elderly, disabled and otherwise vulnerable patients at adult day care centers. Both were also ordered to pay over $3.1 million in restitution to Medicare.
“Medical professionals have a solemn obligation to heal the sick and infirm, not to subject them to unnecessary treatments solely for the sake of making a quick buck,” said Ganjei. “The defendants here abused their unique position of trust and shamelessly took advantage of particularly vulnerable victims. Now they will have several years in prison to reflect on their actions.”
Nahas, the owner and physician at Crosspoint Medical Clinic in Edinburg, traveled to adult day care centers across the Rio Grande Valley ordering unnecessary lab tests and prescriptions on behalf of elderly and vulnerable clients. Pruneda, a medical assistant at Crosspoint, helped carry out the scheme by fording patient signatures on consent forms and misappropriating expensive medications, including pain creams.
Pruneda would strip patient information and packaging from the creams to hand them out as “goodie bags” in an effort to encourage patients to agree to testing. From January 2016 through December 2017, Nahas and Pruneda ordered unnecessary prescriptions and lab work, resulting in millions in losses. They directed those prescriptions and tests to specific companies in exchange for kickbacks.
In June 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Crosspoint and seized hundreds of thousands in stolen medications. Nahas and Pruneda also paid bribes-disguised as “rent” payments-to adult day care owners to gain access to their facilities. Witnesses testified that both accepted kickbacks for referrals, often labeling them as “rent” agreements.
Evidence also revealed that both received tens of thousands of dollars in kickbacks from January 2016 to December 2017.
Nahas was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender, while Pruneda will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI, Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and Texas Health and Human Services – OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Swartz and Brad Gray prosecuted the case.
These free support groups are offered in both English and Spanish and are held monthly at 6:00 p.m. at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – The DHR Health Oncology Institute will continue hosting their monthly cancer patient and family support group throughout 2026 to help connect cancer patients and their families with others who may benefit from shared connection, education, and encouragement.
These free support groups are offered in both English and Spanish and are held monthly at 6:00 p.m. at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, located at 118 Paseo del Prado Ave in Edinburg. Each meeting is moderated by an oncology professional who provides a confidential, welcoming space for patients and loved ones to share experiences, ask questions, and find comfort in a supportive community.
The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the False Claims Act following a whistleblower lawsuit a Houston-area realtor filed in October 2021. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – Four companies and their three owners have agreed to pay millions to resolve allegations they allegedly submitted false claims for federally funded loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.
Carnegie Homes & Construction LLC and Signature Collection Inc. (also operating as Fifty Seventh & 7TH Luxury Homes) design and build high-end residential luxury homes. Ram Gupta and Arpan Gupta own Carnegie and Signature, respectively. The Everstone Group provides consulting and construction services. Sapna Patel is the director and sole member of Everstone and also owns The Mosaic Group LLC.
The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the False Claims Act following a whistleblower lawsuit a Houston-area realtor filed in October 2021.
According to the allegations, the Guptas and Patel applied for and received PPP loans by falsely reporting payroll costs, misrepresenting the number of employees they employed and falsifying the purpose of the loans. This resulted in the submission of alleged ineligible and improper claims for payment to the United States. In addition, they allegedly submitted false information to justify loan forgiveness.
“Those who misuse federal programs to falsely obtain public funds are stealing from the American people,” said Ganjei. “This settlement reflects our commitment to recovering ill-gotten gains and vindicating the interests of the taxpayer.”
“The Small Business Administration’s pandemic relief programs were created to help legitimate small businesses keep employees on the payroll during an unprecedented crisis, not to be exploited through false claims,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Michelle Blank of SBA-Office of Inspector General. “This $2.65 million settlement underscores that misuse of PPP funds will be pursued, and SBA-OIG will continue working with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners to protect taxpayer dollars and safeguard the integrity of SBA programs.”
Under the False Claims Act, a private party (relator) can file a complaint on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery.
SBA-OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill O. Venezia handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
As many parts of the state prepare for wintry weather, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds Texans that extreme cold, freezing rain, ice and snow can pose significant hazards to drivers and pedestrians. Photo: Texas DPS
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – As many parts of the state prepare for wintry weather, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds Texans that extreme cold, freezing rain, ice and snow can pose significant hazards to drivers and pedestrians. The department urges residents to be prepared and exercise caution in such conditions.
“Texans know all too well that our weather can shift in a matter of minutes, from sunshine to sleet or worse,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Preparation makes all the difference. A few simple steps today can keep you and your family safe when conditions change unexpectedly.”
DPS encourages everyone to take safety precautions during winter weather. This includes checking your vehicle’s battery, windshield wipers, tire pressure, tire treads and fluid levels, as well as ensuring door and trunk locks are properly lubricated to prevent them from freezing. Having a well-stocked emergency kit with warm clothes, food, water, cell phone battery/charger and first aid items is also a good idea.
Here are some other tips to help you stay ahead of winter weather:
Winter Weather Road Safety Tips:
Monitor local weather broadcasts and check the latest weather conditions from the National Weather Service before you hit the road.
Avoid traveling when sleet, freezing rain or snow is predicted and monitor road conditions by visiting Drive Texas or calling (800) 452-9292.
If you must drive in inclement weather, allow extra time to reach your destination. Share your travel plans with a friend or family member so someone knows the route you’re taking.
On icy roads, drive slowly and increase the distance between your vehicle and others, as you may need additional room to stop.
Do not use cruise control during poor driving conditions.
Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before you head out.
Be aware that ice accumulates on bridges and overpasses before drivers may see it on roads, so approach them more slowly in winter weather.
Watch for downed trees and power lines. If a stoplight is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Winter Weather Home Safety Tips:
Use an all-hazards weather radio for up-to-date warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information.
Sign up for calls or texts from your local emergency notification system.
Insulate outside faucets and pipes near outer walls.
Make sure furnaces, heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves are clean, well-ventilated and in good working condition.
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from walls and combustible materials, including furniture and bedding. Turn them off when you’re away or sleeping. Also, ensure that space heaters cannot tip over and that the cord is not damaged.
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never operate a generator or other fuel-powered device inside a home, garage or other enclosed space. The odorless, colorless gas is deadly and is produced anytime a fossil fuel is burned. Consider installing a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Never heat your home with a gas stove or oven.
Check on friends and family members whose health or age may put them at greater risk.
Stock up on firewood and supplies, including canned goods, bottled water and medication.
Texans are encouraged to stay vigilant, use caution and remain prepared as winter weather conditions develop.
