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DPS Arrests Nine During Weekend Protest in Austin

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DPS Arrests Nine During Weekend Protest in Austin
The protest began around 5 p.m. Saturday on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol. Later that evening, the Capitol grounds closed, and demonstrators began a march through Downtown Austin, including the 46-square-block Texas Capitol Complex area, which DPS protects. Photo: Texas DPS
The protest began around 5 p.m. Saturday on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol. Later that evening, the Capitol grounds closed, and demonstrators began a march through Downtown Austin, including the 46-square-block Texas Capitol Complex area, which DPS protects. Photo: Texas DPS

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AUSTIN – On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to a planned and well-publicized protest at the Texas State Capitol and Downtown Austin and, working alongside our partners at the Austin Police Department (APD), made numerous arrests to keep demonstrators, the public and property safe. 

The protest began around 5 p.m. Saturday on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol. Later that evening, the Capitol grounds closed, and demonstrators began a march through Downtown Austin, including the 46-square-block Texas Capitol Complex area, which DPS protects. During the response, DPS personnel arrested nine individuals on various charges, including felony assault of a peace officer and resisting arrest, among others.

DPS arrested the following individuals, and all were booked into the Travis Co. Jail:

  • Andrew Joseph Alemao (37) – interfering with public duties.
  • Dorian Gray (19) – felony graffiti.
  • Daymon Micah Grubbs (19) – disobeying a police officer.
  • Christian Deun Johnson (24) – disobeying a police officer, providing false identification and evading arrest.
  • Henry T. Johnson (23) – obstructing a passageway. 
  • Francisco Limon Juarez (31) – criminal trespass.
  • Tyrone Germane Stafford (44) – possession of marijuana.
  • Brendan William Talbert (24) – walking on roadway when sidewalks provided, felony assault of a peace officer, evading arrest and resisting arrest.
  • Esala Wueschner (33) – criminal trespass.

During the response, DPS personnel also deployed pepper spray, PAVA powder and a taser to ensure officer safety and maintain order. While we will not discuss operational specifics, DPS collaborates with local, state and federal law enforcement partners—including APD—to ensure the safety of our citizens and state property, as well as to protect individuals exercising their constitutional rights to assemble and free speech. 

Texas is a law-and-order state, and the department has zero tolerance for disrupting public order or endangering law enforcement officers. DPS is continuously monitoring events and their impact on public safety across the state and adjusts operations, including personnel and resources, as needed to address potential and emerging threats. Our men and women stand ready to protect and serve. 

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CBP Officers Seize $815K in Unreported U.S. Currency at Anzalduas International Bridge

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CBP Officers Seize $815K in Unreported U.S. Currency at Anzalduas International Bridge
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Anzalduas International Bridge seized $815,475 in bulk unreported U.S. currency, June 16. Image for illustration purposes
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Anzalduas International Bridge seized $815,475 in bulk unreported U.S. currency, June 16. Image for illustration purposes

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HIDALGO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Anzalduas International Bridge seized $815,475 in bulk unreported U.S. currency, June 16.

“Our CBP officers’ continued vigilance led to this major currency seizure. These outbound interceptions are key in disrupting criminal networks and limiting their access to illegal profits,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo Port of Entry.

CBP officers working at the Anzalduas International Bridge encountered a 44-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a 2025 Honda Odyssey, which was selected for a routine outbound inspection. CBP officers discovered bulk U.S. currency totaling $815,475 hidden within the vehicle.

CBP officers seized the currency and the vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.

It is not a crime to carry more than $10,000, but it is a federal offense not to declare currency or monetary instruments totaling $10,000 or more to a CBP officer upon entry or exit from the U.S. or to conceal it with intent to evade reporting requirements. Failure to declare may result in seizure of the currency and/or arrest. An individual may petition for the return of currency seized by CBP officers, but the petitioner must prove that the source and intended use of the currency was legitimate.

Secretary Nelson Announces Millions in Election Security Grants for Texas Counties

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Secretary Nelson Announces Millions in Election Security Grants for Texas Counties
The grants are available to assist Texas’ 254 counties in their efforts to secure elections. Image for illustration purposes
The grants are available to assist Texas’ 254 counties in their efforts to secure elections. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson

AUSTIN — Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson has announced the launch of a new election security grant program to strengthen election integrity throughout the state. The grants are available to assist Texas’ 254 counties in their efforts to secure elections. 

Approximately $10 million in grants are available using federal Help America Vote Act funds. Grant amounts are based on the number of registered voters in each county and require a 20-percent county match. 

“These grants will go a long way toward helping counties better secure their elections, and I’m pleased to partner with counties to promote election security throughout Texas,” said Secretary Nelson. 

Funding for these grants comes from money given to the state as a part of the Help America Vote Act. 

Funding priorities include: 
Compliance with paper audit trail requirements 
Replacement of decertified electronic pollbooks 
Video surveillance systems to comply with ballot security measures 
Protection of election equipment and supplies 
IT services and upgrades 

Grant applications are due June 30, and awards will be made by August 1, 2025. Counties must submit a resolution from their commissioners court and must document how funds are used to enhance election security. 

“Texas voters deserve free and secure elections,” said Secretary Nelson. “These grants will help ensure that security for many election cycles to come.” 

Texas Wins 12th Gold Shovel Award for Outstanding Job Creation & Business Investment

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Texas Wins 12th Gold Shovel Award for Outstanding Job Creation & Business Investment
Texas has now been recognized with a Gold or Silver Shovel in each of the 20 years of the award program. Image for illustration purposes
Texas has now been recognized with a Gold or Silver Shovel in each of the 20 years of the award program. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott celebrated Texas being recognized with the state’s 12th Gold Shovel Award by Area Development magazine for outstanding achievement in job creation and capital investment in 2024. Texas has now been recognized with a Gold or Silver Shovel in each of the 20 years of the award program.  

“Texas again wins gold for attracting job-creating business investments thanks to having the best business climate and fastest-growing skilled workforce in America,” said Governor Abbott. “Innovative industry leaders invest with certainty in Texas because Texas moves at the speed of business. I thank Area Development magazine for this recognition, and I congratulate our local, regional, and statewide economic development partners for this achievement. We will build on this momentum to attract continued business investment and create thousands of good-paying jobs for a stronger, more prosperous Texas than ever before.”

Area Development recognized Texas with a Gold Shovel Award for more than $10.6 billion in high-value expansion and location projects in 2024. The magazine also acknowledged 12 high-value projects for creating more than 11,000 Texas jobs in total.

Manufacturing Projects of the Year:
Delta Electronics, Inc., a $452 million capital investment creating 1,500 jobs in Plano
QYK Brands, a $400 million capital investment creating 1,000 jobs in The Woodlands
 
Non-Manufacturing Project of the Year:
Amazon, a $200 million capital investment creating 1,000 jobs in Cleburne
 
Other recognized projects:
ECL, an $8 billion investment creating 250 jobs in Houston
FREYR Battery (now T1 Energy), a $340 million investment creating 1,300 jobs in Wilmer
Crystal Window & Door Systems, a $121 million investment creating 504 jobs in Mansfield
Raising Cane’s, a $48 million investment creating 1,020 jobs in Plano
VanTran, a $30 million investment creating 700 jobs in Waco
Flex Ltd., a $19 million investment creating 1,200 jobs in Round Rock
Salcomp, a $3 million investment creating 660 jobs in Arlington
BillionToOne, creating 1,000 jobs in Austin
Guidehouse, creating 1,000 jobs in San Antonio

Area Development’s annual Shovel Awards recognize states for their achievements in attracting high-value investment projects that will create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. The rankings are based on a combination of weighted factors, including the number of new jobs to be created in relation to the state’s population, the combined dollar amount of the company investments, the number of new facilities, and the diversity of industry represented.

Read the full Area Development rankings.

CBP Officers Seize Over $1 Million in Meth at Laredo Port of Entry 

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CBP Officers Seize Over $1 Million in Meth at Laredo Port of Entry 
CBP officers discovered a total of eight packages containing 112 pounds of methamphetamine. USCBP Image
CBP officers discovered a total of eight packages containing 112 pounds of methamphetamine. 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 seized methamphetamine that totaled over $1 million in street value, June 14.

“This successful methamphetamine seizure at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge is a direct result of the sharp instincts and exceptional targeting skills of our officers,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “Their dedication and vigilance continue to play a crucial role in keeping dangerous narcotics off our streets and bringing traffickers to justice.”

The seizure occurred when a CBP officer referred a 56-year-old male Mexican citizen driving a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander for secondary inspection. Following a canine and non-intrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered a total of eight packages containing 112 pounds of methamphetamine within the vehicle.

The narcotics had a street value of $1,036,912.

CBP seized the narcotics and the vehicle. The driver was arrested. Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the seizure.

South Padre Island’s Proposed Convention Center Expansion

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South Padre Island’s Proposed Convention Center Expansion
The Cameron County Commissioners’ Court convened in regular session to consider a formal request from the City of South Padre Island to authorize an expansion of the South Padre Island Convention Center. Image: SPI Convention Center Facebook
The Cameron County Commissioners’ Court convened in regular session to consider a formal request from the City of South Padre Island to authorize an expansion of the South Padre Island Convention Center. Image: SPI Convention Center Facebook

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The Cameron County Commissioners’ Court convened in regular session to consider a formal request from the City of South Padre Island to authorize an expansion of the South Padre Island Convention Center. Over the last several days, nearly 100requests for public comment from residents and visitors were received regarding the proposed expansion. During today’s meeting, the Court heard from numerous individuals who voiced concerns over a potential elimination of natural habitat that is home to native birds and temporary home to migratory birds.

The County Judge and Commissioners understand the need for balance between economic growth and environmental conservation and voted to deny the expansion request as presented. The Commissioners’ Court would like to encourage the City of South Padre Island to revisit the proposed expansion and generate alternative design options that would allow for the expansion of the convention center while conserving the surrounding habitat.

“The County and the City of South Padre Island have a long history of working together, and I look forward to once again collaborating on a project for our residents and visitors through this convention center expansion project which serves the needs of our growing community all while preserving our natural habitats and fostering ecotourism efforts,” stated Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr.

Information Source: Cameron County

Trump’s Mobile phone is on the market

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Trump’s Mobile phone is on the market
Trump Mobile is a newly launched wireless service provider officially entering the market on June 16, 2025. Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump founded and operated it under a licensing agreement with The Trump Organization. Image: trumpmobile.com; Eric Trump, Xuthoria, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Trump Jr. Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Bgd for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

Trump Mobile is a newly launched wireless service provider officially entering the market on June 16, 2025. Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump founded and operated it under a licensing agreement with The Trump Organization. T1 Mobile LLC and DTTM Operations manage the business.

The company functions as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), meaning it does not own its wireless infrastructure but relies on existing networks provided by AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. This allows Trump Mobile to deliver nationwide coverage to its users by leasing access to the major carriers’ towers.

Service Offering: The 47 Plan: The centerpiece of Trump Mobile’s service is the “47 Plan,” priced at $47.45 monthly. The pricing is symbolic, referencing Donald Trump’s current position as the 47th President of the United States. The plan includes unlimited talk, text, and data, mobile hotspot capabilities, and international calling to over 100 countries. It is marketed without contracts or credit checks, aiming to offer a simplified and accessible option for customers.

Additional perks, such as roadside assistance and telehealth services, are included in the plan through third-party providers. 

The T1 Smartphone: Trump Mobile also introduced its own branded device, the T1 smartphone. It features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, a 5000 mAh battery, a 50 MP primary camera, AI facial recognition, a fingerprint sensor, and full 5G compatibility. The phone is finished in a gold tone and is priced at $499. The device is marketed as being “designed and built in the USA.”

The Trump Mobile website provides a standard user interface and promotes the 47 Plan, SIM card kits, bring-your-own-phone options, and pre-orders for the T1 smartphone, which is expected to begin shipping in September 2025. The site includes a disclaimer stating that while the Trump name is used under license, T1 Mobile LLC delivers the services and various third-party partners.

Trump Mobile represents a new option in the mobile market, offering familiar service structures alongside distinctive branding. As with any new entrant, its trajectory will be shaped by consumer adoption and its ability to deliver consistent performance over time.

An Uncertain Economic Outlook

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An Uncertain Economic Outlook
Our latest forecast indicates reasonable growth over the next five years, although the pace will likely be uneven and backloaded in light of current uncertainty. In other words, the crystal ball is a bit cloudier than usual. Image for illustration purposes
Our latest forecast indicates reasonable growth over the next five years, although the pace will likely be uneven and backloaded in light of current uncertainty. In other words, the crystal ball is a bit cloudier than usual. Image for illustration purposes

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Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group. Courtesy Image

The US economy is presently facing daunting challenges on multiple fronts. Nonetheless, signs of remarkable underlying strength and resilience persist. Our latest forecast indicates reasonable growth over the next five years, although the pace will likely be uneven and backloaded in light of current uncertainty. In other words, the crystal ball is a bit cloudier than usual. 

Despite a modest drop in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the first quarter stemming largely from stockpiling of inventories amid tariff concerns, recent performance in many indicators has been generally stable. More than 1.7 million net new jobs were added over the 12-month period ending May 2025 for an annual employment growth rate of 1.08%. There are definitive signs of weakening, but jobs data, while lower than in 2024, is reflecting some remaining momentum. The number of job openings across the economy rose slightly in April to 7.4 million. 

The longer the tariff-related and other uncertainty persists, the more likely notable slowing becomes. If meaningful agreements to avoid substantial tariffs with major trading partners are not reached soon, far bigger risks lie ahead. Port volumes have begun falling, some commodity prices have spiked, and most forecasts for global trade and economic expansion have become more pessimistic. 

Another source of unpredictability lies in geopolitical tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the recently heightened conflict in the Middle East. Additional regions are exhibiting increasing stress, including Venezuela-Guyana, Red Sea shipping lanes, and Taiwan. A major escalation in these situations or others would negatively affect the global economy. 

In better news, the most recent inflation data indicates that the overall Consumer Price Index increased 2.3% for the 12 months ending April 2025, representing an annual rate slightly lower than the prior month. The April change was the smallest 12-month rise since February 2021, and May data was similarly encouraging. The Federal Reserve has not yet decided to decrease interest rates, but if inflation and job market data begin to indicate that risks to the labor market are greater than price pressures, interest rates reductions could occur in the coming months, thus encouraging additional activity. The prospects for cost increases associated with expanded tariffs remain a consideration in the decision-making process.

Even with the current conundrums, our forecast for the next five years anticipates overall growth in GDP of more than 2.0% per year (although the next couple of years will be challenging and confidence intervals are wider than normal). Employment is projected to increase by some 12.9 million net new positions, an average annual gain of 1.57% from 2024 to 2029. Assuming that current uncertainty eases, it is probable that fundamental strengths will resurface and that the US economy will return to significant expansion. Stay safe!

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Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com), which has served the needs of over 3,000 clients over the past four decades.

Texas Pulls State Funding for Border Wall Project

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Texas Pulls State Funding for Border Wall Project
This decision effectively halts the expansion of the state-funded barrier system. USCBP Public Flickr image for illustration purposes
This decision effectively halts the expansion of the state-funded barrier system. USCBP Public Flickr image for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

According to the budget passed in June 2025, Texas lawmakers have removed new state funding for the U.S.–Mexico border wall from the upcoming fiscal plan. This decision effectively halts the expansion of the state-funded barrier system. According to the appropriations bill, approximately $3.4 billion will be allocated over two years for border security efforts, with funding directed toward the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard under Operation Lone Star, rather than for additional wall construction.

According to Governor Greg Abbott’s office, the state no longer needs to lead wall-building efforts because the federal government, under the Trump administration, is now actively working to secure the border. Abbott’s office noted that Texas had added approximately 65 miles of barrier since 2021. According to state documents, the solicitation of private donations for wall funding has also been discontinued, as the state faced prolonged land acquisition issues and community and environmental opposition.

According to the Texas Facilities Commission, while new wall funding has been withdrawn, about $2.5 billion in previously allocated funds remain available to complete up to 85 more miles of barrier by 2026. 

According to legislative budget records, this change represents a shift in strategy from the $11 billion Operation Lone Star initiative launched in 2021. Lawmakers reduced roughly $3 billion in spending during the most recent budget cycle, primarily through ending wall-related appropriations and adjusting other border security items. Despite these cuts, about $1.2 billion will still be allocated to DPS for ongoing enforcement operations along the border.

According to supporters such as state Senator Joan Huffman, the changes reflect a fiscally responsible approach in light of falling migrant apprehension numbers and increased federal enforcement activity. According to Operation Lone Star planning documents, the Texas National Guard will remain actively engaged in mobile enforcement operations as part of the program’s evolving mission.

Credible Threat Triggers Texas Capitol Evacuation

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Credible Threat Triggers Texas Capitol Evacuation
According to officials, during a routine traffic stop in La Grange—approximately 65 miles southeast of Austin—a DPS trooper arrested a male suspect who allegedly admitted to possessing a firearm and intending to harm legislators. Image for illustration purposes
According to officials, during a routine traffic stop in La Grange—approximately 65 miles southeast of Austin—a DPS trooper arrested a male suspect who allegedly admitted to possessing a firearm and intending to harm legislators. Image for illustration purposes

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According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), a credible threat targeting state lawmakers prompted the evacuation of the Texas Capitol and surrounding grounds on Saturday, June 14. The threat was received shortly before 1 p.m. CDT, before the scheduled “No Kings” protest at the Capitol. DPS stated the evacuation was conducted “out of an abundance of caution” to ensure the safety of lawmakers, staff, and the public.

According to officials, during a routine traffic stop in La Grange—approximately 65 miles southeast of Austin—a DPS trooper arrested a male suspect who allegedly admitted to possessing a firearm and intending to harm legislators. Following the arrest, DPS confirmed that there was “no additional active threat.” The Capitol complex was reopened around 4:40 p.m., shortly before the protest commenced at 5 p.m.

According to DPS spokesperson Ericka Miller, “A Trooper with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) took one person into custody in connection with the threats made against state lawmakers.” She added that DPS is coordinating with local, state, and federal partners to maintain the safety of citizens, public property, and individuals exercising First Amendment rights.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick also addressed the situation, stating, “A credible threat was made to possibly kill members of the Texas legislature at the Capitol. I urge everyone to take appropriate precautions and heed the warning.”

According to state officials, the evacuation occurred amid heightened security measures across Texas. Governor Greg Abbott had previously ordered the deployment of over 5,000 National Guard troops and 2,000 DPS troopers statewide in anticipation of the “No Kings” protests. These actions followed recent politically motivated shootings involving state legislators in Minnesota, contributing to elevated safety concerns in Texas.

According to DPS, no formal charges had been filed against the suspect as of June 16. The investigation remains ongoing. DPS has stated that it will continue to collaborate closely with federal and local law enforcement agencies to identify and respond to any future threats in accordance with public safety priorities and constitutional protections.

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