Law Enforcement

Intersections around Abilene Christian University have a new fixture: automated license plate readers.

The pushback against automated license plate readers is growing, and it's not just one organization driving the movement. Elected officials, civil rights groups and regular citizens are working together to get the technology removed in the Austin area.

This week, Lubbock City Council heard from the police department on the use of Flock cameras, of which there are currently 10 in operation with six more awaiting approval from TxDOT. Our Brad Burt reports that Lubbock Police chief Seth Herman defended the department’s use of these cameras. You can find LPD's Transparency Portal provided by Flock Safety here.

Texas lawmakers say they may have to reign in the police use of some popular surveillance tools, such as drones and automatic license plate readers, during next year’s legislative session. This week, the U.S. started accepting cattle from Mexico again after a lengthy hold on cattle imports, mostly due to the presence of New World Screwworm. Harvest Public Media’s Michael Marks reports it’s a relief for American businesses like feedlots and meatpackers.

Some government officials said they understand the community’s anger, but warn that many of these contracts fall outside their jurisdiction.

All five youth prisons across Texas were on lockdown after at least two instances of kids assaulting correctional staff. KERA's Toluwani Osibamowo reports it's unclear when restrictions on visitation and movement throughout the facilities will end. The Lubbock Municipal Garden and Arts Center is offering booth space and seeking food vendors for its annual fall festival. Our Samantha Larned reports Vendors can register for the event online through August 30. You can find more information at LubbockGAC.org or contact the center by emailing GAC@mylubbock.us or calling 806-767-3724.

The Texas Fifteenth Court of Appeals has cleared the way for new Department of State Health Services rules governing hemp products to take effect again, including higher fees for businesses and limits on the sale of THCA flower and concentrates. But DSHS says they're still considering how to proceed.

Local officials report that 108 of the cases originated in a contracted detention facility in Hudspeth County.

Dallas police say Diamon-Maziarre Robinson, also known as "Mike King," was shot and killed after allegedly pointing a handgun at officers during a standoff in a Medical District parking garage. The shooting, involving the Dallas Police Department, is under investigation by the Dallas County District Attorney's Office.

Lubbock County saw more than 7,000 voters in the first three days of early voting, that’s a more than 75% increase over turnout in the last two primary election cycles. Our reporter Brad Burt spoke with voters about what brought them out to the polls. Last week, a Texas Tech University assistant professor and two other Lubbock residents were federally charged for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.