SUMMARY: Joshua Garcia, a 17-year-old, has been arrested and charged with the murder of 14-year-old Abraham Choar, who was found shot in a parked car in July. Garcia had been on the run until a community tip, recognizing him from surveillance footage, led to his capture. Court documents revealed that the murder occurred during a narcotics transaction, with evidence suggesting a hand-to-hand drug deal. Garcia’s bail was set at $1 million, and he faces conditions including house arrest. A second suspect, a young female, was arrested in October and is also charged with capital murder in connection to the case.

Joshua Garcia, 17, was formally charged with murder in connection to the death of Abraham Choukair. During a probable cause court Tuesday night, Garcia admitted to the murder, told people he was going into hiding shortly afterward, and deactivated his Instagram.

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SUMMARY: The Texas House elected state Rep. Dustin Burrows as their new speaker with a vote of 85 to 55, following former speaker Dade Phelan’s decision not to seek reelection. Burrows gained support from 49 Democrats and 36 Republicans, focusing on issues such as property tax reform, education, and water infrastructure. His election follows a contentious campaign and highlights Republican infighting, particularly around the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton. The Republican Party of Texas plans to censure members who supported Burrows. Despite division, past impeachers among House Republicans were largely reelected, reflecting ongoing tensions within the party.

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SUMMARY: Many domestic violence victims hesitate to leave their abusive relationships due to concerns for their pets. The Battered Women’s and Children’s Center has addressed this issue by establishing a dog kennel, allowing survivors to bring their pets during their stay. As part of Courtney Friedman’s series on domestic violence, she highlights how pets can sway survivors’ decisions to leave dangerous situations, especially when abusers threaten harm to the animals. The kennel is well-equipped to ensure pet comfort, providing food, water, and essential care. Plans for accommodating cats are also underway, emphasizing the shelter’s commitment to supporting both survivors and their pets.

Many domestic violence victims struggle to leave dangerous relationships, often because they don’t want to leave a pet behind — a reason several people don’t think of.

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