Reed has sought to test crime-scene evidence that he says will help clear him of the killing of 19-year-old Stacey Stites in 1996.
Courts
Stay up to date on Texas courts with in-depth coverage of major rulings, judicial elections, criminal justice, and the judges shaping state law from The Texas Tribune.
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Criminal Justice
Texas inmate seeks to stop looming execution after codefendant confesses to double murders
In his appeal, James Broadnax, who also wants a new trial, included a signed confession by his cousin saying he committed the 2008 Garland murders.
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Criminal Justice
Texas jails aren’t meeting deadlines to free inmates, costing some counties thousands in settlements
The state does not track the prevalence or provide guidance on the issue, leaving inmates to languish in jail and eventually sue counties for damages.
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Health care
Court approves new manager for Dallas-area foster care program after deaths of 2 infants
An experienced child welfare manager was appointed to take over case management after “systemic failures” placed children in danger, court records said.
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Courts
Texas’ drag show restrictions take effect after years of court challenges
The law prohibits sexually explicit drag performances on public property or in front of children.
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Criminal Justice
Ex-Uvalde schools police chief sues CBP, seeking agents’ testimony in his criminal trial
Prosecutors and attorneys for Pete Arrendondo, who faces charges over the shooting’s botched response, have repeatedly requested U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to testify. The agency has refused.
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2026 Texas Elections
Dallas Democrats drop lawsuit seeking to count primary ballots cast during extended voting hours
Dallas and Williamson counties switched from centralized voting sites to neighborhood precincts in the primary, confusing voters and prompting lower courts to extend some polling site hours.
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Courts
Legal fight over SpaceX beach closures hits Texas Supreme Court
The justices are considering the constitutionality of a 2013 law in a lawsuit brought by environmentalist and indigenous groups against the General Land Office and Cameron County.
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2026 Texas Elections
Mayes Middleton, Chip Roy advance to runoff for GOP attorney general nomination
With a self-funded ad surge, Middleton overcame Roy’s initial frontrunner status, taking a commanding lead but falling short of the majority needed to win outright.
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Hill Country floods
Camp Mystic can’t alter flood-damaged area while civil suit proceeds, judge rules
Cabins, grounds and other buildings hit by the July 4 flood on the Guadalupe River cannot be renovated or removed, according to the order.