85.4 F
Houston
Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Home Blog Page 102

Cómo los donantes hispanos de Houston tienen la clave para salvar vidas

0

En una ciudad tan diversa como Houston, la fortaleza de nuestra comunidad radica en nuestras diferencias. Cuando se trata de donaciones de sangre, esa diversidad no solo es motivo de orgullo, sino que también es vital para salvar vidas. Los donantes hispanos juegan un papel crucial en mantener un suministro de sangre constante y confiable, y en apoyar avances médicos en la comunidad. Sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, los donantes hispanos siguen estando subrepresentados entre los donantes. Es hora de cambiar eso.

Los tipos de sangre como el O positivo son comunes entre los hispanos. Estos tipos también están entre los más demandados en los hospitales, especialmente durante emergencias. Una base de donantes más diversa aumenta las posibilidades de encontrar coincidencias compatibles para pacientes en necesidad urgente, ya sea alguien que se somete a una cirugía, que recibe atención de emergencia después de un accidente o que lucha contra el cáncer.

Una paciente que ha visto de primera mano el impacto que las donaciones de sangre pueden tener es Betzy Martínez, originaria de Houston y estudiante de la Universidad de Vanderbilt. “No sabes cuánto lo aprecio y cuántas más personas, más pacientes, les gustaría agradecer personalmente su donación de sangre”, dijo Betzy.

Diagnosticada con cáncer a los 18 años, Betzy dependió de transfusiones de sangre durante su tratamiento y eventualmente quedó libre de cáncer. Ahora, enfrentando una recaída, Betzy está nuevamente bajo tratamiento. Como dice Betzy, “Los donantes de sangre son los héroes silenciosos que dan a pacientes como yo la oportunidad de seguir luchando”.

Durante casi 50 años, el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center ha estado en el corazón del sistema de salud de Houston, proporcionando productos sanguíneos que salvan vidas a más de 170 hospitales e instalaciones de salud. Pero su papel ha evolucionado con los años. Hoy en día, la organización hace mucho más que recolectar sangre. Además de la recolección de sangre, el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center ahora desempeña un papel crucial en la investigación médica, ayudando a encontrar curas para enfermedades como el cáncer y el Alzheimer, y proporcionando exámenes de salud para condiciones como el rasgo de células falciformes entre los afroamericanos. Y esto es solo el comienzo; emocionantes desarrollos están en el horizonte.

“Nuestra fortaleza como comunidad está arraigada en su diversidad, y esa diversidad debe reflejarse en el suministro de sangre que la respalda”, dijo Nikhil Nayak, presidente y director ejecutivo del Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. “La necesidad de donantes hispanos nunca ha sido mayor, y al dar un paso adelante, puedes impactar directamente la vida de quienes lo necesitan. Cada donación podría salvar una vida aquí mismo en Houston o ayudar a encontrar una cura para una enfermedad”.

La población hispana representa más del 45% del área metropolitana de Houston, sin embargo, muchos pueden no darse cuenta de cuán urgentemente se necesitan sus donaciones de sangre. Actualmente, solo alrededor del 20% de las donaciones recolectadas por el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center provienen de donantes hispanos. Donar sangre es rápido, seguro y fácil. Una sola donación puede salvar hasta tres vidas, y esas vidas podrían ser las de tus abuelos, tíos, primos o incluso tus padres.

Dependemos de personas como tú para ayudar a satisfacer la creciente demanda de sangre en la región. A medida que Houston sigue creciendo, también lo hace la necesidad de productos sanguíneos que salvan vidas, y tu contribución es fundamental.

“Si te preguntas o tienes dudas sobre donar sangre, la verdad es que si lo hicieras, estaríamos eternamente agradecidos por ello”, dijo Betzy. “Mucha gente necesita sangre todos los días, y puedes cambiar una vida, créelo o no”.

¿Listo para salvar vidas? Visita giveblood.org/espanol para obtener más información y programar tu cita.
Al donar sangre, no solo apoyas una causa, estás salvando la vida de alguien. ¿Interesado en organizar
una campaña de donación de sangre en tu iglesia o escuela? Visita giveblood.org/hostablooddrive.

This post was sponsored by Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center.

October is about to begin, what does this mean for the end to hurricane season for southeast Texas?

0

The tropics remain quite active, with several named systems currently in the Atlantic and another area to monitor in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. This is all occurring as La Niña begins to emerge in the Pacific. So, what does this mean for the rest of the hurricane season?

With how active the Atlantic Basin currently is, there are signs that this year’s hurricane season could remain active in October and potentially extend into November as well. While this doesn’t necessarily correlate to Gulf activity or a Texas landfall, we can’t rule out both scenarios. As of Sept. 30, a wave over the western Caribbean has a medium chance of forming over the next seven days. The region where this next system could develop is just where Hurricane Helene formed about a week ago.

While Helene was able to stir up colder water from far below the ocean surface, unfortunately, those waters started to warm again. However, warm water temperatures aren’t the only factor influencing whether storms develop and strengthen. Typically, other weather systems will help keep wind shear over the Gulf of Mexico at this time of year, which helps limit tropical activity. ABC13 Meteorologist Elyse Smith spoke to Dr. Phil Klotzbach with Colorado State University. Klotzbach referenced an example from 2020, which involved hurricanes Laura and Marco.

“Marco formed later but actually got into the Gulf earlier. Both traveled over a pretty similar part of the Gulf of Mexico with super hot water. Marco got shredded by sheer and didn’t even make it to Louisiana before it died,” Klotzbach said.

While there is a window of opportunity in the western Caribbean and the Bay of Campeche for a tropical system to form, wind shear would make it difficult, but not impossible, for a storm to roll into the Gulf. A wide area of shear should move into the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend and early next week, putting a plug on the tropics and keeping a storm away from the Texas coast.

This season has already been active for the Gulf of Mexico. While no two hurricane seasons are exactly alike, many end up having some similarities because of phenomena like El Niño or La Niña.

One of the analog years that forecasters used to predict the 2024 season was 2005, a record year for the total number of storms in the Atlantic and the impacts those storms brought to the U.S. For the Gulf specifically, the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season had 11 storms tracked through the Gulf of Mexico. Eight of those made landfall by the end of August, the last being Hurricane Katrina. Then, there was a lull before another wave of activity brought Rita, Stan, and Wilma to the Gulf from late September through late October.

Now, let’s compare that to this year. So far, there have been six named storms in the Gulf. Four happened within the first three months of the season, with hurricanes Francine and Helene in September.

One thing to consider this year is the emerging La Niña. There are already signs of cooler-than-normal temperatures in the Pacific, signaling that a La Niña could take over soon. That’s something Klotzbach says to take note of.

“This year, because we likely will have a La Niña and the Atlantic being so hot, this year will probably remain longer, so potentially extending the hurricane season more until late October or early November,” Klotzbach said.

Port Houston workers picketing for better wages, protections against automation in historic strike

0

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Dockworkers walked off the job Tuesday morning at Port Houston, just one of the several ports along the Gulf and East coasts where workers are picketing, leading to a historic strike.

ABC13 was in Seabrook Tuesday, where union workers set up early with tents and cases of water in anticipation of more people showing up outside Bayport Container Terminal.

The strike stems from a deadlock that’s been happening for months over contract negotiations.

READ MORE: Dockworkers at Eastern and Gulf ports go on strike, a standoff risking new shortages

The International Longshoremen’s Association, which is the largest union for dockworkers, is demanding higher pay and protections against automated technology.

They weren’t satisfied with the offer from the United States Maritime Alliance, which represents port operators and shipping companies.

It’s unclear how this strike will last, but New York Gov. Kathy Hochul noted in a statement Tuesday that it was the first large-scale eastern dockworker strike in 47 years at ports from Maine to Texas, and that included the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

If the strike continues for weeks or months, the businesses that will experience the biggest impact are those who rely on shipping overseas.

“All of the conversation has been about imports and Christmas and retailers, the ports covered by the ILA, the East Coast and the Gulf Coast, actually handle almost 70% of container exports from the United States,” said Ed Emmett with Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.

ABC13 spoke to Ben Baxley, COO for Green Mile Logistics, who said he’s not choosing a side, but rather pushing for unity.

“You have 36 ports that are basically at a standstill right now, so when we rely on overseas products throughout our daily lives we will be impacted in a great way, depending on how long this continues,” Baxley explained. “However, inside the U.S., we have a huge opportunity to come together. So our message to everybody is just to unite, try to be part of the solution.”

Baxley told ABC13’s Rosie Nguyen they remain neutral, but want it to be fair.

“These guys work their butts off on a daily basis, our port truckers, God bless their souls, they need somebody to come in and help. However, that’s going to come in the form of both parties being amicable and stand up for what’s right and come together and find a solution to pay them fair wages and also make sure that all of our customers throughout the U.S. are taken care of,” Baxley said.

H-E-B told ABC13 it’s not expecting customers to be affected right now.

“We do not anticipate an impact to our customers at this time. We are monitoring this issue and working closely with our suppliers,” the grocer said.

In a statement Tuesday, the union president wrote, “We are prepared to fight as long as necessary, to stay out on strike for whatever period of time it takes, to get the wages and protections against automation our ILA members deserve.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. Maritime Alliance, or USMX, wrote in its own statement that it has increased its offer to ILA, saying, “We are hopeful that this could allow us to fully resume collective bargaining around the other outstanding issues — in an effort to reach an agreement.”

Emmett told ABC13 that each day this goes on could cost the U.S. economy $5 billion a day.

2024 Texas Election Guide: How to register to vote and make your voice heard

0

At ABC13 Houston, we believe our democracy works best when everyone participates.

This year, Texas voters will cast ballots for our next president and vice president, U.S. Senator, congressional and state representatives, and decide on multiple judicial races.

Your last day to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 7, 2024.
Check your Texas voter registration | Register to vote (print, sign and mail)
Find your polling place

Texas does not offer online voter registration, but you can visit VoteTexas.gov to fill out, print, sign and mail your application. To be eligible to vote in the November general election, your registration form must be received or postmarked by the Oct. 7 deadline.

You can also register to vote in person at your local Voter Registrar’s office.

Even if you’ve voted before, you should still double-check your registration.

More than a million Texans have been removed from voter rolls since 2021, and the League of Women Voters told ABC13 that some voters have been removed if they didn’t register in the last two federal elections.

Early voting will begin Monday, Oct. 21 and run through Friday, Nov. 1.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.

How to vote by mail in Texas

Voting by mail in Texas is limited to voters who are:

  • Ages 65 and older
  • Sick or disabled
  • Expected to give birth within three weeks of Election Day
  • Out of the county on Election Day and during the early voting period
  • Confined in jail, but otherwise eligible
  • Civilly committed under Chapter 841 of the Texas Health and Safety Code

The last day to register to vote by mail in Texas is Friday, Oct. 25.

Click here to download an application to vote by mail.

What you can (and can’t) bring to the polls

All voters must present one of the following forms of photo ID:

  • Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
  • Texas personal identification card issued by DPS
  • Texas handgun license issued by DPS
  • United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph
  • United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph
  • United States passport (book or card)

You can still vote if you do not possess or cannot reasonably obtain one of these photo IDs. You will need to fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration at the polls and show a copy or original of one of the following approved IDs:

  • Certified Domestic Birth Certificate or Court Admissible Birth Document
  • Current utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Government check
  • Paycheck
  • Government document with your name and an address, including your voter registration certificate

If you need assistance, voters may request help by any person other than the voter’s employer, an agent of their employer, or an officer or agent of a labor union to which the voter belongs.

You are not permitted to use a wireless communications device or any device which records audio, images or video within 100 feet of a voting station. This includes smartphones, digital cameras or sound recorders. Election judges are authorized to require anyone to turn off or deactivate any device.

While you may be excited to vote for a particular candidate, you should not wear any campaign t-shirts, buttons, hats or other accessories to the polls. This is considered electioneering, which is not permitted within 100 feet of the voting stations.

What’s on my ballot?

For a glance at what you’ll see at the top of your ballot, click here (PDF).

For down ballot races, see your county election authority’s website for details:

Harris Co.
Fort Bend Co.
Montgomery Co.
Galveston Co.
Chambers Co.
Liberty Co.
Waller Co.
Austin Co.
Brazoria Co.
Calhoun Co.
Colorado Co.
Grimes Co.
Jackson Co.
Matagorda Co.
Polk Co.
San Jacinto Co.
Trinity Co.
Walker Co.
Washington Co.
Wharton Co.

Jimmy Carter turns 100: White House to honor former president with ‘Happy Birthday’ display

0

In honor of former President Jimmy Carter‘s 100th birthday, the North Lawn of the White House will feature a display that includes the number “100” with the message “Happy Birthday President Carter,” according to the first lady’s office.

The display will be installed the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 1, and remain on the North Lawn through the end of the day.

Carter, who entered home hospice care in February 2023, became on Tuesday the first former U.S. president to live to be 100. The 39th president, who held office from 1977 to 1981, is the longest-lived former chief executive in U.S. history.

An estimated crowd of 35,000 people gather for a noontime speech by Presidential candidate Jimmy Carter in downtown Philadelphia, Oct. 29, 1976.
An estimated crowd of 35,000 people gather for a noontime speech by Presidential candidate Jimmy Carter in downtown Philadelphia, Oct. 29, 1976.AP Photo, File

President Joe Biden wished Carter a happy birthday in a new video from the White House.

“On behalf of the entire Biden family and the American people, happy 100th birthday,” Biden said. “Mr. President, you’ve always been a moral force for a nation in the world.”

RELATED | Jimmy Carter at 100: A century of changes for a president, the US and the world since 1924

Biden said that he admires Carter “so darn much” and said that Carter has been “a good friend.”

“Your hopeful vision of our country, your commitment to a better world, and your unwavering belief in the power of human goodness continues to be a guiding light for all of us,” Biden said.

Biden praised Carter as one of “the most influential statesmen in our history” and praised the successes of the Carter Center.

“The moral clarity you showed throughout your career showed through again. And your commitment through the Carter Center and the Habitat for Humanity, you’re solving conflicts, advancing democracy, preventing disease, so much more. It’s transforming the lives of people, not only at home, but around the world,” Biden said.

RELATED | Former President Jimmy Carter turns 100: What to know about his kids, grandkids

Biden also talked about how this is a bittersweet birthday for Carter, as this is the first birthday he has since the death of his wife Rosalynn Carter. Rosalynn Carter died in November 2023 at the age of 96.

“We know this is the first birthday without Rosalynn. It’s bittersweet, but we also know she’s always with you. She’s in your heart. She’ll never go away, she may be gone, but she’s always going to be with you,” Biden said.

“Jill and I send to you and your incredible family our love and God continue to bless you, Mr. President,” Biden said. “You’ve been a good friend.”

Justin Verlander not included on Astros’ Wild Card roster

0

The Houston Astros have released their 26-man roster ahead of the wild card Series, and Justin Verlander’s name is not on it.

Verlander has been on the injured list twice this season, and so far, his performances haven’t measured up to that of a three-time Cy Young Award-winner, posting an 8.10 ERA through 33 1/3 innings across his past seven starts.

But this doesn’t mean that Verlander can’t make a return. Players on the 40-man roster or 60-day injured list as of 11:59 p.m. ET on Aug. 31 are eligible to make postseason rosters, which are submitted ahead of each series. Verlander last pitched on Saturday, Sept. 28, and with five days of rest, would be ready to pitch by Wednesday if the Astros went to three games with the Detroit Tigers.

Verlander has extensive postseason history, including appearances with the Tigers when they last made the playoffs in 2014. He’s appeared in 38 postseason games, holding a 3.58 ERA across 226 innings dating back to 2006. He’s appeared in 22 postseason games for the Astros, recording a 3.74 ERA across 127 2/3 innings, including an American League Championship Series MVP performance during the Astros’ first title run in 2017.

It’s certainly a surprise to see Verlander’s name left off the roster, especially after his quality start in Cleveland showed some promise. But after giving up six earned runs through 4 2/3 innings against the Los Angeles Angels on Sept. 20, the ace had made his peace with the possibility.

“It’s not my decision, but I was away for two months, and these guys were pitching fantastic,” Verlander said after the game. “You’ve seen a bunch of guys really come into their own and like I said— I see the calendar. That’s why I had to come back and try to find myself. There’s only one way to be successful in this game and as a pitcher, and that’s to pitch against the best talent in the world. Sitting there trying to give myself time wasn’t possible. I needed to figure out where I was at. It’s been hard. It’s been a tough lesson.”

Astros’ Wild Card Roster:
Pitchers:

Bryan Abreu

Spencer Arrighetti

Hunter Brown

Yusei Kikuchi

Bryan King

Héctor Neris

Josh Hader

Ryan Pressly

Framber Valdez

Kaleb Ort

Caleb Ferguson

Ronel Blanco

Catchers

Victor Caratini

Yainer Diaz

César Salazar

Infielders

Jose Altuve

Alex Bregman

Zach Dezenzo

Jeremy Peña

Jon Singleton

Outfielders

Yordan Alvarez

Mauricio Dubón

Jason Heyward

Chas McCormick

Jake Meyers

Kyle Tucker

Reflecting on Famous Lives Lost to Suicide: A Call for Awareness as Suicide Prevention Month Closes

0

By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz

As September, recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, draws to a close, it’s crucial to remember those who have tragically succumbed to the weight of mental illness. Suicide affects individuals from all walks of life, including those whose fame and success we often equate with happiness. By reflecting on the lives of famous people lost to suicide, we can honor their memory while bringing attention to the importance of mental health awareness and prevention.

Kurt Cobain (1967–1994)

Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of the grunge band Nirvana, was a defining voice of a generation. His music, particularly the album Nevermind, left an indelible mark on the rock landscape. Yet, Cobain battled depression, addiction, and the pressures of fame. In 1994, at the age of 27, Cobain died by suicide, becoming part of the infamous “27 Club” and igniting discussions about mental health struggles in the music industry.

Robin Williams (1951–2014)

Robin Williams, a beloved actor and comedian, brought joy and laughter to millions through his iconic performances in films like Mrs. Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting. Despite his comedic persona, Williams struggled privately with depression and was later diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. His death by suicide in 2014 shocked the world, underscoring how silent and persistent mental illness can be.

Chester Bennington (1976–2017)

As the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington was known for his raw and emotional performances. Songs like Numb and Crawling reflected his own battles with depression, addiction, and trauma. Bennington’s death by suicide in 2017 devastated fans and his family, particularly as it occurred two months after the suicide of his close friend Chris Cornell, highlighting how deeply grief and mental health are intertwined.

Kate Spade (1962–2018)

Fashion designer Kate Spade built a successful brand known for its colorful and playful designs. Her handbags became a symbol of fun and sophistication for women around the world. However, behind her bright designs lay a personal struggle with depression. Spade’s death by suicide in 2018 shocked the fashion world and emphasized that success and personal pain often coexist.

Avicii (1989–2018)

Swedish DJ and music producer Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was a trailblazer in the electronic dance music scene. His hits like Wake Me Up and Levels propelled him to international fame. However, the pressures of the industry and his mental health struggles became overwhelming. Avicii retired from touring in 2016 due to health issues, including anxiety and depression. In 2018, he died by suicide at the age of 28, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to inspire.

Recognizing the Signs of Suicide

While the lives of these famous individuals were unique, they shared common warning signs of suicide that can help us recognize when someone we love might be struggling:

  1. Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed.
  2. Giving away personal possessions or saying goodbye as if preparing for something final.
  3. Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden to others.
  4. Sudden mood changes, including unexpected calmness after a period of depression.

These signs aren’t always obvious, and not everyone exhibits them, but recognizing even subtle shifts can be critical.

Factors Contributing to Suicide Globally

Suicide is a global issue that transcends borders, cultures, and demographics. Various factors contribute to this crisis:

  • Mental illness, particularly depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, is one of the leading causes of suicide.
  • Substance abuse, often tied to depression or trauma, increases the risk of suicide.
  • Marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, face higher rates of suicide due to discrimination, social isolation, and lack of access to mental health care.
  • Economic hardship, unemployment, or financial instability can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness.
  • Geography plays a role as well. Those living in rural or isolated areas often face limited access to mental health resources, leading to higher suicide rates.
  • Gender differences are notable: men, particularly middle-aged men, have the highest suicide rates globally, often due to societal pressures and reluctance to seek help.

Mental Health Awareness and Prevention

The stories of these famous individuals demonstrate that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of fame, fortune, or outward success. Their lives and deaths remind us of the importance of checking in on those around us, supporting mental health initiatives, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and other global resources offer support to those in crisis and their loved ones.

As we close out Suicide Prevention Month, let’s honor the memory of those we’ve lost by advocating for mental health awareness year-round. Recognizing the signs, offering support, and fostering open conversations can save lives. Let us continue to work toward a world where no one feels like they have to face their struggles alone.


Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

HISD School Bonds Could Lead to $9 Billion Tax Increase for Harris County Residents

Houston, TX – New documents reveal that if the proposed Houston Independent School District school bonds are passed in November, Harris County taxpayers could face an estimated $9 billion tax increase over the next 30 years. This revelation contradicts previous public statements from HISD indicating that the bonds would not raise taxes.

The documents, released by Community Voices for Public Education (CVPE), highlight that with interest payments included, taxpayers will be responsible for paying nearly $9 billion. The proposed bond measure, intended to fund school infrastructure and improvements, has sparked significant debate over its potential financial impact on residents.

Ruth Kravetz, co-founder of CVPE, voiced strong opposition to the bond proposal, describing it as an unprecedented financial burden.

“HISD’s unelected board is pushing a bond that will saddle millions of taxpayers with the largest school bond debt and related tax increase in history,” Kravetz said.

She also criticized HISD Superintendent Mike Miles, claiming that his leadership and connections to the Third Future Schools Charter Network, which is under investigation, raise concerns about the effective use of taxpayer money.

The opposition argues that approving the bond would give too much financial control without sufficient oversight, which could negatively affect local school funding and student services. Instead, they are calling for elected officials to regain control of the district and ensure transparency and accountability in the use of funds.

Last week, The Houston Landing confirmed the $9 billion figure in a report analyzing the tax implications of the bond proposal. The report pointed to additional debt service from a previously supported school bond, adding to the total cost for taxpayers.

The bond’s potential financial impact has become a central issue as the November vote approaches, with critics urging voters to consider the long-term consequences of the proposal. Proponents argue that the bonds are necessary to fund critical updates to HISD schools and improve educational infrastructure for future generations.

Houston Dynamo clinches playoff berth for 2024 postseason for 2nd consecutive year

0

SEATTLE, Washington (KTRK) — Still Holdin’.

On Saturday night, the Houston Dynamo clinched a berth into the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.

Houston clinched after Saturday’s outcome of FC Dallas’ 3-1 loss to Orlando City SC. For the first time since 2013, Houston now makes it to the postseason in for the second-consecutive year.

The Dynamo take on the Seattle Sounders on the road at Lumen Field on Saturday night. Houston currently sits at the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference.

Under Dynamo head coach Ben Olsen’s helm, the team won its second Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and fourth domestic championship last season. The team also advanced to the Western Conference Final and qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Factory reset attempted on Fort Bend Co. Judge’s phone amid racist posts investigation, warrant says

0

FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — Was Fort Bend County Judge KP George trying to wipe his cell phone before investigators seized it? Additional details emerging from a warrant last week suggest the county’s top elected official may have attempted to erase evidence implicating him in an alleged fake racism scheme.

On Thursday, a grand jury indicted George on a misdemeanor count of misrepresentation of the identity of a candidate.

The indictment alleges that on Sept. 26, 2022, he posed as a Facebook user named “Antonio Scalywag” in a campaign communication posted on his Facebook page “with intent to injure a candidate or influence the result of an election.”

At the time, George, a Democrat, was running for re-election as county judge against Trever Nehls, the twin brother of Republican U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls.

In the warrant, investigators wrote that they arrived at George’s home on Sept. 17 to seize a Samsung device from the county judge, who investigators told him to relinquish his hold on the phone.

The document states that a Texas Ranger at the scene observed George manipulating the device, which a special Texas DPS agent found had more than 15 unsuccessful passcode attempts. According to the warrant, the DPS agent explains that Samsung devices have a security setting enabling a factory reset after 20 unsuccessful passcode attempts.

The seizure came two days before ABC13 first reported George’s implication into a scheme involving fake and racist social media posts. This alleged scheme also implicated his former chief of staff and a Fort Bend County commissioner candidate, Taral Patel.

SEE MORE: Fort Bend Co. candidate who claimed to be hate speech target may have used 3rd persona, warrant says

A grand jury also indicted Patel earlier this month on four charges of online impersonation and four charges of misinterpretation of identity. Authorities allege Patel also used the “Antonio Scalywag” alias to make racist posts to help him in his race for county commissioner.

Even though there’s no indication that any evidence was successfully destroyed, attorney Michael Wynne said any attempt to do so is still criminal.

“He’s still clearly trying to do it and in front of the agents. This should be a slam dunk,” Wynne said after reviewing the search warrant. “Rarely is it this blatant and this stupid.”

George has not been charged with obstruction or tampering with evidence. Eyewitness News asked the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office whether additional charges were possible, but they declined to comment.

Wynne suspects a new indictment will be handed down at some point.

“I don’t know if it’s become a grand jury investigation yet or not. Likely, so you’ve just handed them a felony,” he said.

Friday’s revelation conflicts with a statement George released last week when he was first publicly implicated in the racist posts scandal.

“I have fully complied with the search warrant executed, during which my cellular devices and computer were seized,” the statement read.

Eyewitness News emailed George’s office to ask if he stood by that statement and what he had to say about the suggestion that he tried to factory reset his phone. His office never responded.

In his most recent statement released Thursday, George expressed disappointment that charges were filed against him but said he was confident that “when all the facts are presented, justice will prevail.”

“In this country, you are innocent until proven guilty, and I fully intend to prove my innocence in court,” he continued.

George said he turned himself in to authorities Thursday evening and was later released on a personal recognizance bond.

SEE ALSO: Fort Bend Co. Judge KP George evades ABC13’s questions amid probe into alleged election scheme

The Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office said it expanded its investigation of Patel to include George and the county judge was indicted “as a party to the offense for which Taral Patel was indicted.”

Frank Yeverino, an attorney for Patel, did not immediately reply to a call seeking comment.

At least one Fort Bend County commissioner, Vincent Morales, called for George to resign following his indictment. He was joined by a plethora of other elected officials from around Fort Bend County.

“I have no intention of stepping down,” George said.

The Associated Press contributed to this story. For news updates, follow Luke Jones on FacebookX and Instagram.