The Whitsdom Press

Category: In the News

  • Whites-Only Town in Arkansas Sparks Outrage Online

    A new community in Arkansas is getting a lot of attention and anger on social media. The private association behind it calls itself Return to the Land (RTTL). They say they want a place just for people with “European ancestry” who share traditional values. This town is located in the Ozark hills of Arkansas, and about 40 people already live there on 160 acres of land. The group has even said they want to expand into other states like Missouri.

    Why People Are Upset

    The idea of a “whites-only” town has caused major backlash. People on social media are calling the plan racist and a step backward to old segregation laws. Civil rights groups like the Anti-Defamation League are warning that this could break housing discrimination laws. Even the Arkansas Attorney General, Tim Griffin, is looking into what this group is doing. Many people believe this is a return to the days of Jim Crow and that it sends a dangerous message about race and equality.

    Other Talk About “White Towns”

    This Arkansas community is the most organized example of a whites-only place in recent years. Online, there are some other groups and individuals talking about starting similar towns to “preserve white culture.” Most of these are just conversations on the internet and haven’t turned into real communities yet. Currently there are:

    • Arkansas Ozarks Community I, II, III (The Ozarks) founded in 2023 with 150 acres and is expanded
    • Deep South Community I (covering LA-MS-AL-GA-FL-NC-SC) in initial planning process
    • Appalachian Community I and II (Appalachian region–MS-AL-TN-GA-NC-SC-VA-KY-WV-OH-PA-MD-NY)

    Harrison, Arkansas has a Racist Past

    Harrison, Arkansas, a city nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, carries a deeply troubled and well-documented history of racism. Years ago, it was known as a “sundown town,” a place where Black people were not welcome.

    The 1905 riot was triggered by allegations of a Black man assaulting a white woman. A white mob responded by driving out many Black residents through intimidation and violence. The second, and more definitive, riot occurred in 1909, again sparked by a criminal accusation against a Black man. In the aftermath, the remaining Black families were forced to flee, their property often sold for a fraction of its value or outright stolen.

    Harrison later became associated with the Ku Klux Klan. While the Klan’s presence has fluctuated over the years, the area has been home to prominent figures in the white supremacist movement. The national headquarters of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, led by Thom Robb, is located in the nearby town of Zinc, and a Harrison post office box has been used for the organization’s mail.

    In the 2010s, there were big billboards in the town with messages like “Anti-Racist is a Code Word for Anti-White” and other hateful phrases. Some of these were tied to the KKK. In recent years, local leaders have tried to change the town’s image. A Community Task Force on Race Relations was started in 2003 to help, and some hateful signs have been removed. But the reputation still lingers.

    What the Law Says

    The United States has strong laws against housing discrimination. The main one is the Fair Housing Act, passed in 1968 during the Civil Rights Movement. This law makes it illegal to deny someone housing because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. That means a neighborhood, apartment complex, or community cannot legally say “only white people can live here.”

    Even if a group tries to call it a private membership club, it usually doesn’t work if people live there or buy property. When housing is involved, the law still applies. In simple terms: if you sell or rent homes or land, you cannot make rules that exclude people based on race.

    The U.S. Constitution also guarantees equal protection under the law, which means the government cannot allow racial segregation to happen openly. If the Return to the Land group is found to be breaking these rules, they could face lawsuits, fines, or even be shut down.

    Why It Matters

    A town that only allows white residents is more than just a private decision—it affects society. Critics say these communities encourage racism, keep people divided, and hurt efforts to build trust among different races. I, personally as a Black American woman, am curious to see how they will do. Everyone has a right to live where they feel comfortable. If only I could get 10 acres of land, move my family and good friends into land ownership, and live happily ever after. I remember a group in Georgia tried this and…

    Freedom, Georgia

    I do find it funny that this “private association” has the name “Return to the Land”, yet must have European descent…is the land you’re returning to in Europe? Because this land belonged to others before you. It doesn’t matter. Get you land, white man! So, if you are White and interested in preserving white culture, they have an interest meeting coming up.

  • Afeni Muhammad: McDonald’s Murder Case, Charges, and Updates

    A shocking tragedy unfolded in Eastpointe, Michigan, when 26-year-old Afeni Badu Muhammad was charged with the brutal murder of McDonald’s manager Jennifer Harris. The case has drawn nationwide attention due to the violent nature of the attack, the heartbreaking story of the victim, and recent courtroom developments.

    What Happened?

    On the morning of July 10, 2025, an argument between employee Afeni Muhammad and her manager Jennifer Harris resulted in Harris sending Muhammad home early from her shift at McDonald’s. Later, Muhammad allegedly returned armed with a large kitchen knife, entered the restaurant through an employee-only door wearing a hooded mask, and stabbed Harris multiple times. Reports say Harris suffered up to 15 stab wounds before dying at the scene.

    Who Is Afeni Badu Muhammad?

    Afeni is a 26-year-old resident of Eastpointe, Michigan.She is a high school graduate currently enrolled in online physical therapy classes. Muhammad was an aspiring rapper, who performs under the stage name “Risen Phoenix” on Instagram. Prosecutors note her music and lyrics portrayed themes of rising from hardship, independence, and being accepted for who she is.

    Left: Jennifer Harris (Victim), Right: Afeni Muhammad (Assailant)

    Who Was Jennifer Harris?

    Jennifer Harris, 39, was a dedicated McDonald’s manager for 15 years and a single mother of six children. Her family describes her as hardworking, loving, and selfless.
    Her daughter, Antonia Griffin, shared:

    “She was the best mom anybody could ever ask for. She died trying to take care of us.”

    To help support Harris’s children, a GoFundMe fundraiser was launched, and the community held a candlelight vigil and balloon release on July 14, 2025.

    Macomb County Jail Inmate Search

    Charges Against Afeni Muhammad

    Muhammad faces multiple felony charges, including First-Degree Premeditated Murder – Punishable by life in prison without parole and carrying a Dangerous Weapon with Unlawful Intent. She is also labeled a habitual offender due to a 2022 conviction for stabbing in Virginia, where she received probation. The judge set a $25 million cash bond, with strict conditions if released, including GPS tether monitoring, no contact with Harris’s family or witnesses, daily check-ins, and no alcohol or drugs.

    This information was obtained from publicly available court records on MICOURT as of 7/30/2025.

    Court Updates & Mental Health Evaluation

    On July 23, 2025, a probable cause hearing revealed new developments such as Muhammad requested a competency and culpability evaluation (though she initially objected), the judge approving the evaluation and delaying the preliminary examination to September 3, 2025. The evaluation process could take 4–6 weeks.

    The upcoming court date will focus on competency results and whether the case will move forward to trial. If found competent, Muhammad could face one of Michigan’s harshest penalties: life without parole.

  • NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas Charged with Illegal Gambling

    Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas was arrested Wednesday, July 30, 2025, on federal charges for his alleged involvement in an illegal gambling operation. The arrest, which took place in Los Angeles, is the latest in a series of controversies that have followed the talented but tumultuous basketball player.

    Source: TMZ.com

    According to the indictment, Arenas, 43, is accused of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to federal investigators. The charges stem from an alleged high-stakes poker ring run out of a mansion owned by the former Washington Wizards point guard.

    Federal prosecutors allege that from September 2021 to July 2022, Arenas’s property was used to host illegal poker games. Authorities have also charged five other individuals in connection with the operation.

    This is not the first time Arenas has been linked to gambling-related issues. In a well-publicized incident in December 2009, Arenas and then-teammate Javaris Crittenton were involved in a locker room confrontation over what was reported to be a gambling debt from a card game. The dispute escalated to the point where firearms were brought into the team’s locker room, leading to lengthy suspensions for both players from the NBA. Arenas eventually pleaded guilty to a felony charge of carrying a pistol without a license.

    After both Arenas and Crittenton lost money, Arenas made a threat in jest about burning Crittenton alive. Crittenton took this seriously and threatened to shoot Arenas, to which Arenas replied by saying he would bring the guns for him to do it. – People.com

    That incident significantly altered the trajectory of Arenas’s once-promising career. A three-time NBA All-Star known for his explosive scoring and “Agent Zero” moniker, Arenas’s on-court production declined following the gun scandal and subsequent injuries.

    As this is a developing story, more details are expected to emerge as the case proceeds through the legal system. Arenas is expected to make his initial court appearance soon to face the charges.

  • Man Caught Trying to Dig Up Body at Kansas City Cemetery

    In Kansas City, Missouri, a chilling and unsettling incident unfolded on July 1, 2025. Someone tried to dig up the grave of Delshon L. Dupriest, a father of nine who was buried nearly 27 years ago. What was meant to be a final resting place has become an active crime scene.

    🕵️ The Scene at Forest Hill Cemetery

    Police were called to Forest Hill Cemetery, located at Gregory and Troost Avenue, after reports of a disturbed grave. Upon arrival, they discovered a broken gate—possibly caused by a vehicle used to ram into the cemetery. By mid-afternoon, investigators were inspecting the scene, collecting evidence, and speaking with witnesses.

    Family’s Pain and Questions

    Dupriest’s family was alerted and rushed to the cemetery. His mother, Jamesetta Blandhood, described the sight as though “somebody had just dug it up … looked like they had put dynamite and just blew it open”. Dupriest, killed back in 1998, left behind nine children and a community of friends. His mother’s grief quickly shifted to confusion and anger: “After 27 years, who would do this? Who hates him so badly that they would just tear up his grave like that?”. The damage appears severe—his body was buried in a cement vault, which has been shattered into pieces. The victim’s mom added: “What did he have in there that you wanted so bad? … I thought this would be a safe place. So, mothers and fathers, watch out for your kids, the dead ones too.”

    Investigation Underway

    The Kansas City Police Department has launched a property-crime investigation and remains at the cemetery pursuing leads. Cemetery owners have cooperated with the investigation and confirmed no intentional collusion .

    Authorities are focusing on several key elements, even though it’s early in the process. They are investigating the damaged gate, possibly made by a vehicle. They are also examining the shattered cement vault. Additionally, they are considering any potential motives, like whether someone sought valuables or acted out of malice.

    No suspects have yet been named or taken into custody.

    What Comes Next

    The grieving family is waiting for clarity as investigators continue to sift through evidence. Once the scene is processed, and the suspect or suspects are identified, they will likely refer the case to prosecutors. This will happen before criminal charges are filed.

    Kansas City man’s alleged enemies blew his grave up with dynamite 27 years after he passed away to steal his jewelry.

  • ICE Arrests MS-13 Leader in Nebraska, Disrupts Gang Operations

    In a surprising operation that underscores the sprawling reach of transnational gangs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) captured an alleged high-ranking MS-13 leader. This occurred right in the middle of Nebraska.

    The man arrested is José Alejandro Melgar-Rivas. Federal authorities identified him as a significant figure within the notoriously violent MS-13 gang. His reported nickname, “Peligroso” (Spanish for “The Dangerous One”), hints at his alleged reputation. Authorities paint a grim picture. Melgar-Rivas isn’t just suspected of local crimes. ICE alleges he was a key coordinator, directing gang activities and criminal operations across multiple states. This potentially includes orchestrating violence, drug trafficking, and other serious offenses fundamental to MS-13’s brutal business model. Adding another layer, ICE revealed Melgar-Rivas is a repeat immigration violator. He had previously been deported from the United States. His presence back in the country, allegedly leading criminal activities, underscores persistent challenges with illegal re-entry and border security.

    MS-13 kingpin captured by ICE in Nebraska.

    This wasn’t a solo effort. The arrest was the result of a major collaborative operation. This involved ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

    This arrest matters for many reason. Targeting the leadership of these gangs’ alleged leaders disrupts the gang’s command structure. It weakens their ability to operate effectively. It also affects their efficiency. This arrest shows that MS-13 isn’t confined to border states or major cities. They operate nationwide and impact heartland communities. This arrest also underlines ongoing issues with illegal re-entry. Agencies like ICE work hard to track down dangerous individuals who have circumvented immigration laws. The successful operation showcases the importance of federal, state, and local agencies working together to combat complex criminal networks.

    Melgar-Rivas is now in ICE custody. He may face federal criminal prosecution for his alleged gang activities. He will almost certainly face immigration removal proceedings once again. His arrest is a huge win for law enforcement. It serves as a big warning that international criminal organizations like MS-13 pose a threat, even in America’s heartland.

    MS-13 is often linked to coastal urban centers and Central America. However, Melgar-Rivas was tracked down and apprehended in Grand Island, Nebraska. This arrest highlights how these criminal networks can embed themselves far beyond traditional hotspots, operating in communities across the U.S.

  • Job Corps Paused by Department of Labor

    Imagine this: You finally have a safe place to live. You are training for your dream job or a job better than fast-food. Then, out of nowhere, someone tells you: “Pack up. You have to leave. Now.”

    That’s the real nightmare for 25,000 students right now. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has paused almost all Job Corps centers across the country. The reason? Major budget cuts.

    What is Job Corps?

    Job Corps is a FREE government program for teens and young adults (16-24) who are struggling. It helps people who didn’t finish high school due to personal circumstances. These individuals faced challenges during that time. Some have nowhere safe to live. Others can’t find a good job.

    The program offers free housing amenities (living in campus dorms) and free meals. It provides assistance towards earning a GED. There is hands-on job training for the workforce. Support from academic and mental health counselors is also available.

    For many students, Job Corps was their only lifeline to a better future.

    What Happened?

    Recently, all centers must close and send their students back to their homes on record by June 30, 2025. Only 24 centers ran by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) will stay open. Students got almost no warning – some had just hours to pack. Many couldn’t grab their stuff: meds, IDs, clothes, or school certificates got locked inside.

    Why Did This Happen?

    According to the Department of Labor’s press release (dated 5/29):

    The Job Corps program has faced significant financial challenges under its current operating structure. In PY 2024, the program operated at a $140 million deficit, requiring the Biden administration to implement a pause in center operations to complete the program year.

    Next Steps

    The 5/29 press release included FAQs about Job Corps’ recent pause; covering topics such as transportation, transfer credits, and other next steps:

    These young people were working hard for a better future. Without the stress of bills or housing, they could focus on developing their workforce skills. However, budget cuts are pushing them back into the jungles they were trying to escape.

  • Slashing AmeriCorps: Staff Reductions and Shutdowns Put National Volunteer Work at Risk

    Recent reports show that AmeriCorps, a U.S. government program supporting volunteer work has faced significant changes. In April 2025, about 75% of its full-time staff were placed on administrative leave following actions by the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This decision also led to the shutdown of the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), which includes the FEMA Corps program that helps communities recover from disasters . These cuts have raised concerns about the program’s ability to continue its mission of addressing critical needs like education, poverty, and disaster relief through volunteer efforts.

    Key points about the recent cuts include staff reduction, program closures, and impact. In April 2025, 75% of AmeriCorps employees were put on paid leave, disrupting operations. The NCCC and FEMA Corps, critical for disaster recovery, were shut down. These changes could weaken AmeriCorps’ ability to support communities during emergencies and deliver long-term projects.

    What Is AmeriCorps?
    AmeriCorps is a federal program created in 1993 under President Bill Clinton to unite Americans in volunteer service. Its goal is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and promote civic engagement. Over 5 million Americans have participated in its programs, which focus on education, environmental conservation, public health, and disaster response. 

    The idea of national service dates back to programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps (1930s) and Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA, 1965), which aimed to combat poverty. In 1993, the National and Community Service Trust Act merged VISTA and other programs into AmeriCorps. This created a unified agency to manage volunteer initiatives like AmeriCorps NCCC (disaster relief) and AmeriCorps State and National (local community projects). Over the years, AmeriCorps expanded to include efforts like addressing the opioid crisis, supporting STEM education, and responding to COVID-19. By 2016, it had engaged 1 million members. 

  • Cardi B Announced as Host for WWE SummerSlam 2025

    Hold onto your seats, music and wrestling fans – Cardi B is stepping into the ring! The Grammy-winning rapper has just been named the official host of WWE SummerSlam 2025, one of the biggest events in sports entertainment.

    Cardi B is no stranger to bold moves, but this is a first: She’ll bring her larger-than-life personality to WWE’s SummerSlam stage. Known for her high-energy music and unfiltered vibe, Cardi seems like a perfect fit for WWE’s wild, action-packed world. The announcement has already sent fans into a frenzy online, with many calling it a “match made in heaven.”

    SummerSlam 2025 is scheduled for August 2025, though the exact location hasn’t been revealed yet. WWE’s mega-events often draw massive crowds, so expect tickets to sell fast once details drop. In a statement, Cardi B shared her excitement: “I’ve always loved WWE’s drama and intensity. Hosting SummerSlam lets me be part of that magic – and trust me, I’m bringing the HEAT!” She also teased surprises, hinting at possible collabs with WWE superstars.

    Social media exploded after the news broke. Supporters praised WWE for the “genius” pick, while others joked about Cardi possibly jumping into the ring herself. Memes of her 2018 hit “I Like It” paired with wrestling clips flooded TikTok and Twitter/X. WWE’s execs called her a “cultural icon” who knows how to entertain. With over 100 million followers online, Cardi’s involvement could attract new viewers to wrestling. Plus, her flair for drama aligns with WWE’s storytelling.

    WWE SummerSlam promo with Cardi B

    For newbies: SummerSlam is WWE’s second-biggest annual event (after WrestleMania). It features championship matches, celebrity appearances, and jaw-dropping stunts. Past hosts include The Rock, John Cena, and even Snoop Dogg. While Cardi won’t wrestle (as far as we know), fans can count on her fiery hosting style. Will she diss a superstar? Drop a new song? Or crash a match? Whatever happens, it’ll be *must-see TV*.

    Cardi B hosting SummerSlam 2025 is a crossover nobody saw coming – but everyone’s here for it. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for updates!

    Source: Billboard

  • Student Loan Collections Are Back: What Borrowers Should Do Now

    After a three-year pause, the U.S. Department of Education is restarting harsh measures to collect defaulted federal student loans. Actions like seizing tax refunds, garnishing wages, and withholding Social Security benefits will resume, ending a temporary halt put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s what borrowers need to know—and how to protect themselves.

    Why Are Collections Restarting Now?

    During the pandemic, the government paused most aggressive collection tactics to ease financial strain on borrowers. But as federal relief programs wind down, the Education Department is shifting back to pre-pandemic rules. Officials argue this move is part of a “return to normal,” but critics warn it could push already struggling borrowers deeper into hardship.

    “Beginning May 5, the department will begin involuntary collection through the Treasury Department’s offset program, which withholds payments from the government — including tax refunds, federal salaries and other benefits — from people with past-due debts to the government,” the department said in a statement. Wages will be garnished following a 30-day warning, it added. — NBC News

    How Does This Affect You?

    If your federal student loans are in default (meaning you’ve missed payments for at least 270 days), you could face:

    • Tax Refund Offsets: The government may take your federal tax refund to repay your debt.
    • Wage Garnishment: Up to 15% of your paycheck could be withheld.
    • Social Security Garnishment: Monthly benefits may be reduced (applies to older borrowers).

    What Can You Do to Avoid Collections?

    Don’t panic—there are ways to get out of default and stop these penalties:

    1. Loan Rehabilitation: Agree to make nine affordable monthly payments (as low as $5) over ten months. Successfully completing this removes the default from your credit report.
    2. Consolidation: Combine your loans into a new Direct Consolidation Loan. You’ll need to either make three on-time payments or enroll in an income-driven repayment plan.
    3. Contact Your Servicer: Reach out to discuss options like payment pauses, reduced payments, or alternative plans.

    Critics Raise Concerns

    Advocates for borrowers argue that restarting these tactics ignores the ongoing struggles many face. “Taking money from Social Security or wages could devastate families still recovering from the pandemic,” said one nonprofit representative. They’re urging the government to expand relief programs instead.

    Stay Proactive

    If you’re at risk of default—or already there—act now:

    • Visit StudentAid.gov to explore repayment plans.
    • Call your loan servicer to discuss solutions.
    • Consider free help from a nonprofit credit counselor.

    The Bottom Line

    While the return of collections is stressful, borrowers have tools to fight back. Addressing the issue early can help you avoid penalties and regain control of your finances. Stay informed, explore your options, and don’t wait—the sooner you act, the more you can protect yourself.

    Have questions or tips to share? Drop them in the comments below!

    Note: This article is for informational purposes only. For personalized advice, consult a financial professional.

  • Houston ISD Fraud: The $6 Million Scandal Uncovered

    Imagine millions of dollars meant for school repairs, classrooms, and playgrounds vanishing into the pockets of corrupt officials. That’s exactly what happened in Houston, where a jaw-dropping fraud scheme involving a top school administrator and a contractor just ended with guilty verdicts. After a dramatic four-week trial, Brian Busby, the former Chief Operating Officer of Houston ISD (HISD), and Anthony Hutchison, a contractor, were convicted of 33 federal charges, including bribery, wire fraud, and witness tampering. Let’s break down how they pulled off this nine-year heist—and how they got caught.

    The Players: Who’s Who in the Scandal

    Houston ISD Landscaping Contractor
    Former Houston ISD Chief Operating Officer
    Rhonda Skillern Jones, former Houston ISD Board Trustee
    • Brian Busby: The man in charge of HISD’s $260 million budget and 7,000 employees. He was supposed to ensure taxpayer money went to schools—but instead, he allegedly pocketed cash and even got free home renovations. His salary at the time was over $150,000/year while working for the district.
    • Anthony Hutchison: A contractor whose companies, Southwest Wholesale and Just Construction, scored lucrative HISD contracts. Prosecutors say he overbilled the district by millions and paid bribes to keep the scheme alive.
    • The “Bribe Squad”: Five former HISD officials admitted to taking bribes and testified against Busby and Hutchison. Their roles?
      • Rhonda Skillern-Jones: Former HISD Board of Education president, caught accepting $12,000 in a Walmart parking lot.
      • Derrick Sanders: Officer of Construction Services, pressured to approve Hutchison’s inflated bids.
      • Alfred Hoskins: General Manager of Facilities, Maintenance, and Operations, who greenlit unnecessary projects.
      • Gerron Hall and Luis Tovar: Area Managers for Maintenance (South and North), who allegedly rubber-stamped Hutchison’s work in exchange for cash.

    The Scheme: Cash, Contracts, and Cover-Ups
    This wasn’t just a few under-the-table deals. The scam ran like a well-oiled machine:

    1. Rigged Contracts: Busby strong-armed HISD staff to award Hutchison’s companies projects, bypassing competitive bidding. After Hurricane Harvey, Hutchison scored even bigger contracts for repairs.
    2. Bribes in Parking Lots: Skillern-Jones testified that Busby handed her $12,000 in cash in a Walmart parking lot after Hutchison’s company completed two school projects.
    3. Lavish Trips and Gambling: Some officials received bribes during wild Vegas getaways. One witness recalled Hutchison yelling “next!” to signal it was Busby’s turn for a cash payout.
    4. Overbilling Bonanza: Hutchison’s companies charged HISD double for supplies like lawn care and construction materials, pocketing over $6 million in fraudulent charges.
    5. Tax Tricks: Busby deposited nearly $3 million in unexplained cash into 18 bank accounts. Hutchison wrote fake checks to cover bribes and gambling debts, then lied on his taxes.

    Gerry Monroe, a community activist from Houston’s Third Ward, was known as The Five Star General on social media and YouTube before he passed in 2024. He has been discussing the buildup for years. Here is a video from three years ago. It covers the wire Rhonda Skillern Jones was wearing while collecting the bribe money.

    The Cover-Up: “Just Say It Was for Gambling!”
    When the FBI started investigating in 2018, Busby and Hutchison panicked. They pressured witnesses to lie, telling one official to claim a damning handwritten ledger (detailing bribes) was just “gambling notes”. But the evidence was overwhelming:

    • The Ledger: Found in Hutchison’s home, it listed every bribe payment and project.
    • Text Messages and Bank Records: Showed a trail of cash deposits, fake invoices, and cozy communication between the duo.

    The Fallout: What Happens Now?

    U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen presided over the trial and has set sentencing for July 28. At that time, Busby and Hutchison face up to five, 10 and 20 years, respectively, for the conspiracy, bribery and witness tampering charges. Hutchison also faces up to 20 years for each count of wire fraud. All charges also carry a $250,000 maximum possible fine. Skillern-Jones, 39, Houston; Sanders, 50, Hoskins, 58, Hall, 48, all of Missouri City; and Tovar, 39, Huffman have pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charges. They face up to five years in prison. — U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

    U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei called the scheme a “betrayal” of Houston’s students, while the FBI vowed to root out corruption. HISD is Texas’s largest school district, serving predominantly low-income students. Every dollar diverted to luxury trips or home renovations meant fewer resources for classrooms, teachers, and kids. The trial had more than 50 witnesses. There was a mountain of evidence, from Vegas selfies to parking lot cash drops. All of this revealed a picture of greed that’s so bold it’s unbelievable.