Houston officials urge Measles vaccinations amid outbreak
Houston and Harris County officials are urging residents to get vaccinated as a West Texas measles outbreak grows. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo noted Houston’s 94% vaccination rate, slightly below the 95% needed for herd immunity.
“We can prevent an emergency if we’re proactive,” Hidalgo said.
The Texas Department of State Health Services reports 159 cases, including the first U.S. measles-related death since 2015. Free vaccinations are available:
- Texas Children’s Pediatrics: March 9 & 15, 9700 Bissonnet St.
- Legacy Community Health: March 9, 6441 High Star Dr. & 3811 Lyons Ave.
The Houston Health Department is monitoring wastewater for measles signs, but no new local cases have emerged. Measles has a 12-21-day incubation period, meaning more cases could still surface.
Harris County to hire 150 detention officers to ease jail overcrowding
Harris County will spend $3 million to hire 150 detention officers and 25 deputies to ease jail overcrowding and reduce costly inmate outsourcing. The county currently spends $58 million annually to house 1,400 inmates in out-of-county facilities. Officials say hiring more staff will reduce mandatory overtime and help bring inmates back.
“These positions are currently being staffed through mandatory overtime, which is unsustainable,” said Daniel Ramos, Office of Management and Budget director.
The Harris County Jail, which has repeatedly failed state safety inspections, remains out of compliance. The Texas Commission on Jail Standards is monitoring improvements.
While officials say these hires will help, they warn that another 150 officers may still be needed to fully address the crisis.
Suspects identified in murder of rapper, 5-year-old daughter
Two suspects, Jakobie Russell, 21, and Adonis Robinson, 24, have been identified in the March 3 fatal shooting of Texas rapper G$ Lil Ronnie and his 5-year-old daughter at a Forest Hills car wash.
Police say the suspects walked up to Smith’s car at Slappy’s Express Car Wash, opened fire, then fled. The shooting happened one day after Smith celebrated his daughter’s birthday.
In his final Instagram post, Smith shared photos from a Valentine’s with Dad event at her school, where he also included a friend of his daughter who didn’t have a father present.
Authorities have not determined a motive but noted both suspects have criminal records. Russell had an active warrant for an earlier shooting, which was later recalled.
Police continue to investigate whether Smith and the suspects had any prior connection.
