Bryan Police Active in Recent Arrests and City Developments
Bryan, Texas has been buzzing with a mix of community developments and law enforcement activities lately. Just last week, several incidents caught the attention of residents and police alike. It seems like the town is experiencing a bit more than the usual hustle and bustle.
Preston Wiggins IV’s Ongoing Legal Troubles
In a rather troubling turn of events, 26-year-old Preston Wiggins IV was arrested for the 20th time in eight years after an illegally parked car drew police attention. Wiggins, who hails from Bryan, now faces serious charges including manufacturing or delivering crack cocaine and misdemeanor possession of marijuana. He’s not a stranger to the cuffs, as he’s waiting on five trials for felony evading arrest, two for felony drug issues, and a couple for misdemeanor drug charges. As of September 9th, Wiggins remains behind bars after his arrest on September 5th, with bond set at a hefty $27,000.
Online Solicitation Case Turns Up Shocking Outcome
In another unsettling incident, 28-year-old Eloy Olivarez found himself in deep trouble after attempting to solicit what he thought was a 14-year-old girl online. Unbeknownst to him, he was actually chatting with an undercover deputy from the Brazos County sheriff’s office. The initial meeting point was set for a park in Bryan, as Olivarez’s only mode of transportation was a bicycle. After a foot chase near Milam school, he was apprehended. As of September 9th, he is still in jail following his arrest on September 5th, and his bond has been set at $16,000.
Speeding Suspect Attempts to Evade Arrest
On a lighter, yet alarming note, 21-year-old Jaedyn Goree made headlines after he attempted to avoid getting stopped by a deputy. In what can only be described as a scene right out of a movie, Goree sped away, worried about receiving a fourth speeding ticket that would suspend his license. His chase ended with his car crashing into a commercial trash container, a large tree, and even a section of a residential fence around 5 AM. Fortunately, he managed to post a $5,000 bond and is no longer in jail.
City Council Takes Steps for Infrastructure Improvements
Meanwhile, on the city planning front, the Bryan city council recently unanimously voted to initiate eminent domain proceedings. This decision is linked to their goal of extending Groesbeck Street eastward past the railroad tracks to Texas. The council discussed a piece of land belonging to a local property owner, who is asking for $500,000. In contrast, the city’s last proposal was $350,000, based on an appraisal valuing the land at $290,000. City officials are considering raising their offer to $400,000, plus budgeting an additional $50,000 for legal expenses due to existing unpaid liens totaling $130,000.
Brazos County Budget and Tax Rate Approved
Shifting gears to the financial aspects of the county, the Brazos County commissioners recently approved the 2025 fiscal year budget and a slight increase in the property tax rate. Five out of six public speakers supported the commission’s move which raised the rate by one cent, culminating in a 4-1 vote led by County Judge Duane Peters. The new budget specifies utilizing $90 million from savings, with a significant portion allocated for capital projects and maintenance operations. Peters warned of potential tax rate increases in the subsequent year’s budget as well.
School Districts Benefit from City Support
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the Bryan city council’s recent decisions to financially assist the Bryan school district have evoked gratitude from school board members. During a review of the last joint committee meeting, school board member Ruthie Waller expressed appreciation for the council’s commitment. Notably, the council agreed to cover the entirety of the $200,000 cost for school crossing guards and a quarter of the expenses for school resource officers at middle and high schools.
With so much happening in Bryan, it’s evident that both the local law enforcement and city officials are working hard—whether it’s addressing crime or planning for the future of the community. Keep an ear out for the latest updates as this little city continues to navigate through both challenges and successes!
