End Of The Road

Judge throws out contempt charge against Dallas DA Craig Watkins

Dallas District Attorney Craig Watkins has been acquitted on a contempt of court charge from March. State district judge Lena Levario held Watkins in contempt for his refusal to testify in a mortgage fraud case against Hunt oil heir Albert Hill III.

Levario said Watkins' refusal to testify about his dealing with political benefactor Lisa Blue contributed to her decision to dismiss the case against Hill. Levario also alleged a conspiracy between Watkins and Blue. The DA's office has said it plans to appeal Levario's ruling and may re-file indictments against Hill.

The contentious contempt case has been winding its way through the court system for nearly six months. Watkins tried unsuccessfully to have Levario recused from the case with allegations of bias. Ultimately, the contempt charge went before three judges: Levario filed it; John Ovard allowed it to continue, and finally Bob Brotherton threw it out.

Although jail time was a possible punishment, Watkins was facing only a $500 fine.

Matthew Berger, a spokesperson for Hill, released the following statement after Brotherton's ruling.

Mr. Hill was not involved in today’s hearing, which related solely to the criminal contempt charge against Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins.

Judge Lena Levario reviewed hundreds of pages of evidence and heard testimony from several witnesses before deciding in March to dismiss the case against Mr. Hill due to constitutional violations by the District Attorney's Office. Today’s hearing has no effect on that ruling.

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Copper Wire News

AT&T offers up to $10K reward for info on copper cable theft in Dallas

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Copper wire, a favorite item for thieves to steal.

Dallas-based AT&T is offering a reward of up to $10,000 to those who can provide information on the theft of copper cable.

According to a release, the company will issue a reward for "specific and detailed information" that leads to arrest and conviction for copper cable thefts or the attempted sale or purchase of stolen copper cable in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

“Theft and vandalism of critical communications infrastructure are serious matters that affect public safety and the community at large,” said Michael Peterson, Assistant Vice President - External Affairs, AT&T Texas in a statement. “Maintaining high-quality service is a top priority, and we’re working closely with law enforcement to investigate any incidents.”

On October 4, AT&T met with Dallas-area leaders to share examples of the community impact and discuss next steps.

Copper cable theft has been a recurring problem for more than a decade but has surged around Dallas and Fort Worth this year, with repeated high-profile thefts that have had an impact on power and internet, and have represented costly repairs for AT&T.

"When thieves target copper wiring, they often damage critical infrastructure, leaving our residents without essential services or a way to contact loved ones during an emergency,” said Tennell Atkins, Dallas Mayor Pro Tem. “It’s a serious issue that impacts everyone. That’s why we need to spread awareness and work together to stop those responsible.”

The public should report any unmarked (non-AT&T) vehicles or individuals cutting and removing cable.

Tipsters with information can remain anonymous and should call local law enforcement and AT&T Global Security & Investigations at (800) 807‐4205. The reward is valid for leads received by November 1, 2025.