Austin County News

The Austin County Sheriff’s Department arrested four men sought in connection with a construction equipment theft ring. Equipment was reported stolen in Houston, Liberty County, Waller and Ft. Bend Counties. The case remains under investigation by Austin County Sheriff’s Office investigators.

The Austin County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the county’s permission to begin paying for cadet’s training at the police academy as well as pay for them for their time while they are in the academy. The Sheriff’s Office has expressed difficulty in finding and keeping qualified patrol staff to meet the necessary needs of the county.  This is why they are seeking this incentive be added in order to give them the additional tools to attract candidates. 

Precinct 4 County Commissioner Chip Reed reported to the court about the feral hog bounty program that is currently in place.  The bounty was started in February 2020 in an attempt slow down the growth of the continuingly growing feral hog problem affecting Austin County. 

Countywide polling that took place for the Saturday, May 7th election was a success, especially considering this was its inaugural first try.  Election’s Official Kim Rinn at commissioner’s court on Monday expressed that she felt the election went well with the overall participation and feedback being overwhelmingly positive.

A 95 year old exercise walker was struck and killed on Hwy 36 at Peters San Felipe Rd. in Sealy, TX. This is a developing story which we will update as more info becomes available.

The Austin County Sheriff’s Department as part of a narcotics task force have arrested two on narcotics charges on May 4, 2022 at the Columbus Inn located in the 2200 blk of SH 71 in Columbus, Texas.

Austin County is seeking the public’s opinion on countywide polling places. The county formally posted notice on May 2, 2022.