Ellis County Crime Stoppers

10/18/2026

No parent should have to go through this!
To learn more about these emerging drugs and what is being found in our community join the Ellis County Behavioral Health Department and Reach Council on November 9th at the Waxahachie Civic Center as “Tall Cop Says Stop” Jermaine Galloway will be presenting on the Emerging Drugs Trends, and what you need to know during our morning session beginning at 8:30 am. Stay for the afternoon session as we will have sessions provided by the DEA, UT Health-Ft. Worth, and REACH Council. All sessions are free with CEU’s and T-Cole hours offered.
Registration link coming soon!
Who should attend: Parents, community members, law enforcement, school administrators and staff, city and county leaders, juvenile services, prevention specialists, court representatives, and healthcare professionals.
For more information email [email protected]

A mother who lost her son to a drug sold at gas stations and smoke shops fights to have it banned in Texas.

10/18/2026

Top Four Senior Scams

In North Texas, the following are the four most common scams affecting senior citizens:

1. Gold and Cash to Gold Scams:
How it Works: Scammers target older adults by pretending to be government officials.
They create a false crisis, such as claiming that the seniors' bank accounts have been compromised.
They pressure seniors to withdraw large sums of cash to purchase gold bars or cryptocurrency, which they then hand over to couriers.

2. AI-Assisted Fake Law Enforcement:
Scammers use caller ID spoofing to impersonate law enforcement officers.
They convince seniors that their loved ones are in legal trouble and use pressure tactics, fear tactics, and fake badge numbers to demand immediate payments to help resolve the situation.

3. Fake Warrants for Arrest:
Scammers convince seniors that they have outstanding warrants for arrest and pressure them into withdrawing cash or purchasing gift cards as a means to avoid arrest and jail time.

4. Phishing Scams:
Scammers send emails that appear to be from trusted companies.
These emails often demand personal information to keep accounts current, including Social Security numbers, bank details, dates of birth, or account passwords.

Important Reminders:
- Be aware that there are many other scams out there.
Always consult with trusted individuals before sending money to anyone.
- Remember, nothing is free.
- Time limits used to create urgency are often part of a scam.
- Law enforcement agencies will never call you asking for money.
- Never give out personal information over the phone.
- Do not agree to purchase gift cards as payment for anything.
- If you encounter fraud, report it at IC3.gov (https://www.ic3.gov).

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

10/14/2026

Be in the Know!

Do You Know What’s Hidden on Your Kids Phone?!

Check out the DEA link: https://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/hidden or use the QRCode and “Get Smart About Drugs”

10/14/2026

Ellis County Crime Stoppers was awarded the “Texas Best Creative Publicity Award for our Crime Stoppers Theater Ad”that we run at the B & B Theater in Red Oak. Shout out to Barry Wolverton of Kbec Radio for providing the voice over.

10/02/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

09/30/2026

⚖️ GUILTY ON BOTH COUNTS

On September 23, 2026, an Ellis County jury found Patrick Kevin Hefner guilty on two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. On September 24, 2026, following the punishment phase of the trial, Hefner was sentenced to 50 years in prison for each count.

This case began with Chief Michael Carter taking the initial report. From the first disclosure through the conclusion of the trial, Chief Carter remained committed to ensuring the allegations were properly documented and the victim’s voice was heard. He later testified before the jury regarding his involvement and the information obtained during the initial investigation.

Cases involving crimes against children demand patience, professionalism, attention to detail, and a willingness to stand firm throughout what can be a lengthy and difficult judicial process. Chief Carter’s work on this case reflects his continued commitment to protecting children, supporting victims, and holding offenders accountable.

The City of Garrett Police Department recognizes the courage it takes for a victim to come forward and face the criminal justice process. We also extend our appreciation to the Ellis County District Attorney’s Office, the jury, and everyone whose work helped bring this case to its conclusion.

This conviction sends a clear message: those who prey upon children will be investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable.

Patrick Kevin Hefner
Convicted September 23, 2026
Two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child
Sentenced September 24, 2026
50 years in prison for each count
504th District Court — Ellis County, Texas
Case No. 51968CR

Protecting the vulnerable. Pursuing justice. Serving with integrity.

09/09/2026

Help bring them home. See Something Say Something!

09/09/2026

If you have information please reach out to the Midlothian Police Department at the number below or contact Ellis County Crime Stoppers tip line at 972/937-7297 or use P3tips.com

UPDATE: Khaalid has been located. Thank you to everyone that provided our staff with information.

Midlothian officers are searching for Khaalid Rashard Lathrop-Ragland, a 25-year-old adult who was reported missing Monday evening. Description:

• Black male
• 25 years old
• 5’6”
• Approximately 140 pounds
• Clothing description is unknown

Khaalid’s family reports that he was last seen at their home in the 400 block of Rossville Drive at approximately 7:00 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2026. His family believes he may not have access to his medication, which remains at home.

Khaalid does not have a vehicle and is known to walk to businesses along FM 663, including Kroger, Jack in the Box, 7-Eleven and QuikTrip. He also frequently visits Midlothian Community Park on South 14th Street. Officers have been checking these locations but have not yet located him.

If you have any information about Khaalid’s whereabouts, please contact the Midlothian Police Department at 972-775-3333 or call 911.

We are working on obtaining a better photograph; attached is what we have for now. Please share this post to help bring Khaalid home safely.

08/21/2026

The Midlothian Police Department (MPD) is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the pictured individual.

On August 15, 2026, the suspect stole a Ford F-350 from the 700 block of East Avenue F in Midlothian. The suspect then drove the stolen vehicle directly to Chase Bank, located at 1371 W. Main Street, where they attempted to use bolt cutters and chains to steal an ATM.

The attempt was unsuccessful, and the suspect fled the area before abandoning the stolen F-350 at the Eastwood Apartments in Midlothian.

Anyone who recognizes the individual or has information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Midlothian Police Department or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers Tip Line 972/937-PAYS (7297) or use the free P3 Tips App or website P3Tips.com. You could be eligible for a cash reward.