Latest news with #AdvocacyCenter
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Yahoo
AFFIDAVIT: Tyler man arrested after having sexual relationship with minor in exchange for vapes
TYLER, Texas (KETK) – A Tyler man has been arrested for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a minor in exchange for nicotine devices, according to an arrest affidavit. The Smith County Sheriff's Office became aware of the case after being contacted by a girl's guardians on March 4. One of her guardians revealed to a sheriff's office deputy that they discovered she had been having an improper relationship with a grown man while going through the girl's phone. AFFIDAVIT: Parent arrested for giving vodka-laced Jell-O shots to kids at Tyler elementary Christmas part According to officials, one of the victim's guardians said text messages from the victim's phone revealed she was having explicit conversations and spoke about having sexual relationships with a man whose contact name was 'J'. Further text messages revealed the victim was offering to give the man sexual favors in exchange for vapes and other nicotine devices. Text messages also revealed the two parties making arrangements to meet at a nearby oil field in regard to their deal. The suspect was later identified as John Walter Morrill, who used to be married to the victim's sister and had previously lived on the same property as the victim before moving out in September 2023. According to officials, Morill began having improper relationships in exchange for vapes while he lived on the property and has continued until their most recent sexual interaction, which took place on March 2. During an interview with the deputy, the victim revealed Morrill initiated the relationship between the two, and he would provide her vapes of any flavor in exchange for sexual favors. Free child vaccines at Children's Fest 2025 in Tyler On March 25, a forensic interview was held at the Smith County Child Advocacy Center. During the interview, the victim confirmed that she had intercourse with Morrill several times over a year and a half, including oral sex. She also stated that she would sneak out of her house and meet Morrill, who would drive her to a secluded location. Officials were later able to obtain text messages between Morill and the victim from Feb. 28 which revealed the sexual relationship between the two. While going through the messages, texts were discovered with Morrill stating that he was planning to move closer to the victim and that he intended to keep the relationship between the two active. Following the investigation, Morill was arrested on April 17 by Smith County deputies and booked into the Smith County Jail for the charge of sexual assault of a child. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
22-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Preparations underway for 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball
Waco, TX (FOX 44) — Guests for the 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball can prepare to be swept away by the vibrant atmosphere! 'Everything is Mardi Gras colors – purple, green, and gold,' says Advocacy Center Development Specialist Tifani Pinson. 'We have a really cool Mardi Gras façade of a French Quarter.' Guest can engage in bidding at the live and silent auctions in order to have the chance to win exquisite items and experiences like concerts, autograph sports jerseys, and gift cards. 'They can expect a fun time,' says Advocacy Center Executive Director Aleigh Ascherl. 'We've got a live band, Manhattan. They're out of the DFW area. So we've got dancing, we've got music, and we have a silent auction that's online, as well. So you don't even have to be here to bid.' People should dress to impress in their finest attire. 'We have appetizers and dinner and dessert provided by The Olive Branch,' Pinson said. 'There will be times for dancing, they'll be able to talk and socialize, walking around. We are going to crown a new king and queen for this year.' Every ticket purchased and dollar raised directly supports the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children. 'The Advocacy Center broadly serves victims of all victims of violent crime, and works to prevent those crimes from happening as well,' Ascherl said. 'So, every dollar made at the event on Saturday will go directly to providing services for victims of crime and child abuse and their families.' For more information on the Mardi Gras Ball, plus to purchase tickets, you can go here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Yahoo
Mardi Gras Ball: Get tickets while they last!
WACO, Texas (FOX 44) – The 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball is happening this Saturday, where money raised will benefit the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children. Advocacy Center Associate Director and Children's Advocacy Center Program Director Dr. Kerry Burkley and McLennan County Assistant District Attorney Briana Gongora paid a visit to our studio with more information! You can watch our interview above. If you would like to buy tickets to the Mardi Gras Ball, you can call 254-752-9330 or visit to learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Mardi Gras Ball: A fun night for a good cause!
WACO, Texas (FOX 44) – The 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball is happening this Saturday, and FOX 44 is a proud sponsor! It will be a fabulous night with a live entertainment, great food – and for an even greater cause, benefiting the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children. Advocacy Center executive director Aleigh Ascherl and medical advisor Dr. Soo Battle tell us more about this year's event in the video above! SEE ALSO: Get ready for the 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball in Waco! For more information about the Advocacy Center or how to buy tickets, you can visit their website or call 254-752-9330. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
