Abilene residents demand investigation into illegal operations at Rise Discipleship Homes

A moment of silence was observed at the Abilene City Council meeting on January 9, 2025, in honor of the late former President Jimmy Carter, whose funeral took place the same day. The council began the session with a prayer led by a special guest, a student from Bottom Elementary, highlighting the community's commitment to service and unity.

During the public comment period, Eddie Pugh, a resident of Potosi, Texas, delivered a passionate address criticizing the city council for its handling of local issues, particularly concerning illegal activities linked to certain churches. Pugh expressed his frustration over what he described as "corruption" within the local government and called for an investigation into the operations of Rise Discipleship Homes, alleging serious criminal activities including murder and human trafficking.

Pugh demanded that the council place this issue on the agenda for the next meeting, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in addressing these concerns. His remarks underscored a growing tension within the community regarding safety and governance, as he urged city officials to take immediate action.

The council's response to these allegations and the potential inclusion of Pugh's concerns in future discussions will be closely watched by residents, as the city navigates these serious claims amidst ongoing efforts to improve local governance and community safety.