By Kris Smith
After receiving multiple reports from citizens in the city of Trinidad, NavCo investigative reporter Jennifer Combs recently found herself under arrest with a felony warrant issued by the Trinidad Police Department, the law enforcement agency responsible for the well-being of the citizens of the community she was trying to protect.
Combs, a long-time resident of Kerens, after receiving multiple reports from citizens in the area regarding water quality in the city of Trinidad, made a social media post asking for others who may be affected by the same issues.
The social media post, originally published on April 6, asked, “If your water looks discolored, contains sediment, has a strong odor, or you have experienced related health issues, please send us a message.”
The post continued, “We are aware that not all areas of Trinidad are experiencing these issues. However, if your water is affected, your information could help identify patterns and ensure the problem is addressed properly.”
Combs stated, “I wanted people to have a voice. While others were silencing them, I never asked people to stay silent about what they were experiencing. I asked them to speak. When citizens raise concerns about something as important as their water, they deserve to be heard – not ignored.”
Just a month after the post went public, Kerens Police Officers arrived at her home with the felony warrant – False alarm or report.
Prior to being placed under arrest, she contacted NavCo publisher Kris Smith, alerting her to the impending arrest on the Friday before Mother’s Day.
After spending 23-hours at the Navarro County Justice Center, Combs was released on a bond posted by her husband.
Smith stated, “I knew from the start the charges were a huge overreach of the intended law. The goal was to get her released as soon as possible, to ensure she did not miss the holiday with her family.”
In response, Combs stated, “From the moment of my arrest, through the charges, and now to the grand jury issuing the no bill, she has stood beside me every single step of the way.”
She continued, “I am incredibly thankful to have been given the opportunity and backing through The NavCo Chronicle to tackle real-world issues involving transparency, accountability, good governance, and the voices of everyday citizens who deserve to be heard.”
To the people of Trinidad – Combs stated, “Please don’t lose faith or hope. This is not the end of this battle. I will continue to be a voice for you and boots on the ground helping to fight for reliable, safe water for your community and work with elected officials who will truly listen to their citizens.”
She concluded, “This mission was never about me. It has always been about the people.”
The NavCo Chronicle will continue to monitor the issues in Trinidad and will update this developing story as it continues.
Publisher’s Note: We at the NavCo Chronicle fully support Jennifer and her right to free speech.
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