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Today in History: Texas Governor Pardons 35 in Tulia Drug Case

7/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On July 23, 1999, in Tulia, Texas, an undercover operation led to the arrest of 47 individuals, predominantly African American, on cocaine dealing charges. Testimony from agent Tom Coleman resulted in 38 convictions. Years later, Texas Governor Rick Perry pardoned 35 of those convicted, highlighting issues of racial injustice and wrongful convictions in the case.

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Story summary

On July 23, 1999, in Tulia, Texas, an undercover operation led to the arrest of 47 individuals, predominantly African American, on cocaine dealing charges. Testimony from agent Tom Coleman resulted in 38 convictions. Years later, Texas Governor Rick Perry pardoned 35 of those convicted, highlighting issues of racial injustice and wrongful convictions in the case.