Ex-CFO in MOCO Arrested in Multi-Million Theft Case

📣 Good morning, Conroe. There is plenty to talk about today, from a major arrest in Montgomery County to new safety concerns on local paths and a fresh arts spot in Houston. Before the day starts pulling you in six directions, pick the one task that matters most and finish it first. That kind of clear, early win builds momentum fast. – O.B.

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In today’s Conroe Echo: 

Today: 82F / 58F |🌤️| 4% Precipitation | ESE 9 MPH
Thursday: 82F / 63F |🌤️| 15% Precipitation | ESE 10 MPH
Friday: 79F / 64F |⛈️| 60% Precipitation | SE 9 MPH
Saturday: 80F / 67F |⛈️| 55% Precipitation | SE 13 MPH
Sunday: 77F / 68F |⛈️| 65% Precipitation | SSE 14 MPH

Lake Level: 199.89 ft (Conservation pool level is 201 ft).
Air Temp: 64F
Water Temp: 69F
Wind: S 2 MPH

TODAY (WEDNESDAY), 4/8/2026

THURSDAY, 4/9/2026

FRIDAY, 4/10/2026

🚨 A former CFO at Baywater Pipeline in The Woodlands has been arrested after investigators say he misused company money for personal spending. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said Jeffrey Soileau, 44, is accused of using company funds on things like luxury goods and high-end vacations.

The case began in October 2025 after Soileau was fired. Detectives spent months reviewing years of records and said the alleged theft may total multiple millions of dollars. He was arrested Monday in Round Rock and is waiting to be brought back to Montgomery County to face a first-degree felony theft charge.

🚴 The Woodlands Township is looking for ways to make its paths safer as more crashes involving e-bikes and scooters are reported. Fire officials tracked 37 incidents in the past eight months, including two with major injuries. Most involved teens, and many riders were not wearing helmets.

Township leaders say education is helping, but they also want stronger laws to deal with unsafe riding. The issue will come up again at a future meeting as local officials work with schools and law enforcement.

🎨 Houston just got a new place to see major art up close, and it will not cost a thing. Opera Gallery has opened in River Oaks District with original works by big names like Picasso, Monet, Kehinde Wiley, and Yayoi Kusama. The first Houston show runs through April 19.

The space is meant for serious collectors, but also for everyday visitors who simply want to enjoy great art. Leaders say they hope it becomes a place to learn, explore, and connect with Houston’s growing arts scene.

📖 Houston ISD may bring its New Education System, known as NES, to nine more schools after several principals said they want the model on their campuses. District leaders say the program has helped raise test scores, but it has also drawn strong criticism from parents, teachers, and community members.

Supporters point to more resources and higher teacher pay at NES schools. Critics say the model brings too much testing, longer days, and a narrower school experience for students. As HISD weighs its next move, many families still want more answers about cost, transparency, and what kind of education students will get.

⭐ Rebecca McDonald is being recognized for her work at Moody Bank, where she serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer. She brings more than 26 years of banking experience and is known for mentoring her team and building strong customer relationships.

A two-time Sam Houston State graduate, McDonald also serves on boards including Leadership Montgomery County and the Conroe-Lake Conroe Chamber. Outside of work, she enjoys life on her family farm.

🐴 Texas A&M picked up more good news Tuesday as four riders earned NCEA All-America honors. Grace Shipman made first team in Fences, Moriah McQueen earned second team in Reining, and Mattie Gustin and Kate Egan received honorable mention.

The honors cap a strong year for the Aggies. McQueen went unbeaten against SEC opponents, and Egan won both of her rides at the SEC Championship to help Texas A&M claim its first conference title.

👟 Texas A&M track and field is headed back home this week to host the 44 Farms Team Invitational at E.B. Cushing Stadium from April 9-11. More than 30 teams are set to compete, and the Aggies come in with strong momentum after a big weekend in Baton Rouge that included a school record, two event wins, and several new marks in the program record book.

The Aggies also bring national firepower into the meet. The men are ranked No. 3 in the country, and the women are No. 6. With top athletes across sprints, hurdles, relays, and field events, College Station should see a packed and exciting three days.

✨ Thanks for spending part of your morning with us. Stay sharp, handle what matters first, and carry that energy into the rest of your day. – O.B.

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