Wednesday’s top stories: Modesto growth plan, finding a dog park, Hooker trial, more

Stanislaus County saw major developments Wednesday, from a delayed criminal case to a contested vote on Modesto’s future growth. Here’s a quick look at the day’s top stories from the Modesto region.

Here are the key stories:

• A Stanislaus County judge warned that defense attorney Robert Chase could be replaced if health issues continue to delay the preliminary hearing for James Hooker, who faces felony charges tied to an alleged sexual relationship with teenager Autumn Rose.

• The Modesto City Council voted 5-1 to adopt the largest of three land use options for the 2050 general plan, adding 12,240 acres to the city’s sphere of influence despite opposition from Wood Colony residents and Salida leaders.

• Country music star Scotty McCreery will headline the Fruit Yard Amphitheater on May 8 at 7 p.m., with Jackson Dean and John Morgan also on the bill. Tickets range from $59.10 to $96.10.

• Stanislaus County dog owners can let their pups off-leash at six designated parks, including Elk Park in Modesto, Neel Park in Ceres and Oakdale Dog Park. County code requires leashes no longer than 8 feet outside marked off-leash areas.