Former Waller County Investigator Convicted of Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering

A 49-year-old Houston resident and former Waller County DA Investigator, Mohammed “Alex” Ahmed Kassem, was convicted of attempting to distribute heroin and money laundering. The former investigator used his marked police vehicle to transport the illegal substances and was compensated $31,000. He faces potential life imprisonment and hefty fines. The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the DEA.
Prior Hays County District Clerk Employee Claims Discrimination

Mallory Rogers is suing Hays County, Texas for alleged gender discrimination and retaliation. She claims she was bypassed for a promotion in favor of a less qualified male colleague and subsequently terminated after voicing her concerns. Rogers seeks damages and aims to hold the county accountable for the alleged discriminatory and retaliatory treatment.
Texas Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Polk County Enterprise in Assistant District Attorney Defamation Lawsuit

The Texas Supreme Court’s decision on a defamation lawsuit brought by Assistant District Attorney Tommy Coleman against a small newspaper in Polk County ruled that the claimed statement was not actionably defamatory. The Court emphasized assessing the overall message of the publication and whether it conveys the gist of a true story, ultimately dismissing Coleman’s claims.
SCJC Issues 13 Public Sanctions in 2023 to Texas Judges

The State Commission on Judicial Conduct (SCJC) in Texas has taken disciplinary actions against judges and justices of the peace for various violations of ethical and professional conduct. These actions include reprimands, admonishments, and warnings targeting individuals who failed to fulfill judicial education requirements, engaged in inappropriate conduct, interfered with legal processes, or endorsed political candidates. The individuals reprimanded included judges for failing to complete mandatory judicial education, endorsing political candidates, and engaging in inappropriate behavior towards employees. The disciplinary actions were taken to uphold high standards for the judiciary and promote public confidence in the legal system.
Tarrant County Requests Opinion on Criminal Discovery in Juvenile Cases

Tarrant County’s Criminal District Attorney seeks guidance from the Texas Attorney General’s Office on applying criminal discovery laws to third-party records held by the local juvenile services agency. This raises ethical and confidentiality concerns regarding access to and disclosure of confidential information in juvenile court proceedings, necessitating clarity on the intersection of criminal discovery rules with juvenile cases.
Texas Attorney General Issues Opinion on School Marshals Carrying Firearms

The Texas Attorney General’s Opinion No. KP-0454 discusses the authority of school boards to designate individuals, such as school marshals, to carry firearms for protecting students and staff. It highlights the legal frameworks and discretion available to school boards under the Education Code, emphasizing the impact on school safety policies and procedures across Texas.
Democrat Race for Hays County Sheriff Heating Up with January 2024 Campaign Finance Reports

The Democratic race for Hays County Sheriff is heating up with candidates Daniel C. Law and Alexander Villalobos revealing campaign finances.
San Antonio Sued by Disabled Veteran Over Loud Noise

Warren Jay Smith, a disabled veteran, is suing the City of San Antonio and its police officers for alleged violations of his constitutional rights during a raid on his private club. The lawsuit seeks $2,250,000 in damages for business closure, emotional distress, and medical expenses. It raises questions about law enforcement conduct and accountability.
Lawsuit Filed by Prior Police Chief Mark Moyle Against the City of Princeton, Derek Borg, and Brianna Chacón

Former Police Chief Mark Moyle filed a lawsuit against the City of Princeton, Derek Borg, and Mayor Brianna Chacón, alleging deliberate sabotage and defamation. He claims deliberate interference with his efforts to reform the Princeton Police Department, leading to severe emotional distress and reputational harm. The lawsuit presents a comprehensive account of these allegations.
Lawsuit Filed Against Ryan Cate and the City of Trinidad, Texas

Plaintiffs Brian and Sheila Thompson have filed a compelling complaint against Ryan Cate and the City of Trinidad, Texas, revealing alleged misconduct by Cate, a law enforcement officer. The complaint details an incident where Cate allegedly used excessive force and falsely arrested Sheila Thompson. It also uncovers concerning details about Cate’s prior employment and raises questions about law enforcement vetting processes.