On January 1, 2025, James “Jimmy” P. Fullen took the oath of office as the new Sheriff of Galveston County. However, the ceremony was overshadowed by ongoing legal challenges. The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) has filed a civil lawsuit questioning Fullen’s ethics and seeking to revoke his peace officer license, a case that has raised significant concerns about his ability to lead the county’s law enforcement agency effectively.
TCOLE’s Lawsuit: Allegations of Misconduct
The lawsuit, filed on June 14, 2024, with the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH), stems from allegations that Fullen provided false or incomplete information on personal history statements submitted to TCOLE and other agencies. According to the lawsuit, Fullen’s omissions included undisclosed arrests, unreported involvement in civil lawsuits, and failures to disclose previous job terminations or disciplinary actions.
The petition specifically identifies instances in which Fullen allegedly submitted or caused to be submitted false or misleading information:
• On October 30, 2023, to the Galveston County Constable Precinct 2.
• On January 11, 2024, to the Texas City Police Department.
TCOLE contends that these actions violate Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1701, which governs peace officer conduct, and administrative rules designed to uphold ethical standards within the profession. The petition describes law enforcement officers as part of a “special category” of occupational licensees and emphasizes the Legislature’s intent to grant TCOLE broad regulatory authority to maintain high moral and professional standards. As such, TCOLE is requesting a final order to revoke Fullen’s peace officer license.
Delays in Legal Proceedings
Since the lawsuit’s filing, progress in the case has been slow. The docket indicates several delays, with the most recent development being a December 19, 2024, order scheduling a hearing on the merits. However, the exact date for the hearing has not yet been set, leaving Fullen’s license status unresolved as he assumes office. The prolonged timeline has frustrated some observers, as the legal uncertainty surrounding Fullen continues to cast a shadow over his new role.
Past Actions by TCOLE: The 2023 Warning Letters
TCOLE’s efforts to address issues involving Fullen did not begin with the current lawsuit. On November 16, 2023, the commission issued two formal warning letters to Fullen during his tenure as Chief Deputy for the Galveston County Constable’s Office in Precinct 2. These warnings were related to Fullen’s failure to meet continuing education requirements by the August 31, 2023, deadline.
The letters reveal that TCOLE initially misclassified Fullen as a constable, leading to an incorrect assumption that he was subject to different training standards. Upon discovering the error, Fullen promptly rectified the situation, completing the required training and ensuring compliance with TCOLE standards. While these warnings did not result in disciplinary action, they highlighted administrative shortcomings and placed further scrutiny on Fullen’s career.
The letters also served as a reminder to Fullen and his agency about the importance of timely reporting of status changes to TCOLE, as required by law. While unrelated to the allegations of false statements in the current lawsuit, the warnings have contributed to a broader narrative of administrative missteps during Fullen’s career.
A Career in Law Enforcement
James “Jimmy” Fullen’s career spans over three decades, with service in multiple law enforcement roles across Galveston County. According to TCOLE records, Fullen first obtained his Peace Officer license in 1987. Since then, he has served as a constable, reserve officer, and peace officer for several agencies, including the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, Texas City Police Department, and multiple constable precincts.
Fullen has earned advanced certifications, including the Master Peace Officer designation, Basic Instructor Proficiency Certificate, and School-Based Law Enforcement Officer Certificate. Supporters point to his extensive training and professional background as evidence of his commitment to public service. However, critics argue that his long tenure has been marked by administrative and ethical concerns that undermine his qualifications to serve as Sheriff.
Implications for Galveston County
The lawsuit against Fullen raises significant questions about his ability to lead Galveston County’s law enforcement efforts. If TCOLE succeeds in revoking his peace officer license, it could create complications for his tenure as Sheriff. The revocation would likely damage public trust and bring further scrutiny to the office.
The case also highlights broader concerns about oversight and accountability within Texas law enforcement. TCOLE’s role as the regulatory body responsible for enforcing ethical standards has come under the spotlight, with Fullen’s case serving as a high-profile test of its authority. The protracted nature of the proceedings underscores the challenges of balancing due process with the need for timely resolutions in matters of public trust.
The Road Ahead
For now, Fullen begins his term under a cloud of uncertainty. The pending lawsuit and unresolved allegations will likely dominate the early months of his administration, potentially distracting from his stated goals of improving public safety and community relations. The outcome of the legal proceedings will not only determine Fullen’s future as Sheriff but could also have lasting implications for the reputation of Galveston County’s law enforcement leadership.
As the case moves forward, all eyes will remain on the SOAH docket, where a resolution to this contentious matter will eventually shape the next chapter in Fullen’s career and the broader trajectory of law enforcement accountability in Galveston County.
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