On Monday, October 21, 2024, Houston Public Media reported that a judge ruled that the criminal case against Fort Bend County Judge KP George will proceed. This decision follows a motion filed by George’s attorney, Chad Dick, who sought to dismiss the charges against him.

Judge KP George was indicted in September on a charge of misrepresentation of identity. The indictment stems from allegations that he collaborated with a staff member, Taral Patel, to create fake social media accounts to support his re-election campaign. Patel, who is also running for Fort Bend Precinct 3 County Commissioner, faces multiple criminal charges related to this case.

During the court proceedings, Dick argued that prosecutors lacked the authority to indict George before the Texas Ethics Commission had made a determination regarding the case. The commission, which is appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the Texas House, was involved due to the nature of the allegations.

Dick referenced a recent ruling by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals that dismissed indictments against Brenham politician Robbie Gail Charette. In that case, Charette’s attorney contended that the Texas Ethics Commission had jurisdiction over the matter, not the trial court. Following this precedent, George’s case was sent to the Texas Ethics Commission on October 1, just three business days after his indictment. The commission subsequently voted on October 8 to refer the case back to the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

In response, Fort Bend prosecutors countered that the earlier court ruling did not issue a mandate relevant to George’s situation. They expressed their intention to move forward with the prosecution, highlighting their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the political process in Fort Bend County.

A statement from the district attorney’s office emphasized the importance of a fair and transparent electoral system. It outlined that the enforcement of the misrepresentation of identity law is crucial in deterring similar conduct among political candidates. The office reiterated its readiness to present the case to a jury, aiming to uphold justice in this significant matter.

Judge KP George was re-indicted last week, and his attorney has indicated plans to challenge this new indictment as well.

 

 

Source: Houston Public Media