On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, KSAT reported that Clyde “Bubba” Howse, a justice of the peace in Medina County, resigned amid multiple harassment complaints. Howse, who served in Precinct 3, signed a voluntary resignation agreement on November 1, 2024, to evade potential disciplinary action, according to records obtained by KSAT Investigates.
The resignation follows three complaints lodged against Howse last month, all alleging inappropriate conduct. One complaint came from a county employee who recounted a conversation with Howse in early October. In this discussion, Howse reportedly shared personal anecdotes about a fellow justice of the peace in Brazoria County, highlighting issues in the latter’s marriage and discussing an alleged intimate relationship involving a male masseuse. The employee described Howse’s remarks as concerning, indicating that he expressed an unhealthy curiosity about same-sex interactions, stating, “I just want to know what it’s like touching another man and what it’s like being touched by another man.”
The employee further disclosed that Howse had solicited their assistance in finding someone for these experiences, raising significant red flags about his behavior. This individual had previously reported Howse’s conduct to human resources, expressing fears for their safety, especially given Howse’s history of prior reprimands.
In 2023, Howse received a public reprimand and was mandated to undergo sexual harassment training after sending a text message to a female county employee that included inappropriate comments about his thoughts regarding her. This history of misconduct appears to have escalated, leading to the recent allegations and ultimately his resignation.
A representative from the Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace office confirmed to KSAT that Howse had “retired,” but did not provide further details regarding his departure.
Source: KSAT