Public trust in government is built on a simple expectation: the people we elect to serve the public must follow the same laws as everyone else. When that expectation is violated, accountability isn’t optional—it’s essential. That principle was underscored this week in South-Central Texas, where two county commissioners from different counties pled guilty to criminal offenses brought by the 81st Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
According to District Attorney Audrey Gossett Louis, the cases were unrelated, but the message they send is the same: holding public officials accountable still matters. In an era when many people feel cynical about whether misconduct by those in power is ever addressed, these cases serve as a reminder that the justice system can and does act when wrongdoing is uncovered and proven.
The first case involved Atascosa County Commissioner Kennard “Bubba” Riley. On January 8, 2026, Riley pled guilty to Theft by a Public Servant for stealing county fuel from his precinct yard. While the dollar amount—between $100 and $750—might seem small to some, the nature of the offense is significant. Theft by a public servant strikes at the heart of public trust because it involves abusing an official position for personal gain.
What makes this case particularly important is how it came to light. Riley’s own precinct employees reported the misconduct, demonstrating personal courage and a commitment to integrity. The investigation, led by Texas Ranger Terry Snyder, included sworn statements from more than half a dozen current and former county employees. Without those individuals stepping forward, the misconduct might never have been addressed.
As part of his guilty plea, Riley was required to resign from office, forfeiting county retirement benefits. He also received one year of probation, was ordered to complete community service, pay full restitution for the thefts that could be proven, and submit a written apology to his constituents admitting his guilt. The consequences were serious, and appropriately so, because the crime was directly tied to his role as an elected official.
The second case involved Wilson County Commissioner Russell King. On January 5, 2026, King pled guilty to Deadly Conduct after intentionally striking another vehicle on County Road 329, causing minor damage. This incident was investigated by DPS Sgt. Chris Rocha. King was placed on one year of probation, paid restitution to the victim in full, and submitted a written letter of apology to the victim.
Some may question why King was not removed from office. The answer lies in an important legal distinction. Because the offense did not involve his official duties as a commissioner, Texas law does not allow for removal from office in this situation. That distinction matters. Accountability applies to everyone, but the law treats crimes connected to public office differently than those that are not.
Together, these cases illustrate how accountability works in practice. When a public official commits a crime related to their office, the consequences are more severe, reflecting the breach of public trust. When the conduct is unrelated to official duties, the law still imposes consequences, but within defined limits. In both situations, actions had consequences and justice was served.
As the district attorney’s office stated, “The 81st Judicial District Attorney’s Office remains committed to integrity, transparency, and holding all individuals—especially public officials—accountable under the law.” That commitment is only effective, however, when citizens and public employees are willing to report wrongdoing. These cases are a clear reminder: if you see something, say something. Accountability depends on it.
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