Jose Luis Morin, Bribery, Texas 2023

Bribery in a Texas School District Lands Former Official in Hot Water

A shocking case of corruption has come to light in the La Joya Independent School District, with a former official convicted of taking bribes and now facing serious consequences. According to a recent plea deal, Jose Luis Morin, the 41-year-old former assistant superintendent of Student Services, has admitted to taking $28,000 in bribes.

The scheme, which began in 2019, involved Morin receiving the bribes in exchange for his official and favorable recommendations at the school district. Specifically, he recommended energy savings contracts awarded to a company, as well as job order contracts, and facilitated the processing of pay applications related to those contracts. The school board subsequently approved the contracts Morin recommended.

As part of the plea deal, Morin agreed to forfeit the $28,000 in bribes. The U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the plea and set sentencing for April 19, at which time Morin faces up to five years in federal prison.

Morin was permitted to remain on bond pending the sentencing hearing. The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Agriculture, Texas Department of Insurance, and McAllen Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Roberto Lopez Jr. is prosecuting the case. The charges against Morin stem from his role in the bribery scheme, which has left many in the community questioning the integrity of the school district’s decision-making process.

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: corruption will not be tolerated in Texas schools. The people have a right to expect honesty and transparency from their public officials, and those who betray that trust will face the consequences.

Mandatory Facts: Defendant: Jose Luis Morin, Crime: Bribery, City and State: McAllen, Texas, Date: Ongoing, Sentence: Up to 5 years in federal prison, Fine: $28,000 forfeiture.

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