A former reserve deputy constable has been convicted of aiding a cocaine load in Texas.
Tomas Roque, a former reserve deputy constable with Harris County Precinct 6, has entered a guilty plea to one violation of the Hobbs Act, or extortion under color of official right, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today in Houston.
According to the plea agreement, Roque admitted he obtained approximately $2000 in exchange for providing protection for a vehicle he believed was transporting seven kilograms of cocaine.
Roque, of Houston, was arrested on January 16, 2013, following the return of an indictment on January 8, 2013.
As part of his plea today, Roque admitted to providing protection for narcotics in his official capacity as a law enforcement officer on December 6, 2012.
Seven kilograms of cocaine was located in the truck of the source which Roque had escorted to another location. Afterwards, the source paid Roque $2000 for his service.
U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore, who accepted the guilty plea, has set sentencing for September 16, 2013, at which time Roque faces up to 20 years in prison and a possible $250,000 fine. He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The combined public corruption task force effort was conducted by the FBI, Texas Rangers and Houston Police Department. Homeland Security Investigations and the Harris County Precinct 6 Constable’s Office assisted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James McAlister.
Tomas Roque’s conviction is a significant blow to law enforcement officials who are working tirelessly to combat corruption and protect the public.
The charges against Roque include one violation of the Hobbs Act, or extortion under color of official right.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Public Corruption|Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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