HOUSTON – Less than 48 hours after KPRC 2 Investigates reported on 13 new search warrants filed by investigators in the criminal case of Taral Patel over the last month, Investigator Mario Diaz confirmed that some of his key supporters are stepping away from him.
RELATED: 13 search warrants emerge in Taral Patel, Fort Bend County commissioner candidate, fake account case
Harris County Precinct 2 Constable Jerry Garcia made it clear that.
“I am going to have to withdraw my endorsement,” said Garcia in a call.
He went on to add that he would never had endorsed Patel if he had known of his action prior to his arrest in June.
Patel was arrested in June for a felony charge of online misrepresentation as well as a class-a misdemeanor charge of misrepresentation of identity according to Fort Bend County filings. In early July, an additional search warrant revealed Patel allegedly impersonated a judge.
ORIGINAL REPORT: Fort Bend Co. Commissioner candidate arrested on felony online impersonation charges
Now, there are more warrants looking into fake identities allegedly tied to Patel that were created in an effort to post racist comments that impacted Patel’s opponent, the long-term incumbent Andy Meyers.
Another member of law enforcement who also is stepping away from Patel is Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan. Fagan, who has spoken at events for Patel, told KPRC 2 Investigates he, “no longer supports him.”
RELATED: Lawsuit filed against Fort Bend County commissioner candidate accused of operating online personas
Fagan also expressed his frustration with Patel posting campaign images while riding with Fagan in his county vehicle while working a criminal investigation. Fagan said he told Patel to take it down and the image should have never been posted. However, it still lives on Patel’s Facebook page.
As for Patel’s former boss, Judge KP George? It appears he still supporting his former Chief of Staff.
When asked if Judge George is still supporting Patel? George’s team sent over the following statement:
“I acknowledge the seriousness of the allegations against Taral Patel and understand the concerns they have raised. I seek to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. It is important that the fundamental principles of our justice system are upheld through a fair and impartial process. We must allow the legal proceedings to unfold, guided by facts and evidence, while respecting the rights of all parties involved.”