Midland County, Texas – The State Commission on Judicial Conduct announced Wednesday that County Judge Terry Johnson is suspended from his duties with full pay. The suspension follows a grand jury indictment charging Johnson with two counts of misuse of official information, fraudulent use of identifying information involving fewer than five items, and abuse of official capacity.
Background of the indictment
Johnson was arrested on August 19 and posted a $7,500 bond before being released. The criminal case centers on a document Johnson posted to his personal Facebook page that allegedly contained the Social Security number and driver’s license number of Midland County resident and citizen journalist Christino Rodriguez, who is known online as “Nino America.”
Rodriguez previously filed a federal civil‑rights lawsuit claiming the judge disclosed his personal information in retaliation for criticism of county government. The lawsuit cites a recent social‑media post by Rodriguez about federal lawsuits involving the county, including a case that resulted in a $150,000 settlement with a former county employee.
Allegations and defenses
The lawsuit alleges Johnson used his official position to obtain confidential government records and then posted Rodriguez’s identifying information online, exposing him to potential identity theft, emotional distress, and reputational harm. Johnson, through his attorney, denies knowledge that the document contained the sensitive data and says he removed the post within 30 minutes of learning of the content.
Johnson also submitted to a polygraph examination, which his attorney says supported his claim of ignorance. He argues the posted document was intended to challenge Rodriguez’s credibility by referencing the journalist’s criminal history and felony convictions, not to harm him. Johnson further contends the information was publicly available through the Midland County Courthouse and that publishing a public record does not constitute an abuse of official capacity.
Legal actions and community response
Midland County District Attorney Glenn Harwood has filed a separate lawsuit seeking Johnson’s removal from office. Midland Independent School District Trustee Brandon Hodges also filed a complaint with the Texas State Commission on Judicial Conduct, joining the call for the judge to step down.
The civil‑rights suit filed by Rodriguez alleges violations of the First and Fourteenth Amendments, the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act, and Texas law. Rodriguez is seeking damages, attorney’s fees, and other relief, arguing that the alleged disclosure was a retaliatory act against protected speech.
What the suspension means
Under commission rules, a judge may be suspended if indicted for a felony or charged with a misdemeanor involving the judge’s position. The suspension does not determine guilt or innocence in the criminal case; it simply removes Johnson from performing judicial duties while the legal process proceeds.
Johnson has previously refused calls to resign, maintaining that he acted within the bounds of his office. The pending criminal case and the civil‑rights lawsuit will determine whether further action, including removal from office, is warranted.
Implications for Midland County
The situation highlights the importance of safeguarding personal data and upholding constitutional protections for free speech. Community members and local officials are watching closely as the case unfolds, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in public office.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
