Texas AG sues to get Galveston Co. judge off bench

GALVESTON, TX

When Christopher Dupuy left court on Wednesday, he headed to the Galveston County Jail. He's been indicted and is in the custody of Texas Rangers.

"I don't want you to think we had to chase him or ambush him. His attorney surrendered him and brought him to us at a predetermined place. He brought him to us," said Joe Haralson with the Texas Rangers.

Dupuy has been judge of Galveston County Court #2 for the past two years. He was a lawyer before that. Now he is charged with two felony counts of obstruction and retaliation, plus six misdemeanor charges, including official oppression and abuse of official capacity.

Also filed on Wednesday was a petition to remove Dupuy from office. The attorney behind it is one of several lawyers who accuse Dupuy of retaliation.

"It adds up to a very crooked, very unethical judge, who I hope will spend some time in jail," Galveston attorney Greg Hughes said.

Dupuy had no comment as he left with his lawyer, well-known criminal defense attorney George Parnham.

"We know basically what the allegations are, but we're eager to have our day in court and I feel very confident about it," Parnham said.

Dupuy smiled publicly for the cameras, a contrast to his more somber mug shot. He isn't the first judge to be arrested, but this Texas Ranger says it still sends a message.

"Yes, it's uncommon, yes, it's unfortunate, but nobody is above the law," Haralson said.

Dupuy is free on $19,000 bond.

Though he is still technically a judge, Dupuy is not expected to be in court on Thursday. Parnham says he will, however, be at his law office in Houston.

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