Harris County Pct. 3 deputy arrested in Guadalupe County, placed on administrative leave: Officials

GUADALUPE COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- Authorities say a Harris County Precinct 3 deputy was arrested and charged in Guadalupe County earlier this week.

The Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office said Pct. 3 Deputy Julio Valadez was placed into custody in Seguin, Texas, on Monday evening.

According to the sheriff's office, a GCSO deputy was conducting a traffic stop in the area when he heard radio traffic regarding a hit-and-run incident at the same location.

That's when the GCSO deputy reportedly made contact with the parties involved and "smelled the strong odor of an alcohol beverage coming from Valdez."

Valadez, who was a passenger in the involved vehicle, also had difficulty maintaining his balance and was armed, deputies added. He was disarmed and placed under arrest.

Officials said Valadez identified himself as an officer during the arrest and now faces charges of public intoxication and unlawful carrying of a weapon.

The Harris County Pct. 3 Constable's Office said it was aware of the arrest and said Valadez was placed on administrative leave without pay.

Pct. 3 said he had been employed with the agency since 2024 and has no disciplinary history.