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TCOLE Approves Backdated Six-Month Probated Suspension for Galveston County Sheriff Jimmy Fullen

The order leaves his license active, underscoring gaps in state law on disciplining elected sheriffs.

Overview

  • TCOLE voted 6-0 to impose a six-month suspension of Fullen’s peace officer license, backdated to June 30–Dec. 31, 2024, and fully probated, so he remains in office.
  • The decision came as an agreed order following mediation that paused Fullen’s March lawsuit challenging earlier disciplinary moves.
  • Commission findings concluded Fullen omitted or misrepresented arrests, employment discipline and legal matters on personal history statements for two agencies.
  • Specific omissions cited include a 1982 assault arrest allegation, a 1989 firing from the Electra Police Department and a 2007 lawsuit involving Galveston ISD Police.
  • Retired Sgt. Kenneth Williams, whose 2023 complaint prompted the probe, criticized the outcome, while Commissioner Justin West abstained and voiced concern about politicized complaints.