Texas Judge Criticized Over Bail Decisions in Deputy’s Murder Case

Judge Hilary Unger faced backlash after granting bail to two suspects charged in the capital murder of Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda, raising concerns about public safety and judicial accountability.

Dremone Francis, charged with capital murder and evidence tampering in the 2024 death of Deputy Fernando Esqueda, was released after posting a $1 million bond and placed under house arrest.
Judge Hilary Unger set the bond for Francis in November 2024 after prosecutors failed to hold a timely hearing to deny bail, a decision criticized by law enforcement and public officials.
Ronald Palmer, Francis’ co-defendant and the alleged shooter, was granted a $3 million bond on Thursday, though he remains in custody as of now.
Law enforcement unions and officials have condemned the bail decisions, arguing they undermine public safety and send a harmful message to the community and law enforcement personnel.
Judge Unger defended her actions as constitutionally required, emphasizing that prosecutors did not pursue hearings that could have denied bail in these cases.