(As is usually the case, sometimes it's the story behind the story that proves more revealing of the way the system of justice works in South Texas. In the story below of two Pct. 5 constable deputies, no mention is made of the fact that they both worked under Constable Eddie Solis. So unless he is so inept that he doesn't know what's going on in his own office or what his underlings are doing, he is blameless..
And why were heir commissions of these peace officers pulled as soon as they were charged just as the two peace officers ((Jose Mireles, who served as a lieutenant and tax investigator Pedro Garza Jr) who were arrested in the foiled Operation Dirty Deeds of the Cameron County Tax Assessor-Collector's Office.
As their boss, Solis bears some responsibility for their actions. Did he know what they were doing out of his office? And if he didn't, why not?Also, Solis just happens to be the half brother of George Delaunay DEA Special Agent-Retired and Chief Investigator at Cameron County District Attorney's Office. Did that shield him from any responsibility or fallout of the crimes taking place under him at that office? Like we said, there is almost always a story behind the story.)
News Central 4
Two former Cameron County Precinct 5 Constable deputies have been arrested and are charged with conspiracy to commit extortion and wire fraud, says US Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
According to a release, Benito De La Cruz Jr., 45, of San Benito and Armando Gonzalez Jr., 31, of Weslaco, were taken into federal custody on Thursday and are expected to make their initial court appearances today.
A federal grand jury returned a 12-count indictment which alleges that De La Cruz and Gonzalez unlawfully ran license plates and criminal history checks which they performed, or asked others to perform, in return for money or gifts.
Additionally, De La Cruz is charged with five counts of making false statements to federal officers. According to the indictment, he was not truthful when interviewed about the scheme and gave false statements in five separate instances.
If convicted, both men face up to 20 years in federal prison. De La Cruz could also face a potential sentence of five years for each count of false statements made.
While De La Cruz and Gonzalez still work in law enforcement, neither are no longer affiliated with precinct 5.