SAN ANTONIO – After a week of turmoil in the Bexar County Precinct 2 Constable’s office, the commissioners court has appointed Leticia Vasquez as interim constable.
- Chosen out of 29 applicants
- Current constable filed a restraining order
- Cannot formally replace Vela until injunction hearing
"I work very good with the community. A lot people know me. I've become very good friends with people out there on patrol. So I'm hoping that carries over, and I hope the people who do know me know that I do have integrity and that I am trustworthy and that I can make a difference," Vasquez said.
Twenty-nine applicants were narrowed down to five for the constable seat on Tuesday.
"Ms. Vasquez I think stood out in my view because of her experience in community policing. I think one of the main goals as the constable is restoring some of that public trust," Precinct 2 Commissioner Justin Rodriguez said.
The selection process was enforced to replace Michelle Barrientes Vela, who violated terms of the Texas Constitution when she announced her run for Bexar County Sheriff. The office was also raided by the FBI and Texas Rangers.
On Sunday, Vela released a statement said she would not abandon her position but the law decided otherwise. On Monday, she filed a restraining order against the county.
The commissioners court will have to wait for outcomes of a temporary injunction hearing on October 11 to formally replace Barrientes Vela.