BEXAR COUNTY, Texas -- Judge Martha Tanner considered the arguments of counsel and determined the court had no jurisdiction over the claims asserted by former Pct. 2 Constable Barrientes Vela and dismissed her entire lawsuit on Wednesday.
- Tried to remain in her position
- Argued she did not formally announce run for sheriff
- Will vacate office October 10
Vela had filed the petition to prevent the newly-appointed constable from taking office on the grounds that her statements to the media stating she planned to running for sheriff in 2020 did not trigger the “resign to run” provision of the Texas Constitution.
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In addition to dismissing the lawsuit, the temporary restraining order was dissolved and as a result of the judge’s order, the hearing planned for Friday was canceled.
According to the Chief of the Civil Division, Larry Roberson, Commissioners Court is now free to move forward with investiture of the new Constable of Pct. 2.
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Vela agreed through her legal counsel to vacate her office by 8 a.m. on Thursday, October 10.
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