Joshua Blaine Pritchett, former city manager of La Marque, Texas, has been arrested and charged with arson, tampering with evidence, and making false reports. Authorities allege he set fire to his property and misled officials about his background.
Joshua Blaine Pritchett, the former city manager of La Marque, is currently incarcerated in Galveston County after being arrested over the weekend on several felony charges, including arson.
Pritchett was apprehended in the Dallas region on Saturday, over a week following the issuance of five arrest warrants related to a fire on July 3 that caused damage to a fence on his property. On Monday, video footage emerged depicting Pritchett being led in handcuffs into the Galveston County Jail.
Investigators from the La Marque Fire Department have alleged that Pritchett intentionally set fire to his property, as detailed in a probable cause affidavit. Investigators say they discovered evidence at the location, including a partially used container of lighter fluid, which links him to the fire. Officials allege that he attempted to shift responsibility onto another individual and submitted a fraudulent police report.
Pritchett is not only facing an arson charge but also allegations of tampering with evidence and submitting false information on his employment application. Authorities have revealed that he provided false information regarding his educational qualifications and military service history during the consideration process for the city manager position.
“These charges are serious and deeply concerning, particularly for an individual in a position of public trust,” stated a La Marque official who requested anonymity due to the ongoing investigation.
Pritchett held the position of city manager in La Marque before his exit earlier this year. It remains unclear what led to his initial separation from the city administration.
The Galveston County District Attorney's Office has not yet announced whether it plans to pursue further charges. Pritchett remains in custody as of Monday, and details regarding bond have not been disclosed.
Authorities continue to investigate, urging anyone with further details regarding the case to contact the La Marque Fire Department or local law enforcement.
