Galveston County Sheriff Keeps License After TCOLE Approves Probated Suspension

Galveston County Sheriff Jimmy Fullen will keep his peace officer license following the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement's decision on Wednesday to approve a fully probated six-month suspension, which will not hinder his ongoing service. The commission unanimously voted 6-0 to implement an agreed-upon order retroactively suspending the action from June 30 to December 31, 2024, thereby allowing Fullen to continue serving in his position without disruption.

The vote concludes a lengthy legal battle between Fullen and TCOLE over allegations of falsifying government documents in connection with past employment procedures. In June 2024, the agency made a preliminary recommendation to revoke Fullen’s license following an investigation into a complaint lodged by retired Galveston County Sheriff’s Sergeant Kenneth Williams. TCOLE reports that Fullen provided personal history statements to two law enforcement agencies that either “admitted or failed to fully disclose” pertinent information regarding employment history, finances, arrests, and civil matters.

Under Texas law, sheriffs must possess active peace officer licenses. At the time TCOLE pursued revocation, Fullen was the Republican nominee for sheriff. Following his victory in the November 2024 election, the agency submitted a proposal for a 10-year suspension, noting that it lacks the authority to revoke an elected official's license. Fullen filed a lawsuit on March 3, alleging that a 10-year suspension would effectively constitute a revocation.

Following discussions, both parties agreed to pursue mediation, which led to the approval of the probated suspension on Wednesday. Commissioner Justin West, serving as the constable for Galveston County Precinct 4, stepped back from participating in the vote. He subsequently expressed concerns about the potential misuse of complaints filed during campaign cycles, suggesting they could turn TCOLE into a tool for political maneuvering. West highlighted that “a political investigation is not our goal,” noting the need for the agency to examine its processes to gain a clearer understanding of those dynamics.

Williams, the individual who filed the original complaint in late 2023, strongly disapproved of the commission’s decision. “This action represents a significant affront to all Texas peace officers, further eroding the trust that the public can place in our law enforcement,” he stated. He rejected claims that the complaint was motivated by politics. “That’s merely a justification.” “If it were merely a political arrangement, what was its purpose for being established?”

Following the vote, Fullen chose not to provide any comments.

The probated suspension permits Fullen to remain sheriff without immediate repercussions to his license. TCOLE officials have not specified whether additional legislative or procedural reforms will be implemented as the agency examines the broader issues highlighted in the case.