Dont ComplyAccording to a report distributed via Bing News, suspended Midland County Judge Terry Johnson will not return to office under a settlement of a civil lawsuit seeking his removal. District Attorney Glenn Harwood filed the suit in August, alleging Johnson abused his power by publicly sharing sensitive information about a political commentator who had criticized him on social media. The report says Johnson admitted under oath to making the post, and his attorneys say he meant no harm and deleted it after realizing the image contained sensitive information. Johnson repaid $50,000 to the county for salary during his suspension. The report says he also faces a Texas Rangers investigation, and the commentator has filed a federal civil rights suit. Harwood said the settlement does not affect the pending criminal case and that Johnson retains the presumption of innocence. Johnson's resignation takes effect Dec. 16.
Why it matters
The settlement ends the effort to remove a sitting county judge accused of misusing his office against a critic, while a criminal investigation and a federal civil rights lawsuit remain pending. Johnson has not been convicted of any crime.
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