Johnson named acting Sheriff

Chief Deputy W. Derrick Johnson was named acting Sheriff by Falls County Commissioners during a Friday afternoon meeting, following a two hour executive session. 

Following Falls County Sheriff Ricky Scaman’s indictment on sexual assault allegations, his license was suspended. Until the suspension is lifted or he is convicted, Scaman cannot act in the capacity of a law enforcement officer. 

Without a badge, Scaman cannot attend to his duties as Sheriff. He has been relieved of his position until a resolution is reached in the matter. 

Commissioners required Scaman to return all county-owned equipment within five days. 

Hoagie Karels, legal representative for the elected official, told reporters last week that the defendant planned to file an appeal with Texas Commission Law Enforcement (TCOLE) in reference to their decision to revoke his law enforcement license. The state agency confirmed Monday that an appeal has been filed, but a hearing date had not yet been set.

Commissioners met again that afternoon, coming out of an hour-long executive session with no motion.

“It is our belief that we took the appropriate action on Friday," said County Judge Jay Elliott. "We are not looking to take anymore action at this time.”

Johnson will continue to assume the role of Falls County Sheriff until Scaman’s situation comes to an end.

Scaman is charged with sexually assaulting two females, employees of the Falls County Jail and City of Marlin. He stated last week that he is “looking forward to trial” and continues to maintain his innocence.

Scaman’s reign may be over sooner rather than later, depending on the wants of Falls County voters. He is on the Nov. 3 ballot opposite Joe Lopez,  who is a former Falls County deputy (Ben Kirk era) and is currently an investigator in the Hays County District Attorney’s Office.