José Garza Discloses $115K Security Expenditure After AG’s Order Over Personal Threats

Travis County District Attorney José Garza has partially disclosed how a $115,000 security fund was spent to enhance security at his personal residence, following increased threats against him. According to Garza, around $65,000 of the total expenditure has been documented in a heavily redacted purchase order released by his office. This disclosure comes after a ruling by the Texas Attorney General that required some transparency regarding previously undisclosed records, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.

Garza explained that the need for heightened security arose from threats that began in April 2023, especially after Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to pardon Daniel Perry. The security measures were first revealed earlier this year, sparking debates over the use of public funds for such purposes. In a statement to FOX 7 Austin, Garza emphasized that the goal was to “ensure the fair administration of justice and keep our families safe.”

These threats against Garza included social media posts, a handwritten note promising harm, and attempts to leverage the publication of his personal address to influence his policies. Garza, who was recently reelected for a four-year term, reassured the public that the security measures would remain in place only during his time in office, with any installed equipment reverting to the county when he leaves office.

The situation has prompted a broader conversation about the county’s approach to ensuring the safety of public officials. Garza and county commissioners have stated that they are now working on a more comprehensive strategy for addressing such threats. However, as noted by the Austin American-Statesman, using taxpayer funds for security upgrades to an elected official’s private residence was not standard practice until Garza’s case. In response to this, county officials have approved a $500,000 fund to provide enhanced security for other public officials’ homes.

The issue has also led to legal tensions. In September, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against the Travis County Commissioners Court, accusing them of procedural abuse and failing to disclose the use of taxpayer money. The county is contesting the lawsuit, highlighting the ongoing struggle to balance an elected official’s right to personal safety with the public’s right to understand how their tax dollars are being spent.

As the legal battle continues, Garza has expressed concerns that further disclosures about his security measures could compromise the safety of himself and his family. This has led him to appeal the Attorney General’s decision, and he is currently awaiting a ruling in district court, as reported by FOX 7 Austin.

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