The charges have been dropped against the Tarrant County deputy marshal who was accused of fraud for allegedly taking $500 out of another person's account at the Tarrant County City Credit Union. Sergeant Mike Martinez was incorrectly identified as the suspect and was put on paid administrative leave pending an investigation.
The charges against Sgt. Martinez were eventually dropped when it was discovered that he had absolutely no involvement in the case. Investigators rushed to judgment and filed charges against the deputy marshal based upon evidence that was later proven to be completely incorrect.
In fact, the $500 that had been taken was a credit union clerical error. The person who signed for the $500 had the same name as the alleged victim, and the clerk accessed the wrong account.
Meanwhile, Sgt. Martinez was arrested and charged with the crime and placed on administrative leave. Now that the facts in the case have been revealed – not only was their no fraud committed, but it was purely a banking error, the charges against the deputy marshal have been dropped.
Sgt. Martinez was reported as being very unconcerned about the accusations, and that he didn't remember that he had an "extra $500" on that day. His superior officer was involved in the case, and identified Martinez as the person who had made the illegal transaction, making matters worse.
There is nothing more frightening than being accused of a crime you did not commit. When accused, you may believe you are safe if you are innocent, but in fact, you are in danger. The criminal justice system moves ahead relentlessly, and an innocent person can face a severely damaged reputation when accused of committing any serious crime, even if later the charges are dropped or there is an acquittal at trial.
The investigation into the case appears to have been minimal at best, and Sgt. Martinez faced repercussions that he didn't deserve. Thankfully he was represented by an attorney from our firm who protected him. If you are facing criminal charges, or are under investigation, get a Tarrant County criminal defense lawyer from our firm on your side immediately.
Contact The Alband Law Firm if you are facing criminal charges, or are currently under investigation.