Reserve Deputy Constable Arrested for Aiding Cocaine Load

HOUSTON—Tomas Roque, a reserve deputy constable with Harris County Precinct 6, has been arrested following the return of an indictment alleging charges of aiding the possession of a controlled substance and a violation of the Hobbs Act, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today.

Roque, 26, of Houston, was arrested this morning and is expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Frances H. Stacy later today or tomorrow.

The two-count indictment, returned January 8, 2013, and unsealed upon his arrest today, alleges Roque aided in the delivery of cocaine in the Houston area and accepted money for the protection service.

Roque is alleged to have aided in the possession of cocaine on or about December 6, 2012, and allegedly received a payment of $2000 for the protection he provided.

If convicted of possession with the intent to distribute, he faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a possible $10 million fine. For extortion under color of law (Hobbs Act violation), he could also receive up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine, if convicted.

The operation was a combined public corruption task force effort conducted by the FBI, the Texas Rangers, and the Houston Police Department. Homeland Security Investigations Human Smuggling and Trafficking Unit and Harris County Precinct 6 Constable’s Office assisted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James McAlister.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.