A Socorro Independent School District police officer was arrested for driving while intoxicated, but school officials said there is no law that forces them to remove him from his duties, so he will continue even when students return to school on Monday.
On May 23 at 1:45 a.m., El Paso police arrested 42-year-old Sgt. Jorge Heras of the Socorro ISD police department.
"The fact that he was arrested does not necessarily mean he is guilty of what he is accused of," said Xavier De La Torre, the superintendent of SISD.
A police report obtained by KFOX 14 states Heras was driving a pickup truck on the 1800 block of Robert Wynn Street in east El Paso when an officer spotted Heras going 44 mph on the 35 limit street. Officials from the District Attorney's office told KFOX 14, the officer reported Heras smelled like alcohol, had glossy eyes, failed a field sobriety test, and refused to take a breathalyzer test.
"We keep in mind that our employees are also citizens and people outside out of work," said De La Torre.
He said they won't be taking any action until the end of Heras', for now, unscheduled trial.
"Once we determine the judicial system has arrived at a conclusion at his guilt or innocence we always take the appropriate action," he said.
When asked if he will still be around students, De La Torre said, “he may be around students."
According to the El Dorado High School website, Heras is a school resource officer on campus. SISD’s website states that it means he provides law-related educational programs in the schools, in an effort to reduce crime, drug abuse, violence and provide a safe school environment. The position also requires the Sgt to act as a role model and resource for students and staff.
"Do you really want him acting as a role model for students?” KFOX 14 asked De La Torre. “I do. I want him to act as a role model for students. Do I believe someone convicted of driving under the influence is not a role model for students? I think it demonstrates poor judgment, but he hasn't been convicted," he answered.
One recent graduate of the school who didn't want to be identified feels differently.
"He should be pulled out of the school," she said.
KFOX 14 contacted Heras' defense attorney, Teresa Caballero, but has received no call back. Heras is scheduled to be back in court Aug. 15.
If convicted Heras faces a punishment of up to 6 months in and jail and up to $2,000 fine. Read More
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