By Bill Zeeble, ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-882240.mp3
Dallas, TX –
Dallas County Judge Jim Foster says the independent investigation of 2 County constables is almost over. ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº's Bill Zeeble reports others aren't so sure.
Former FBI agent Danny Defenbaugh's investigation into County Constables Jaime Cortes and Derick Evans could be finished in days, according to Dallas County Judge Foster.
Foster: I expect it to be concluded no later than the latter part of this week.
The investigation was prompted by reports of questionable vehicle towing ordered by the constables, and tracking of those autos at the pound. The investigation also included allegations of employee abuse by Cortes and Evans, which the constables deny. The tab so far has been $165,000. Commissioner John Wiley Price questioned the expense in this recession, especially since information gathered is publicly accessible.
Price: The Judge said today it might conclude this week. I heard that 6 weeks ago. It was $132,000 then. Now we're at $165,000 and it's going to conclude? I'll believe it when I see it.
Price worres the tab could rise to $300,000. Judge Foster says the expenditure's been worth it so far, because it could save millions in lawsuits. 11 people who worked for Cortes and Evans have sued the county. But Cortes and Evans have also sued the county.