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Dallas County Judge Foster Again Demands DA Investigation

Constable Cortes
Constable Cortes

By Bill Zeeble, KERA News

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-904102.mp3

Dallas, TX – Dallas County Judge Jim Foster is again demanding D.A. Craig Watkins investigate Constable Jaime Cortes. This follows the release of a County Audit into the precinct finances. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.

Near the end of the 26 page audit, the document mentions payments from Dowdy Ferry Auto Service without receipts. The service was used by Cortes to impound towed vehicles.

Foster says he still wants Watkins to look into the matter.

Foster: It's been going on way too long. I believe if the district attorney actually intended to prosecute someone you would see some evidence of that by now.

The matter was referred to the DA in February 2008, according to the Audit. But the DA's office said late Tuesday that according to its records, communication from the auditor was received on October 7th, 2009.

On this issue, Watkins has long said his office neither acknowledges nor denies any investigation until its work is done.

Email Bill Zeeble Precinct No 5 Audit