Dem congressional candidate's police record shows suspensions for insubordination, stolen gun

Johnny Garcia, a candidate for Congress in Texas’ newly redrawn 35th District, faced two suspensions from the Bexar County Sheriff's Office for "job performance," "insubordination" and "conduct or action that would seriously impair job effectiveness," according to records.

The first suspension in 2009 occurred when Garcia brought a cellular device into a secure area despite repeated instructions not to do so. A notice of suspension stated that Garcia had been informed multiple times during roll call that cell phones were not permitted in the secured area. He received a three-day suspension without pay for insubordination and conduct that would seriously impair job effectiveness.

The second suspension, in 2020, arose when Garcia left a firearm, four magazines, and his badge unsecured in his vehicle, items that were later stolen. According to a report, this negligent behavior seriously impaired his job effectiveness and was a clear violation of the Sheriff’s Office policies and procedures. Garcia received a five-day suspension without pay for "job performance." The firearm was eventually recovered.

The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Garcia had not faced any other forms of discipline as a result of the two incidents. A statement from Deputy Noel Diaz indicated that disciplinary actions were handled independently for each incident and were in accordance with Civil Service Commission guidelines.

Garcia, who has not previously held elected office, is running against Republican candidate Carlos De La Cruz in the race for the seat being vacated by Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas. Casar is seeking re-election in the state’s neighboring 37th district following redistricting changes.

Garcia, who joined the Bexar County Sheriff's Office at age 21, has made border security a key issue in his campaign, along with affordability and protecting government programs. His campaign stated that the accusations were "politicized claims" and "Republicans' desperate attempts to distract from the fact that tariffs and his war in Iran have made everything more expensive for working families."

Garcia cleared the Democratic primary in May and will appear on the general election ballot on November 3.