BALCONES HEIGHTS, Texas – In a surprising turn of events, the mayor of Balcones Heights, Johnny Rodriguez, was arrested on Wednesday after an incident during a City Council meeting. The arrest came after he allegedly assaulted a former councilman, Lamar Gillian, who is 78 years old.
According to the police warrant, the incident occurred on Monday when Rodriguez approached Gillian during the meeting. He reportedly made physical contact with Gillian’s arm and shoulder area. Eyewitness accounts, including a recording shared on YouTube, captured Gillian telling Rodriguez, “Don’t you touch me,” highlighting the tension in the room.
The warrant states that Rodriguez had no valid reason to approach Gillian or invade his personal space, suggesting that the contact was unnecessary. An officer acting as a bailiff had to step in to separate the two when Rodriguez attempted to reach toward Gillian again.
Gillian has been a vocal critic of Rodriguez in the past, often attending council meetings to discuss his concerns about the mayor’s behavior and decisions. This history of criticism may have contributed to the escalating tensions between the two.
Following the arrest, Rodriguez was booked into the Bexar County jail. He faces a charge of assault against the elderly, which is a serious accusation. His bond was set at $5,000, and he has been issued a no-contact order against Gillian, along with restrictions on firearm possession.
The Balcones Heights Police Department emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating they are taking the matter very seriously. The city has also released a statement acknowledging the arrest, affirming their respect for the legal process, and expressing their thoughts for Rodriguez and his family during this challenging time.
Despite the turmoil, city operations are expected to continue as normal. Rodriguez has recently faced scrutiny over multiple allegations of misconduct, all of which he has denied. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains watchful of how this situation will develop.
