EL PASO, Texas – Two Socorro Independent School District (SISD) trustees found themselves facing legal troubles as they were arrested on Thursday on multiple charges, according to records from the El Paso County jail.

Charges and Arrest Details

• Pablo Barrera: Trustee for District 5, was arrested and charged with improper influence, coercion of a public servant/voter, obstruction or retaliation, and official oppression. The offenses allegedly occurred on May 30 and July 1, 2022.
• Ricardo Castellano and Gabriela Castellano: Ricardo Castellano, trustee for District 3, and his wife Gabriela were also arrested. Ricardo faces two charges of obstruction or retaliation dating back to August 2021, while Gabriela faces the same charges.

All three individuals have posted bond and have been released, as per jail records.

District’s Response

SISD issued a statement acknowledging the arrests, stating, The district was made aware that two current Trustees and a former employee were arrested by the El Paso Sheriff’s Department earlier today. This is a legal matter, and we will cooperate with law enforcement. The district has no additional information on the matter at this time. The focus of the district remains on serving students and supporting staff to ensure the successful completion of the school year.

Possible Consequences

The nature of the charges raises questions about the trustees’ positions on the board. According to the SISD Board Manual, under a section titled Reasons for Removal, it states that a board member may be removed from office for ‘Official misconduct,’ defined as intentional, unlawful behavior relating to official duties by a board member entrusted with the administration of justice or the execution of the law.

Seeking Further Information

Local news outlet KFOX14 reached out to authorities to gather more details about the charges and the circumstances surrounding the arrests. Understanding the full scope of the allegations is crucial for assessing their potential impact on the school district and the individuals involved.

Conclusion: Transparency and Accountability in Educational Leadership

The arrest of two Socorro ISD trustees underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in educational leadership. As stewards of public trust, school board members are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethics in their roles. The allegations against these trustees highlight the need for thorough investigations and swift action to address any breaches of that trust. Moving forward, the community will likely look to the school district and law enforcement agencies for transparency and a commitment to upholding the integrity of the educational system. For more updates on this developing story and other local news, download The Local News App to stay informed.

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