Judge Craig Doyal was originally suspended without pay June 28 for allegedly violating the Texas Open Meetings Act. At a July 26 hearing, Doyal and his attorneys argued that Doyal does not perform judicial duties as chief executive officer of Montgomery County and therefore would not jeopardize the interests of court proceedings.
The State Commission on Judicial Conduct Tuesday amended the order of suspension so that Doyal is suspended with pay from judicial functions. He will be able to continue to perform "non-adjudicative, administrative duties of Montgomery County Judge," the order said.
"I am thrilled to get back to the critical budget issues and the work of the county. It has always been my honor to serve this county. I know I have followed the law in my work here and that I did nothing improper. My lawyer and I will deal with the misdemeanor charge in court and I will get back to dealing with the county business and continue to do all I can to serve this great and growing county," Doyal said in a statement.
Doyal, Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley, Precinct 4 Commissioner Jim Clark and political consultant Mark Davenport were indicted June 24 by a Montgomery County grand jury.
They all face misdemeanor charges for allegedly holding private discussions about a $280 million road construction bond they passed in November.
If convicted, all four could face punishment ranging from probation to six months in jail.
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Montgomery County judge's suspension amended
It always amazes me that judges even when they are disciplined, they are protected.
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