FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas — We've learned more about what led to the arrest this week of a candidate for Fort Bend County Precinct 3 commissioner.
According to the Fort Bend County District Attorney's Office, Taral Patel is charged with online impersonation, a felony, and misrepresentation of identity, a misdemeanor.
According to a lengthy court document obtained by KHOU 11 News, Patel created a fake Facebook account using the name "Antonio Scalywag." He used a photo of a Needville man for his profile picture, an investigator with the DA's office said.
The investigator said Patel used the account from October 2022 to May 2024. She said Patel made racist posts about himself under the alias of "Antonio Scalywag" and then issued a press release saying he'd been the victim of racist attacks. He included a collage of the posts by "Scalywag" in the release.
The investigator learned the same alias had also been used to attack Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers before Patel launched his campaign to run against Meyers.
She tracked down the man whose photo was used in the fake account. He said it was done without his knowledge.
Patel was released from jail after posting bond.
We've reached out to him for comment but haven't heard back.
Here's a statement from Fort Bend County Judge KP George on Patel's arrest:
"As a public official, I address the recent events involving a former employee with a deep sense of concern. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, I emphasize the vital importance of upholding the principles of due process and impartial investigation. I trust that this matter will be examined without prejudice. While awaiting additional information, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring justice and accountability. I look forward to gaining a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident."