SAN ANTONIO – A former reserve deputy with the Bexar County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office testified Monday about ex-captain Marc Garcia’s alleged cover-up of a training accident and subsequent order to destroy records.
The testimony from Officer Gabriel Murad highlighted the civil service hearing of Garcia, who is seeking reinstatement to his Precinct 2 position and back pay of over four and a half years.
The hearing continued Monday morning, more than a month after the civil service commission began hearing evidence in the case.
Current Pct. 2 Constable Leticia Vazquez fired Garcia in early 2020, following indictments in a public corruption case alongside former constable Michelle Barrientes Vela.
Barrientes Vela was convicted in 2022 on charges of tampering with government records and received a sentence of probation and jail time.
Barrientes Vela’s appeal is currently pending with the Eighth Court of Appeals.
Garcia was granted immunity during Barrientes Vela’s trial in exchange for testimony and never had to take the stand.
Ex-deputy describes “unprofessional” work environment
Murad detailed incidents contributing to an “unprofessional” work environment, including unprofessional conduct between Barrientes Vela and Garcia.
Murad also testified about a training incident where he was injured, accusing Garcia of covering it up and attempting to suppress reporting.
Later, Murad described Garcia’s alleged orders to destroy paperwork after Barrientes Vela resigned.
Sgt. Leonicio Moreno and Captain Christopher De La Cerda testified about being targeted by Barrientes Vela and Garcia.
Sanchez, Garcia’s attorney, challenged the credibility of the witnesses, pointing to their own reprimands for falsifying records.
The county’s civil service commission aims to issue a ruling on Garcia’s reinstatement attempt soon.
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