The civil petition filed against Lubbock County Constable Carelton “C.J.” Peterson might well be delayed depending on the decision of a State District Judge. On Thursday, the Lubbock County District Attorney’s office requested a motion for continuance in the case.
The original petition was filed in May by Lubbock County Republican Party Chairman Steve Evans. The petition accused Peterson of driving while intoxicated which, if proven true, would allow for Peterson to be removed from office.
Peterson was arrested for DWI on May 6 after his truck crashed in the 5400 block of 50th Street. There were no injuries, but court records indicated that Peterson’s blood alcohol level was above the legal limit. Court records also said Peterson admitted to drinking before driving.
On Thursday, the DA’s office filed a motion to take over the case which is allowed under the Texas Local Government Code.
The motion also said, “The Lubbock County Criminal District Attorney’s Office seeks a continuance of all settings until December 3, 2018. This continuance is not sought for delay only, but so justice may be done”
The motion made reference to the ongoing criminal case which could also be grounds for removing Peterson from office depending on the outcome.
Evans on Monday said by phone, “We’re disappointed that our case is on hold, but we trust the District Attorney’s judgment in this matter.”
A call was placed to Neal Burt with the DA’s office. This story will be updated if Burt accepts an invitation to comment.
As of Monday, a judge had not yet ruled on the motion to continue. The criminal case was still pending.
Peterson took office in January of 2015. His term ends on December 31, 2020.
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