Liberty County Pct. 1 Constable Justin Johnston surrendered to Montgomery County law enforcement Thursday after he was charged with harassment.
Johnston, 41, was booked into the Montgomery County Jail Thursday where bond was set at $1,500. The details of the charge against Johnston are unknown at this time.
Johnston, a first-term constable, was forced into the spotlight on Feb. 15, 2017, when he was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic at a construction site on SH 146 south of Dayton. He suffered a traumatic brain injury that caused a lengthy recovery.
After his injury, Liberty County residents rallied around the constable, holding fundraisers and events to help offset expenses he incurred during his recovery.
Officials in Liberty County say they are aware of the charges against Johnston and are cooperating with authorities in Montgomery County.
“At the present time, the arrest alone does not preclude his legal ability to hold office,” said Liberty County Attorney Matthew Poston. “This particular charge is a Class B misdemeanor. It’s been a while since I looked at the law, so I will have to do some checking, but I don’t believe a Class B misdemeanor, even if convicted, will impact his ability to be a constable.”
Calls to Johnston have gone unanswered at this time. As soon as more information is available, an update will be posted.