Midland County Judge Terry Johnson faces a federal civil rights lawsuit and a separate effort to remove him from office. The lawsuit alleges he retaliated against political critic Christino Rodriquez by posting his Social Security number, driver’s license number and date of birth on Facebook. The dispute has also prompted a potential criminal inquiry, subpoenas to Meta and calls for Johnson’s resignation. Johnson has not publicly responded to the allegations through his attorney.
| 1) | Federal lawsuit alleges retaliation and exposure of private data |
| 2) | Details of the Facebook post and disputed redactions |
| 3) | Removal petition advances under Texas law |
| 4) | Investigative steps and public demands for accountability |
| 5) | Johnson’s political future and potential legal consequences |
Federal lawsuit alleges retaliation and exposure of private data
Christino Rodriquez, who uses the name “Nino America” online, filed a 26-page federal complaint against Terry Johnson. The lawsuit alleges that Johnson used his public position, or directed county personnel to act, to obtain confidential information about Rodriquez after he shared federal court records involving Midland County.
The complaint claims the Facebook post was retaliation for Rodriquez’s criticism of local government. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages, along with other relief including lifetime identity-theft protection and credit monitoring. The filing does not specify a dollar amount.
“The lawsuit is really about retaliation and abuse of power,” attorney James Trainor said, adding that it also concerns the ability of citizens to criticize government without officials using public authority against them.
Details of the Facebook post and disputed redactions
According to the lawsuit, Johnson posted a 2015 arrest warrant on his personal Facebook page less than 24 hours after Rodriquez published the court records. The post included the caption, “Convicted felon trying to be a player.” The complaint states that the charges associated with the warrant were later dismissed and that Rodriquez was not convicted in that case.
The lawsuit focuses on how the document was redacted. Rodriquez’s home address and telephone number were reportedly covered, while his Social Security number and driver’s license number remained visible, along with his date of birth. The complaint argues that the selective redactions indicate the disclosure was intentional. Rodriquez and his wife say they are concerned about identity theft and the possible spread of copied or saved images.
Removal petition advances under Texas law
Midland County District Attorney Glenn Harwood filed a petition on August 6 seeking Johnson’s removal. The filing represents the first step in a Texas process for attempting to oust a county-level elected official, but it does not itself remove Johnson from office.
Harwood said the petition goes to the region’s administrative judge, who may dismiss it or assign it to another judge. An outside prosecutor would then have to determine whether to pursue the civil removal action. Harwood has emphasized that the removal proceeding is separate from Rodriquez’s federal lawsuit and said he has no role in that case.
Midland ISD Trustee Brandon Hodges has sought to intervene. His filing says he wants to ensure the case continues if a legal challenge is raised over Harwood’s dual role as district attorney and as the resident who initiated the proceeding. Hodges is not seeking to replace Harwood or add new allegations.
Investigative steps and public demands for accountability
Trainor said he and Rodriquez were interviewed by a Texas Ranger, who asked questions intended to verify whether the numbers displayed online belonged to Rodriquez. Trainor also said subpoenas were issued to Meta to determine when and where the material was posted and potentially viewed.
Trainor said discussions had begun with the Social Security Administration about whether Rodriquez’s Social Security number could be changed. He also said the full extent of the potential harm remains unknown because investigators do not know how many people captured or retained the information.
The allegations have produced public calls for Johnson to resign. Midland County resident Shandi Williams reportedly called for his resignation during a Commissioners Court meeting. Midland County Commissioner Precinct 3 candidate Steven Villela also said elected officials have a duty to protect residents’ rights and confidential information.
Johnson’s political future and potential legal consequences
Johnson lost his reelection bid after failing to advance from the March 3 primary. If he remains in office, his term is expected to end in early 2027, when election winner Jay Marquez is scheduled to take office.
The federal lawsuit, removal petition and possible criminal inquiry are separate matters with different legal standards and procedures. Harwood acknowledged a potential criminal case but declined to discuss it because nothing had been publicly filed on that front. The proceedings will determine whether the allegations support civil damages, removal from office or further action.
| 1 | The federal lawsuit alleges retaliation after Rodriquez criticized local government. |
| 2 | The disputed Facebook post allegedly displayed Rodriquez’s Social Security and driver’s license numbers. |
| 3 | A Texas removal petition was filed separately against Johnson on August 6. |
| 4 | Investigators and Meta subpoenas may help establish how the information was obtained and distributed. |
Summary
The allegations against Terry Johnson have developed into parallel federal and state-level proceedings. The civil lawsuit challenges the alleged disclosure as retaliation and abuse of authority, while the removal petition tests whether Johnson should continue serving as Midland County judge. Investigative activity and public pressure are increasing, but the allegations have not been resolved in court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal lawsuit about?
The lawsuit filed by Christino Rodriquez alleges that Terry Johnson retaliated against him by obtaining and posting sensitive personal information after Rodriquez criticized local government.
What information was allegedly exposed?
The complaint says a Facebook post displayed Rodriquez’s Social Security number, driver’s license number and date of birth while other identifying details were redacted.
Could Johnson be removed from office?
A removal petition has been filed under Texas law, but additional procedural steps remain before a civil removal action could proceed. Johnson’s current term is otherwise expected to end in early 2027.
