Patrick Howard, candidate for Brown County Judge in the March 3 Republican Primary, on Tuesday night issued the following statement to BrownwoodNews.com regarding the Monday arrest of Brown County Judge Shane Britton on five charges, who has since been suspended without pay by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Howard’s statement is as follows:

I am deeply saddened and disappointed by the recent news regarding Brown County.

I determined and was encouraged to run for Brown County Judge based on existing concerns with both the judicial and administrative functions of the office.  Like many citizens, I am still learning the full extent of those concerns.

It has been difficult to hear and read recent public comments regarding Brown County.  When the trust and integrity of those entrusted with public responsibility is shaken, it reflects negatively upon our entire community.  I believe citizens deserve answers, accountability, and confidence in their local government.  

I KNOW Brown County is full of hard-working, God-fearing, and respectful people.  This community is one I would be honored to represent, support, and defend in every lawful and ethical manner.

I am praying for our community.  I am also praying for the victims, none of whom volunteered for this attention or intrusion of their privacy.

More information regarding the County Judge can be found here.