HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A jury will decide the fate of a former Harris County Precinct 4 deputy constable who was convicted on a theft charge on Monday.
According to prosecutors, Bobby Joe Espinosa would show up to businesses while he was in full uniform and demanded money from owners.
The owner of one business testified and said Espinosa wanted a $400 payment each month. When the owner told him he couldn't afford that kind of payment, Espinosa took his watch. The victim said he was afraid to go to the police at the time.
Another victim testified with the help of Vietnamese translators and said Espinosa showed up to his business and kicked everyone out except for a cashier. The victim said Espinosa was inside for 30 minutes and broke into a cash register and stole $1,200 before leaving without saying anything. The business owner said his camera system had also been deactivated.
Investigators said Espinosa stole more than $5,000 from four different businesses over seven months.
His punishment is expected to be decided on Tuesday. He's facing anywhere from probation to 20 years in prison. Espinosa has two children.