A Texas judge, labeled as "rogue" and an activist by the Houston Police Officers’ Union, is facing criticism for setting bond for a suspect charged with capital murder. The controversy surrounds Judge Hilary Unger of the 248th District Criminal Court in Harris County, who recently set bond at $3 million for Ronnie Palmer, accused in the death of Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda.
Palmer, who has been incarcerated since July without bond, is also facing two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with Esqueda’s death, with bond set at $50,000 each for those charges. This decision by Judge Unger comes on the heels of another suspect, Dremone Francis, being released after posting a $1 million bond set in November 2024.
The Houston Police Officers’ Union and the Harris County Deputies’ Organization have expressed outrage over Judge Unger’s actions, with the HCDO describing the bond setting as a disgrace. Despite blowback from the community, a defense attorney clarified that Unger was not directly involved in setting bond for Francis, as previously asserted by law enforcement organizations.
It was reported that the State of Texas had filed for a proof-evident hearing when Francis was arrested in July 2024, which could have led to no bond being an option. However, the hearing did not occur within the specified time frame, making Francis eligible for bond. The defense attorney emphasized the importance of upholding individuals’ rights, including the 8th amendment right to reasonable bail.
Judge Unger, who is up for re-election in 2026, has a history of releasing repeat offenders on bond and advocating for alternatives to incarceration aimed at rehabilitation and community safety. The police union has criticized her for prioritizing criminals over victims and contributing to a perceived increase in crime.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and the 248th District Court for comment on this ongoing situation that has sparked debate and raised concerns within the community.