A sheriff in Texas was arrested by his own deputies and faces accusations of sexually harassing multiple female employees at the sheriff’s office and retaliating against whistleblowers. Johnson County Sheriff Adam King also faces a charge of aggravated perjury after he allegedly lied to a grand jury.
According to court documents, King pleaded not guilty on all charges during an arraignment hearing. He is charged with abuse of office, sexual harassment, and retaliation against a witness. A fourth charge of aggravated perjury was added after he allegedly provided false testimony to a grand jury.
King’s trial is set for August 3, 2026, though it may be rescheduled. While he will remain in his role as sheriff during the case, a judge imposed restrictions: he can only work three days a week between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., must use a private entrance to access his office, and is prohibited from contacting seven witnesses, including sheriff’s department employees and some accusers.
The allegations stem from a Texas Rangers investigation, which uncovered claims of repeated inappropriate remarks toward female staff over 18 months. These include comments about their weight, appearance, and clothing, as well as suggestions they wear makeup to work. One woman alleged King told her he would “do ungodly things to her” if she continued losing weight, while another recounted his lewd comment about women wearing white pants.
A Johnson County resident and friend of King, Jackie Pinkerton, stated during the hearing: “I’m here to support Adam King. I’ve known him for 23 years… many community service projects, great man. I stand behind him until the court sways my decision some other way.”
