HOUSTON COUNTY, Texas (KTRE) – A Houston County Sheriff’s Deputy was fired Wednesday evening after he was arrested for aggravated sexual assault of a child.
According to a press release, around 6:15 p.m., the sheriff’s office was made aware that Deputy Skyler Laza who was hired on Sept. 17, 2024 had been arrested at his home in Palestine.
Following the arrest, Houston County Sheriff Zak Benge travelled to the Anderson County Jail where Laza was fired immediately.
“The allegations and supporting evidence of the allegations against Laza are truly disturbing,” Benge said. “It is sickening to me that a person who has sought out a position intended to help those in our community, especially the most vulnerable, children, would be the very person we look to arrest for abuse.”
The sheriff’s office explained that they will continue to work with the investigating agencies and assist in every way possible.
“To the victim and his family, I am sorry you have had to endure this abuse at the hands of someone you are supposed to trust,” Benge said. “To the citizens of Houston County and beyond, know that such behavior is not and will not be tolerated.”
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