Galveston PD Sergeant Held Without Bond for Allegedly Violating Court Orders and Stalking
According to an article in the Houston Chronicle, a 17-year-veteran of the Galveston Police Department was arrested for the fourth time on charges related to family violence. Three of the arrests occurred within a week. Justin Popovich, 38, was “indefinitely suspended” according to their reporting. He had been with the Galveston Police Department since 2003 and was assigned to the Operations Bureau.
Popovich was indicted earlier this year by a grand jury for continuous family violence. The most recent incidents arise from violating bond conditions related to these domestic violence charges and stalking.
The following is a list of the allegations against the sergeant:
October 2019. The Galveston Police Department places Popovich on paid administrative leave for “possible criminal conduct.”
January 23, 2020. Popovich is indicted on charges of continuous violence against a family member (Texas Penal Code Section 25.11). The offense is charged as a third-degree felony and could carry a punishment of up to ten years in prison. Popovich is arrested the following day and placed on unpaid administrative leave. He was released on a $10,000 bond with conditions including a stay-away order.
April 27, 2020. Popovich is arrested for allegedly violating the bond conditions related to the January 23 indictment. Allegations include that he failed to adhere to the stay-away order and that he was in possession of two firearms.
April 29, 2020. Popovich is again arrested for allegedly violating court orders related to the family violence charges.
April 30, 2020. He is arrested for felony stalking and is currently being held without bond at the Galveston County Jail.
Understanding Criminal Allegations and Potential Charges
Texas Penal Code Section 25.11, continuous violence against the family, is a serious offense that can result in two to ten years in prison if convicted. Allegations of family violence can result in the loss of a job, the loss of your custodial rights, and the loss of your freedom. It is essential to consult an experienced Houston Family Violence Attorney if you are accused of domestic violence or a related crime. Contact James Alston Law today for a free consultation. Mr. Alston is a board-certified defense attorney who will fight to protect your rights and your future. Call (713) 228-1400 to discuss your legal options.