Texas Judge Resigns After Conviction for Obstructing Immigration Arrest

A Texas judge has resigned after being convicted of a federal crime. The judge, El Paso County Magistrate Judge Roger Angel, was found guilty of obstructing a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrest. The case began in 2018. Prosecutors said Judge Angel helped an undocumented immigrant leave a courthouse through a back door. This was to avoid federal agents waiting to arrest the person. Angel was convicted in April. He resigned this week as Republican state lawmakers began steps to remove him from office. The Texas House was preparing to start impeachment proceedings. In his resignation letter, Angel maintained his innocence. He stated his actions were meant to protect the "dignity" of his courtroom. He argued the federal arrest operation disrupted court business. With his resignation, the impeachment process will stop. However, Angel still awaits sentencing for his criminal conviction. He could face up to two years in prison.