Young County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1 Jason Hearne is facing misconduct allegations following a late-night altercation in Graham, according to a witness account reported by KFDX/KJTL.
Witness Preston Burch told the station the incident occurred shortly after 1 a.m. Sunday at the Whataburger in Graham, where he said social media personality Danny Duncan and a film crew were also present. Burch said his group asked Duncan for a photo and that an exchange with Hearne turned hostile after the pictures were taken.
Burch told KFDX/KJTL the situation moved outside, where he alleged Hearne struck a teenager and that the teenager then struck back. Video circulating on social media appears to depict portions of the altercation.
Hearne was unavailable for comment, the station reported. In a statement issued on behalf of the district through District Judge Coordinator Terri Rhodes, Administrative Judge Gregory said:
“At this time, Judge Gregory indicates that he is aware of the circumstances and believes the matter to be under an active investigation. As the Administrative Judge for the District, Judge Gregory is not in a position to comment on the allegations or the investigation due to his ethical obligations as the District Judge.”
Graham resident Jennifer Flores told KFDX/KJTL she was troubled by what the videos appeared to show and believed a public official should be held accountable. Resident Larry Nanez said violence does not resolve disputes.
The matter remains under investigation. No charges have been announced.