Commissioners authorize additional outside counsel fees for jail-related defense amid public pressure to settle

Tarrant County commissioners voted 4 to 1 to approve an additional $15,000 in funding for outside counsel representing a former county employee in litigation arising from an in-custody death.

The funding covers litigation expenses for Taylor, Olsen, Adkins, Schrawl & Elam in the suit titled Anthony Johnson Sr. v. Tarrant County, which relates to the death of Anthony Johnson Jr. at a county facility and subsequent legal claims.

Why it matters: The county has already incurred substantial legal costs defending in-custody death cases and related employment litigation. Speakers at the meeting urged the court to settle claims and direct funds toward victims and corrective reforms rather than continuing to increase outside counsel payments.

Public comment and concerns Linda Hanratty, a member of the public, told the court, "Not 1 red cent should come from taxpayers to defend this employee," urging the county to prioritize settlement for families of in-custody deaths. Other public speakers reiterated calls to stop paying outside firms and to pursue reforms that would reduce future liabilities.

County counsel's explanation The county's counsel addressed legal requirements that obligate the county to provide legal representation for certain employees. "The county must provide legal representation," counsel said, noting that the county is required by statute to furnish defense for covered personnel; the specific statutory citation was not provided on the record but counsel indicated he would provide it later.

Action and outcome The court approved the $15,000 funding request by 4 votes in favor, 1 opposed. Commissioners who supported the vote said the county is legally obligated to provide representation and that failing to do so could expose the county to additional legal risk and court orders.

Discussion vs. decision Discussion: Public commenters pressed the court to settle outstanding claims, questioned the cumulative legal spending on jail-related litigation, and demanded transparency about total fees paid to outside firms. Direction/assignment: County counsel agreed to provide statutory citations explaining the county's obligations to defend employees; staff will continue to report outside counsel totals to the court. Decision: Approved additional $15,000 for outside counsel expenses in the Anthony Johnson case; outcome approved 4'to—2.

Ending Public commenters said they will continue to press for settlements and reforms. Commissioners emphasized that legal obligations and existing contracts limit immediate alternatives but acknowledged the public's concerns about cost and transparency.