Judge Dismisses Commissioner Morales Petition For Removal Against County Judge Ramsey English Cantu
EAGLE PASS, TX — Maverick County Commissioner Gerardo “Jerry” Morales suffered a legal defeat on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, when his petition seeking the removal of County Judge Ramsey English Cantu was dismissed in court. The case was heard by Judge Patricia O. Alvarez, Retired Chief Justice of the Fourth Court of Appeals, at the Maverick County Courthouse.
Morales filed the petition under Chapter 87 of the Texas Local Government Code, alleging official misconduct and incompetence by Judge Cantu. The complaint centered on claims related to delinquent property taxes and questioned Judge Cantu’s ability to serve in office.
After hearing testimony and reviewing the petition, Judge Alvarez granted a Rule 91a dismissal, finding that Morales failed to establish sufficient legal grounds or factual evidence to move forward. The judge noted that the taxes at issue had since been paid and questioned the purpose of continuing the case if the matter had already been resolved.
During the hearing, Judge Alvarez asked Commissioner Morales whether he had verified the legal precedents cited in his filing. Morales appeared unsure and admitted that he used ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence tool, to prepare portions of the court document. The admission prompted visible reactions in the courtroom and raised questions about the petition’s preparation and accuracy.
Judge Alvarez determined that the filing did not meet the statutory criteria outlined in Chapter 87 for removal from office, which requires proof of clear and deliberate misconduct or incompetence. The court ruled that the petition was insufficient under the law and dismissed it without prejudice, meaning Morales could refile if new evidence emerges.
Morales’ request to have court costs waived was denied, leaving both sides responsible for their own legal fees. The judge also commented that the case appeared to have political motivations rather than a solid legal foundation. Court observers described the decision as a clear reminder that accusations against public officials must be supported by verified evidence and legal precedent.
The case has ignited significant discussion in Maverick County political circles, with residents and officials questioning whether the filing was an appropriate use of judicial resources. The ruling effectively ends the dispute unless Morales chooses to pursue new legal action with additional evidence.
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