A former Texas State Trooper will serve 14 years in prison for sexually abusing a child, Attorney General Ken Paxton announced on Monday.
Andrew Smith pleaded guilty on May 1 to one count of indecency with a child in Kleberg County court.
The conviction marks another breach of public trust by a law enforcement officer. Smith’s victim, now 18, courageously testified about the abuse that began when she was under 14.
The abuse came to light in January 2021 when the then-14-year-old reported multiple incidents to authorities. Smith was actively serving with the Texas Department of Public Safety during the time the abuse occurred. He resigned from his trooper position after the victim’s disclosure.
During sentencing, the victim detailed numerous acts of abuse she endured as a child. Her testimony helped secure the 14-year sentence after Smith agreed to let the judge determine his punishment.
“The sexual abuse of a child is one of the most tragic and disgusting crimes, and those responsible for such heinous acts will be punished to the full extent of the law,” Paxton said. “Thank you to all our law enforcement partners who worked to ensure that justice was secured.”
Assistant Attorneys General Erika Hime and Elizabeth Mireles prosecuted the case. They worked at the invitation of Kleberg County District Attorney John Hubert.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about abuse of authority within law enforcement ranks. That said, the successful prosecution demonstrates Texas officials’ commitment to holding their own accountable.