A controversial Facebook post has sparked significant legal issues for Midland County Judge Terry Johnson in West Texas. He now faces both a federal civil rights lawsuit and efforts by his district attorney to remove him from office.
Judge Johnson is accused of posting private details such as a Social Security number, driver’s license number, and date of birth of a political critic, Christino Rodriquez, on Facebook. This incident took place shortly after Rodriquez shared federal court records involving Midland County. Rodriquez, who uses the online alias “Nino America,” has filed a 26-page federal lawsuit against Johnson. He claims that the judge retaliated against him for his criticism of local government by releasing confidential information online.
According to the lawsuit, Johnson displayed a 2015 arrest warrant on his personal Facebook page, labeling Rodriquez a “convicted felon trying to be a player.” The charges involved in the warrant were reportedly dismissed, and Rodriquez was not convicted.
The lawsuit points out what was redacted in the Facebook post—Rodriquez’s home address and telephone number were blacked out, but his Social Security and driver’s license numbers were left visible. This selective redaction is seen by Rodriquez’s legal team as intentional.
James “Trey” Trainor, Rodriquez’s attorney, told Fox News Digital that the case revolves around governmental retaliation and abuse of power, with implications for First Amendment rights. Trainor stated that Rodriquez is active in the Midland community and vocal about governance.
Trainor also alleges that Johnson obtained confidential information through inappropriate means, possibly using his position or directing others to access a criminal justice information system.
Rodriquez and his wife now fear identity theft due to the information being publicly shared. They have initiated conversations with the Social Security Administration about potentially changing Rodriquez’s Social Security number. The lawsuit seeks damages and measures like identity-theft protection and credit monitoring. A specific dollar amount has yet to be determined.
The lawsuit raises questions about the broader implications of government officials retaliating against public critics. Trainor argues for the necessity of criminal justice information accessibility for law enforcement but asserts that his client was unjustly targeted.
Beyond the lawsuit, an effort to remove Johnson from office is underway. Midland County District Attorney Glenn Harwood filed a petition on August 6, the first step in a legal process to remove an elected official in Texas. The petition must pass through several legal steps before moving forward.
Midland ISD Trustee Brandon Hodges intervened in the removal case to prevent procedural issues due to Harwood’s dual roles as district attorney and a Midland County resident. Hodges supports Harwood’s claims without adding new accusations.
Steven Villela, a candidate for Midland County Commissioner, also called for Johnson’s resignation, emphasizing the accountability of public officials.
Harwood maintained that the removal effort stands separate from Rodriquez’s lawsuit and mentioned an unofficial criminal case possibly in development.
Trainor confirmed that a Texas Ranger has been involved in verifying details about the Facebook post. Subpoenas to Meta aim to confirm the posting and viewing details of the information shared by Johnson.
Public demand for Johnson’s resignation has grown, with local residents advocating for his departure during public meetings. Johnson, who lost his reelection bid, is expected to remain in office until early 2027 unless he resigns or is otherwise removed.