Johnson County Sheriff Announces Resignation After Tense Meeting

Sheriff Tom Hughes cites lack of support from county leadership as reason for departure.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Johnson County Sheriff Tom Hughes announced his plans to resign from office during a tense quorum court meeting on Thursday. The announcement came after justices of the peace debated and approved funding for a part-time detective position focused on sexual assault cases, with two justices voting against the measure. Hughes criticized the 'no' votes, saying the public deserves strong support for public safety, and declared he would be resigning on May 1 or earlier.

Why it matters

The resignation of the county sheriff highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement leadership and local government officials over funding and priorities for public safety. Hughes' departure raises questions about the stability of the sheriff's office and the county's ability to maintain effective crime-fighting efforts.

The details

During the quorum court meeting, Justices Katie Howard and Larry Jones voted against the measure to fund the part-time sexual assault detective position, which Hughes criticized harshly. After the vote, Hughes announced his plans to resign, saying he has been trying to improve the sheriff's office for the past two years but feels blocked by ongoing resistance from county leadership. Hughes was appointed sheriff two years ago to complete the term of the previous sheriff, who resigned after a felony conviction.

  • On Thursday, February 14, 2026, Sheriff Tom Hughes announced his resignation during a quorum court meeting.
  • Hughes said he plans to resign on May 1, 2026, or earlier.

The players

Sheriff Tom Hughes

The current Johnson County sheriff who announced his resignation after a tense quorum court meeting where funding for a sexual assault detective position was debated.

Justice Katie Howard

A Johnson County justice of the peace who voted against the measure to fund the sexual assault detective position, which prompted criticism from Sheriff Hughes.

Justice Larry Jones

A Johnson County justice of the peace who also voted against the measure to fund the sexual assault detective position, which prompted criticism from Sheriff Hughes.

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What they’re saying

“I want to get the recording from this session because everyone needs to know who votes against sexual assault detectives. I'm going to be resigning on May 1, if not before ... bye.”

— Sheriff Tom Hughes (4029tv.com)

“This came up about two years ago when we lost the grant for the sexual assault detective. So we finally got the position back two years later. The entire paycheck is paid. The only thing the county has to pay is benefits — $12,000.”

— Sheriff Tom Hughes (4029tv.com)

“I just don't feel like I should have to almost beg to make life better for the citizens. The number one job of the sheriff and the other politicians in the county is public safety.”

— Sheriff Tom Hughes (4029tv.com)

What’s next

The Johnson County Quorum Court will need to appoint an interim sheriff to serve until a special election can be held to select a new sheriff. The transition process and timeline for the new sheriff taking office will be closely watched by the community.

The takeaway

This resignation highlights the ongoing challenges facing law enforcement leaders in securing adequate funding and support from local government officials. The departure of Sheriff Hughes raises concerns about the stability of the Johnson County Sheriff's Office and the ability to maintain effective public safety services for residents.