KINGSVILLE, Texas — A former Texas State Trooper will serve 14 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a child, the Office of the Attorney General announced Monday.
Andrew Smith, once employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), admitted to one count of Indecency with a Child by Contact during a court appearance in Kleberg County on May 1. The abuse occurred over several years while Smith was actively serving as a trooper.
According to court records, the abuse was first reported in January 2021 by the victim, who was 14 years old at the time. The victim, now 18, delivered powerful testimony in court describing multiple acts of abuse that began when she was under the age of 14.
Smith resigned from DPS following the report. At sentencing, he waived a jury trial and allowed the judge to 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,” said Attorney General Ken Paxton in a statement. “Thank you to all our law enforcement partners who worked to ensure that justice was secured.”
The prosecution was led by Assistant Attorneys General Erika Hime and Elizabeth Mireles, who were appointed to the case at the invitation of Kleberg County District Attorney John Hubert.
Abuse of Authority Raises Alarm
The case adds to ongoing scrutiny over misconduct within law enforcement ranks and the misuse of public trust by those sworn to uphold the law.
While Paxton’s office highlighted the successful conviction as a sign of accountability, legal and public safety experts have noted the importance of transparency and vigilance in rooting out abuse by individuals in positions of power.
“This case is another painful reminder that authority does not equal immunity,” said a spokesperson from a child advocacy group based in South Texas. “The survivor’s courage in coming forward—and the justice that followed—sends a powerful message.”
The 14-year sentence reflects both the severity of the crime and the importance of survivor testimony in achieving justice.
For official updates on child protection efforts and public safety initiatives in Texas, visit texasattorneygeneral.gov.
