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World / Thu, 13 Jun 2024 India Today

Indian-origin commissioner candidate in US arrested for online impersonation

Taral Patel, a 30-year-old Indian-American running for Fort Bend County Commissioner, was arrested by Texas Rangers for alleged online impersonation and misrepresentation of identity, both violations under the Texas Election Code. Patel brought attention to derogatory Facebook comments targeting him, alleging terrorism, communism, and making disparaging remarks about Hinduism. In September last year, Patel brought attention to derogatory Facebook comments targeting him, alleging terrorism, communism, and making disparaging remarks about Hinduism. Patel, however, did not name his opponent, Commissioner Andy Meyers, reported PTI. Born to Indian immigrants and raised in Houston, Patel attended local schools and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, reported PTI.

Taral Patel, a 30-year-old Indian-American running for Fort Bend County Commissioner, was arrested by Texas Rangers for alleged online impersonation and misrepresentation of identity, both violations under the Texas Election Code. Patel brought attention to derogatory Facebook comments targeting him, alleging terrorism, communism, and making disparaging remarks about Hinduism.

Patel, a Democrat and a candidate for Precinct 3 commissioner, faces legal trouble with charges including a third-degree felony for online impersonation and a Class A misdemeanour for misrepresentation of identity, according to the Houston Chronicle.

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Currently, Patel is held on a $20,000 bond for the felony charge and a $2,500 bond for the misdemeanour. If bail is not posted, Patel is scheduled to appear before a magistrate on Thursday morning.

In September last year, Patel brought attention to derogatory Facebook comments targeting him, alleging terrorism, communism, and making disparaging remarks about Hinduism. Responding to these comments, a spokesperson for Republican incumbent Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers questioned their authenticity, pointing out difficulties in verifying the identities of the commenters, according to Houston Chronicles.

Patel, however, did not name his opponent, Commissioner Andy Meyers, reported PTI.

Among the postings was a picture of Meyers standing by the side of a cutout of former US President and the presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, during a previous campaign.

Patel, known for his diverse political experience, notably served as the youngest chief of staff for the Fort Bend County judge's office under Judge KP George, another prominent figure in the Indian-American community.

He has also played strategic roles in various political campaigns, including those of Mayor Bill White, Senator Rodney Ellis, and Wendy Davis.

Born to Indian immigrants and raised in Houston, Patel attended local schools and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, reported PTI.

Published By: Girish Kumar Anshul Published On: Jun 13, 2024

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