Joshua Pritchett Arrested on Multiple Charges After Stepping Down as La Marque City Manager
GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas – Just days after resigning from his position, former La Marque city manager Joshua Pritchett, 36, has been arrested and charged with a series of felonies and misdemeanors, marking the end of a turbulent tenure in city leadership.
Pritchett was taken into custody in Rockwall County on Saturday, July 19, and later transferred to Galveston County to face charges that include:
First-degree felony arson
Third-degree felony tampering with physical evidence
Misdemeanor false report to a peace officer
Two counts of fraud
Authorities allege that Pritchett set fire to the fence around his home on July 3, leaving behind graffiti that read “Lowry rules”, in apparent reference to La Marque City Councilman Joseph Lowry. Police now believe Pritchett staged the incident himself.
Just days later, on July 7, Pritchett resigned after serving only two months in the role, stating he had been subjected to “harassment, retaliation, stalking, and direct threats.”
Following his resignation, La Marque police confirmed they are also investigating Pritchett for allegedly lying on his resume, falsely claiming military service and college degrees.
“It appears at this point that it’s definitely been a misrepresentation,” said La Marque Police Chief Randall Aragon, noting ongoing coordination with the District Attorney’s Office.
Pritchett has since bonded out of jail. His attorney has not yet issued a public comment.
