Jefferson County Assistant District Attorney Sonny Eckhart was arrested Thursday night on a charge of assault/family violence, according to KFDM/Fox 4 News. The 39-year-old prosecutor was taken into custody by Beaumont police and later released after posting a $2,500 bond.
Eckhart faces a Class A misdemeanor charge, which carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail, a fine of $4,000, or both.
District Attorney Keith Giblin stated that his office learned of the arrest Friday morning and immediately placed Eckhart on administrative leave without pay. “We hold our employees to the highest standards,” Giblin said. “We are currently awaiting the police report and video evidence, which are expected next week.”
Eckhart’s case remains pending as the investigation continues.