A Hays County corrections officer has found himself on the wrong side of the bars after being arrested for alleged sex crimes involving a child. George Snell, 35, from New Braunfels, faces serious charges including two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child and two counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact, according to FOX 7 Austin. The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest occurred on May 6, with Snell's bond set at a total of $2 million and his booking taking place at the Guadalupe County Jail.
Following the arrest, the Hays County Sheriff's Office acted swiftly, terminating Snell's employment as of the same day. Internal administrative reviews had been deferred by the HCSO, which had known about the criminal investigations since August 2024, in an effort to preserve the integrity of the investigation. Sheriff Anthony Hipolito expressed his repugnance at the situation, stating, "The arrest of a Hays County Sheriff’s Office employee for such a horrific crime is sickening and a betrayal of everything this badge stands for." "If you're involved in criminal activity, leave now—because we will find you, expose you, and will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law," Hipolito continued, as reported by CBS Austin.
This incident marks the second arrest of a Hays County corrections officer within a month. Preceding Snell, 45-year-old John Duran was arrested in April on charges including official oppression and tampering with a governmental record after allegations of sexual misconduct with an inmate surfaced. Snell, who had been employed by the Sheriff's Office since November 2022, now faces the consequences of his alleged actions as the department emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy on criminal behavior amongst its ranks.
The Hays County Sheriff's Office has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and cooperation with the leading investigators at the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office. Further details on the case are expected to emerge from the Guadalupe County authorities, Sheriff Hipolito assured the community of the office's dedication to justice and the protection of its citizens, especially children. "There is zero tolerance for criminal behavior in this agency," Hipolito said, sending a clear message that anyone in the ranks found breaking the law will face full accountability.
