A late-night stop at a Whataburger in Graham turned into a fistfight between a Young County justice of the peace and a teenage boy, and the whole thing is now under investigation. Witnesses say it started inside the restaurant after a group of teens asked to take photos with social media personality Danny Duncan, then spilled into the parking lot. Short video clips of the confrontation have circulated online, and local officials say they are reviewing what happened.
What Happened
According to witness accounts, the clash began around 1 a.m. last Sunday at the Graham Whataburger after teens approached Duncan for photos. Witnesses told a local station the exchange grew tense when Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Jason Hearne allegedly made a comment about two men taking a photo together, and the argument moved outside. Once in the parking lot, witnesses said Hearne threw the first punch, and the teenager swung back. This initial reporting was detailed by the San Antonio Express-News.
Video And Witnesses
Short clips of the parking lot scuffle have been shared on social platforms. In one, a teen faces off with a man, fists up and voices rising, before punches are exchanged. The Houston Chronicle reviewed the footage and reported witness descriptions of the exchange that match the circulating video.
Officials Respond
Terri Rhodes, a district judge coordinator, told KFDX/KJTL on behalf of District Judge Phillip Gregory that, "At this time, [District Judge Phillip Gregory] indicates that he is aware of the circumstances and believes the matter to be under an active investigation," as reported by the San Antonio Express-News. Young County’s website lists Hearne as the Precinct 1 justice of the peace and shows his court office at the Young County Courthouse in Graham.
How Discipline Could Proceed
The State Commission on Judicial Conduct has authority over justices of the peace and can investigate allegations that bring discredit on the judiciary. Its options range from dismissing a complaint to issuing sanctions, ordering a suspension, or starting formal proceedings that could lead to removal. The commission requires sworn complaints and spells out the filing process and potential outcomes on its site, according to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
What To Watch Next
So far, there have been no public reports of criminal charges connected to the fight, and neither Hearne nor the teenager has made public comments, according to the Houston Chronicle. Any next moves are likely to come from local law enforcement or the district judge’s office as officials continue to review video and interview witnesses.
