Tensions ran high as Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo took aim at former District Attorney Kim Ogg following the resolution of cases involving Hidalgo’s former staffers and an $11 million COVID-related contract.
Speaking outside the Harris County commissioners’ courtroom on Thursday, Hidalgo did not hold back her criticism.
“Kim Ogg is a dirty cop,” she stated, expressing frustration over the legal battles that plagued her administration.
The controversy stems from allegations against three former Hidalgo staffers—Aaron Dunn, Wallis Nader, and Alex Triantaphyllis—who were accused of misusing official information and tampering with records related to a contract awarded to Elevate Strategies. The case was originally prosecuted by Ogg’s office before being transferred to the Texas Attorney General’s office after Ogg’s election defeat.
The Attorney General’s office eventually dropped charges against Dunn and Nader, while Triantaphyllis was granted pre-trial intervention. Though he did not plead guilty, his case was not dismissed outright.
Legal analyst Brian Wice explained the situation to our news partner ABC13 Houston.
“The options were to risk a three-week trial, costing taxpayers more money and adding stress to his family, or to complete a day of community service at a food bank. That’s an easy choice.”
The investigation initially revealed text messages and emails between Elevate Strategies’ owner and Hidalgo’s staff discussing the contract before it was publicly announced. While Ogg’s office pursued the case, the Attorney General’s office later cited new evidence not presented to the grand jury, making prosecution difficult.
Despite the legal resolution, the financial impact continues, as Hidalgo announced plans to reimburse staff members for their legal expenses.
Ogg, in response, dismissed Hidalgo’s comments as “kindergarten tactics” and insisted that the plea deals prevent the public from ever fully knowing whether the contract was manipulated.
Meanwhile, Triantaphyllis issued a statement to our news partner ABC13 expressing relief.
“Today, the truth finally prevailed. I’m eager to move forward and continue serving my community. While this experience was disheartening, it won’t deter me from public service.”
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