Judge Waggoner Back at Work After DWI, Unlawful Weapon Arrest in Montgomery County

City officials have confirmed that Conroe Municipal Judge William Waggoner was arrested early Wednesday in Montgomery County for driving while intoxicated and unlawfully carrying a weapon. Waggoner, 34, resumed his duties on the same day and continues to serve as the elected municipal judge while awaiting court proceedings as reported by ABC13.

Officers from the Montgomery Police Department apprehended Waggoner on McCowan Street within the City of Montgomery. According to jail records, he was still in custody at the Montgomery County Jail as of 8 a.m. on Wednesday. Officials reported that the charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon arose from the possession of a firearm during an arrest for a misdemeanor offense, a scenario the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office noted is frequently encountered in similar cases.

Conroe officials released a statement on the recent arrest, emphasizing the importance of due process for everyone, including elected officials. “No individual stands above the law, nor is anyone exempt from the possibility of error,” the statement conveyed. Authorities described the incident as “unfortunate,” emphasizing that “one is not guilty until proven so.” In light of the ongoing legal proceedings, officials refrained from providing any specifics about the arrest.

In 2022, Waggoner took office as the municipal judge after the retirement of former Judge Mike Davis, who had served for 12 years on the bench. In a decisive June runoff election, Waggoner emerged victorious over opponent Meloney Turner, successfully securing the position. He is actively pursuing the Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace position. This role will soon be open as Judge Wayne Mack transitions to run for the position of Montgomery County judge.

City officials have indicated that the municipal court is expected to operate as usual, affirming that Waggoner will continue to serve as the sitting judge unless there are changes due to legal or electoral circumstances. The city has not disclosed if any internal review or administrative actions will take place following the arrest.

The allegations introduce a layer of unpredictability to Waggoner’s aspirations for elevated political office as the primary season draws near. 

In Montgomery County, the Justice of the Peace courts oversee various civil and criminal cases, with the Precinct 1 position often regarded as a highly contested role in county elections.

Officials have yet to provide further information regarding the events that prompted the traffic stop, nor have they confirmed if any court dates have been set. The city has emphasized that it will refrain from providing any additional comments.