The mayor of Magnolia, Texas, was arrested Tuesday while under investigation by the Texas Rangers over assault allegations tied to a complaint filed late last year. Authorities have not disclosed the reason for the arrest, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Weeks after state authorities confirmed an assault investigation against Magnolia Mayor Matthew Dantzer, he was arrested Tuesday and booked into the Montgomery County Jail.
A jail official confirmed the arrest but did not provide charges or details. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office referred all inquiries to the Texas Rangers, who have not responded.
City Secretary Christian Gable's November human resources complaint prompted the investigation. City officials previously said an outside firm's internal review was inconclusive, resulting in no disciplinary action.
Gable, a Magnolia employee for over four years, claimed Dantzer assaulted her at the Omni Fort Worth Hotel in October during the Texas Municipal League conference. Outside the venue, Dantzer allegedly tried to pull down her pants and choke her. Leonard Schneider, City Attorney, verified the complaint.
Gable declined comment due to the investigation.
On Tuesday, Dantzer and his attorney, Douglas Atkinson, denied the allegations.
Atkinson said Mr. Dantzer maintains his innocence and looks forward to defending himself in court. He added that Dantzer will continue serving Magnolia residents.
City officials declined comment Tuesday.
As Magnolia, a fast-growing Montgomery County city northwest of Houston, awaits more information about the arrest and state-led investigation, residents are watching.
U.S. Army veteran Dantzer was elected to the Magnolia City Council in 2017 and defeated Todd Kana for mayor in May 2024. Without running for reelection, his term ends in May.
Authorities have not announced when more arrest or investigation information will be released.
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