GALVESTON COUNTY — The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) has approved a mediated settlement agreement with Sheriff Jimmy Fullen, formally resolving allegations of administrative violations tied to an attempted revocation of his peace officer license.

TCOLE signed off on the settlement Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, bringing an end to an investigation that began after a complaint was filed by the campaign of Fullen’s former opponent following his 2023 announcement to run for sheriff. Fullen, who secured the Republican nomination for Galveston County Sheriff in the 2024 general election, has remained under review since that time.

According to the sheriff, he cooperated fully with investigators, participating in interviews and providing documents throughout the inquiry. His attorney, Greg Cagle of the Texas Municipal Police Association, appealed the allegations, while attorney Tony Buzbee separately filed a lawsuit challenging TCOLE’s authority to discipline elected officials.

Fullen’s camp raised concerns during the investigation about potential political influence, citing reports that a local state representative aligned with his opponent communicated with TCOLE leadership about the case. They also questioned whether confidential case information had been inappropriately shared with outside parties.

After negotiations, Fullen’s legal team — Buzbee and Cagle — reached an agreement with TCOLE for a retroactive probated suspension of his peace officer license, applied to a period before he took office as sheriff. The sheriff’s office said the settlement fully resolves the matter and will not affect Fullen’s current license status, his authority as sheriff, or his ability to continue leading the department.

_{Photo credit: KGTX 7/Stephen Bernardoni}