Houston Police Union Condemns Judge for Granting Bond to Accused Deputy Killer
The Houston Police Officers’ Union expressed strong disapproval on Wednesday regarding a local judge’s decision to allow bond for an individual charged with capital murder in the ambush killing of a Harris County deputy.
Judge Hilary Unger of the 248th District Criminal Court, whom the police union characterized as “rogue,” set a total bond of $1 million for Dremone Francis in November 2024, despite prosecutors requesting a no-bond hold. As of Wednesday, Francis has managed to post bail and is now released from custody.
Details Surrounding the Case
Francis stands accused alongside another suspect in the shocking death of Deputy Fernando Esqueda. The charges against him include capital murder and tampering with evidence, and Judge Unger set bail at $500,000 for each offense. The police union contended that this decision showcases a disturbing trend in the judicial system.
Esqueda tragically lost his life while conducting surveillance in an unmarked vehicle in July 2024. Witness accounts and investigations revealed that Francis and his accomplice, Ronnie Palmer, unleashed a barrage of gunfire upon the deputy’s car, resulting in a scene filled with devastating bullet holes. Esqueda was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
“If this case doesn’t warrant a no-bond decision, then what does?” questioned the police union, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The Union’s Frustration and Concerns
While Palmer remains without bond, Francis is free to walk the streets. His criminal history, which includes previous drug-related convictions, raises additional alarms. In 2022, his probation was terminated unsatisfactorily, further complicating the judge’s decision to grant bond.
The police union voiced significant concern over the implications of Unger’s rulings, pointing out a staggering trend: since 2021, 162 homicides have occurred in Harris County where the suspect was out on bond during the crime. This statistic fuels accusations against Unger, who is currently seeking re-election in 2026. The union describes her actions as a gamble with public safety.
“This is not an isolated case. Judge Unger has a track record of prioritizing criminals over victims, undermining the protection provided by law enforcement, and endangering the community,” the union asserted. They argued that if left unchecked, her decisions may continue to embolden repeat offenders and violent criminals.
Unger has advocated for releasing individuals like Francis under the premise of rehabilitative justice, aiming to decrease recidivism rates and enhance community safety. However, the local police force and the citizens express concern over the real-life consequences of such leniency. The National Police Association previously criticized her record, noting that dangerous individuals have returned to society under her watch.
The case draws parallels to a tragic incident in 2021 involving Andrew Williams, who was released under Unger’s bond decision. Williams, who was facing serious charges, went on to commit a gruesome act that ended the life of a 71-year-old woman. Such harrowing stories have left the community questioning the balance between justice and public safety.
The Houston Police Officers’ Union has made it clear that their voices will not remain silent in the wake of Judge Unger’s decision. “We will fight diligently alongside the Harris County Deputies’ Organization (FOP 39) to secure meaningful reform in the bail system and accountability from judges. Judge Hilary Unger’s name will be remembered for this reckless decision, ensuring that the people of Harris County do not forget,” they concluded.
