My name is David Flash, and I am the Publisher of Big Bend Times. I love the area I live in, and I am passionate about keeping it clean and beautiful. You can find trash bags and a trash picker claw in my car’s toolbox, and I regularly stop to pick up litter in Big Bend, Fort Davis, Alpine, Terlingua, Presidio, and Marfa. I’ve discovered that I’m not alone in this habit; many of my neighbors share the same passion for our environment.
Photos: Presidio County Sheriff’s Office before Big Bend Times cleanup
Photos: Presidio County Sheriff’s Office after Big Bend Times Cleanup
Recently, I was prompted to take action at the Presidio County Sheriff’s office on the town square in Marfa, Texas. The facade of the building was littered with debris, pine needles, dirt, cigarette butts, and bird droppings. This was in stark contrast to the beautiful galleries, installations, and foundations that make Marfa a major tourist and arts hub.
When Big Bend Times first reported on the improper storage and neglected property behind the Sheriff’s office, it got cleaned up the same day the story went live. But when I realized that the front of the building was still in disarray, I decided to clean it myself. I spent a few hours cleaning over 2000 square feet of sidewalks, driveways, patios, and an antique jail cell. Before and after photos, along with a selfie of me after cleaning, can testify to the transformation.
But this issue with the Sheriff’s office isn’t an isolated incident. Recent events involving Presidio County Sheriff Danny Dominguez have raised serious questions about his honesty and accountability.
In June, I called Sheriff Dominguez to ask about a story involving the improper storage of used oil and trash behind his department. The Sheriff claimed I had dialed the wrong number, a response that was both puzzling and concerning, given that I had confirmed the number with the county. This incident has left me questioning the Sheriff’s credibility and integrity.
Additionally, the Sheriff’s office has come under scrutiny for delayed responses to a citizen complaint filed last year. Despite the legal requirements for law enforcement agencies to respond to citizen complaints, the Presidio County Sheriff’s Office has yet to provide a response, nearly a year later.
Presidio County Commissioner Brenda Bentley also expressed concern over the management of the Sheriff’s Office, referring to them as “poor managers of that facility” in a text-message interview with Big Bend Times.
These incidents collectively cast a shadow over the Sheriff’s Office and highlight the importance of honesty, transparency, and accountability in public service. As our investigation continues, I remain committed to pushing for these values and the safety and well-being of our community.
While cleaning up the Sheriff’s office was a small act, it reflects a larger commitment to the standards we should uphold in our community. I believe in doing what’s right, not only for the environment but also in holding our public servants accountable. In a region where the artistic allure thrives, it’s time to ensure that integrity and community pride are equally nurtured.
I would love to speak with you about the social responsibility & civic honesty/transparency you advocate. Kudos!