Terrell County Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland is facing sharp criticism after his office attempted to block a Big Bend Times public records request with fabricated fees and illegal demands, sparking concerns over his transparency and competence.
We at the Big Bend Times requested records showing how Cleveland’s office spent taxpayer-funded grants from Operation Lone Star and Stonegarden. Instead of complying with the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA), Cleveland’s office demanded $600 in prepayment, citing 24 hours of labor at $25 per hour — a rate that is not only arbitrary but directly violates state law. He also required a form that TPIA does not mandate.
“This is public money we’re asking about, and the law guarantees everyone the right to know how it’s spent,” said Big Bend Times Publisher David Flash. “Sheriff Cleveland’s response raises the question: Is he hiding something, or does he just not know the law?”
Illegal Fees and Made-Up Rules
The TPIA is clear:
- Clerical Labor Costs: Agencies can charge a maximum of $15 per hour after the first free hour. Cleveland’s $25 rate — padded with payroll taxes, health insurance, and pensions — is not legally allowed.
- Prepayment Rules: Prepayments can only be requested if charges exceed $100 and must be based on accurate, itemized estimates. Cleveland’s $600 demand is both inflated and unsupported.
- Form Requirements: TPIA does not require requestors to complete additional forms. Written requests via email, mail, or hand delivery are sufficient.
For comparison, the Texas Attorney General’s office estimates that producing a year’s worth of financial records — including copying and redactions — should cost about $39. Cleveland’s demand for more than 15 times that amount defies both common sense and the law.
“It’s clear he didn’t bother to look up the actual law before responding,” Flash added. “This is a blatant attempt to dodge accountability.”
Can’t Handle the Basics
Sheriff Cleveland’s mishandling of our request comes as he continues to use his position to build a national profile. Appearing frequently on conservative media outlets like Fox Business, Cleveland criticizes federal border policies while presenting himself as an expert on complex national issues.
“If he can’t even handle a straightforward records request without breaking the law, how can he claim to solve big-picture problems?” Flash asked.
What Is He Hiding?
The Big Bend Times requested this information to report on how Terrell County is spending taxpayer dollars. Instead of complying, Cleveland responded with fabricated fees, illegal prepayment demands, and unnecessary delays, suggesting a deliberate attempt to avoid scrutiny.
“This isn’t just about the money — it’s about the truth,” Flash said. “What’s he hiding that’s worth breaking the law to keep secret?”
Cleveland’s suggestion that fulfilling the request could take over 30 days also violates TPIA’s requirement for prompt responses. The combination of illegal fees, delays, and arbitrary rules paints a picture of either incompetence or intentional stonewalling.
“Transparency isn’t optional — it’s the law,” Flash emphasized. “Cleveland’s actions undermine trust in local government and show a shocking disregard for the people he’s supposed to serve.”
We Will Get the Answers
The Big Bend Times remains committed to uncovering the truth about how Sheriff Cleveland’s office is spending public money. Public records are the foundation of accountability, and we will not be deterred by illegal fees or baseless requirements.
Terrell County residents deserve to know how their tax dollars are being used — and we will make sure they do.
