Smith County Sheriff Conducts Child Support Roundup

TYLER – Authorities in Smith County have arrested 25 parents who allegedly violated court orders requiring them to pay child support. That’s according to a news release from the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Sheriff Larry Smith led the effort, with assistance from the Tyler and Troup Police Departments; the Smith County Community Supervision and Corrections Department; and constables from precincts 2, 3, 4, and 5. Thursday’s sweep was conducted in conjunction with the Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division.

“Caring for your children is the fundamental and moral responsibility of any parent,” Attorney General Ken Paxton said. “I commend Sheriff Smith and everyone involved in holding accountable those who attempt to evade child support. Their efforts help ensure better care and better lives for Texas children.”

This week’s effort began at 4:30 a.m., when Sheriff Smith dispatched 10 teams of law enforcement officers to track down noncompliant parents before they had a chance to leave their homes for the day, according to the news release. Child Support Division investigators aided the constable by providing logistical assistance to locate missing parents. The roundup resulted in the arrest of 18 parents. Last month, when roundup preparations began, seven additional parents were arrested, for a total of 25 arrests.

Delinquent parents arrested on civil warrants face up to six months in jail. Cash bonds posted by delinquent parents seeking release from jail are paid to the custodial parents and children who are owed back child support. Parents who have outstanding warrants can avoid the embarrassment of arrest at their home or work by turning themselves in to the Smith County jail, according to the news release. Parents who have fallen behind on their child support payments – but are not yet subject to warrants for their arrest – should immediately contact the Attorney General’s Child Support Division at (800) 252-8014 to make payment arrangements.