State Rep. Terri Hodge Pleads Guilty

By Bill Zeeble, KERA News

Dallas, TX –

State Representative Terri Hodge has pleaded guilty to a federal tax charge and will resign her District 100 seat she has held for 14 years. KERA's Bill Zeeble reports.

In a prepared statement, Hodge expressed remorse to colleagues, family, and friends, and apologized to citizens in her district for letting them down. Dallas City Council woman Angela Hunt was among several council members who endorsed Hodge in the upcoming primary election.

Hunt: Elected officials are held to a higher standard and it is absolutely critical for us not to breach the public trust. And unfortunately here, Terri has violated not just the law but the public trust.

Hodge faced bribery and extortion charges tied to a housing scandal that has already led to convictions of former Dallas City Council member Don Hill and his wife. Hodge's trial had been scheduled for next month. She'll resign when sentenced, but the judge must first set a date.

Hodge's name will remain on the March 2nd primary ballot, with opponent Eric Johnson. If Hodge wins, she cannot serve. Precinct officials will then choose a replacement.

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