Houston police union slams ‘rogue’ judge for letting man accused of killing deputy out on bond: ‘Disgraceful’

A Tragic Incident and a Controversial Bail Decision Spark Outrage in Houston

In a stunning and deeply troubling turn of events, the Houston Police Officers’ Union has vehemently criticized Judge Hilary Unger of the 248th District Criminal Court for her decision to set a $1 million bond for Dremone Francis, a man accused of capital murder in the 2024 ambush killing of Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda. Francis, who was granted bail in November 2024, has since posted bail and is now free, sparking widespread outrage among law enforcement and the community. This decision has reignited concerns about public safety and judicial accountability, with the police union labeling Judge Unger’s actions as a "disgraceful betrayal of public trust" and a direct threat to the safety of law-abiding citizens in Harris County.

The Ambush and Its Aftermath

Deputy Fernando Esqueda was tragically shot and killed in July 2024 while conducting surveillance in an unmarked police car. Francis and his co-defendant, Ronnie Palmer, are accused of ambushing Esqueda, firing multiple shots into his vehicle, leaving it riddled with bullet holes. The deputy was rushed to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. This case is particularly shocking due to its brutal nature and the fact that it targeted a law enforcement officer, making it a capital murder charge. Francis, who is also charged with tampering with evidence, has a prior conviction for manufacturing and delivering drugs, as well as an unsatisfactory termination of probation in 2022. Despite these red flags, Judge Unger set bail at $500,000 for each charge, allowing Francis to walk free after posting the total $1 million bond.

The Police Union’s Scathing Criticism

The Houston Police Officers’ Union has been vocal in its condemnation of Judge Unger’s decision, calling it "indefensible" and "not just a case of judicial incompetence, but a direct threat to public safety." The union emphasized that Francis was not a low-level offender but an active participant in the cold-blooded ambush and execution of a law enforcement officer. They questioned how a case involving the murder of a police officer could warrant bail, asking, "If this case doesn’t warrant a no-bond decision, then what does?" The union’s frustration is compounded by the fact that Francis’s co-defendant, Ronnie Palmer, remains in jail without bond, while Francis is now free to roam the streets.

A Pattern of Concerning Decisions

This is not the first time Judge Unger has faced criticism for her bail decisions. The police union alleges that she has a history of prioritizing criminals over victims, undermining law enforcement efforts, and making the streets of Harris County more dangerous. Unger, who is up for re-election in 2026, has been accused of acting as an "activist judge" who gambles with public safety. The union pointed to a troubling trend: since 2021, there have been 162 homicides in Harris County where the suspect was out on bond at the time of the murder. They argue that Judge Unger’s decisions are emblematic of a broader problem within the judicial system, where repeat offenders and violent criminals are emboldened by lenient bail policies.

A History of Dangerous Bail Decisions

Judge Unger’s track record has raised eyebrows beyond the current case. Her campaign platform emphasized alternatives to incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. However, critics argue that her approach has failed to protect the community. One notable case involves Andrew Williams, who was out on bond for capital murder and aggravated assault charges in 2019. While on bond, Williams stole a purse from 71-year-old Martha Medina and ran her over with his car, killing her. Williams was able to commit this heinous act because Judge Unger had set his bond at $150,000, which he was able to post. This case, along with others, has led the National Police Association to voice concerns about Unger’s decisions, which they believe prioritize criminals over public safety.

A Call to Action for Bail Reform and Judicial Accountability

The Houston Police Officers’ Union has made it clear that they will not remain silent in the face of Judge Unger’s decision. They have vowed to fight for real bail reform and judicial accountability, urging the community to remember Unger’s name and the consequences of her actions. The union is collaborating with the Harris County Deputies’ Organization (FOP 39) to demand change and ensure that such reckless decisions are not repeated. As the debate over bail reform continues, this case serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved and the need for a judicial system that prioritizes public safety and accountability. The union’s message is clear: the streets of Houston will not be safe as long as judges like Hilary Unger continue to gamble with the lives of law-abiding citizens.