Edcouch Fires City Manager Amid Federal Charges, City Secretary to Assume Role

Edcouch,City Manager

In a significant decision made by Edcouch officials tonight, embattled City Manager Victor De la Cruz was officially terminated from his position. De la Cruz, who is facing federal charges, had been suspended with pay since last week. The city voted to reassign the duties of city manager to the city secretary in the interim.

De la Cruz Fired After Federal Indictment

De la Cruz had served as Edcouch’s city manager since 2019, but his tenure came to an end following federal charges of conspiracy to defraud the U.S., bribery of federal programs, and violations of the Travel Act. Both De la Cruz and Mayor Pro Tem Rene Adan Flores, who faces similar charges, have pled not guilty.

During the meeting, Edcouch officials voted in favor of terminating De la Cruz’s employment. The decision came after much consideration, with city leaders emphasizing that the city’s operations and services will continue as usual.

“The city took action to terminate the city manager. It’s never a good day when the city manager’s terminated. But the services provided by the city will remain the same,” said a city official after the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Rene Adan Flores Absent

Although Mayor Pro Tem Rene Adan Flores was also indicted on federal charges, he did not attend tonight’s meeting. City Attorney Roel Gutierrez clarified that Flores is still legally entitled to serve as Mayor Pro Tem and attend meetings despite the ongoing investigation.

“Just because you’re arrested and indicted doesn’t mean you’re guilty of anything,” Gutierrez said, affirming the presumption of innocence. Gutierrez also confirmed that Flores chose not to run for re-election.

A Lengthy Search for a New City Manager

The city has begun the process of finding a new city manager to replace De la Cruz. However, City Attorney Gutierrez indicated that the search may take several months and could extend into next year.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

Both De la Cruz and Flores are scheduled for a court hearing next month. The charges they face, including conspiracy and bribery, have cast a shadow over Edcouch’s leadership, but the city continues to move forward with its services and operations.