[Photo: YouTube]
Law enforcement groups and taxpayers in Texas City are crediting the investigative journalism of Dolcefino Media for the landslide defeat of Mayor Dedrick Johnson and his allies on city council. We had dubbed Johnson the “Dancing Dicktator” for his secrecy and his grip on controlling the city council agenda.
“Great work by Dolcefino Consulting on educating so many people to what was going on in Texas City,” The Houston Police Unions commented on Facebook.
Challenger Abel Garza won decisively in Saturday’s election, marking a significant shift in direction for the city following months of complaints about transparency, police leadership, and government accountability.
The outcome comes after an extended investigation by Dolcefino Media into Texas City government. The investigation initially probed allegations that Texas City Police Chief Landis Cravens was driving experienced officers from the force as part of a coordinated effort against the local police union. More than sixty officers have left the Texas City Police Department in the last three years.
“The amount of effort that you guys put in, and the tenacity of Wayne’s just digging and digging for facts was completely invaluable to us,” Rachel Sphar said.
The chief’s investigation evolved into a broader review of city government operations and leadership practices, including the denial of citizens’ ability to speak on any subject they chose at city council meetings. The mayor also changed the charter to give himself veto power over council actions. Johnson had single-handedly rejected the billion-dollar Margaritaville 55-plus housing project.
The secrecy of Texas City government was on full display in March when one citizen was forcibly arrested for uttering a few words from the audience. Viral videos watched by millions on social media showed a clash between Dolcefino Media President Wayne Dolcefino and a police officer when Wayne attempted to place a microphone on the podium used by public speakers.
Dolcefino Media filed a lawsuit against Texas City last year, claiming City Secretary Rhomari Leigh had systematically and illegally withheld public records, including a police audit, the cost of the mayor’s security, and phone records allegedly tying the mayor to a convicted rapist.
“There is a new day for Texas City. The Dancing Dicktator is done, slaughtered in his attempt to get re-elected. We were glad to help and it shows how a sustained investigation against political corruption results in change,” Wayne Dolcefino said.
For interviews or additional information, contact Wayne Dolcefino at 713-389-0810.
