Van Zandt County Sheriff Steve Hendrix submitted a letter of resignation to Van Zandt County Judge Don Kirkpatrick last week, stating that after “careful thought and prayer” he officially resigns as the sheriff for Van Zandt County.

Hendrix’s resignation will be effective May 14, after the news of his arrest and indictment on charges of giving a false statement to a peace officer earlier this year was released.

Hendrix’s letter states:

“It has been an honor to serve as Van Zandt County Sheriff and I am forever grateful for the trust and belief that the residents of Van Zandt County had in me when they elected me as their sheriff. After careful thought, prayer and consulting with my family, it is with a heavy heart that I send you this, my official letter of resignation. As law enforcement continues to be under assault in our society, this job becomes harder with each passing day. After carefully weighing the consequences of negative publicity for our county, I have decided that my resignation is the right choice, not just for myself, and my family but also for Van Zandt County. My resignation will be effective on May 14, 2022, at midnight. I will continue to serve in my capacity as sheriff until this time. I appreciate the strong working relationship I have had with you and the entire commissioner’s court. It truly has been a blessing. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Steve Hendrix.”

According to the Van Zandt County District Attorney’s Office, Hendrix, Chief Dep. Jerry Wood and Sgt. Blake Snell were found to have witnessed ex-chief deputy Craig Shelton’s use of excessive force against an inmate, identified as Nicholas Crouch, and lied to a Texas Ranger when interviewed in December 2021, according to the indictment handed down by a local grand jury.

The VZC Commissioners Court met for a special session on Wednesday, May 4, to discuss and consider the resignation of Sheriff Hendrix. During that meeting, in emergency closed executive session, the commissioners deliberated the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee; or to hear a complaint or charge against an officer or employee in compliance with Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code. Results of that meeting were not

Results of that meeting were not available as of presstime Tuesday, May 3.