LAVACA COUNTY, Texas — Travis Hill, the Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace in Lavaca County, has died by suicide after being charged with multiple felony offenses, including compelling prostitution, sexual assault, and solicitation of prostitution, authorities confirmed.
According to the Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office, Hill was arrested on Saturday following an investigation led by the Texas Rangers. Officials said the sheriff’s office and the Lavaca County Attorney’s Office first became aware of the allegations approximately six weeks before his arrest. Because Hill was an elected official, the Texas Rangers were requested to conduct an independent investigation.
Hill was formally charged with compelling prostitution, sexual assault, and solicitation of prostitution. Authorities have not publicly released additional details regarding the allegations or the victims involved.
On Thursday, law enforcement officers were attempting to locate and apprehend Hill after developments in the case. Officials said he was eventually located at a remote location in neighboring Gonzales County.
During the encounter with law enforcement, Hill died by suicide, according to the sheriff’s office.
Authorities have not released further information about the circumstances surrounding his death. The investigation remains active, and officials have indicated that additional details will be made available as the investigation progresses.
Hill’s death comes amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the criminal charges filed against him. Under the U.S. legal system, criminal charges are allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the criminal case and Hill’s death.
Further updates are expected as officials release additional information.