HOUSTON, Texas – A 27-year-old man charged in connection to the murder of Harris County Sheriff’s Deputy Fernando Esqueda last year has been released from jail on bond.
According to the Harris County Court records, Dremone Francis, who faces capital murder and tampering with evidence charges, posted a $1 million bond on Tuesday and was released from jail.
Court records dating back 10 years, show that Francis is the only defendant charged with the capital murder of a police officer who is out on bond.
Judge Hilary Unger of the 248th District Court is being criticized for endangering the community and law enforcement with this decision.
If Francis flees, our law enforcement will once again have to risk their lives to apprehend him.
What happened?
In July 2024, 28-year-old Deputy Esqueda was shot to death while on duty patrolling the northeast side of Harris County.
Deputy Esqueda, along with other deputies, responded to a call about a man who had pistol-whipped a Little Ceasars employee over an incorrect order.
The suspect, 44-year-old Ronnie Palmer, left the restaurant as deputies arrived, but was followed by Esqueda who was working undercover.
When Palmer arrived at his second location, he and Esqueda got into a confrontation, resulting in Palmer opening fire.
The suspect, 44-year-old Ronnie Palmer, left the restaurant as deputies arrived, but was followed by Esqueda who was working undercover.
When Palmer arrived at his second location, he and Esqueda got into a confrontation, resulting in Palmer opening fire.