HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A man charged with capital murder in connection with the death of a Harris County sheriff’s deputy was released on bond, prompting strong criticism from law enforcement and victim advocates.
Dremone Francis, who faces charges of capital murder and tampering with evidence related to the July 2024 killing of Deputy Fernando Esqueda, was released after posting bond. This comes months after a judge had set a combined $1 million bail in his case.
“It’s a slap in the face to all law enforcement officers. It’s a definite slap in the face to the public,” said Andy Kahan, a victim advocate with Crime Stoppers of Houston.
Kahan expressed his disbelief at the situation.
“I was angry, I was ticked off,” Kahan said when asked about the suspect’s release.
“I’ve never, ever in my career ever seen a defendant charged with capital murder of a police officer get out on bond,” Kahan said.
The case stems from a shooting where Deputy Esqueda was killed in an ambush while searching for a suspect who allegedly pistol-whipped a Little Caesars employee over a wrong pizza order. That suspect, identified as Ronald Palmer, is Francis’ co-defendant and remains in jail with no bond. Both Palmer and Francis are charged with capital murder for Esqueda’s death.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez shared his thoughts on Facebook, writing, “This is an absolutely terrible message and the family of Deputy Esqueda should 100% be upset, which they are.”
In his post, Sheriff Gonzalez referenced a letter he recently sent supporting legislation.
“The decision of whether a person belongs in jail should be based on public safety, not the amount of money a person can pay.” He emphasized that “People charged with killing peace officers belong in that category.”
The Harris County Deputies Organization also weighed in, stating on Facebook that they are “outraged and appalled” that Francis was given a bond.
Kahan further expressed concern about the implications of the decision.
“It’s horrifying to me. I mean, the fact that you can be charged with capital murder of a police officer and actually post a bond and get back out.”