An internal complaint filed against state Rep. Bryan Slaton, R-Royse City, alleges that he was engaging in a potentially “inappropriate relationship” with an intern, reports The Texas Tribune.
The account in the complaint has been corroborated by another source who works in the Capitol and the source had direct knowledge of the incident.
According to the complaint, the intern was invited by Salton to his Austin condo late on the night of March 31 where they consumed alcohol. The intern is under 21 years of age.
Patrick Short, Rockwall-based attorney hired to represent Slaton, issued a statement Monday morning saying his firm is representing Slaton over a complaint, but provided few details. “We are aware of outrageous claims circulating online by second-tier media that make false claims against Representative Slaton,” Short said. “As a result, he has been advised to forward all inquiries in this matter—including any that may relate to a possible complaint—to his legal counsel.”
“The Texas House does not tolerate misconduct or other inappropriate behaviors and takes all allegations related to these issues seriously. I expect this matter to be addressed in a swift and thorough manner under the rules governing our chamber for the 88th Legislature and all applicable standards of conduct,” said House Speaker Dade Phelan.
It is of note that Slaton claims to be "Christian" conservative. Slaton has been married to his current wife since 2017, but filed for divorce back in April 2022. Still, in terms of living up to Biblical values of marriage, Slaton failed miserably in this incident.
The Austin American-Statesman noted that Slaton was "notably absent from the Capitol last Thursday before returning this week." He was absent from from the House while the budget for fiscal years 2024-25 was being discussed and passed. The day was to be especially big for Slaton, who had prepared 27 budget amendments.
