The City of Bandera held a special meeting on January 2, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the performance of Marshal Nancy De Foster and a serious public concern regarding police conduct.
During the meeting, a board member praised Marshal De Foster for her professional abilities and commitment to her duties, highlighting her contributions to the community and her role in upcoming meetings. However, the tone shifted dramatically when a resident, Amy Asher, raised alarming allegations against a deputy marshal. Asher claimed that her daughter had reported suicidal thoughts and abuse to the deputy, who allegedly failed to report this to the appropriate authorities as required by law.
Asher expressed her frustration over the handling of the situation, stating that the deputy had engaged in questionable behavior, including befriending minors and using city resources inappropriately. She criticized the investigation led by Marshal De Foster, claiming it was insufficient and left her feeling unheard and dissatisfied. Asher's testimony underscored a growing concern about the relationship between law enforcement and the community, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable individuals.
The meeting also featured comments from other attendees, including Chris Dion, who spoke in support of Marshal De Foster, indicating a divide in public opinion regarding her performance.
The discussions at this meeting highlight critical issues of accountability and community trust in law enforcement, suggesting a need for further examination of police practices and the support systems in place for residents. The City of Bandera may need to address these concerns to restore confidence among its citizens.