HOUSTON – A store manager for a west Houston thrift store with ties to the Harris County Probation Department is accused of trying to broker a sex deal, according to court records.
In the indictment, Willie Earl Duckworth, 56, was arrested Tuesday and charged with aggravated perjury and official oppression.
The thrift store where Duckworth works, 2nd Blessing, not only sells used items, it also offers people on probation in Harris County an opportunity to work in exchange for court ordered community service hours.
The indictment alleges that Duckworth offered to sign off on a woman's community service hours in exchange for sex. They were to meet at the Red Roof Inn on Rogerdale Road. Instead, the woman told her probation officer of the arrangement and an investigation ensued.
During the Grand Jury investigation, prosecutors said that Duckworth lied to investigators under oath, denying involvement in the woman's claims.
As of Wednesday evening, records indicated Duckworth posted $5,000 bond and was released from the Harris County Jail.
Local 2 went to Duckworth's home to ask him about the allegations but no one answered the door.
We also tried talking to officials at West Houston Ministries, the non-profit organization that oversees 2nd Blessing Thrift Store. However, our crew was asked to leave by security, who added that the company's CEO Shirley Downing had no comment.
Duckworth is expected back in court later this week.