Goforth case investigator who admitted to affair with witness has disciplinary hearing

HOUSTON – The Harris County Sheriff's Office investigator who admitted having "consensual sexual conduct" with a witness during the investigation into Deputy Darren Goforth's death went before a disciplinary panel Thursday.

Homicide Sgt. Craig Clopton sped away from the Sheriff's Office headquarters late Thursday afternoon after he went before a disciplinary committee comprised of command staff members.

A Sheriff's Office representative told KPRC 2 that Clopton spent about 10 minutes at the hearing.

Court documents state Clopton admitted to consensual sexual conduct with a witness in the slaying of Deputy Darren Goforth. Clopton was relieved of duty with pay. His future with the department remains unclear.

Internal affairs is expected to present its findings to the committee. A decision could come in the coming days.

After that, Clopton has the opportunity to appeal with Sheriff Ron Hickman. Hickman could uphold, reverse or modify the committee's decision.

Thursday's hearing is only one step in the disciplinary process.

KPRC 2 legal analyst Brian Wice said questions could be raised in the case about the integrity and the credibility of the witness and also of Clopton.

Lawyers for Shannon Miles, the man accused of killing Goforth, have requested the District Attorney's Office release records from Goforth's cell phone. Miles' defense team previously spoke publicly, questioning whether Goforth was on duty at the time he was killed or was instead conducting private business.

Defense attorney Anthony Osso has previously said the documents are extremely important to his case to determine if Goforth was discharging an official duty when he was at the gas station the night of Aug. 28. If Goforth was not, then Osso said there should not be a capital murder charge against Miles, but rather murder.

KPRC 2 is reporting on these details because they are now part of the official investigation.

On Monday, Judge Denise Collins recused herself from the Goforth murder case. The reason for the judge's decision is not known.


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