Neighbors of Harris County Treasurer Dr. Carla Wyatt are speaking out about her character following her recent arrest, saying the public doesn’t see the full picture of her community work.
Wyatt was arrested Saturday and charged with misdemeanor burglary of a motor vehicle, according to court records. Documents allege she was found sitting inside a vehicle outside a lounge and bar called Forget Me Not and refused to leave. Authorities say she was not violent.
The case drew attention quickly because of Wyatt’s position as a county official. She is scheduled to make her first court appearance Friday.
Residents describe Wyatt as a workaholic and philanthropist who consistently gives her time to others.
“You can’t just hold that one mistake when you look at the good that she’s done,” said Roderick Richardson, a neighbor.
“She’s the most selfless person I know,” said Tom Derrah. “Her off hours, she’s donating her free time to people in this community. She’s mentoring young girls.”
“She spent a lot of time caring, advising us,” said Sandra Greer, a neighbor.
Neighbors also say Wyatt spent significant time caring for an elderly neighbor who recently passed away. “She taught her how to be more, how to verbalize using a fan for yes and no,” Greer added.
Court records show Wyatt was previously arrested for DWI in 2023. That case was dismissed after she completed a pretrial diversion program.
Neighbors say they don’t have answers for what police allege, but they want her life seen in context, not reduced to a single incident.
“Anyone who wants to make a judgment on her, then you need to turn around and look in the mirror. We all have faults,” said Greer.
KPRC 2 reached out to the Treasurer’s office for comment but has not received a response. Attempts to reach Wyatt at her home were also unsuccessful.