Texas Deputy Fired, Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of a Child

HOUSTON COUNTY, Texas — A Houston County sheriff’s deputy has been fired and arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a child.

According to the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Skyler Laza was taken into custody Wednesday night at his home in Palestine. Laza, who joined the department on September 17, 2024, was immediately terminated following his arrest.

Sheriff Zak Benge said he personally went to the Anderson County Jail to ensure Laza’s termination was handled in person.

“The allegations and supporting evidence against Laza are truly disturbing,” Benge said in a statement. “It is sickening to me that someone who sought a position to protect our community — especially its most vulnerable, our children — would be the very person arrested for abuse.”

The sheriff’s office says it is fully cooperating with the agencies leading the investigation and will continue to assist in every possible way.

“To the victim and their family, I am deeply sorry you have had to endure this kind of pain at the hands of someone meant to protect you,” Benge added. “To the citizens of Houston County and beyond, know that this type of behavior is not — and will never be — tolerated.”

Authorities have not released additional details about the case as the investigation continues.

This report was compiled using information gathered from law enforcement statements, official press releases, and publicly available news sources.

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