Former County Judge Anthony Cobos, accomplice sentenced to prison

Former County Judge Anthony Cobos, who pleaded guilty to public corruption, has been sentenced to four years in prison and must pay a $10,000 fine.

His accomplice, Lorenzo Aguilar, was also sentenced to four years in prison but his fine is $50,000.

Both men admitted their guilt and apologized during their sentencing hearing, but would not say whether he made any decisions under the influence while being county judge.

In the courtroom, Cobos pleaded for forgiveness.

“I am a different man from what I was 7 years ago. Different yesterday, different today, different tomorrow and I will never be the same man I was then,” said Cobos.

Cobos revealed he had a longtime alcohol and drug abuse problem spanning 20 years. He also said he has found God.

“Even though this is going to be very painful for me and my family, things happen for a reason, often out of our own being … But I just want to encourage all El Pasoans who are having family problems … Who are having difficulty finding a job, difficulty with your marriage, its ok to pray. It’s ok to pray because there’s a day after tomorrow,” he said.

In September of last year, Cobos pleaded guilty to conspiracy.

He was accused of receiving $4,500 in bribes from lobbyists in exchange for his vote as the head of the El Paso Commissioners Court.

Aguilar also pleaded guilty to conspiracy after being accused of bribing Cobos while he was county judge.

“I come to you with a heavy heart,” Aguilar said before apologizing to the U.S. and his family for the damage he had caused.

Both men will be allowed to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on February 11.