Anthony, Texas, council give mayor vote of “No Confidence” following family violence arrest

ANTHONY, Texas -- The political future of Anthony Mayor is still undecided after he was accused of domestic violence.

The Town of Anthony held a special town hall Friday night to decide if the current Mayor, Benjamin Romero, should still preside over the town.

Mayor Romero was in attendance leading the council in a pledge of allegiance before opening up the floor for public comment. Only one attendee chose to participate, however, he did not reside in Anthony.

After public comment concluded the council, including Mayor Romero, left the public meeting to discuss their decision in closed session The town's council returned after two and a half hours of discussion, without Mayor Romero.

Mayor pro-tem Shawn Weeks announced council voted, "No Confidence" in the Mayor. The council said by law they can't take action to remove the Mayor from his position.

Mayor pro-tem Weeks said in order to remove Mayor Romero a petition must be filed by a citizen of Anthony. That petition must receive enough signatures to then be voted on by residents.

Mayor Romero was arrested on Sunday for an alleged assault against a family member. A judge magistrate ruled that Romero have no contact with that family member. The judge granted Mayor Romero a signature bond, which allows him to be released from jail without having to pay a bond. 

Court documents show Mayor Romero was also arrested for similar charges in the past.