Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Rusk PD Officer, Ongoing Cherokee County Turmoil

RUSK, Texas – A new federal civil rights lawsuit has been filed against the Rusk Police Department and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office — further entangling key figures previously exposed in TXAN 24 News’ ongoing coverage of Cherokee County corruption.

A plaintiff, filed the suit in federal court, citing violations under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 stemming from an October 12, 2024 arrest in Rusk. The Plaintiff alleges Officer Mary Beck wrongfully detained him while he was in town to care for his elderly mother — conduct he claims violated his constitutional rights.

Officer Beck is no stranger to controversy. As previously reported by TXAN 24 News, she was involved in an internal scandal that included a reported affair with Officer David Heredia and a complaint she filed against then-suspended Rusk Police Chief.

Chief Scott, who has since returned to duty, was actively investigating the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office just before his administrative leave began.

The plaintiff has also filed a Plea in Abatement in Cherokee County’s 2nd Judicial District, seeking to pause state proceedings tied to the same incident.

This lawsuit becomes the latest development in TXAN 24’s sustained coverage of law enforcement misconduct in Cherokee County — an ongoing investigation that has uncovered internal disputes, retaliation claims, and calls for systemic reform.

Stay with TXAN 24 News as we continue to report on this developing story with Cherokee County and Rusk Police Department.