The Smith County Sheriff’s Department along with the Tyler, Lindale, Troup, and Arp Police Departments and Smith County District Attorney’s Office, led a child support roundup that started on Friday, November 1, 2019. They arrested 34 Smith County parents who violated court orders requiring them to pay child support. The sweep was conducted in conjunction with the Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division to locate parents wanted for failing to pay their court-ordered child support.
“Caring for your children is the fundamental moral responsibility of any parent,” Attorney General Ken Paxton said. “I commend everyone involved in holding those who attempt to evade child support accountable. Their efforts help ensure better care and better lives for Texas children.”
This effort demonstrates the hard work and collaboration between city, county and state government. A total of 13 teams of law enforcement officers were dispatched to locate and arrest the noncompliant parents before they had a chance to leave their homes for the day. Child Support Division investigators assisted in the effort by providing logistical assistance and helping locate missing parents.
Delinquent parents arrested on civil warrants face up to six months in jail. Cash bonds posted by delinquent parents seeking release from jail are paid to the custodial parents and children who are owed back child support.
Parents who have fallen behind on their child support payments – but are not subject to warrants for their arrest – should immediately contact the Attorney General’s Child Support Division at (800) 252-8014 to make payment arrangements.