City Manager of La Marque Steps Down Following Fraud Allegations
La Marque, Texas — The city of La Marque is undergoing a sudden leadership change following the resignation of City Manager J.B. Pritchett, who stepped down on Monday after questions surfaced about the accuracy of information provided in his job application.
According to Detective Evelyn Kelemen of the La Marque Police Department, the investigation began in June after the department received a tip regarding potential inconsistencies in Pritchett’s claimed educational and military background.
As a result of the inquiry, Pritchett is facing two Class B misdemeanor charges: fraudulent or fictitious military records and use of fraudulent, substandard, or fictitious academic credentials. If convicted, he could face up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,000, Kelemen said.
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Pritchett had been with the city for nearly four years, initially serving as deputy city manager. He took on the interim city manager role for five months before being officially appointed to the top position in May.
In response to Pritchett’s resignation, Deputy City Manager Amy Miller—appointed to her role in June—has been named interim city manager as the city navigates next steps.
City officials have not yet announced a timeline for a permanent replacement.
