Convicted Stalker Breaks Probation, Gets 5 Years in Prison

This morning at the Tom Green County Courthouse, 32-year-old Hector Lopez learned he will spend five years in prison, 365 days in state jail, and pay $180 in restitution for crimes he committed.

Lopez was previously convicted for stalking a woman, chasing her in his car, and threatening to strike her vehicle. Today in Judge Jay Weatherby’s 340^th district court, Lopez pleaded guilty to three charges, including violating the probation that he was sentenced to for the stalking case. He also pleaded guilty to another motion to provoke probation and possession of a controlled substance.

Lopez allegedly broke probation by failing to make payments, performing assault that caused bodily injury, criminal mischief, failure to report a change of address, and possession of methamphetamine. 

When Lopez pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and the motions to revoke probation, Weatherby asked, “Have you entered your pleas of guilty because you are, in fact, guilty and for no other reason?” Lopez answered with a quiet “yes sir.” When he was told that this is the last opportunity that Lopez had to change his mind, he said, “I’m good.”

In his previous case, Lopez stalked the woman over a period of several months and sent her threats over text message. He was sentenced to 10 years of probation in that case. For more information, take a look at San Angelo LIVE!’s previous article. 

The State, represented by Ashley Knight, recommended 5 years with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and 365 days in state jail. Lopez also owes $180 in restitution. Weathersby accepted the state’s recommendation. The two sentences will run concurrently.

Lopez, however, will receive credit for time that he previously spent in jail. These credits include July 9, 2013-July 13, 2013, July 24, 2014-September 17, 2014, and January 29, 2016 through today.

Lopez also waived his right to an appeal, so this sentence is final. Defense attorney Jimmy Stewart represented Lopez in this case.