El Paso City Rep. Cassandra Hernandez Accused of Misuse of Taxpayer-Funded Gas Card
El Paso City Rep. Cassandra Hernandez has come under scrutiny for her use of a city-issued fuel card, with a recent audit revealing that she spent nearly $6,700 in 2022, a significantly higher amount than other city representatives. Hernandez, who also ran for mayor of El Paso, appeared on The Buzz Adams Morning Show on KLAQ to discuss the controversy surrounding her gas card expenses.
During a televised interview with ABC-7, Hernandez stated that she was the sole user of the gas card, claiming that she used it for personal expenses related to her family. However, a later investigation revealed security footage showing Hernandez’s husband using the card to fuel his pickup truck with premium gas.
Despite Hernandez’s insistence that she did not lie about the gas card usage, questions about the transparency of her statements remain. The El Paso Ethics Commission found Hernandez in violation of the city’s ethics code and issued a letter of reprimand. The El Paso Police Department investigated the matter but found no evidence of criminal activity.
In response to the ongoing controversy, the city terminated the use of fuel cards for city representatives. Recently, the FBI completed an investigation into the matter, and federal prosecutors are now considering whether to pursue charges.
The case of Cassandra Hernandez’s misuse of a taxpayer-funded gas card highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in public office. It serves as a reminder of the need for stricter oversight and regulations regarding the use of taxpayer funds. As the investigation into Hernandez’s actions continues, the public waits to see what consequences may arise from this unfolding scandal.