Goliad School Board Trustee Arrested on Child Sex Assault Charges

Serious Criminal Charges Rock Small Texas District

Goliad Independent School District trustee Daniel San Miguel was arrested Saturday on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child and official oppression following an investigation by the Texas Rangers . The charges include aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony , marking a significant criminal case that has sent shockwaves through this small Texas community.

San Miguel served dual roles as both a Goliad ISD school board trustee and a Town of Refugio police officer who was assigned to Refugio ISD as a school resource officer . According to the district, San Miguel was assigned to Refugio ISD as a school resource officer through an intergovernmental agreement with the Refugio Police Department from January through May . The Refugio Police Department confirmed that San Miguel's employment with the department was terminated on June 2, four days before his arrest .

District Response and Safety Measures

The Goliad Independent School District Board of Trustees on Monday publicly addressed the recent arrest for the first time, saying it is working with legal counsel to determine the appropriate next steps as questions remain about his status on the board . No action regarding San Miguel's board position was taken during Monday's meeting as district officials continue to seek legal guidance .

Goliad ISD Superintendent Holly Lyon said the allegations are not connected to district operations, employees or students and described the matter as personal in nature . District officials said no Goliad ISD students or staff members have been identified as being involved in the situation . Superintendent Holly Lyon issued San Miguel a criminal trespass notice on June 8, preventing him from entering Goliad ISD facilities "to ensure the safety and continuity of operations within GISD facilities" .

Legal Process and Board Authority

The board is working with legal counsel to determine the proper course of action under Texas law and district policy, including questions related to board service, the oath of office, vacancies and qualifications to serve . Board officials stated they are aware of the arrest but will not comment on specific facts or circumstances of the case because it is an active legal matter .

The situation presents complex legal questions for the district regarding trustee removal procedures and governance continuity. San Miguel's seat remained empty during Monday's board meeting as the district reviews his status following his recent arrest . Texas law provides specific procedures for removing elected officials from office, but these processes typically require conviction or other formal legal determinations.

Broader Context and Community Impact

According to the Texas Education Agency's Educator Misconduct Reporting Dashboard, the agency is currently investigating more than 2,000 sexual misconduct complaints and opening an average of 250 new cases each month . In the past few years, hundreds of school employees have been accused of sex crimes involving students and other children, including two other school police officers this year .

The arrest represents another challenge for Texas school districts already grappling with widespread misconduct issues. While the allegations against San Miguel are described as personal matters unrelated to his school duties, the case highlights ongoing concerns about background screening and oversight of individuals in positions of trust within educational settings. The community now awaits the legal process while district officials work to maintain stability and public confidence in their governance structure.