UPDATE
BRAZORIA COUNTY, Texas – The City of La Marque says Mayor Bell was released from custody Saturday afternoon after posting a $75,000 bond, with court-ordered conditions that he not contact the complainant, not go near her residence, and not go near the school she attends.
In a statement shared as an update based on publicly available information, the city said city leadership has not communicated with Bell since his release and that Bell has not contacted city staff.
The city also emphasized that, under the La Marque City Charter, Bell remains in office unless he resigns or is removed in a process allowed by the charter and applicable law. The charter is posted on the city’s online code of ordinances.
City officials said they have no additional information to share at this time.
ORIGINAL REPORT
BRAZORIA COUNTY, Texas – The mayor of La Marque has been arrested in Brazoria County.
Brazoria County jail records indicate Mayor Keith Bell, 53, was arrested on a warrant for indecent exposure, a Class B misdemeanor. Records show he was arrested at a business park in Angleton. He was booked into jail on Friday.
Bell went before a judge on Saturday morning, where his bond was set at $75,000. According to his bond conditions, a judge told Bell he must stay away from a certain address and individual in Angleton.
Bell has been the mayor of La Marque since 2021.
Under Texas law, Bell’s arrest does not automatically require him to resign or result in his removal from office. Any potential removal would depend on the outcome of the case and other applicable state law or provisions of the city charter.
In 2022, Bell faced a recall election which was rejected by voters.
KPRC 2 is working to learn more details about what led to Bell’s arrest.
The City of La Marque issued the following statement:
“The City of La Marque has confirmed that Mayor Keith Bell was arrested today in Brazoria County on a charge of indecent exposure.
To the residents of La Marque, we recognize that this is a shocking and disheartening development during a period that has already brought significant uncertainty and challenges to our community. We understand and share your concerns. The City is committed to keeping residents informed and will provide additional information as it becomes available, with a guaranteed update on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
This matter occurred outside of Mayor Bell’s official duties with the City of La Marque. At this time, the City has no additional information beyond what is available through public records.
The City will continue to follow its Charter and all applicable laws as we evaluate next steps and gather additional verified information."
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