LAVACA COUNTY, Texas - A judge was arrested Saturday on three felony charges related to sexual assault and soliciting prostitution, according to the Lavaca County Sheriff's Office.

Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Travis Hill, who also works as a criminal defense attorney, faces three charges: The Lavaca County Sheriff's Office said it became aware of misconduct allegations involving Hill approximately six weeks ago, prompting a request for the Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Rangers to conduct a special investigation.

Because Hill serves as both an elected official and a practicing criminal defense attorney - including as a public defender - the Lavaca County Attorney's Office formally recused itself from the case.