Eustace, TX — A former East Texas police officer has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges of possessing and promoting child pornography. Cody Mitchell Burris, who served with the Eustace Police Department, received the maximum sentence allowed under Texas law on Thursday.
Maximum Sentence Sought and Delivered
During closing arguments in a Henderson County courtroom, District Attorney Jenny Palmer strongly urged the court to impose the full 20-year sentence.
“The defendant took an oath to protect and serve our community. It’s time now that we protect our community from him,” Palmer told the court.
The court agreed, issuing the maximum penalty and ordering Burris to pay a $10,000 fine. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Guilty Plea and Shocking Details from Investigation
Burris pleaded guilty and requested a punishment hearing. During the investigation, authorities discovered he had been downloading and sharing child pornography while on duty, using an online file-sharing app.
Deputies were able to trace some of the activity to internet services at the Eustace Police Department. The Eustace mayor later confirmed Burris’ identity as the officer under investigation.
Multiple Devices and Arrest Warrants Issued
Investigators also searched Burris’ home in Tyler, seizing multiple electronic devices for analysis. Initially arrested on a single count of possession of child pornography, Burris was later hit with four additional arrest warrants, according to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office.
The affidavit states that Burris was found in possession of photographic images and two videos of child pornography, and that he shared two videos with another person, qualifying as promotion of illicit material.
Former Officer Now Convicted Sex Offender
Burris’ conviction is especially disturbing given his former role in law enforcement, where he had sworn to protect citizens—including the most vulnerable. His sentencing marks the end of a case that shocked the small East Texas community.
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