by BRAD ROLLINS
Pct. 2 Commissioner Jeff Barton sustained a bloody lip Tuesday afternoon when his administrative assistant threw a cell phone during an argument outside his Kyle office.
“This involves a good person who was dealing with some health issues and is now getting help,” Barton said.
A deputy constable who happened to be driving by on Front Street saw the immediate aftermath and called for backup. Five Hays County Sheriff’s Office deputies and two ambulances responded to the call.
Barton described his injury as very minor and he doesn’t think the injury was intentional. He is not pressing charges.
Kara Bishop, who was campaign manager for Barton’s successful primary challenge to County Judge Elizabeth Sumter, is on medical leave from Barton’s office where she worked as his assistant.
In a statement released this week, Bishop said, “Last Tuesday, Commissioner Barton and my family were trying to help me face some ongoing health and stress-related issues. I am embarrassed that my emotions caused me to act out, and I am sorry that I injured Jeff Barton, a good friend. Commissioner Barton, along with his wife Cyndy and their family, have been generous in their support during this difficult period in my life. During the next few weeks, my family and I ask that people continue to respect our privacy.”
