San Antonio, Texas, January 28, 2026
District 8 Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez of San Antonio has been granted probation after pleading no contest to a lesser charge in her driving while intoxicated (DWI) case. The original DWI charge was dismissed, and Gonzalez agreed to a plea deal that includes a $1,000 fine, nine months of probation, and 24 hours of community service. This situation marks the third instance of a San Antonio council member facing legal consequences related to DWI in recent years.
San Antonio Councilwoman Receives Probation in DWI Case
San Antonio, Texas – District 8 Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez has been granted probation after pleading no contest to a lesser charge in her driving while intoxicated (DWI) case. The original DWI charge was dismissed as part of the plea agreement.
Details of the Plea Agreement
On January 27, 2026, Gonzalez agreed to a plea deal in which she pleaded no contest to obstruction of a highway, a Class B misdemeanor. In exchange, the DWI charge was dropped. As part of the agreement, Gonzalez is required to pay a $1,000 fine, serve nine months of probation, and complete 24 hours of community service. Additionally, she must undergo drug and alcohol testing during her probation period. If she successfully completes the terms, the charge will be dismissed. Gonzalez had previously completed a DWI education course and a Victim Impact Panel prior to the plea deal.
Background of the Case
Gonzalez was arrested on July 24, 2025, after being pulled over on Interstate 10 West near Hildebrand Avenue. Police observed her vehicle swerving between lanes, leading to the arrest on suspicion of DWI. A blood test revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.169 grams per 100 milliliters, more than double the legal limit of 0.08.
Political Repercussions
Following the arrest, the San Antonio City Council voted to censure Gonzalez, a symbolic gesture expressing disapproval of her actions. However, the censure did not affect her ability to vote or participate in council discussions. Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones also suspended Gonzalez’s committee assignments, temporarily removing her influence from key policy-making processes.
Context of DWI Cases Among San Antonio Council Members
Gonzalez is the third San Antonio council member in recent years to face legal consequences related to DWI charges. In November 2024, District 10 Councilman Marc Whyte accepted a plea deal for a non-DWI charge after his arrest. In April 2023, District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry received probation in a case involving both DWI and hit-and-run charges.
Conclusion
The resolution of Gonzalez’s case through probation and a reduced charge reflects the legal system’s approach to first-time DWI offenders, emphasizing rehabilitation and accountability. The political actions taken by the City Council and Mayor highlight the importance of maintaining public trust and upholding ethical standards among elected officials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the outcome of Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez’s DWI case?
Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez pleaded no contest to a lesser charge of obstruction of a highway, resulting in the dismissal of the original DWI charge. She was sentenced to nine months of probation, a $1,000 fine, and 24 hours of community service. If she successfully completes the terms, the charge will be dismissed.
What were the circumstances leading to Councilwoman Gonzalez’s arrest?
Councilwoman Gonzalez was arrested on July 24, 2025, after being observed swerving between lanes on Interstate 10 West near Hildebrand Avenue. A subsequent blood test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.169 grams per 100 milliliters, more than double the legal limit of 0.08.
What actions did the San Antonio City Council take following Councilwoman Gonzalez’s arrest?
The City Council voted to censure Councilwoman Gonzalez, a symbolic gesture expressing disapproval of her actions. Additionally, Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones suspended her committee assignments, temporarily removing her influence from key policy-making processes.
How does Councilwoman Gonzalez’s case compare to other DWI cases involving San Antonio council members?
Councilwoman Gonzalez is the third San Antonio council member in recent years to face legal consequences related to DWI charges. In November 2024, District 10 Councilman Marc Whyte accepted a plea deal for a non-DWI charge after his arrest. In April 2023, District 10 Councilman Clayton Perry received probation in a case involving both DWI and hit-and-run charges.
What are the potential consequences for first-time DWI offenders in Texas?
First-time DWI offenders in Texas may face charges ranging from Class B to Class A misdemeanors, depending on factors such as blood alcohol concentration and whether an accident occurred. Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, and mandatory education courses. In some cases, charges may be reduced or dismissed upon successful completion of probation terms.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Charge | Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) |
| Plea Agreement | No contest to obstruction of a highway, resulting in dismissal of DWI charge |
| Sentencing | Nine months probation, $1,000 fine, 24 hours community service |
| Arrest Details | July 24, 2025; observed swerving on I-10 West near Hildebrand Avenue; BAC of 0.169 |
| Political Actions | Censured by City Council; committee assignments suspended by Mayor |
| Comparison to Other Cases | Third council member in recent years with DWI-related legal consequences |
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