SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio police officer received a three-day suspension in January 2026 after being found intoxicated and lying on a sidewalk while off duty, according to records.
Details of the Incident
Officer Juan Pena, who has been with the San Antonio Police Department since 2010, was discovered by fellow officers near Jones Maltsberger and Thousand Oaks around 2:45 a.m. In August 2025. Officers reported a strong odor of alcohol and Pena admitted to drinking at a bar.
Suspension paperwork indicates Pena was disoriented, slurring his speech, and mistakenly believed he was near his home – a location actually seven miles away.
The incident resulted in a three-day suspension, but it also highlights a broader pattern of disciplinary actions within the SAPD. Records show other officer suspensions have occurred, including cases involving mishandled drunk driving investigations.
What Happens Next?
It is possible the SAPD may review its policies regarding off-duty conduct. Further disciplinary actions could be taken if additional information comes to light. The Texas Officer Suspensions Dashboard offers a public resource for tracking disciplinary actions taken against officers statewide, and this incident may prompt increased scrutiny of SAPD practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred in August 2025. Officer Pena was suspended in January 2026.
Where was Officer Pena found?
Officer Pena was found lying on the sidewalk near Jones Maltsberger and Thousand Oaks around 2:45 a.m.
What was the length of Officer Pena’s suspension?
Officer Pena received a three-day suspension.
How might incidents like this impact public perception of law enforcement?
