A fake warrant was issued for the arrest of Texas Governor Rick Perry (R), the Denton Police Department admitted yesterday. A prankster recreated the official seals of the city and county of Denton to generate an authentic-looking letter mailed off to a number of prominent North Texas officials. Although the document did not specify charges against the recipients, Denton's warrants are most commonly issued for failure to pay traffic tickets.

"These letters are not from the Denton Police Department and the Department is investigating to identify the sender and determine the most appropriate criminal charges," Denton Police Officer Jim Bryan said in a statement.

Since yesterday, individuals were arrested based on genuine Denton Police warrants for the following crimes: driving 51 MPH in a 35 zone, driving on an expired license, use of abusive language and driving with expired registration.

Article Excerpt:

Denton Police Department Statement:

July 06, 2007
Denton Police Department Subject of Hoax
Officer Jim Bryan

The Denton Police Department has been made aware of letters being sent out to individuals advising of outstanding warrants for their arrest. The letters contain correct information for the Denton Police Department's Warrant Office, but includes no information related to any specific warrant, such as the warrant number or criminal charge. The letters contain an incomplete address at the top of the page. The Denton City seal and Denton County seal along with the Crime Stoppers logo are on the letterhead.

These letters are not from the Denton Police Department and the Department is investigating to identify the sender and determine the most appropriate criminal charges. If you receive a copy of this letter, please contact our Warrant Office for further instructions.