Port Arthur City Officials Announce the Arrest of a City Employee Water Utilities Distribution Maintenance Supervisor Accused of Selling City Property Port Arthur, TX (February 10, 2016) – Port Arthur City officials announced the arrest of a City employee for allegedly selling City property. Following an investigation by the Port Arthur Police Department and District Attorney, Bob Wortham, Joseph Soliz, 55, was arrested today. It is alleged that Soliz, the City’s Water Utilities Distribution Maintenance Supervisor, sold various metals owned by the City and received payment from a third party for the metals. Theft of public property by a public servant is a third degree felony offense. Upon completion of the investigation, authorities found probable cause for arrest. Soliz cooperated by surrendering to Port Arthur Police Department at his residence. “Until resolution of Mr. Soliz’s criminal charges, he will be put on unpaid administrative leave from the City”, said City Manager, Brian McDougal. We encourage City’s employees and the public alike to follow the directive, if you ‘see something, say something; also use the fraud hotline to report fraud activities’. McDougal praised the City’s Police Department and District Attorney Bob Wortham and his staff for their thoroughness and quick response on behalf of the residents of Port Arthur.