Darian Ward Resigns As Mayor Turner's Press Secretary

HOUSTON, TX — Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who has staunchly defended his press secretary after reports surfaced that she conducted business benefiting her company, while serving in an official capacity, resigned Friday.

Darian Ward, who'd served as press secretary, under former Mayor Annise Parker and Mayor Turner, came under fire earlier this month after it was learned that she'd been suspended by Turner for failing to disclose thousands of emails that were generated and sent using city property and on city time.

Ward served a 10-day suspension in December, and returned to work for the city at the start of January.

“Darian Ward served the city as a key communicator for many years and has our thanks for working in public service,” Turner said. “I hope she is successful in her next endeavors.”

READ: Mayor Turner Suspends Press Secretary Who Lied About Emails

Ward was replaced by former KPRC news reporter Mary Benton, who previously worked as the public relations director at the Harris County Toll Road Authority, and currently serves in the communications' office for the Harris County Public Health.

She is experienced in media relations, community outreach, crisis management, intergovernmental relations and strategic media engagements.

“The addition of Mary Benton to our team brings even more experience and expertise to our work of keeping Houstonians informed about their government’s many actions on their behalf, such as reducing flooding, restoring the city’s financial health, leveraging our status as a welcoming community that is the nation’s most diverse, and much, much more,” Turner said.

Benton will serve as interim press secretary.

Image: City of Houston

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