Accused Road Rage Shooting Deputy Kenneth Caplan Appears in Court

Harris County Deputy Kenneth Caplan

Houston, Texas

A former Harris County Precinct 6 reserve deputy who's accused of shooting a woman in a fit of rage appeared in court this morning and prosecutors said he had already been involved in a similar incident.

Kenneth Caplan, 34, is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The shooting victim says that back on November 11, a driver cut her off on the South Loop by South Main Street. After she honked her horn, investigators say Caplan opened fire, shooting her in the head. The deputy then fled the scene. The woman survived.

During the investigation, authorities discovered evidence that led them to Caplan, he was arrested on Nov. 26.

Harris County Assistant District Attorney Angela Weltin says Caplan, "Attempted to hide evidence by reporting his car stolen. By destroying his weapon and by failing to report anything about this case until he was confronted by investigators."

Prosecutors believe Caplan may have sold his missing blue Camaro in Mexico.

Caplan’s bond was reduced in half to $100,000. If Caplan posts bond, he will be required to wear a GPS ankle bracelet and surrender his passport.

Prosecutors said Caplan had been suspended because of another road rage incident.

"Unfortunately this is not the only incident that we believe the defendant has been involved in with regard to road rage. I am seeking and looking for other victims of this defendant," said Weltin.

Caplan has been permanently relieved of his reserve deputy title. He's due back in court Jan. 26, 2015.