HURST — James Tesi, who is charged with the attempted murder of a police officer, is out of jail and back in his upscale neighborhood, making some neighbors nervous.
Tesi, 48, is once again living in the house on Bear Creek Drive where, less than three weeks ago, allegedly shot at a Colleyville police officer.
The officer was not hurt, but Tesi was wounded in the face and foot by return fire.
Tesi posted his bond and returned to his home, surprising and frightening some of his neighbors. They told us off-camera they worry about their safety.
They all declined interviews, fearing retaliation.
Andrew Howard is Tesi's attorney. He says he believes the police statements about the events that led to his client's arrest will be found to be inaccurate.
"He's a very pleasant person. He's intelligent. He's educated," Howard said. "My understanding is he has two master's degrees and a Ph.D. He's in the health care industry."
Howard said neighbors have no reason to be concerned.
Tesi claims he is not a U.S. citizen. In court papers filed over a traffic warrant, he said, "Why would I want to be a lowlife scumbag U.S. citizen?"
He stamped the filing with the name and symbols of the Moorish National Republic, a Maryland-based group whose members also claim to not be citizens.
In 2009, Tesi attempted to pay his Chase home mortgage with pieces of paper he called "bonds." Chase insisted on U.S. currency.
Tesi refused, and filed a lawsuit; it was dismissed just last week.
E-mail chawes@wfaa.com
