A political candidate in Texas was arrested late last week for sending himself fake hate messages on social media. Taral Patel, the Democratic candidate for Fort Bend Precinct 3 Commissioner, is charged with Online Impersonation and Misrepresentation of Identity.

According to authorities, Patel who used to be a White House appointee, sent himself numerous racist and derogatory comments for months in the name of a supporter of incumbent Republican Commissioner Andy Meyers.

In a statement reacting to the arrest, Fort Bend County Republican Party Chairman Bobby Eberle called the situation “deeply concerning.”

“Whether Republican or Democrat, such tactics should be unequivocally condemned by all who value integrity and accountability in politics. This is not a partisan issue, and the good people of Fort Bend County should be able to trust that when allegations are made, they are sincere,” Eberle stated.

“Fort Bend County residents deserve better leadership than someone who will create a fake account and post manufactured racist attacks — attempting to turn neighbor against neighbor — for political gain,” he added.

Patel shared a collage of hateful comments which he claimed were sent by Meyers’ supporters. In the messages, he was called vile names like “monkey,” “subhuman.”

According to him, the messages represented a “deep and misguided fear” among the Republican Party.

Alongside the photos shared on Facebook, the political candidate wrote, “As your Democratic candidate for County Commissioner, I am always open to criticism of my policy positions and stances on issues. However, when my Republican opponents supporters’ decide to hurl racist, anti-immigrant, Hinduphobic, or otherwise disgusting insults at my family, faith community, colleagues, and me – that crosses a line.”

According to authorities, Patel used an image of a real resident of Fort Bend as his profile picture without getting the individual’s consent.

The investigation into Patel was reportedly launched in October after Meyers asked authorities to look into who was behind the messages sent to Patel.