Tag: Criminal Charges

homeless shelter under bridge

A standoff between Texas Governor Gregg Abbott and the City of Austin over the state capital’s liberal homelessness laws has led to a debate over the criminalization of people without a roof over their heads. Although it’s not necessarily a crime to be homeless in Texas many cities and counties make it an offense to…

ankle monitor

Electronic monitoring systems are widely used in Texas as an alternative to incarceration and for defendants on bond who are awaiting a trial. However, a recent case in which a private company removed an ankle bracelet from a capital murder suspect due to non-payment, points to a possible flaw in the system. Clint Walker was…

police tape

Murder rates are falling in most Texas cities. However, Dallas is a glaring exception to the rule as the homicide rate heads for a 10-year high. Last month, the city’s year-to-date homicide rate exceeded 135 deaths. The city is on course for the highest number of killings in a decriminalcade – over 220 – but…

hit and run

Hit-and-run is a serious crime in Texas. This month, a driver was accused of killing three people on an interstate near Dallas and fleeing the accident scene. Dallas police sought Jesus Chavarria-Vasquez, 32, after three men were killed and two were injured on March 10. Investigators said Chavarria-Vasquez abandoned his 12-year-old son at the scene…

Whats and Hows of State and Federal Crimes

There are distinct differences between state and federal crimes and how they’re handled in the courts. Here’s what you need to know about the differences. Facing charges of any kind can be a worrisome time. You’re naturally worried about your future and the criminal process, including the trial and the potential consequence if found guilty….

what is civil asset forfeiture in texas

Civil asset forfeiture occurs when police seize assets from people who are suspected of involvement in criminality. Nowhere is it more controversial than in Texas where people have lost millions of dollars in valuable assets without being charged with a crime. Recently, the Texas Tribune reported on how police in Texas made $50 million by…