This September 1, the criminal justice system finds itself amidst change. Below are some of the highlights of our new legislation. Theft Through House Bill 1396, Texas passed legislation that changes the “value ladder” for many property crimes. Property crimes such as theft, mischief, graffiti, frauds and other various offenses use the “value” of the … Read more
How long must someone be punished for a criminal act? When is that person’s debt to society ever forgiven? In Texas, it’s a lifetime debt. Convictions for criminal acts (from a class B possession of marijuana to murder) will always remain a part of a person’s criminal record. Criminal records are available online and forever. … Read more
‘This idea of total incarceration just isn’t working.’—Justice Anthony Kennedy Justice Kennedy and Justice Breyer speak out against a broken system. I agree! Incarceration is expensive. Recidivism rates are higher following incarceration because those offenders can no longer get jobs. They didn’t get “help” in prison. They are left without sufficient resources following long periods … Read more
My son the traffic engineer was attending a conference in Aggieland and forwarded me the following statistics: Texas’ 10 fastest growing counties by 2050 (Percent) Hays County; 2010 population – 157,107; 2050 population – 824,070; Change – 666,963; Percent change – 424.50% Collin County; 2010 population – 782,341; 2050 population – 3,801,840; Change – 3,019,499; … Read more
It is difficult enough to find work. Saddle a person with a “conviction” or even a “probation” and employers will quickly pass on that applicant. Our “tough on crime” mentality over the past 20-30 years has created an environment where 17 year olds (treated as adults for even minor offenses) with a first possession of … Read more