In Texas and across the country, a conversation has developed about excessive prosecution and incarceration. As a result, there is wide support for criminal justice reform, including proposals to decriminalize or legalize cannabis and end criminal prosecution and incarceration for related offenses. ...
Many felonies are nonviolent and some are bizzare
Texas residents likely think of serious crimes like murder and arson when felonies are mentioned, and they may be surprised to learn that dozens of acts that would barely raise an eyebrow also fall under this designation. Calling in sick to spend a day in front of the television is actually a felony...
Wrongful convictions continue to pose barrier to justice
For many people in Texas, a wrongful conviction is one of their worst nightmares. With the advent of computer surveillance technology and DNA testing, many might hope that wrongful convictions are less likely than they were in the past. However, many cases, especially for more minor crimes like shop...
Data can be accessed with only a subpoena
Texas residents who use apps such as Ring or Lyft may not have full control of their data. Only three states require that police get a warrant before accessing information about an individual from those or other popular apps. Companies such as Ring readily hand over information to police officers wh...
State laws can cause problems for poor people
Jurisdictions in Texas and throughout the country have tried to raise money through fines and fees. This allows them to generate revenue without having to increase taxes. However, if a person cannot pay a fine, he or she may spend time in jail or on probation until the issue is resolved. That could ...
Lack of rules could lead to abuse of facial ID technology
Most shoppers in Texas are accustomed to the use of surveillance cameras in stores. However, some businesses are going a step further and creating digital records based on collected facial recognition data. Many stores are using this technology for security purposes to deter shoplifting and share ac...
Is it better or worse to remain silent?
The first police officer phrase to come to your mind is probably, "You have the right to remain silent." But, in reality, should that right really be taken? If you find yourself being arrested, you'll probably be inclined to explain your side of the story. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn't. ...
Judges need more leeway when sentencing violent offenders
Texas, like the rest of the country, has a mass incarceration problem. In 2008, when the issue was at its peak, there were 1,000 inmates per every 100,000 adults in the U.S. In an effort to drive that number down, many jurisdictions began offering more incarceration alternatives for low-level offend...
