Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1360

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the punishment for the offense of tampering with a witness and the evidence that may be offered to show that offense.

Impact

The legislation significantly impacts the prosecution of tampering cases, especially those related to family violence. By emphasizing the connection between tampering and domestic violence, the bill intends to address the often underreported manipulations in these sensitive situations. The law proposes stricter penalties, elevating the severity of tampering offenses if the act involves family violence, thus reinforcing the legal system's stance against intimidation in domestic matters. This change aligns with broader efforts to protect victims and ensure their voices are heard in court.

Summary

SB1360 aims to amend the Penal Code regarding the offense of tampering with a witness. The bill expands the definition of tampering to include actions intended to influence a witness's testimony through coercion or bribery, particularly in official proceedings. It establishes that certain actions towards a witness or prospective witness—such as offering a benefit for false testimony or compelling them to withhold testimony—constitute tampering. A key aspect of the bill is its focus on cases involving family violence, heightening the penalties for individuals who engage in tampering when the underlying case involves such violence.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB1360 highlighted concerns over the balance between preventing witness tampering and ensuring fair legal processes. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary tool for prosecuting offenders who undermine the judicial system through intimidation. However, critics express fears that extending definitions and penalties could inadvertently lead to more challenges in securing convictions, as defendants might argue against broadly defined coercive actions. The bill's proponents counter that clear definitions and stronger enforcement will ultimately lead to better protection for victims of family violence.

Companion Bills

TX HB3060

Very Similar Relating to the punishment for the offense of tampering with a witness and the evidence that may be offered to show that offense.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1300

Relating to the punishment for the criminal offense of tampering with or fabricating physical evidence.

TX SB1518

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

TX SB1527

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3451

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4968

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

TX HB4642

Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1975

Relating to increasing the criminal penalties for certain repeat sex offenders and to the admissibility of evidence of certain extraneous offenses or acts in the prosecution of certain sexual and assaultive offenses.

TX HB1402

Relating to the criminal penalties for certain criminal offenses.

TX SB571

Relating to interactions between law enforcement and individuals detained or arrested on suspicion of the commission of criminal offenses, witnesses to the commission of those offenses, and other members of the public, to peace officer liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB3062

Relating to the punishment for the offense of aggravated assault.

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