Requesting that the president of the United States commute the sentences of United States Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean and grant a full pardon to both agents.
Impact
The resolution reflects a broader discussion regarding the treatment of Border Patrol agents who operate under high-stress and dangerous conditions. HCR13 points out that between February 2005 and June 2007, there were nearly 2,000 incidents of violence against border patrol agents, thereby establishing the context of danger and the environment in which Ramos and Compean were forced to operate. By calling for the commutation of their sentences, the resolution seeks not only to address the specific cases of these two agents but also to bring attention to the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel along the border.
Summary
HCR13 is a concurrent resolution introduced by the Texas Legislature that calls for the president of the United States to commute the sentences of Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, as well as to grant them a full pardon. The agents were convicted and received lengthy sentences following a shooting incident during the pursuit of a drug smuggler, Osvaldo Aldrete-Davila, on February 17, 2005. Supporters of HCR13 argue that the sentences imposed are excessively harsh in comparison to similar federal cases, highlighting a perceived miscarriage of justice.
Contention
The case of Ramos and Compean drew public and political scrutiny, especially regarding the prosecution methods used against them. Critics pointed out perceived inconsistencies in the legal proceedings, including reliance on the testimony of Aldrete-Davila, who was granted immunity. These concerns contribute to ongoing debates about the fairness of the legal system, particularly for law enforcement officials involved in dangerous operations. Proponents of the resolution argue that the sentences faced by the agents are disproportionate compared to average sentences for violent crimes, suggesting systemic bias against border enforcement actions.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to certain criminal conduct and organizations that threaten the security of this state and its residents and borders; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to illegal entry into this state from Mexico by a person who is not a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.