Texas Senate Bill SB387

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 12/19/08

Caption

Relating to certain procedures for forwarding a warrant of arrest or a complaint in a criminal case.

Impact

The impact of SB 387 is significant in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal justice system in Texas. By permitting modern communication methods such as secure facsimile and electronic means for the transmission of arrest warrants, the bill seeks to reduce delays in law enforcement responses. This aligns with ongoing trends towards digitization in various public sectors and addresses the need for faster processing times related to criminal apprehension.

Summary

Senate Bill 387 relates to the procedures for forwarding an arrest warrant or a complaint in a criminal case within the state of Texas. The bill amends Articles 15.08 and 15.09 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, allowing warrants to be sent using secure electronic methods, thus modernizing the handling of such documents. This update is intended to streamline the communication process among law enforcement and the judiciary by facilitating timely and secure warrant transmissions across jurisdictions.

Contention

While the bill presents several advantages such as enhanced efficiency, the changes could also raise concerns. Critics might argue about the potential risks associated with electronic transmission, such as security vulnerabilities and improper handling of sensitive information. It remains important for law enforcement agencies to ensure that adequate safeguards and protocols are in place to protect the integrity of these communications. Overall, the shift towards electronic handling of warrants may prompt discussions about balancing technological advancement with privacy and security issues.