Texas House Bill HB1840

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the appointment by the attorney general of a special prosecutor to prosecute certain offenses committed that cause serious bodily injury or death by peace officers.

Impact

If enacted, HB1840 would amend the Code of Criminal Procedure by adding provisions that require law enforcement agencies to report officer-involved injuries or deaths to the Attorney General. This reporting requirement aims to promote accountability and transparency in law enforcement practices. Furthermore, the bill establishes specific protocols for the appointment of special prosecutors, which may alter existing prosecutorial practices, particularly in cases that have involved significant public scrutiny or community concern.

Summary

House Bill 1840 pertains to the appointment of a special prosecutor by the Attorney General to handle cases involving serious bodily injuries or deaths caused by peace officers. This bill seeks to address potential conflicts of interest that may arise when local prosecutors are required to prosecute officers who operate within their jurisdiction. By designating a special prosecutor for these sensitive cases, HB1840 aims to ensure impartiality and fairness in the prosecution process, thereby enhancing trust in the justice system when it comes to law enforcement actions.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards improving police accountability and addressing concerns of bias in prosecutions, some critics contend that it could undermine local prosecutorial autonomy. Opposition views suggest that this legislation may lead to a one-size-fits-all approach to complex cases that are often deeply rooted in local contexts. Critics express fears that the effective oversight mechanisms introduced by HB1840 may not adequately address community-specific issues related to law enforcement, thereby potentially affecting the quality of justice delivered.