Austin Judge Blocks Governor's Bail Executive Order

 

A judge pushed pause late Friday on an executive order issued by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in March that restricted access to awarding personal recognizance bonds to certain suspects.

In response to discussions and concerns about emptying the jails of violent suspects to curb the spread of the coronavirus, Abbott signed the executive order to prevent a widespread release of certain inmates on personal recognizance bonds.

Criminal justice reform advocate organizations and Harris County magistrates argued and then filed a lawsuit saying the order was unconstitutional and created a two-tier bond system in favor of wealthy suspects.

Also called personal bonds, these are issued by judges and allow suspects the opportunity to be released from jail at minimal or no cost while awaiting trial.

To see original article CLICK HERE.

Story also noted HERE and HERE.

UPDATE:  Supreme Court of Texas issues stay of District Court's Order- CLICK HERE.

Analysis- CLICK HERE.