Governor Greg Abbott (R) called on Texas lawmakers to overhaul what he described as the state’s “deadly and broken” bail system, urging passage of a constitutional amendment to prevent the release of violent offenders on low or no bond.
Speaking at a roundtable and press conference hosted by the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Abbott emphasized the urgency of reform.
“These are not isolated incidents,” he said. “Hundreds of Texans have been murdered by violent criminals who had been previously arrested and released on easy bail.”
The Governor was joined by lawmakers, law enforcement leaders, and crime victims, including Senator Joan Huffman (R) and Representative John Smithee (R), who are spearheading the legislative push.
The proposed constitutional amendment would require judges to deny bail for violent crimes, such as murder, rape, and human trafficking, unless there is “clear and convincing evidence” the accused will appear in court and not pose a threat to the community.
“Too many activist judges let dangerous criminals out on bail only to see them commit another murder or assault,” Abbott said. “To fix the broken bail system, Texas lawmakers must pass a constitutional amendment.”
The measure would also require judges to explain in writing their decisions to release violent offenders and would give prosecutors the right to appeal questionable bond rulings. Senator Huffman highlighted the real-life consequences of inaction.
“Mr. Davis spoke of his daughter who was murdered, and Jim and Connie Branham spoke of their son,” she said. “The bill actually would have helped their situation.”
Representative Smithee underscored the stakes. “If we pass good, strong legislation, it will save innocent human lives,” he said. “This bill belongs to the victims and families of these people.”
Law enforcement leaders voiced support for the reform. Sheriff Brian Hawthorne said Texas sheriffs “stand firmly behind” the effort, while CLEAT Executive Director Bob Leonard criticized the “unprecedented” pattern of low bonds for violent offenders in large urban counties.
Survivor and advocate Sophia Strother Lewis made an emotional appeal. “The judge in my case let my perpetrator out on a $750,000 bond,” she said. “That means I was worth $750. I declare, for any representative or senator not on board with this, to come to my face and tell me what value you see.”
Abbott closed by referencing the murder of Xavier Jones Sr. by suspects who were out on a total of 16 bonds.
“It’s time that Texas puts an end to this and stands for law and order,” he said.
