The Hawk’s Eye – Consulting & News | A Texas News Source

Tarrant County Requests Opinion on Criminal Discovery in Juvenile Cases

Tarrant County’s Criminal District Attorney seeks guidance from the Texas Attorney General’s Office on applying criminal discovery laws to third-party records held by the local juvenile services agency. This raises ethical and confidentiality concerns regarding access to and disclosure of confidential information in juvenile court proceedings, necessitating clarity on the intersection of criminal discovery rules with juvenile cases.

Texas Attorney General Issues Opinion on School Marshals Carrying Firearms

The Texas Attorney General’s Opinion No. KP-0454 discusses the authority of school boards to designate individuals, such as school marshals, to carry firearms for protecting students and staff. It highlights the legal frameworks and discretion available to school boards under the Education Code, emphasizing the impact on school safety policies and procedures across Texas.

San Antonio Sued by Disabled Veteran Over Loud Noise

Warren Jay Smith, a disabled veteran, is suing the City of San Antonio and its police officers for alleged violations of his constitutional rights during a raid on his private club. The lawsuit seeks $2,250,000 in damages for business closure, emotional distress, and medical expenses. It raises questions about law enforcement conduct and accountability.

Lawsuit Filed Against Ryan Cate and the City of Trinidad, Texas

Plaintiffs Brian and Sheila Thompson have filed a compelling complaint against Ryan Cate and the City of Trinidad, Texas, revealing alleged misconduct by Cate, a law enforcement officer. The complaint details an incident where Cate allegedly used excessive force and falsely arrested Sheila Thompson. It also uncovers concerning details about Cate’s prior employment and raises questions about law enforcement vetting processes.

5th Circuit Opinion: Waxahachie Police Department Search Warrant Opined at Wrong House

The recent 5th Circuit ruling involved a mistaken execution of a search warrant, leading to legal action against officers. The court found the officer’s efforts deficient but not in violation of established law, resulting in the decision’s reversal for dismissal. A dissenting opinion contested the grant of qualified immunity, emphasizing failure to meet constitutional standards. This serves as a significant precedent regarding law enforcement’s execution of search warrants and the application of qualified immunity.

Texas Attorney General Files Brief with Supreme Court to Stop Whistleblower Lawsuit

The Texas Attorney General’s Office is locked in a lengthy legal dispute rooted in alleged violations of the Texas Whistleblower Act. Despite the Attorney General’s decision not to contest the Plaintiffs’ case and seeking judgment in their favor, the trial court’s actions have been criticized as procedural irregularities and an abuse of discretion. The Office is seeking relief through the appellate process but has been continuously denied, and the Texas Supreme Court’s intervention is being urged.

San Marcos Gets Sued After Predecessor DA Opinion Request on Marijuana Law Gets Cancelled

The Texas Attorney General’s Office has filed a lawsuit against the City of San Marcos over a marijuana law. The lawsuit seeks to declare the city’s ordinance and police department directive void and is also requesting temporary and permanent injunctions. The city’s law conflicts with state law, and the state is seeking relief through legal action.