Lawmaker Proposes Adding 3 Temporary Felony Courts in Harris County to Address Backlog

 

HOUSTON, Texas — Several state lawmakers are hoping to bring some much-needed relief to Harris County criminal courts.

In a new bill they’re hoping will pass this special session, several state representatives are wanting to create three additional criminal courts to help alleviate the massive backlog that’s been created over the past few years.

Lawmakers only have six more days to get the job done, but since they’re still in special session, first, they say they need help from Gov. Greg Abbott to make the issue a priority.

From the devastating floods to the deadly pandemic, the recent years have wreaked havoc on the county’s criminal justice system.

So much so, its backlog has been blamed for contributing to an increase in crime.

“We need to stop releasing people on multiple felony bonds," CEO of Crime Stoppers of Houston Rania Mankarious said in July.

Several recent offenders have been out on bond when committing new crimes, like the man charged with killing 71-year-old Martha Medina. Her family marched for justice Wednesday.

“I know nothing is bringing her back but I hope to see a change and to be an inspiration to others," Lourdes Medina said.

But as the criminal courthouse gets a new upgrade on the outside, state lawmakers are hoping to bring big changes to the inside - one that will hopefully alleviate this issue.

“It creates three additional district criminal courts, which can handle felony cases," District 134 State Rep. Ann Johnson said.

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