Judge Raquel West DESTROYS Defendant — “You’re One Step Away From PRISON!”

Added: 2026-06-02

[00:00:00]means going through the program in custody, but it means getting through the afterare and everything else successfully. Um, if you do all of that, then you're still on these deferred probations. You still don't have felony convictions on your record. This is again the opportunity of your lifetime right now for you to make the changes and do the right thing. If you don't and you come back in here, then you are going to end up with two felony convictions and you're going to end up going to TDC for up to 10 years in one case and state jail prison for up to two in that case. Do you understand?

[00:00:30]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:00:31]>> Let me explain something else. I am also now making making it a condition of your probation that you uh treat the staff and the correctional officers at our jail and at safety and wherever you are with respect and you follow all the rules when you're incarcerated.

[00:00:51]That means if I get another incident report before you get to state jail, I mean before you get to SAFEP, it's already a violation of your probation, they're going to let me know and you're never even going to make it to safety.

[00:01:03]You're going to be right back in here and looking at going to prison. Do you understand?

[00:01:06]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:01:07]>> So the way you're talking to them at our jail, you cannot keep doing that.

[00:01:13]You cannot keep arguing. You can't keep fighting. You can't keep saying, "F that. I don't care. Things like that.

[00:01:21]Okay. And you're looking at me like you're confused. Um that maybe you didn't do these things, but this is what I have. Every time you get act up, every time you tell someone, if you're going to send me out, just do it. F that. Or whatever it is. That's disrespectful.

[00:01:37]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:01:37]>> All right. They're just trying to go there and do their job every day.

[00:01:40]Hopefully someday that's what you want to do. Get out of jail, go to work, and not have somebody treating you like this when you're at your job.

[00:01:47]>> Right. Yes, you will.

[00:01:48]>> All right. So, um you'll sign some paperwork today for safety and um okay, I guess just obviously by what I'm looking at that seems am I looking at the right thing? Dakota Chapman, the initial the first violation is that he committed the offense of murder.

[00:02:16]>> That that that has been a bad >> Okay. I'm sorry.

[00:02:20]>> Thank you. Started. We're just going to go to safety.

[00:02:42]Um, let's do this. I'd like to go ahead and go through the motions. Get please are true or not true to the remaining counts. And then obviously if you guys have an agreement that's we'll look at that, but I think I want to go through and have those >> please on here.

[00:02:58]>> And that came at the recommendation of his supervisor that I'm sure has much more information as well.

[00:03:04]>> That's good. Thank you.

[00:03:13]Uh, if you want to print this section, I'll just do the first one on here. All right. Will he wave the formal reason reading of the motion in each case?

[00:03:22]>> Mr. Chapman, in clause number 23, DCCR 1077, I have a motion to revoke your unadjudicated probation. This shows that you were placed on probation May 6th of 2024 for the offense of evading arrest or detention with the use of a vehicle, a thirdderee felony. And that was a 5-year deferred probation. Is that correct?

[00:03:41]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:03:42]>> And then in cause number 23, DCCR 1078, I also have a motion to revoke your unadjudicated probation. This shows that you were placed on probation May 6th of 2024 for the offense of accident involving injury, a state jail felony, and that was a 5-year deferred probation. Is that also correct?

[00:04:02]>> And so the state is going to abandon any each case count one. Correct.

[00:04:06]>> Correct, judge, based on the uh comments of the grand jur.

[00:04:11]>> So, Mr. Chapman, in each case, the motions alleged you violated your probation. Count two in each case alleges that you failed to work faithfully at suitable employment and provide verification of that. And is that true or not true?

[00:04:26]>> Count three in each case alleges that you provided a urine sample March 12th of 2025 that tested positive for cocaine. Is that true or not true?

[00:04:36]>> Count four alleges that you provided a sample September 3rd of 2025 that tested positive for methamphetamines and amphetamines. Is that true?

[00:04:46]Count five in each case alleges that you admitted to your probation officer to using the illegal drug ecstasy December 3rd of 2025. Is that true or not true?

[00:04:55]>> I'm sorry.

[00:04:57]>> Count six alleges in each case that you were at a location other than your residence at approximately 1:53 a.m.

[00:05:04]December 21st of 2025. And is that true or not true?

[00:05:07]>> True.

[00:05:09]>> Count seven in each case alleges that you failed to successfully complete the defensive driving case. uh course as ordered. Is that true or not true?

[00:05:17]>> True.

[00:05:19]>> Count eight in each case alleges that you are behind in your court assessed fees. And is that true or not true?

[00:05:24]>> True.

[00:05:25]>> Did you enter your piece of true in each case to counts 2 through eight freely and voluntarily? And did you plead true to those counts because they're actually true?

[00:05:35]>> So, it's my understanding, Mr. Chapman that the recommendation is that I continue your probation and order you to enter and successfully complete the special needs safety. Is that your understanding?

[00:05:47]>> Yes, sir.

[00:05:48]>> Is there any reason to get any type of presence report or um update?

[00:05:52]>> Only at the court's discretion, judge.

[00:05:54]The officer, Miss Falier, has uh already prepared for the court the continuation of modification of that special condition if the court uh would like that to be signed off on today.

[00:06:04]Otherwise, I'm sure she'd be happy to do a quick update >> if it No, I mean, if it's her recommendation, um, we'll just go ahead and go forward.

[00:06:11]>> That was I'm sorry to interrupt. I think that was done prior to uh count one that we see, which obviously caught everyone's attention and and just took that immediately off the table. But right, that was no bill. I think that's when she finds herself back in the same position.

[00:06:29]>> So, Mr. Chapman, you're getting your second chance today. Yes, ma'am.

[00:06:36]>> There's not going to be a third.

[00:06:37]>> Okay. You need to take advantage of this. I don't know what happened. Um the night of December 21st of 25, obviously, it was no build as far as the offense, but you were clearly somewhere you shouldn't have been doing some things you shouldn't have been doing, right?

[00:06:53]>> If you had been home during curfew, you never would have been charged with anything. there wouldn't have been any issue of whether or not you did anything. Right.

[00:07:00]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:07:00]>> So, I want to make sure you understand if I go along with this and send you to safety, you're going to get some tools so that you can hopefully stop using drugs, do the right thing, live your life like the rest of us, and not end up in prison. Um, do you understand all that?

[00:07:15]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:07:16]>> All right. So at this time in each of your cases >> I don't know how the court would feel about it extension judge based on the age.

[00:07:31]>> Yeah. So um at least in the uh evading.

[00:07:34]>> Okay.

[00:07:35]>> Um I'm going to do that. I'm also going to we're going to talk a little about the uh jail incident reports as well in just a minute. So, I'm going to find in each of your cases that you entered your plea of truth to counts two through eight freely and voluntarily. Find those counts true. Find sufficient evidence in each of your cases to revoke your probation. But I'm going to go along with this agreement today and I'm going to um continue your probation in each of your cases. In clause number 23 DCCR 1077, I am going to extend your probation by two years and I'm going to order in each of your cases that you enter and successfully complete safe PE.

[00:08:15]That obviously means I think that's it as far as adding the condition the condition. So add two years in the one case and the condition with regard to to being successful and not being disrespectful. Okay. All right. Good luck to you. You can go back with the baiff even.

[00:08:31][clears throat] There's that >> Derek Corbin >> judge on this one. This one that I previously was evaluated.

[00:08:54]He is competent. Um I got a new offer from the state on him. I was going to ask him sit him one week so I can have some family to talk to him. He's a little better but it's still >> we'll reset Derek Corbin one week.

[00:09:08]>> One week Gilbert Gilbert.

[00:09:22]>> No, I I didn't I still need to uh I'mma go through those occasion. Okay.

[00:09:30]There's a lot.

[00:09:58]Good morning. Are you Thelma Gilbert?

[00:10:00]Yes, ma'am.

[00:10:00]>> And Miss Gilbert, in cause number 26, DCCR0502 is charged with credit debit card abuse.

[00:10:08]26 DCCR0503 charged with burglary of a habitation.

[00:10:13]0504 charged with credit debit card abuse. 0505 charged with credit or debit card abuse. 0506 charged with credit or debit card abuse. 0507 charged with fraudulent use or possession of identifying information and 0508 charged with theft of property. And what is the announcement?

[00:10:33]>> Judge, I've I've started I've gone through most of these cases. I've talked with Miss Gilbert about it. Um also about her other situation yesterday.

[00:10:43]It's going on. She is currently on parole. Uh so there's a parole on dealing with her as well. Um I I just need to finish up going going going through a little of some of that stuff.

[00:10:55]I haven't been on it that long. No, >> but uh and considering that the offer will be something substantial as far as >> uh the resolution I this this need a little time with it.

[00:11:07]>> Right. So I'm going just do a normal reset. That'll give Mr. Lewis time to get through everything and all of the discovery and all of your cases. Go through that with you and then we'll get an announcement at the next court date.

[00:11:17]All right. You can go back with the baiff. Thank you.

[00:11:22]So >> these are two different people. Tan Van Fam and Van Tan Fam. And you've got both of them.

[00:11:30]>> It's the same person.

[00:11:33]>> It's same person. And that's the issue that I'm having. I'm >> okay.

[00:11:37]>> But we did have the same >> previously. There was a tie van with similar cases.

[00:11:42]>> Okay.

[00:11:43]>> He's he has pled and been sentenced and and on his way. So all of these one, two, three, four, five, six, seven cases are the same person.

[00:11:51]>> Same person.

[00:11:52]>> Okay. Tan, van, fam, please.

[00:11:56]>> Bam. And >> for a while we had them both on the same dockets. And I was pretty >> Some of them were just have the name split van pan instead of tan. Okay.

[00:12:23]Good morning.

[00:12:24]>> Good morning, ma'am.

[00:12:25]>> You are Tan VanFam.

[00:12:26]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:12:27]>> And Mr. Fam has seven cases, all charged with theft of property with previous convictions. And what is the announcement? Judge I on this situation he he has several cases that he's charged with. We had another defendant very similar situation, same name that was on same docket at one point. Uh and it's questionable if some of these or the other person be honest with you they're both actually from the same area or put off. Uh, and so I'm trying to go through all the surveillance just to make sure who's who.

[00:13:10]>> Okay.

[00:13:11]>> So I would at least >> and it looks like some have they we've got three different kind of indictment time frames on these. Not. So Mr. Fam, I'm going to reset your case one more time to give Mr. Lewis time to go through all of that. He'll be out there to visit with you and we'll get an announcement at the next court day. All right. You can go back with the she want to give me a court. Yes.

[00:13:33]You don't know why they hold me here. I didn't do nothing.

[00:13:36]>> Well, Mr. Lewis will talk to you about that. Okay.

[00:13:39]>> Okay. Go ahead.

[00:13:47]>> Um, what about April Smith?

[00:13:49]>> That's the one that was reset from last week, judge, with the uh >> thing on April Smith, >> right?

[00:13:57]>> What was that for?

[00:13:59]>> Her husband could talk. We were about the safety.

[00:14:03]>> We had asked the court to consider safety for facetimes her prior. She didn't know if you wanted to do that last week. I had allowed her husband to go out and talk with her about how much she really needs safety for her children. But uh of course we ultimately left it to your decision.

[00:14:28]So what about three new cases?

[00:14:32]>> Well, our offer judge just in April coming >> in hindsight was that um you would kind of wait to see what the court's position was with respect to safety. Those were actually on the grand jury cart at last docket. I have since been assigned them and so if we need to plead to one or both of them, we can to do that and experienc that direction. Otherwise, the offer was to uh for state two years stay jail on the probation case and to plead to at least one of those offenses. So that there's the priors in her history, >> right? I think when she initially the pleas were done she initially those were abandoned at that time because they haven't been presented correct >> presented yet.

[00:15:25]>> I don't even know that we had them in the office. They have since been indicted last week and I now have them and can prove them up by next week if the court would like.

[00:15:42]>> Well, what's your client's position with regard to that offer of safety?

[00:15:47]Oh, she she definitely wants to do the say impeachment.

[00:15:50]>> Then I want please of everything today if I'm going to do that. She's got to take responsibility for those new cases if y'all want to get the paperwork done for whatever agreement you've reached on those. Um but I mean I don't think dismissals is appropriate if >> no and that wasn't the planarily when we didn't have them was let's not hold her up for sh but now that we have a cause number to plead to >> Yeah. We need to get them all taken care of today. All right.

[00:16:14]>> We'll take your attention.

[00:16:15]>> Yes sir. I hold that fix.

[00:16:20]>> And then you've got Jordan Thomas.

[00:16:29]>> Uh Jordan >> Thomas.

[00:16:31]>> Good morning.

[00:16:32]>> Good morning.

[00:16:34]>> Been waiting all morning. [laughter] and judge. This is when I was retained on right during that transition when Mr. French took over uh those cases on. Uh so we've had a little time to talk but but not much.

[00:17:01]>> Good morning. Are you Jordan Thomas?

[00:17:03]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:17:04]>> And this is cause numbers 24 DCTCR0487.

[00:17:08]Mr. Thomas is charged with sexual assault of a child and 24 DCCR 2178 charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. And um Mr. Lewis, what is the announcement?

[00:17:21]>> Judge, this is one I've been previously retained on uh recently.

[00:17:26]>> Okay, I see that >> retained on. Um I got on this case. I've talked to Miss French a little bit about it. She's reviewed it over the weekend actually and gave me an offer this morning.

[00:17:35]>> Okay. in in regards to where you are. I do have discovery. So now I just need to go sit down with Mr. Thomas. So >> we'll just do a normal reset. Give you plenty of time to go over um everything with Mr. Thomas and we'll get an announcement at the next court date.

[00:17:48]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:17:49]>> Right, Mr. Thomas? We'll see you at the next court date.

[00:17:52]>> And I'm holding April. Okay.

[00:17:56]>> And then Miss PZO still rejections.

[00:18:04]Oh, I feel like we've already done I don't know if she needs to do all those, but I see that she's doing them.

[00:18:10]Don't get that set.

[00:18:15]>> Do you?

[00:18:19]>> Hey, Mr. Ro. What was I holding for you?

[00:18:21]Jimmy Couch.

[00:18:21]>> Jimmy Couch.

[00:18:22]>> We can reset him. Uh, Mr. Couch wants to file a bond reduction.

[00:18:27]>> Okay, I'll reset Mr. Couch.

[00:18:29]>> Jimmy Couch. We don't need it. reset is here today. She has spoken with myself and with Mr. Rohouse both, we will be objecting objecting to that long deduction.

[00:18:39]>> Okay. So, we'll take care of it then. At that time, obviously, if there's evidence that would help me um bring whatever witnesses you need. What about Willie Pew?

[00:18:49]>> Willie Pew, Judge, uh if we can reset that, I'm going to file a motion to suppress on that, but that may be dispositive, but >> right. We'll reset Mr. Pew as well. and judge that also >> just one day >> maybe on a nonjury week after >> perfect thank you >> thank you Mr. Roas >> so Mr. GS had to go to um >> Oh, hi. Good morning. I was like, where is he?

[00:19:17]>> If I was >> you staying [laughter] closer to you, we'd probably be in trouble. Right.

[00:19:22]>> That would right on Giovani Coleman.

[00:19:25]>> Yeah. May I have a few minutes on that?

[00:19:27]>> Yeah, I'll hold it.

[00:19:30]And then after working on resial >> Oh, well, let's just um >> It's okay. Just get the order and I'll sign it and we'll send them to I control everything.

[00:20:33]Okay.

[00:20:36]M we have Mr. Roas here.

[00:20:41]>> Good morning.

[00:20:42]>> Good morning.

[00:20:43]>> I was and I was in a hurry thinking I was late.

[00:20:53]>> See, Mr. Rohos, you've got uh Jaman Adams.

[00:21:05]>> Adam Good morning. Are you Jamon Adams?

[00:21:39]>> Yes, >> this is 26 DCCR0744.

[00:21:44]Looks like Mr. Adams is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and Mr. Roas has filed a uh motion asking that I reduce the bond currently set at 150,000. Is that correct?

[00:21:56]>> That's correct.

[00:21:57]>> Mr. Adams, the best you can raise your right hand, please, sir. You swear.

[00:22:02]>> You swear or affirm the testimony you're going to give in this hearing will be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

[00:22:07]>> Thank you. Go ahead, Mr. Roas.

[00:22:09]>> Gentlemen, uh, how old are you?

[00:22:10]>> 21.

[00:22:11]>> Where are you originally from?

[00:22:12]>> Houston.

[00:22:13]>> Okay. But when this incident happened, you were live here living here in town with your dad?

[00:22:17]>> Yes, I And your dad, the victim, is >> is complaining witness in this case, right?

[00:22:21]>> Yes, sir.

[00:22:21]>> Okay. Um, how long have you been in jail?

[00:22:25]>> Since April 8th.

[00:22:28]>> And uh the only outside uh the only other person other than your father uh that can realistically help help you with this is your mom, right?

[00:22:37]>> Yes, sir.

[00:22:37]>> Okay. And your mom, you you've talked with her and you've talked to she's unable unable to make a bond $150,000.

[00:22:44]>> No, sir.

[00:22:45]>> Okay. Do you own any property that you could sell? A house, a car, a land. Uh do you have a bank account in your name?

[00:22:51]>> Yes, sir.

[00:22:52]>> Do you know approximately how much money is in that account?

[00:22:55]>> Probably zero. Maybe in a negative.

[00:22:57]>> Okay. Um >> this is uh again, you're 17 years old.

[00:23:02]This is the very first time you've been arrested, right?

[00:23:04]>> Yes, sir.

[00:23:04]>> Okay. Uh your your mom's going to help you out with the bond if we can get it lowered. And I actually I think maybe an aunt. He's maybe there's an aunt out there that can help her.

[00:23:14]>> We don't. Okay. Um, you're Are you married?

[00:23:16]>> No, sir.

[00:23:17]>> Do you have any kids?

[00:23:18]>> No, sir.

[00:23:18]>> Okay. So, it's just you.

[00:23:19]>> Just me.

[00:23:20]>> So, if you're able to make a bond, uh, like I said before this, you were living with your dad. What's your plan? If the judge will let you, you want to go live with your mom in Austin?

[00:23:30]>> Yeah. So, I will go to Austin. I already have a job lined up for months. She's holding it down for me right now. She's also over to get her own apartment so that I can go move in with her, start working, and continue back on my to get back inside.

[00:23:43]>> Okay. And you said get back in school.

[00:23:45]But was every high school?

[00:23:46]>> No.

[00:23:47]>> Okay. Where were you going to college at?

[00:23:50]>> City is incentives on back.

[00:23:51]>> Okay.

[00:23:52]>> Um and once you're able to get this all behind, you plan to get back into college?

[00:23:58]>> Yes.

[00:23:59]>> All right. That's witness.

[00:24:02]>> Just so we're clear, you're 21 years old, right? Not 17. I think that was misstatement.

[00:24:06]>> Yes.

[00:24:07]>> Yes.

[00:24:08]>> You apologize. Did I say that?

[00:24:10]>> I think he said 17. I know.

[00:24:13]Right.

[00:24:13]>> I have another question, George.

[00:24:15]>> Okay. Any other [clears throat] witnesses?

[00:24:16]>> No, judge.

[00:24:17]>> Mr. Nichols, what's the state's um position?

[00:24:20]>> Judge, he's accused of breaking into his own home after he been kicked out and his father tried to push him out the window that he broke in through. He grabbed a knife and stabbed him. I think 150 is appropriate in this situation.

[00:24:32]Judge, >> and for the record, I am taking judicial notice of the court's file. It includes the probable cause affidavit. If y'all give me just a second, let me um So you you said you would be going to Austin if you make bond no matter what that is and living with your mom. Is that correct?

[00:25:06]>> Yes.

[00:25:06]>> But that she would be getting her own place. Where does she live now? Um I believe it's a um one of those homes where she's pays for that space.

[00:25:15]>> Okay.

[00:25:17]>> The money she's paying there, she can also pay for an apartment. So she that's what she's doing while working with jobs.

[00:25:25]>> And what's the job that you would have?

[00:25:27]>> I would have the IO job. That's her second job. That's the job that I will be going to.

[00:25:42]When's the last time you were in school?

[00:25:45]Um, >> I believe in May of 2024. That's when I left college.

[00:25:55]Keep up the $4,000.

[00:25:58]>> Speak up.

[00:25:59]>> I said I cannot keep up the $40,000 on my own for tuition.

[00:26:16]any history that you can >> minor juvenile I think an arrest and an onsuit out of Paris County and foreign murder juvenile but nothing else right >> all right so what I'm going to do Mr. Adams, I'm going to grant the motion.

[00:26:34]I'm going to reduce your bond for $100,000.

[00:26:37]Condition of that bond, if you make it, is going to be that you um obviously have absolutely no contact, no communication with David Keys. Um you will be ordered to wear a GPS monitoring device. Um you will be allowed to live in Austin with your mom. U you would have to get that address before you go to your attorney or to your bondsman.

[00:27:02]and um also obviously not be anywhere near the residence at 1970 A Street.

[00:27:15]>> Do you understand? Yes, sir.

[00:27:16]>> No contact and no communication means none. That not sending messages obviously means in person, but it also means sending any type of messages yourself or through anybody else or anything like that. You understand?

[00:27:27]>> Yes, ma'am. I have no teachings.

[00:27:34]reset it for an announcement. All right, you can go back over See Cody Arnold.

[00:28:26]So in my mind I don't have the attachment then I'll meet you.

[00:28:51]>> Okay. Thank you.

[00:28:54]>> Good morning. Are you Cody Arnold?

[00:28:56]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:28:57]>> And will your client wave the formal reading of the indictment?

[00:29:00]>> Mr. Arnold, in cause number 26, DCCR0488, you're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of harassment of a public servant from January 30th or of good grief. January 30th of 2026. And how do you plead to that charge?

[00:29:16]>> Guilty.

[00:29:16]>> Are you pleading guilty freely and voluntarily?

[00:29:19]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:29:20]>> And are you pleading guilty because you actually did what they charged you with?

[00:29:23]>> Yes, ma'am. I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the states marked as exhibit number one. Before you sign these, did you go over them with Mr. Robox? Yes, ma'am.

[00:29:32]>> Do you fully understand them?

[00:29:34]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:29:35]>> And do you understand if I follow the agreement that you've made with the district attorney that you will be waving or giving up any right to appeal?

[00:29:42]>> Yes, ma'am. Do you also understand if you're not a US citizen that a plea of guilty or no contest may result in your deportation, exclusion from admission to the country, or denial of naturalization under federal law?

[00:29:53]>> Yes, m.

[00:29:54]>> State tenders number one.

[00:29:55]>> No objection.

[00:29:56]>> It's admitted. Is there any evidence that Mr. Arnold is not competent?

[00:29:59]>> No, your honor.

[00:30:00]>> All right, sir. I'm going to find that you entered your plea of guilty freely and voluntarily. Find that you're mentally competent and you understand the nature and the consequences of your plea. Find sufficient evidence to find you guilty. at this time find you guilty of the thirdderee felony offense of harassment of a public servant sentence you in accordance with your agreement to a term of 5 years in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Corrections. You will receive credit on that sentence for any time that you've been in custody that the law gives you the right to receive. I have handed you the trial court certification that shows this was an agreement that I followed.

[00:30:34]So, you did wave your right to appeal. I also handed you a written admonishment regarding your ineligibility to possess a firearm or ammunition. Because of the judgment entered against you, you're ineligible under Texas law to possess a firearm or ammunition. Possession of a firearm or ammunition could lead to charges against you. If you have any questions about the laws that make you ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition or about how long that lasts, you can talk to Mr. Rohos. All right.

[00:31:00]Good luck to you, sir. Go back with the ba.

[00:31:03]Bethany >> Battton.

[00:31:26]>> Good morning.

[00:31:31]Hey, she gets credit, but anytime we get to the hospital, I'm not so >> good morning.

[00:31:52]>> You're Bethany Batton.

[00:31:53]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:31:54]>> And um this is cause number 24, DCCR2349.

[00:31:58]I am going to take judicial notice of the court's file. I think we've already gone through this, but just to make sure the record clear, Miss Batton was previously found not competent to stand trial sent to the John Dunn behavioral science center for competency restoration. Uh was sent back here. It looks like we got a report April 3rd of 2026 that Miss Batten was now uh currently competent to stand trial. Any other issues with regard to competency?

[00:32:25]>> No, you're not from the state. All right. Then I'll make that finding that she is confident to stand trial. Will she wave the formal reading of the indictment?

[00:32:31]>> She will.

[00:32:45]>> Miss Batton, you're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of assault on a security officer and that's from November 14th of 2024. And how do you plead to that charge? Are you pleading guilty freely and voluntarily?

[00:32:57]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:32:58]>> And are you pleading guilty because you did what they charged you with?

[00:33:01]>> I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the state has marked as exhibit number one before you sign these. Did you go over them with Mr. Ro?

[00:33:10]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:33:11]>> Do you fully understand them?

[00:33:12]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:33:13]>> And you understand if I follow the agreement that you've made with the district attorney that you'll be waving or giving up any right to appeal?

[00:33:20]>> Yes, ma'am. Do you also understand if you're not a US citizen that a plea of guilty or no contest may result in your deportation, exclusion from admission to the country, or denial of naturalization under federal law?

[00:33:32]>> State tenders number one.

[00:33:33]>> No objection.

[00:33:34]>> It's admitted. All right, Miss Batton, I'm going to find that you entered your plea of guilty freely and voluntarily. I find again that you're mentally competent and you understand the nature and the consequences of your plea. find sufficient evidence to find you guilty and at this time find you guilty of um harassment of I'm sorry, assault on a security officer, sentence you in accordance with your agreement to a term of 2 years in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Corrections.

[00:33:59]You will receive credit on that sentence for any time that you've been in custody that the law gives you the right to receive. I've also handed you a written admonishment regarding your ineligibility to possess a firearm or ammunition. Because of the judgment entered against you, you're ineligible under Texas law to possess a firearm or ammunition. Possession of a firearm or ammunition could lead to charges against you. If you have questions about the laws that make you ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition or about how long that lasts, you can talk with Mr. Robots. All right, good luck to ma'am.

[00:34:30]You can go back to the ba.

[00:34:33]>> Jaden Brantley, >> just I don't know if you want to bring him up. Well, we can't. His grandmother's trying to give me some medical records.

[00:34:42]>> Okay, let's >> reset all I can.

[00:34:47]>> Does he know that? I guess >> he knows. Yes.

[00:34:50]>> We'll just reset. We'll reset. Mr. Brantley, Mr. Nichols, I'm going to do a normal reset so that Mr. Rohos can get some information from the family. Uh Jimmy Couch, >> can we hold Mr. Couch? Mino and I need to talk about >> Sure. Um Reagan Hulesman need some direction on this one.

[00:35:21]>> I use your wheelhouse on that judge.

[00:35:23]Just a little that evaluation. I have some questions about the Explain is there.

[00:36:32]Well, it didn't really say >> yeah.

[00:36:36]>> Well, recommendation.

[00:36:37]>> Not one of you guys. Did either of you try to reach out to the doctor to ask her?

[00:36:42]>> I have not.

[00:36:43]>> Okay. So, I'm going to Let's reset. Miss Hillsman, if you'll reach out to Dr. Grimsley. Okay. and just ask if um I mean this looks like just a regular psychological evaluation which is what it's titled instead of a sanity evaluation and so let's get with her if you would um and we we'll make a notation but if you'll call and find out about the actual sanity evaluation if she's a able to do that if for some reason she's not we can get um one of the other doctors to get that done pretty quickly right okay you can go back with the baiff Byron Morris.

[00:37:23]>> They didn't bring him over, Josh. He wouldn't know this.

[00:37:27]>> Thank go.

[00:37:43]>> All right. So, let's just reset him to next week. Can I get two weeks on that judge? I'm probably not going to be here next week.

[00:37:49]>> Sure. Two weeks.

[00:37:52]Uh Willie Pew on that one. I need to talk small.

[00:37:56]>> Sure. And then what about Shondaanda Riley?

[00:37:58]>> That's going to be a plea to Shondaanda Riley, please.

[00:38:01]>> Riley.

[00:38:18]There.

[00:38:19]Oh, it's remote.

[00:38:36]>> Good morning. Are you Kashonda Renee Riley?

[00:38:38]>> Yes, ma'am. Will your client wave a formal reading of the indictments and the motion?

[00:38:42]>> She will.

[00:38:51]>> Miss Riley, in cause number 26, BCCR0210, you're charged with a state jail felony offense of theft of property with previous convictions from December 20th of 2025. The indictment alleges that you were previously convicted of theft August 25th of 2017 and then two cases on March 1st of 2023. And how do you plead to that charge?

[00:39:16]>> Guilty.

[00:39:16]>> And are those prior convictions true?

[00:39:18]>> Yes.

[00:39:19]>> Did you enter your plea of guilty and true in this case freely and voluntarily?

[00:39:23]>> Yes.

[00:39:24]>> And did you plead guilty because you actually did what they've charged you with?

[00:39:27]>> Yes.

[00:39:37]Then pause number 26 DCCR0211.

[00:39:49]You're also charged with theft of property with previous convictions, a state jail felony. And this is from November 24th of 2025. It alleges those same prior um convictions for theft. And how do you pleaded this charge? Yes.

[00:40:04]>> And again, are those prior convictions true?

[00:40:07]>> Yes.

[00:40:07]>> And you entered your plea of guilty and true freely and voluntarily?

[00:40:11]>> Yes, sir.

[00:40:11]>> And because you actually did what they've charged you with?

[00:40:14]>> Yes.

[00:40:14]>> In each of those cases, I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the states marked as exhibit number one. Before you signed these, did you go over them with Mr. Robots?

[00:40:25]>> Do you fully understand them?

[00:40:27]>> Yes. And you understand if I follow the agreements that you've made with the district attorney that you'll be waving or giving up any right to appeal.

[00:40:34]>> Yes.

[00:40:35]>> And it looks like the agreements that you've reached in these two cases is for a cap of 15 months in the state jail prison. Which means if I follow the agreement, I cannot give you more than 15 months. I can give you 15 months. I can give you less. It'll depend on the information that I receive when we come back from sentencing or for sentencing.

[00:40:52]You have an absolute right to have a jury come in and decide two things. The first is to decide if you're guilty or not. And then if that jury finds you guilty, you could leave your punishment up to them. If we go forward this way, you're waving that and leaving it up to me. And is that what you want to do?

[00:41:07]>> Yes.

[00:41:08]>> State tenders number one. In each of those cases, >> no objection.

[00:41:11]>> It's admitted in each case. Is there any evidence that Miss Riley is not competent?

[00:41:14]>> No, your honor. All >> right, ma'am. In each of these cases, I'm going to find that you entered your plea of guilty freely and voluntarily.

[00:41:20]Find that you're mentally competent and you understand the nature and the consequences of those p. find sufficient evidence in each case to find you guilty. However, I'm going to reset both of those cases so that we can get a pre-sentence report done. That'll give me some more information about you and the cases and then we'll come back later for sentencing. I see.

[00:41:38]>> And then we have cause number 24, DCCR 1778.

[00:41:56]Give me just a second.

[00:41:59]All right. This shows that you were um this is a motion to revoke your unadjudicated probation. Shows that you were placed on probation April 21st of 2025 for the offense of theft of property with previous invictions, a state jail felony, and that was a three-year deferred probation. Is that correct? Yes, >> it alleges you violated your probation.

[00:42:19]Count one alleges that you committed the new offense of theft of property with previous convictions December 20th of 2025. It is that true or not true? True.

[00:42:29]>> And then count two alleges that you committed the offense of failure to ID um a fugitive with intent to give false information on December 20th of 2025.

[00:42:39]And is that true or not true?

[00:42:41]>> True.

[00:42:42]>> Count three alleges that you failed to provide verification of performing the community service hours is required. Is that true or not true?

[00:42:49]>> True.

[00:42:50]>> Count four alleges that you failed to provide verification of completing the theft prevention class. Is that true or not true?

[00:42:57]>> True.

[00:42:57]>> And then count five alleges that you are behind in your court assessed fees. Is that true or not true?

[00:43:03]>> Did you enter your please of true to counts one through five freely and voluntarily?

[00:43:07]>> Yes.

[00:43:07]>> And did you play true to those counts because they're all actually true?

[00:43:11]I also have here on the tablet in that case some documents that have your signature on them that the states marked as exhibit number one. Did you also go over these with Mr. Rohox?

[00:43:20]>> Yes.

[00:43:21]>> And you understand if I follow the agreement which is a cap of 15 months in this case as well that you'll be waving or giving up any right to appeal?

[00:43:28]>> Yes.

[00:43:28]>> State tenders number one.

[00:43:30]>> No objection.

[00:43:31]>> It's admitted. Um all right, Miss Riley, I'm going to find that you entered your please of truth to counts one through five freely and voluntarily. Find those counts true. find sufficient evidence to find you guilty and revoke your probation, but I'm going to hold on that and reset your case for sentencing again. I'll get an updated report from probation and then we'll see um what we get when we come back. If there's anything that you think is important for me to know, get that information to Mr. Rohos and he'll present it to me on your behalf when you come back. All right, >> judge. A first amended motion was prepared on Friday to be filed. I'm going to hold it since we've reached an agreement on everything and it won't be filed. All it did was add one of the cases she's already plead guilty to.

[00:44:09]>> Okay. All right. Thank you. All right.

[00:44:10]You can go back with the baiff.

[00:44:42]M delay, you've got Aberto Chavez. Is Miss here?

[00:44:47]>> We've reached an agreement. Okay.

[00:44:49]>> And we're waiting for that to go through. Oh, >> okay. I'll recall it as soon as it's ready. Thank you, >> Mr. Lewis. You've got Dewan Banks.

[00:45:11]the one right >> there's nothing female.

[00:45:37]>> Good morning. Are you Dewan Banks?

[00:45:38]>> Good morning. Yes. This is 25 DCCR0990.

[00:45:42]Mr. Banks is charged with injury to a child, elderly, or disabled individual.

[00:45:47]And what is the announcement, >> Judge? I've gotten some contact from some family members who are also family members to the complaint involved. I got that over to Mr. Mino. We're trying to get that resolved. I get in contact with them uh as soon as possible. They're out of state, so it's what's kind of been the the difficulty, >> right? This has been it's been looks like he's been in custody since October. It's been a while, judge. We've had some issues with trying to resolve some CPS issues initially. The child has also been placed multiple trying to locate the child without saying too much. It has been somewhat difficult that there is family that's involved on both sides. We also had a guarth house issue. We brought him over and he since watched the G House. Um, so just that final conversation if we can some way or how either via phone or Zoom or something all of us together since they're out of state before we put it on the trial docket. Once we get to the trial docket, it's going to it's it's going to be up in the air just depending on of the what I'm able to do with respect to witnesses, etc. I certainly understand his having been in custody because I don't feel like the child is here locally and Mr. Lewis wants to approach him on the issue. I think >> but here's let's do this. I'm going to reset it. This will be the final reset for an announcement. Whatever you guys need to figure out between now and then if it's going to go in the trial docket.

[00:47:13]Um if you file a motion for a bomb reduction, I'll take a look at it. Um but it's definitely time to get something moving. I understand the issues that you guys have had, but it's it's time to do something. So this will be the last reset for an announcement.

[00:47:25]Right. You can go back with the bay.

[00:47:27]Thank you.

[00:47:40]Mr. Parker, you have um Jeremy Alexander.

[00:47:45]>> Jeremy.

[00:48:01]because of enhancement.

[00:48:04]That makes sense.

[00:48:09]>> Yeah.

[00:48:12]>> Good morning. Are you Jeremy Germaine Alexander?

[00:48:14]>> Yes.

[00:48:15]>> And Mr. Alexander, this is cause number 26, DCCR0178.

[00:48:21]You're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of injury to an elderly individual from November 17th of 2025.

[00:48:28]Your indictment alleges that you were previously convicted of burglary of a habitation, a secondderee felony, May 10th of 2021. What that means, sir, is that if you go to trial and you're found guilty in this offense, then the range of punishment, if that prior conviction is true, would be enhanced [clears throat] to a seconddegree felony, which means your minimum punishment would be 2 years up to 20 years in prison. Do you understand? I need you to answer out loud for the record, please. And I have here on the tablet a plea bargain rejection that shows that the district attorney's office has made an offer if you wanted to enter a plea of guilty for an 8-year term in prison. You have every right to reject that offer and have your case set for trial. I want to make sure you understand what the possible consequences are if you go to trial.

[00:49:11]What your options are today if you wanted to plead guilty. Yes, ma'am.

[00:49:14]>> You understand all of that? Yes, ma'am.

[00:49:15]>> You want to reject that offer and have your case set for trial?

[00:49:18]>> Yes, ma'am. We'll get that done. Mr. Smith, is there any reason to believe that there would be a change in that offer? You've got everything as far as discovery. So, I want to make sure you understand, Mr. Alexander, that after be accepting this offer unless new evidence comes up that the attorneys don't know about. You understand?

[00:49:35]>> All right. And so, uh, Mr. Alexander, Mr. Parker's been appointed to represent you. He's one of the attorneys who handles a lot of cases for me as a courtappointed attorney. With your permission, I can release him and appoint another attorney today who could begin preparation for trial a little quicker. Is that okay with you?

[00:49:50]>> Right. So, Mr. Parker, you're released.

[00:49:52]Mr. Alexander, someone will be appointed today. They should be out to see you very soon to begin preparation for trial.

[00:49:58]>> Right. You can go back with the Biff.

[00:50:03]>> Edward Godfrey.

[00:50:18]like that.

[00:50:37]>> Whatever.

[00:50:49]It's going to be so I think I move fast.

[00:51:12]Good morning. Are you Edward Godfrey III? Yes.

[00:51:15]>> And will your client wave the formal reading of the indictment?

[00:51:18]>> No, your honor.

[00:51:19]>> Mr. Godfrey, in cause number 26, DCCR0383.

[00:51:24]You're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of assault family violence um by impeding breath or circulation from February 6th of 2026. And how do you plead to that charge?

[00:51:35]Are you pleading guilty freely and voluntarily?

[00:51:39]>> Speak up, please.

[00:51:40]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:51:41]>> And are you pleading guilty because you actually did what they've charged you with?

[00:51:44]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:51:45]>> I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the state has marked as exhibit number one before you sign these. Did you go over them with Mr. Parker?

[00:51:56]>> Do you fully understand them? And do you understand if I follow the agreement that you've made with the district attorney that you will be waving or giving up any right to appeal?

[00:52:06]And it looks like the agreement that you've reached is for an 8-year deferred probation.

[00:52:12]Is that right?

[00:52:20]>> That right?

[00:52:21]>> I was I wrote it at eight, but that was the original, but it was a six. I haven't but I had it six. I just should be six.

[00:52:29]>> Right or wrong. It's six.

[00:52:30]>> Okay. So, um, with y'all's permission, can I change this punishment recommendation? So, it looks like the agreement is for a six-year deferred probation. There would be a $500 fine, and you would be required to follow all of the rules and conditions of probation. Is that your understanding?

[00:52:45]Do you also understand if you're not a US citizen that a plea of guilty or no contest may result in your deportation, exclusion from admission to the country or denial of naturalization under federal law?

[00:52:56]>> No.

[00:52:57]>> State tenders number one.

[00:52:58]>> Objection.

[00:52:59]>> It's admitted. Is there any evidence that Mr. Goffrey is not competent?

[00:53:02]>> No, your honor.

[00:53:03]>> All right, sir. I'm going to find that you entered your plea of guilty freely and voluntarily. Find that you're mentally competent and you understand the nature and the consequences of your plea. Find sufficient evidence to find you guilty. However, I'm going to reset your case so that the probation department can do a pre-scence report.

[00:53:18]That'll give me more information about you and your case and then we'll come back for sentencing at a later date. Um, is there juvenile history?

[00:53:30]>> He was certified. You were certified as an adult in this case.

[00:53:34]>> How old are you?

[00:53:35]>> He's 17.

[00:53:36]>> You're 17. Okay.

[00:53:38]>> I don't show the history.

[00:53:42]I just trying to figure out why he's in crane.

[00:53:49]>> How long you been 17?

[00:53:51]>> Since November.

[00:53:55]>> Okay. So, you were 17 when this was committed, but they've got to keep you separated. So, you won't be 18 until this November.

[00:54:06]I am going to uh leave the bond the way it is. I want to see that three sentence report based on his age and the nature of the offense and make sure there's everything in place and there's nothing else that we need to do to uh make sure Mr. Goffrey is successful. All right, you go back with the baiff. We'll see you back at sentencing.

[00:54:29]>> Uh Charles Haristen He has a case like out of Van Sand King.

[00:54:46]This guy's kind of a master.

[00:54:49]He says there he has he has a he wants to bond down but he has a bond in the kill 300 lb.

[00:55:12]>> Good morning sir. Are you Charles Haristen I?

[00:55:15]>> Yes ma'am.

[00:55:16]>> And Mr. Harston and cause number 24 DCCR2426, you're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of theft of property from uh November 18th of 2024. And what that means in that case, sir, is that if you go to trial and you're found guilty, the range of punishment would be between 2 years and up to 10 years in prison. Do you understand?

[00:55:37]>> That's right. And then in cause number 24 DCCR2427, you're charged with the state jail felony offense of credit or debit card abuse from November 13th of 2024. And what that means in if you're found guilty in that case is that the range of punishment would be between 6 months and up to two years in the state jail prison. Do you understand?

[00:56:02]>> In each of those cases, I have here on the tablet some plea bargain rejections that you've signed with Mr. Parker. It looks like the uh district attorney's office has made an offer in the um theft of property case for a 10-year deferred probation with restitution.

[00:56:18]And then in that um credit debit card abuse of 5-year deferred probation, you have every right to reject those offers and have your cases set for trial. I just want to make sure you understand what the possible consequences are if you go to trial and what your options are if you wanted to plead guilty. Do you understand all of that, >> Mr. Manager?

[00:56:39]>> And do you want to reject those offers and have your cases set for trial?

[00:56:42]>> Yes.

[00:56:43]>> All right. We'll get them set for trial.

[00:56:44]And Mr. Haristston, Mr. Parker has been appointed to represent you. He's one of the attorneys who handles a lot of cases for me as a courtointed attorney. With your permission, I can release him and I can appoint a new attorney today who could begin preparation for trial a little quicker. Is that okay with you?

[00:56:59]>> Yes. All >> right, Mr. Parker, you're released. Mr. Harrison, we will appoint someone today.

[00:57:03]They should be out to um see you very soon to begin preparation for trial.

[00:57:07]>> Judge, I would say he he uh he's talked to me about a bond reduction in these cases. I've explained to him I think the bonds are probably appropriate. He's trying to bond out, but there's another case out of Vanzant County and the bonds like I don't know what the charges are, but it's like $300,000. I told him that this court have no control over anything there.

[00:57:24]>> No, I can't do anything with those bonds. um when you when your new attorney comes to visit you, if they want to file a motion for me to try to reduce these, um I'll take a look at it at that point, but I can't do anything that has to do with any other county.

[00:57:37]All right. Okay. You can go back with the bail.

[00:57:41]>> Uh Tamara Henry.

[00:57:43]>> Tamara Henry.

[00:57:56]Why they wait so long to file November 19th.

[00:58:06]>> Good morning. Are you Tamry Henry?

[00:58:08]>> Yes.

[00:58:09]>> And Mr. Parker, will your client wave the formal reading of the motions in each case?

[00:58:13]>> Yes. And they're both the same charge and the same violations.

[00:58:18]>> Thank you, M. Um Henry. and cost number 1419449.

[00:58:24]I have a motion to revoke your unadjudicated probation shows that you were placed on probation January 4th of 2016 for the offense of aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony, and that was a 10-year deferred probation. Is that correct?

[00:58:37]>> Yes, ma'am.

[00:58:38]>> And then in cause number 14, 1962, I also have a motion to revoke your unadjudicated probation. It shows you were placed on probation January 4th of 2016 for aggravated robbery also and that was also a 10-year deferred probation. Is that correct?

[00:58:56]>> Each of these motions alleged that you have violated your probation. Uh count one in each motion alleges that you committed the new offense of theft of property on September 24th, 2024 in Fort Ben County. And is that true or not true?

[00:59:11]>> True. Count two in each case haze alleges that you failed to work faithfully at suitable employment and provide verification of that. Is that true or not true? Count three alleges that you provided a urine sample October 19th of 2021 that tested positive for marijuana in Harris County. Is that true or not true?

[00:59:32]Count four alleges that you provided um a urine sample November 30th of 2021 that tested positive for marijuana. Is that true or not true? True.

[00:59:44]Count five alleges that you provided a urine sample that tested positive for marijuana March 14th of 2022. And is that true or not true?

[00:59:52]>> Judge, if it's all right with the board, we can stop there since we have an agreement.

[00:59:56]>> I don't understand why this went on for >> it was a Harris County supervision and it looks like they didn't send anything over until after she had fled on the uh >> Yeah, she was actually she was actually out of jail when they filed the motion.

[01:00:09]Then by the motion till November.

[01:00:13]>> Okay.

[01:00:15]Um you know you're please are true to counts one through five freely and voluntarily.

[01:00:21]>> Yes sir.

[01:00:21]>> And did you plead true to those um because they're actually true?

[01:00:25]>> In each of those cases I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the states marked as exhibit number one. Before you sign these, did you go over them with Mr. Parker?

[01:00:35]>> Yes.

[01:00:35]>> Do you fully understand them? Yes, sir.

[01:00:37]And do you understand if I follow the agreements that you've made with the district attorney that you will be waving or giving up any right to appeal?

[01:00:44]>> Yes, sir.

[01:00:46]>> State teners number one in each case?

[01:00:47]>> No objection.

[01:00:48]>> It's admitted in each case. Is there any evidence that Miss Henry is not competent?

[01:00:52]>> No, your honor.

[01:00:52]>> All right, Miss Henry, in each of your cases, I'm going to find that you entered your plea of true to counts one through five freely and voluntarily.

[01:00:59]Find those counts true. Find sufficient evidence in each case to find you guilty. And at this time in cause number 1419449 to find you guilty of aggravated robbery sentence you in accordance with your agreement to a term of 5 years in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Corrections. You will receive credit on that sentence for any time that you've been in custody that the law gives you the right to receive.

[01:01:24]There will be an affirmative finding of a deadly weapon in that case. And then in cause number 1419624 also find sufficient evidence to find you guilty. at this time find you guilty of aggravated robbery. Sentence you in accordance with your agreement to a term of 5 years in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Corrections.

[01:01:42]You will also receive credit on that sentence for any time that you've been in custody that the law gives you the right to receive. There will be an affirmative finding of a deadly weapon in that case. Also, these cases will run concurrently, which means together at the same time. I've handed you the trial court certification in each of those cases that shows that these were agreements that I followed and so you have waved your right to appeal. I also handed you a written admonishment regarding your ineligibility to possess a firearm or ammunition. Because of the judgments entered against you, you're ineligible under Texas law to possess a firearm or ammunition. Possession of a firearm or ammunition could lead to charges against you. If you have any questions about the laws that make you ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition or about how long that lasts, you can talk with Mr. Parker. All right.

[01:02:29]Good luck to you, ma'am. You go back to the bay.

[01:02:32]>> Thank you.

[01:02:33]>> Thank you.

[01:02:47]>> Wow.

[01:02:49]You probably had trouble making the case.

[01:02:53]originally he went away for a while.

[01:02:57]He went away for a while and she was driving would have had trouble tracking out complaining. So, >> that's what I'm saying.

[01:03:24]Lee >> weekend.

[01:03:31]>> I did. How about you?

[01:03:35]>> If I didn't behave very good. Yes.

[01:03:37][laughter] >> Yeah.

[01:03:44]I didn't do much of anything yesterday.

[01:03:59]Yes, I'm doing a rejection.

[01:04:02]>> The victim is here. She went up. She's doing down right now.

[01:04:10]Y'all can leave the courtroom. Leave the courtroom.

[01:04:14]Leave the courtroom.

[01:04:19]I did a I did a rejection, but I don't know if you want to just reset. I don't >> um do you Why don't we do this? Why don't we if there's a um Sir, pay attention here.

[01:04:30]>> Mr. >> You're Jerelle Lee.

[01:04:31]>> Yes, ma'am.

[01:04:32]>> All right. And so, uh it sounds like there's some information that is coming today from the complaining witness. And so, what I'm going to do is reset the case for two weeks instead of going through a plea bargain objection. Give Mr. Smith some time to go through that and see if you want to to do something or not uh with regard to that and then we'll come back in two weeks and see.

[01:04:52]All right, you go back with the bay.

[01:04:57]>> Yeah, I'll delete it. I got it. the lower.

[01:05:14]>> See, Miss Delay, are you ready onto Chavez?

[01:05:20]>> Chavez, Ariberto Chavez.

[01:05:28]Good morning, ma'am.

[01:05:29]>> Would you please raise your right hand?

[01:05:30]Do you swear affirm that you will truthfully and accurately translate from English to Spanish and Spanish to English? Yes.

[01:05:36]>> Thank you.

[01:05:37]>> How are you?

[01:05:38]>> Excited.

[01:05:39]>> Congratulations. You had a graduate I saw. Thank you.

[01:05:42]>> That's awesome. Talk about that >> with a promising future. I can.

[01:05:55]>> Hey, sir. Are you Areto Chavez?

[01:05:58]>> Yes.

[01:05:59]>> Yes.

[01:06:01]>> And will your client wave the formal reading of the indictment? Yes, your honor.

[01:06:06][clears throat] Mhm.

[01:06:23]I do.

[01:06:24]>> Okay.

[01:06:27]>> I need the date of it. And if it was just one >> Yeah, we'll have to figure out some kind of little We need maybe a little um >> note to tell you.

[01:06:40]>> Oh, good. Okay, that's good enough.

[01:06:42]>> All right. Um Mr. Chavez and cause number 25 DCCR0559.

[01:06:50]You're charged with a thirdderee felony offense of deadly conduct charging a firearm from May 8th of 2025.

[01:07:00]>> And how do you plead to that charge?

[01:07:04]>> Guilty or not guilty?

[01:07:07]>> Guilty. Are you pleading guilty freely and voluntarily?

[01:07:14]Yes.

[01:07:15]>> And are you pleading guilty because you actually did what they charged you with?

[01:07:20]>> Yes.

[01:07:21]>> I have here on the tablet some documents that have your signature on them that the state marked as exhibit number one.

[01:07:30]>> Before you sign these, did you go over them with Miss De with an interpreter?

[01:07:38]>> Yes.

[01:07:39]>> Do you fully understand them?

[01:07:42]Yes.

[01:07:43]>> And do you understand if I follow the agreement that you made >> with the district attorney that you'll be waving your right to appeal?

[01:07:54]>> Yes, that's fine.

[01:07:56]>> State tenders number one. No objection.

[01:07:58]>> It's admitted. Is there any evidence that Mr. Chavez is not competent?

[01:08:02]>> No, your honor.

[01:08:05]>> Mr. Chavez, do you also understand if you're not a US citizen that a plea of guilty or no contest may result in your deportation, exclusion from admission to the country, or denial of naturalization under federal law?

[01:08:27]>> All right. Then at this time, I'm going to find that you entered your plea of guilty freely and voluntarily.

[01:08:34]Find that you're mentally competent and you understand the nature and the consequences of your plea.

[01:08:40]Find sufficient evidence to find you guilty and at this time find you guilty of deadly conduct.

[01:08:48]Senate you in accordance with your agreement to a term of six years in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Corrections.

[01:08:57]You will receive credit on that sentence for any time that you've been in custody that the law gives you the right to receive.

[01:09:06]I am also making a finding that there was a failure to appear in a bond forfeite September 16th of 2025.

[01:09:19]I'm handing you the trial court certification.

[01:09:22]This shows this was an agreement that I followed and so you've waved your right to appeal.

[01:09:31]I also handed you a written admonishment regarding your ineligibility to possess a firearm or ammunition.

[01:09:45]Because of the judgment entered against you, you're ineligible under Texas law to possess a firearm or ammunition.

[01:10:04]And the admonishment I handed you is in Spanish. You need to make sure and read it carefully.

[01:10:10]If you have any questions about the laws that make you ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition or how long that lasts, you can talk with Mr. Okay.

[01:10:23]>> All right. Good luck to you, sir.

[01:10:24]>> And go back with the bail.

[01:10:26]>> Thank you, Miss Bur.

[01:10:28]>> Thank you, Judge.

[01:10:29]>> Thank you, Judge.

[01:10:30]>> Thank you, ma'am.

[01:10:38]>> Mr. Lewis, you have Dakota Chapman.

[01:10:46]>> I'll meet you next. I'll be here.

[01:10:49]about.

[01:10:50]>> Is there any no paperwork on this one?

[01:10:53]>> We do have an agreement together on this one for the safety.

[01:10:59]>> Good morning.

[01:11:01]>> I see three. Did y'all do four? There's four. Is there another All >> right, sir. You're Trailing Hill.

[01:11:31]>> Yes, ma'am.

[01:11:31]>> And Mr. Hill and cause number 24 DCCR1500.

[01:11:36]You're charged with obstruction or retaliation, which is a thirdderee felony from June 2nd of 2024. What that means is that if you go to trial and you're found guilty, the range of punishment would be between 2 years and up to 10 years in prison. Do you understand?

[01:11:53]>> And then in cause number 24, DCCR1 1614, you're charged with a seconddegree felony offense of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Uh that's from July 15th of 2024. And what that means in that case is that if you go to trial and you're found guilty, the range of punishment would be between two years and up to 20 years in prison. Do you understand?

[01:12:15]>> I was notified.

[01:12:16]>> I'm sorry.

[01:12:17]>> I was notified. Yes or no?

[01:12:18]>> Okay. I just need to make sure you understand. Just yes or no. Okay.

[01:12:21]>> Cause number 24, DCCR1615.

[01:12:25]You're charged with aggravated robbery from July 15th of 2024. That's a first-degree felony offense, which means if you go to trial and you're found guilty, the range of punishment is between 5 years and up to 99 years or life. Do you understand?

[01:12:39]>> Yes, m.

[01:12:40]>> And then finally, in cause number 25, DCCR0436, you're charged with a seconddegree felony offense of burglary of a habitation from June 19th of 2024. That means that if you go to trial and you're found guilty, the range of punishments between 2 years and up to 20 years. Do you understand?

[01:12:58]>> Yes, ma'am. In all of those cases, I have here on the tablet some documents that you've signed with Miss Pazzzo um that shows that the district attorney's office has made offers if you wanted to enter p of guilty in your cases for a 15-year cap on the um aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, and burglary of a habitation with a dismissal in the obstruction or retaliation. So that means you would be leaving your punishment up to me in those three cases. And if I followed the agreement, I could not give you more than 15 years. I can give you 15 years.

[01:13:31]I can give you less. It would depend on information that was brought to me >> at a sentencing hearing. You have every right to reject that and have your cases go to trial and let a jury decide if you're guilty or not and what your punishment is if they find you guilty.

[01:13:44]>> Okay.

[01:13:45]>> Is that what you want to do? Do you want to reject those offers and have a jury decide?

[01:13:49]>> Uh, I'd rather reject the offer because I feel like it'll be a better choice for me in the process.

[01:13:54]>> Okay. So, what I'll do is get your cases set uh very quickly for trial. Uh, Mr. Nichols, what is the state's position with regard to which case or cases would be >> expected to proceed on the a robbery, your honor? It's the same incident as the aggravated assault. I may join them.

[01:14:08]>> Okay.

[01:14:09]>> But I tend to go forward on that case first.

[01:14:11]>> All right. A robbery possibly the same one for >> and I know that with the age of these cases, even on its first setting, it should expect to be breached, your honor. So, we will be ready for trial.

[01:14:19]>> Okay. Perfect. Um, same thing. Um, obviously I've asked Miss Pazzzo to get up to speed very quickly on these. Um, that first trial setting is likely to be it going. So, we need to get these taken care of and Mr. Hill either out of jail or on his way somewhere else.

[01:14:34]>> Yes, ma'am.

[01:14:34]>> All right. Okay. We'll set them for trial. You can go back with the baiff.

[01:14:37]>> Thank you.

[01:14:38]>> Mr. Hill, wait real quick before you I do also want to make sure you understand that after today I will not accept these agreements. So, we'll put your case on the trial docket. We'll get it tried very quickly, but you're not going to come back in later and change your mind unless it's to something different than what the offer is today. Do you understand?

[01:14:54]>> Yes, ma'am. I'm trying to get, you know, after paying Mr. Burbank that much money, should I was hoping I could have got a better offer in the process.

[01:15:01]>> Well, this is what the offer is. The offer is not going to change. So, I want to make sure you understand that holding out till trial or anything like that is not going to get you a better offer.

[01:15:11]>> This is what the offer is. I'm not going to accept it after today. You understand?

[01:15:15]>> 21 hearings. All right, go back with the baiff.

[01:15:34]>> We need to look at um the dates together on that. I think if that's then when we give our jail a break.

[01:15:44]>> In this chaotic courtroom session, a judge spends hours handling non-stop traffic cases, unpaid fines, suspended licenses, and confused defendants while trying to help people avoid even bigger legal problems.

[01:15:58]The hearing begins with one defendant facing nearly $1,500 in fines connected to traffic violations, registration issues, and insurance problems. [snorts] Your total is up to $1,536.

[01:16:13]Instead of immediately threatening jail, the judge surprisingly starts discussing payment plans, community service options, and ways the court might help the man eventually regain his driver's license.

[01:16:25]we can put you on a payment plan. The judge even explains the court may clear certain license holds before the full balance is paid if the defendant makes substantial payments.

[01:16:37]We'll give you your clearance before you pay us all off. Only moments later, another defendant appears after reaching a deal with prosecutors that allows a misdemeanor traffic charge to disappear entirely if she simply pays a civil infraction. we're going to dismiss the misdemeanor. The courtroom then shifts into a bizarre discussion about why people continue showing up to court even after cases were already resolved or dismissed elsewhere. Why would you make two trips? As the long docket continues, another man appears facing a charge of driving without a valid license while already struggling with unpaid fines in Tennessee.

[01:17:17]Tennessee is holding me back.

[01:17:19]The defendant explains he recently found work through a temp agency at a Detroit scrapyard and is trying to slowly fix his license problems. It sounds like your intention is to get your Tennessee license cleared up. Instead of humiliating him, the judge calmly walks him through how to contact the court online, request payment plans, and avoid making the situation worse.

[01:17:42]Google the 34th District Court.

[01:17:45]Throughout the hearing, the courtroom repeatedly becomes disorganized with Zoom confusion, missing prosecutors, delayed hearings, and defendants unsure where they are even supposed to stand.

[01:17:55]Where's the judge at? What begins as a routine traffic docket slowly turns into a chaotic courtroom lesson about unpaid fines, license suspensions, financial hardship, and judges trying to balance accountability with giving struggling defendants a realistic chance to fix their lives? Do you think courts should focus more on payment plans and license recovery instead of increasing fines people already can't afford?

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