2/4 - Item 32 - Forensics Dept
Posted: Mon Feb 01, 2021 5:58 pm
Colleagues,
After years of advocacy from survivors, justice reform advocates, and scientific organizations, I am glad that we have Item 32 on this week’s agenda. Establishing a Forensic Science Department --that is independent of law enforcement agencies-- is an important step for public safety, community trust, and transparency.
We've recently received a suggested amendment from SAFE, Survivor Justice Project, Austin Justice Coalition, Texas Fair Defense Project, and Just Liberty. The amendment makes clear that scientific integrity and the pursuit of justice are the clear goals of this new department. Attached is the amendment as sent to us by the advocates with slight wording changes suggested by our Law department.
http://assets.austintexas.gov/austincou ... 174732.pdf
I look forward to passing this item on Thursday, and I hope we can incorporate this amendment as part of our consent agenda.
-Greg
After years of advocacy from survivors, justice reform advocates, and scientific organizations, I am glad that we have Item 32 on this week’s agenda. Establishing a Forensic Science Department --that is independent of law enforcement agencies-- is an important step for public safety, community trust, and transparency.
We've recently received a suggested amendment from SAFE, Survivor Justice Project, Austin Justice Coalition, Texas Fair Defense Project, and Just Liberty. The amendment makes clear that scientific integrity and the pursuit of justice are the clear goals of this new department. Attached is the amendment as sent to us by the advocates with slight wording changes suggested by our Law department.
http://assets.austintexas.gov/austincou ... 174732.pdf
I look forward to passing this item on Thursday, and I hope we can incorporate this amendment as part of our consent agenda.
-Greg