When someone is accused of wrongdoing in Travis County, Texas, one of the first, and most important, questions is whether the alleged offense is being prosecuted under state law or federal law. These differences affect everything from the applicable statutes and penalties to the investigative agencies involved and the procedural rules.
Offenses That May Be Charged as Hate Crimes in Travis County, TX
When a crime is motivated by bias, prejudice, or hatred toward a protected characteristic, Texas law allows for an enhanced penalty. But what kinds of offenses may qualify as hate crimes in Travis County (and elsewhere in Texas)?