Asked 8/4/17 – Commerce, TX

My son is incarcerated and at the unit he’s at there are several guards that use excessive force. In the recent incident my son was hit on the hand with a bean bar (something they use to open slots). They went to some type of court and the officer admitted to hitting him twice. Then came back a retracted his statement saying he only hit a cup that was in my son hand.

Answer

Your son has every right to be protected from abuse while incarcerated. However, individuals do not file criminal charges; the State does. Individuals can file a report with law enforcement, and it is law enforcement that makes the determination regarding criminal proceedings. Contact the local Attorney General’s office and The Texas Rangers about your son’s situation. You may also contact a local civil rights attorney about the matter. Good luck.