State and Federal Law

Missing and Exploited Persons Protocol and Alerts Sep 28, 2025

This extensive document provides a comprehensive overview of the protocols and legal requirements for addressing missing and exploited persons, particularly within a law enforcement context. It outlines definitions for missing children and adults, establishing different categories of missing persons like involuntary, endangered, or those with disabilities. A significant portion of the text focuses on the role and functions of the Missing Children and Missing Persons Information Clearinghouse and mandatory law enforcement requirements, including immediate investigation and timely data entry into national systems like NCIC and NamUs. Furthermore, the source details various types of statewide alerts (e.g., AMBER, Silver, CLEAR) and mandates procedures for schools to flag records of missing children under the age of eleven. Finally, the text explores different types of exploitation and human trafficking, outlining signs for interdiction and providing best practices for a trauma-informed approach during victim recovery and reunification.

Child Abuse: Identification, Investigation, and Legal Framework Sep 28, 2025

This training material from Basic Peace Officer Course focuses on child abuse and neglect within the context of Texas law, aiming to educate officers on relevant codes and their impact on performance. The sources provide extensive national and Texas statistics regarding child abuse, including prevalence, types, and perpetrators, noting that neglect is the most common form nationally. Furthermore, the material offers detailed legal definitions of abuse and neglect from the Family Code, outlines the physical indicators of abuse such as different types of bruising and injuries, and specifies the mandatory reporting requirements and procedures for law enforcement and professionals, including penalties for failure or false reporting. Finally, the text addresses investigative protocols, including emergency possession of a child, the role of Child Advocacy Centers, and guidelines for interviewing both children and suspects.

Crisis Intervention - specialized techniques for responding to individuals in mental health crises Sep 16, 2025

The provided text outlines Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), a program designed to equip law enforcement with specialized techniques for responding to individuals in mental health crises. It highlights the increasing frequency of police encounters with those experiencing mental illness and the disproportionately high number of fatalities in such situations when officers lack appropriate training. The material discusses the origins of CIT in response to tragic incidents, detailing legislative mandates like Texas SB 1849 that require de-escalation training. A core focus is on understanding various mental health conditions, dispelling common stigmas and myths, and providing officers with effective communication strategies like the LEAPS model and tactical transparency to de-escalate situations, build rapport, and divert individuals toward mental health care rather than incarceration.

Key Use of Force Cases and Concepts Aug 26, 2025

These sources comprehensively outline the legal framework and practical considerations surrounding law enforcement's use of force. They define "force," "deadly force," and "reasonable force," emphasizing that force must be objectively reasonable based on the totality of circumstances at the time. The documents extensively cite key Supreme Court and Circuit Court cases, such as Graham v. Connor and Tennessee v. Garner, which establish precedents for evaluating excessive force and qualified immunity. Furthermore, the texts explore psychological aspects of force encounters, various force options available to officers, and the potential consequences of improper force, including civil and criminal liabilities, underscoring the importance of training, self-control, and adherence to policy for professional conduct.

Health and Safety Code: Drug Classifications and Penalties Aug 21, 2025

The provided text outlines the Texas Health and Safety Code concerning controlled substances and dangerous drugs, primarily from the Denton Police Department's training materials. It defines key terms such as "drug," "controlled substance," "marihuana," "hemp," "narcotic drug," "opiate," "drug paraphernalia," "practitioner," "manufacture," "production," "delivery," "distribution," and "possession," differentiating legal and illegal activities, including the nuanced distinction between marihuana and hemp based on THC concentration. The document categorizes various drugs into Penalty Groups (1, 1-A, 1-B, 2, 2-A, 3, 4), detailing associated offenses for manufacture, delivery, and possession, with specific penalties linked to drug type and quantity. Furthermore, it covers exemptions for legitimate medical and religious uses, addresses falsification of drug test results, outlines enhancements for offenses involving children, death/serious bodily injury, or deadly weapons, and describes procedures for the seizure, forfeiture, and destruction of controlled substances and plants by law enforcement agencies.

Criminal Investigations: From Scene to Case Aug 21, 2025

The provided text offers a comprehensive overview of criminal investigation principles, emphasizing the legal gathering of evidence and the structured approach to crime scene management. It defines key legal terms relevant to investigations, details the tools and goals of a criminal investigator, and outlines the characteristics essential for effective investigative work. The text further explains the five stages of a preliminary investigation, covering everything from securing the scene and processing evidence through photography and sketching, to the collection and preservation of various types of evidence while maintaining a strict chain of custody. Finally, it underscores the importance of case management for successful prosecution.

Juvenile Justice Procedures: Investigations and Gang Dynamics Aug 21, 2025

This source outlines juvenile procedures for law enforcement officers, including statutory authority for investigations and key definitions relevant to juvenile justice. It differentiates between "delinquent conduct" and "conduct indicating a need for supervision," detailing the types of offenses and legal processes for each. The document also explains procedures for taking children into custody, emphasizing the differences from adult arrests and the proper places and conditions of detention. Furthermore, it covers rules for juvenile interviews and statements, parental rights and duties, and the release and transportation of juvenile offenders, alongside information about gang involvement and reporting requirements to schools.

Asset Forfeiture: Seizure, Defense, and Proceeds Aug 21, 2025

This compilation of materials provides a comprehensive overview of asset forfeiture, outlining the legal requirements and procedures for peace officers, as mandated by the Occupations Code, particularly Chapter 1701. It clarifies the philosophy behind forfeiture, emphasizing its aim to deprive criminals of ill-gotten gains rather than serving as additional punishment. The document details definitions of contraband and proceeds, explains various defenses to forfeiture such as the "innocent owner" defense, and covers crucial aspects of the seizure process, including pre-seizure planning and post-seizure custody procedures. Furthermore, it outlines the forfeiture proceedings under CCP 59.04, including requirements for affidavits and civil lawsuit procedures, and specifies the permitted and prohibited uses of forfeited funds, highlighting that proceeds must serve a law enforcement purpose and cannot be used for political donations or unauthorized salary increases.

Search Warrants: Criteria, Issuance, and Execution Aug 21, 2025

The provided text outlines the criteria and procedures for obtaining and executing search warrants, primarily focusing on Texas law. It defines a search warrant as a magistrate's written order authorizing law enforcement to search specified locations and seize evidence, emphasizing the necessity of probable cause supported by a sworn affidavit. The document details various grounds for issuing warrants, including for stolen property, weapons, controlled substances, and evidence of an offense, with specific provisions for electronic data and photographing child victims. Furthermore, it explains the process for warrant execution, including inventory requirements and time limits, and addresses the legalities surrounding no-knock entries and the detention of occupants during a search.

Texas Penal Code: Sexual Offenses and Enforcement Aug 16, 2025

This comprehensive legal document outlines various sex offenses under the penal code, categorizing them based on the victim's age (adult or child) and the nature of the act. It meticulously defines terms like sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, and sexual contact, and specifies acts that constitute prohibited sexual conduct, indecent assault, and sexual assault, including aggravated forms. The text also addresses offenses related to pornography and sexual recordings, such as invasive visual recording, unlawful disclosure of intimate material, and electronic transmission of sexually explicit content, with particular attention to material involving minors. Finally, it covers prostitution-related offenses, including solicitation, promotion, and compelling prostitution, alongside the duty to report certain visual materials and the requirements for sex offender registration.

Assaultive Offenses: Threat, Harm, and Defense Aug 10, 2025

This handout provides an extensive overview of threatening and assaultive offenses under the Penal Code, primarily focusing on Chapters 9, 20, 22, and 42. It defines various crimes such as family violence, terroristic threats, harassment, stalking, unlawful disclosure of personal information, and assault, including aggravated assault, injury to a child, elderly, or disabled individual, and abandoning or endangering a child. The document also details justifications for the use of force, encompassing self-defense, defense of third persons, protection of property, and special relationships like parent-child or educator-student, alongside guidelines for warrantless arrests and officer duties regarding threats. This comprehensive resource appears designed to educate on the elements of these offenses, their corresponding penalties, and potential legal defenses.

Call Response Handout: Police Powers and Procedures Aug 10, 2025

This extensive guide outlines police procedures for responding to calls for service, emphasizing safety, scene security, and investigation. It details the five stages of a preliminary investigation, from initial scene protection to evidence processing and documentation. Crucially, the text examines Fourth Amendment considerations regarding searches and seizures, including the "open fields" and "curtilage" doctrines, warrantless arrest powers, and the complexities of consent for searches, differentiating between various scenarios such as spousal or landlord consent. The document also includes practical scenarios for applying these legal principles in real-world situations, alongside guidelines for obtaining and executing arrest warrants and capiases.

Effective Interviews and Report Writing for Law Enforcement Aug 09, 2025

The provided sources offer a comprehensive guide for law enforcement officers on interviewing, interrogation, and report writing. They highlight the importance of accurate information gathering from victims, witnesses, and suspects, emphasizing techniques like separating parties and utilizing various questioning methods (open-ended, fact-finding). Furthermore, the texts provide detailed instructions for crafting effective police reports, covering essential criteria such as accuracy, completeness, and objectivity, while also addressing the legal considerations surrounding custodial statements and Miranda warnings. Practical scenarios and organizational strategies for field notes and reports are also discussed to enhance officers' descriptive skills and case documentation.

Weapons Offenses: Laws and Definitions Aug 09, 2025

This handout provides an overview of weapons offenses outlined in Penal Code Chapter 46, beginning with definitions of various prohibited items like clubs, chemical dispensing devices, explosive weapons, and different types of firearms. It details unlawful possession of firearms for felons, gang members, and individuals under protective orders, along with regulations for carrying handguns and location-restricted knives in specific scenarios, including age restrictions and public display. The document also addresses places where weapons are prohibited, such as schools, polling places, and airports, outlining exceptions for certain personnel or circumstances. Finally, it covers prohibited weapons, unlawful transfers, hoax bombs, explosive components, weapon-free school zones, accessible firearms for children, and firearm smuggling, emphasizing various defenses and penalty levels associated with each offense.

Theft and Burglary Offenses: Law and Prevention Aug 08, 2025

This source provides an extensive overview of theft and burglary offenses, detailing definitions of key terms such as "property," "deprive," "appropriate," "effective consent," and "deception." It outlines the various police warrantless arrest powers, specifically highlighting those related to theft. The document also presents a theft ladder chart categorizing offenses by value and specific items, alongside enhancements that can increase the severity of charges. Practical considerations for criminal investigations of auto theft are discussed, including types of thieves, methods like "salvage switching," and indicators of stolen vehicles. Finally, the source addresses related offenses such as theft of trade secrets, petroleum products, and mail, organized retail theft, possession of retail theft instruments, unauthorized use of a vehicle, hindering secured creditors, and theft of service, concluding with information on burglary of habitations, buildings, vehicles, and coin-operated machines, and the unlawful use of criminal instruments, all while explaining criminal attempt and renunciation defenses.

Crimes Against Property and Animals 1 source Aug 08, 2025

This document outlines various property and trespassing offenses, categorizing them and detailing their characteristics. It distinguishes between professional and semi-professional thieves, highlighting their motivations and methods, and defines types of property offenses such as burglary, theft, and criminal mischief. The text also provides a comprehensive breakdown of criminal mischief offenses, including arson and graffiti, with specific definitions for property and methods of valuation for pecuniary loss. Furthermore, it addresses offenses related to animals, including cruelty to livestock and non-livestock animals, dog fighting, cockfighting, bestiality, and interference with police or assistance animals. Finally, the source extensively covers criminal trespass, outlining conditions for entry, notice requirements, differing punishment levels based on the location or weapon involved, and specific defenses, including those for licensed handgun carriers on various property types.

Arrest, Search, and Seizure: Terms and Offenses Aug 07, 2025

This instructional material is for Basic Peace Officer Course outlines the conditions necessary for a lawful arrest, defining key terms such as restraint, arrest, and custody according to legal codes. It details procedures for handcuffing and searching suspects, emphasizing officer safety and proper technique. Furthermore, the document describes various offenses related to government operations, including resisting arrest, evading detention, hindering apprehension, escape, and introducing contraband into correctional facilities, using scenario-based examples to illustrate these concepts. Finally, it touches upon privileges from arrest for legislators and state military personnel under specific circumstances.

Patrol Response: Tactics and Decision Making Aug 07, 2025

This source provides an extensive overview of patrol functions and preparation for peace officers, emphasizing the Critical Decision-Making Model (CDM). It outlines key objectives of patrol, such as crime prevention and apprehension, along with crucial aspects of mental and physical readiness. The document also details various patrol modes, optimal field interview techniques, and the legal considerations for police interactions, including reasonable suspicion and probable cause. The CDM is presented as a five-step, iterative process designed to guide officers in making ethical and effective decisions during critical incidents

Consular & Booking Procedures: Jail Searches to Diplomatic Immunity Aug 05, 2025

This source provides an overview of procedures for law enforcement officers during the booking process and post-arrest duties. It outlines the importance of thorough searches for safety and security, detailing specific search techniques for both upper and lower body, as well as procedures for handling prisoner property. The text also explains consular notification requirements for foreign nationals, including mandatory and optional notifications based on international agreements. Additionally, it covers magistrate duties regarding arraignment, bail, and handling special needs individuals following an arrest, along with the transfer of prisoners between counties.

Mastering Professional Verbal Communication and De-escalation Strategies Aug 05, 2025

This handout outlines verbal communication strategies and force options for peace officers, emphasizing the critical role of effective communication in law enforcement. It introduces concepts like emotional intelligence (EQ), paralinguistics, and kinesics as crucial components for successful interactions. The text details the "Verbal Persuasion Plan," including a 7-Step Personal Contact model and strategies for handling non-compliance and verbal abuse through deflection and redirection. It also explores the importance of professional presence, courtesy, and the five universal truths of human interaction, stressing that most arrests are made without physical force due to strong communication skills. Finally, it addresses the significance of first impressions, ethical presence, and avoiding common communication blunders like arguing or using profanity.

Effective Interviews and Report Writing for Law Enforcement 1 source Jul 25, 2025

The provided sources offer an extensive guide for law enforcement officers on interviewing, interrogation, and report writing. They highlight the crucial need to separate parties involved and gather detailed information using various questioning techniques, such as open-ended and fact-finding questions. The documents emphasize the importance of accurate, complete, concise, clear, and objective police reports, detailing proper note-taking methods and the structure of synopsis, narrative, and supplemental sections. Additionally, the sources cover constitutional rights, specifically Miranda warnings, and offer tactical advice for handling suspects, victims, and witnesses.

Weapons Offenses: Laws and Definitions Jul 25, 2025

This handout provides an overview of weapons offenses outlined in Penal Code Chapter 46, beginning with definitions of various prohibited items like clubs, chemical dispensing devices, explosive weapons, and different types of firearms. It details unlawful possession of firearms for felons, gang members, and individuals under protective orders, along with regulations for carrying handguns and location-restricted knives in specific scenarios, including age restrictions and public display. The document also addresses places where weapons are prohibited, such as schools, polling places, and airports, outlining exceptions for certain personnel or circumstances. Finally, it covers prohibited weapons, unlawful transfers, hoax bombs, explosive components, weapon-free school zones, accessible firearms for children, and firearm smuggling, emphasizing various defenses and penalty levels associated with each offense.

Theft and Burglary Offenses: Law and Prevention Jul 25, 2025

This source provides an extensive overview of theft and burglary offenses, detailing definitions of key terms such as "property," "deprive," "appropriate," "effective consent," and "deception." It outlines the various police warrantless arrest powers, specifically highlighting those related to theft. The document also presents a theft ladder chart categorizing offenses by value and specific items, alongside enhancements that can increase the severity of charges. Practical considerations for criminal investigations of auto theft are discussed, including types of thieves, methods like "salvage switching," and indicators of stolen vehicles. Finally, the source addresses related offenses such as theft of trade secrets, petroleum products, and mail, organized retail theft, possession of retail theft instruments, unauthorized use of a vehicle, hindering secured creditors, and theft of service, concluding with information on burglary of habitations, buildings, vehicles, and coin-operated machines, and the unlawful use of criminal instruments, all while explaining criminal attempt and renunciation defenses.

Crimes Against Property and Animals Jul 25, 2025

This document outlines various property and trespassing offenses, categorizing them and detailing their characteristics. It distinguishes between professional and semi-professional thieves, highlighting their motivations and methods, and defines types of property offenses such as burglary, theft, and criminal mischief. The text also provides a comprehensive breakdown of criminal mischief offenses, including arson and graffiti, with specific definitions for property and methods of valuation for pecuniary loss. Furthermore, it addresses offenses related to animals, including cruelty to livestock and non-livestock animals, dog fighting, cockfighting, bestiality, and interference with police or assistance animals. Finally, the source extensively covers criminal trespass, outlining conditions for entry, notice requirements, differing punishment levels based on the location or weapon involved, and specific defenses, including those for licensed handgun carriers on various property types.

Arrest, Search, and Seizure: Terms and Offenses Jul 25, 2025

Basic Peace Officer Course outlines the conditions necessary for a lawful arrest, defining key terms like restraint and custody. It details various offenses against government operations, such as resisting arrest, evading detention, hindering apprehension, and interfering with public duties, including penalties and specific defenses. Furthermore, the text covers exemptions from arrest for legislators and military personnel, alongside practical procedures for arresting, handcuffing, searching, and transporting suspects, emphasizing officer safety and legal compliance. It also addresses prohibited items and contraband within correctional facilities, providing scenarios for applying these principles.

Weapons Offenses: Laws and Definitions Jul 17, 2025

This handout provides an overview of weapons offenses under Penal Code Chapter 46, beginning with definitions for various weapon types like clubs, firearms, explosive devices, and ammunition. It then details specific unlawful acts such as possessing firearms after a felony conviction or while subject to a protective order, carrying certain weapons in prohibited locations like schools or airports, and unlawfully transferring weapons, including making firearms accessible to children. The document also outlines potential defenses and exceptions for specific individuals or situations, such as law enforcement officers or during disaster evacuations, and clarifies how punishments can be enhanced if offenses occur within a weapon-free school zone.

Texas Motor Vehicle Operation Laws Jul 03, 2025

This extensive legal document outlines traffic laws and regulations in Texas, covering a wide array of topics for safe road operation. It defines rules for driving practices, including passing, turning, lane usage, and maintaining safe following distances, along with specific stipulations for one-way roads and divided highways. The text also details regulations for stopping, standing, and parking vehicles, alongside provisions for speed limits that vary based on location, vehicle type, and conditions, with specific powers granted to state and local authorities to adjust these limits. Furthermore, it addresses railroad crossings, outlining requirements for all vehicles, especially buses and those carrying hazardous materials, and sets forth miscellaneous rules covering reckless driving, child safety seats, the use of wireless communication devices, and the emerging regulations for automated motor vehicles. Finally, it outlines penalties for various offenses and enforcement measures, including the removal and storage of vehicles.

Racial Profiling, Legal Stops, and Officer Conduct Jul 01, 2025

This source provides an extensive overview of racial profiling within law enforcement, emphasizing its prohibition and outlining the legal, ethical, and moral responsibilities of peace officers. It details the historical context of drug courier profiles and their inappropriate adaptation, alongside specific examples of racially motivated traffic stops. The document further explains legislative requirements for law enforcement agencies regarding racial profiling policies, including data collection and reporting mandates, and discusses Supreme Court decisions that define legal parameters for vehicle stops, reasonable suspicion, and probable cause. Finally, it outlines various non-compliance offenses and valid warrantless searches and seizures, aiming to equip officers with the knowledge to conduct lawful and unbiased interactions.

Texas Transportation Code: Highway Patrol Student Manual Jul 01, 2025

This comprehensive manual outlines the Texas Transportation Code, providing essential information for law enforcement, particularly the Highway Patrol. It details a wide array of traffic laws and regulations, including those pertaining to vehicle registration, driver's licenses, equipment requirements, and rules of the road. The document also addresses specific scenarios like collisions, abandoned vehicles, and driving under the influence, defining key terms and explaining the legal ramifications of various offenses. Furthermore, it covers specialized topics such as commercial motor vehicles, emergency vehicle operations, and the legalities surrounding automated vehicles.

Constitutional Amendments and Criminal Justice System Jun 27, 2025

This handout offers a comprehensive overview of Constitutional Amendments 8, 9, 10, and 14, focusing on their implications within the Criminal Justice System and Arrest Search and Seizure (ArS&S). The document details the Eighth Amendment's protections against excessive bail, fines, and cruel punishment, referencing relevant Texas constitutional articles and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP) regarding bail procedures and magistrates' duties. It also briefly touches upon the Ninth Amendment's unenumerated rights and the Tenth Amendment's reservation of powers to states and the people, before expanding on the Fourteenth Amendment's concepts of dual citizenship, due process, and equal protection, including the exclusionary rule and poisonous tree doctrine. Finally, the text describes the structure and roles of police, courts, and correctional systems, examining their interdependencies and jurisdictional complexities through scenarios and an explanation of various court levels and their jurisdictions in Texas.

Warrants, Arrest, and Constitutional Rights in Law Enforcement Jun 27, 2025

This handout, likely for law enforcement training, provides an overview of the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, along with relevant sections from the Texas Constitution and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP). It details the Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, defining concepts like mere suspicion, reasonable suspicion, and probable cause, and outlining warrant requirements and exceptions. The document also explains the Fifth Amendment's safeguards, including grand jury indictment, double jeopardy, self-incrimination, and due process, followed by the Sixth Amendment's provisions for criminal prosecutions, such as the rights to a speedy trial, impartial jury, confrontation of witnesses, and legal counsel. Finally, it briefly touches upon the Seventh Amendment's guarantee of a jury trial in civil cases.

Texas Criminal Procedure and Public Order Offenses Jun 27, 2025

This comprehensive document provides an introduction to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP), outlining its purpose as the rulebook for criminal justice administration in Texas and distinguishing its objectives from the Penal Code. It meticulously identifies various peace officers within Texas, including special categories like railroad and adjunct officers, and details their specific duties, powers, and limitations. Furthermore, the source offers a historical overview of the U.S. Constitution, from its origins and the deficiencies of the Articles of Confederation to the establishment of the three branches of government and the Bill of Rights. Finally, it examines specific constitutional amendments and related Texas statutes concerning individual freedoms, particularly focusing on First Amendment rights and their limitations as they apply to various public order offenses in Texas, providing practical scenarios for law enforcement application.

Texas Law Update Conclusion 2023-2025 Jun 05, 2025

This instructional audio provides a summary of critical legal changes relevant to Texas peace officers for the 2023-2025 period. It highlights key updates from the 88th legislative session, focusing on topics like new fentanyl offenses, enhanced school safety measures, and adjustments to TCOLE training requirements. The update also covers significant revisions to the Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Transportation Code. Ultimately, the audio emphasizes the officer's responsibility to stay informed about these evolving laws and encourages consulting agency policies and legal counsel for clarification.

Federal and Supreme Court Updates for Police Jun 05, 2025

The provided text highlights the importance of Texas law enforcement officers staying informed about legal changes at both the federal and Supreme Court levels during the 2023-2025 period. While most procedural changes stem from state law and federal case law, it is crucial for officers, especially those in specialized roles or task forces, to be aware of new federal statutes. These federal laws can address areas like human trafficking, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and firearms regulations, potentially creating new federal offenses or offering resources for joint operations. Ultimately, continuous legal training in these evolving areas, encompassing both Supreme Court rulings on matters like use of force and search and seizure, and significant federal statutory changes, is essential for effective and lawful policing.

Federal and SCOTUS Updates for Peace Officers Jun 05, 2025

The source provides an overview of a training module designed to educate Texas peace officers on recent developments in federal law and key decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court that affect policing practices. It highlights the importance of staying updated on case law concerning areas such as search and seizure, use of force, qualified immunity, and interrogations. The material emphasizes how Supreme Court rulings, and their application by circuits like the Fifth Circuit, directly shape legal boundaries for law enforcement and the need for officers to be aware of evolving standards. Examples are provided to illustrate how courts analyze specific scenarios, like excessive force claims, and how decisions may touch upon issues like warrantless searches or the nuances of Miranda rights.

Law Enforcement Legislative Updates: Beyond School Safety Jun 05, 2025

The sources explain legislative updates relevant to law enforcement, primarily focusing on changes beyond school safety measures. Key areas discussed include minor amendments to codes affecting health and safety, alcoholic beverages, and government operations, which may indirectly influence daily procedures or administrative matters. Furthermore, the text highlights specific new state laws impacting specialized units like border security. Finally, it details procedural changes within the Department of Family and Protective Services, such as mandated reporter identification and written rights summaries, which officers might encounter during investigations involving DFPS.

Transportation Code Updates and EV Fees Jun 05, 2025

The source outlines recent amendments to transportation regulations, highlighting changes that impact both law enforcement and the public. Key updates include classifying fraudulent temporary license plates as tampering with government documents, leading to stiffer consequences. There are also increased penalties for repeated violations of the "Move Over or Slow Down" law, emphasizing enhanced road safety. Additionally, a new registration fee for electric vehicles has been implemented to help fund state highways. Officers are encouraged to stay informed about these changes to accurately answer public inquiries.

Transportation Code Updates: Plates and Move Over Jun 05, 2025

The source outlines recent updates to transportation laws, specifically focusing on changes impacting traffic enforcement and related offenses. Key modifications include classifying fraudulent temporary license plates as governmental records, allowing for more serious prosecution of those involved in their creation or distribution. Additionally, the "Move Over or Slow Down" law has seen increased penalties for repeat violations and offenses resulting in property damage or injury, emphasizing enhanced safety for emergency and stationary vehicles. These changes aim to provide stronger legal tools against specific vehicle-related crimes and further deter dangerous driving behaviors around stopped vehicles.

Officer's Guide: 88th Legislature Procedural Updates Jun 05, 2025

This training material outlines changes for officers stemming from the 88th Legislature, specifically addressing bail and pre-trial detention and other key procedural updates. While significant statewide bail reform directly impacting street duties was not enacted, officers are reminded to stay informed about local bail policies and court orders. The content highlights new procedures including the implementation of the Athena Alert for missing children, mandatory cite and release for certain misdemeanors, updated driver identification requirements during traffic stops, and the creation of a centralized online crime lab portal. These changes aim to improve efficiency and public interactions.

Traffic Stop ID and Crime Lab Updates Jun 05, 2025

The source outlines changes related to traffic stops and crime lab operations. Specifically, a new law requires drivers lawfully stopped to provide specific identification information like their name, address, date of birth, and driver's license upon request, with refusal being an offense. Additionally, another bill mandates that state and local funded accredited crime labs utilize an online portal designated by DPS for improved tracking of forensic evidence and results, although exceptions are possible. These legislative changes aim to enhance officer identification capabilities and streamline forensic evidence management.

Criminal Procedure Updates: Alerts and Citations Jun 05, 2025

The source, "Criminal Procedure Updates and Alert Systems," outlines changes to the Code of Criminal Procedure, detailing how recent legislative actions impact law enforcement. Specifically, it discusses the implementation of the new Athena Alert system, which expands the tools available for locating missing children in situations that don't meet the strict criteria of an AMBER Alert. Furthermore, the text explains House Bill 410, a measure requiring Texas law enforcement agencies to adopt Cite and Release policies for fine-only misdemeanors by March 1, 2024, aiming to reduce arrests for minor offenses. These updates aim to refine investigative procedures and alter how officers interact with the public regarding certain misdemeanors.

Texas Fentanyl Law Revisions (HB 6) Jun 05, 2025

This excerpt from a training module on the Texas Penal Code focuses on revisions made by the 88th Legislature, specifically addressing the fentanyl crisis through House Bill 6. A significant change establishes a new murder offense for supplying fentanyl that results in death, escalating accountability for distributors. Additionally, the law imposes stricter penalties for manufacturing or delivering fentanyl by reducing the quantity thresholds required for more severe felony charges. The bill also mandates that death certificates explicitly note fentanyl as a cause of death to enhance data tracking.

TCOLE #3188 - 88th State and Federal Law Update (2023-2025) Module 1 - Part 2 Jun 05, 2025

This audio transcript outlines TCOLE Course #3188, designed to update Texas law enforcement and legal professionals on significant state and federal law changes from 2023-2025, emphasizing legislative updates from the 88th Texas Legislature. Key themes include Law and Order initiatives, responses to the fentanyl crisis, and enhanced school safety. The training also highlights new mandated requirements, such as increased hours for ALERRT active shooter response training and a new course on sexual assault and abuse response, underscoring the importance of staying current for effective and constitutional law enforcement.

TCOLE #3188 - 88th State and Federal Law Update (2023-2025) Module 1 - Part 1 Jun 05, 2025

This instructional text outlines TCOLE Course #3188, focusing on the Texas 88th State and Federal Law Update for 2023-2025. It aims to inform Texas law enforcement and legal professionals about significant changes resulting from the 2023 legislative session and recent court decisions. Key areas covered include TCOLE administrative updates, changes to various Texas codes, school safety measures, and relevant federal law, emphasizing themes of law and order, the fentanyl crisis, and enhanced school security. The training details important updates to TCOLE rules, such as establishing minimum agency standards, revising the F5 form, mandating national decertification database checks, creating a public license database, and clarifying procedures for failed fitness-for-duty exams. This material serves as a summary to ensure professionals are equipped with current legal knowledge for effective and compliant work.

School Safety Legislation HB 3 Jun 05, 2025

This module focuses on the extensive school safety regulations established by the 88th Legislature, particularly highlighting House Bill 3. Key mandates include the presence of an armed security officer at every school campus, subject to specific training requirements and limited exceptions. The legislation also addresses facility safety standards, requiring audits and security upgrades. Furthermore, HB 3 mandates mental health training for most instructional staff and the transfer of student disciplinary and threat assessment records between districts. The bill also provides increased funding and establishes regional safety review teams.

Updates to Offenses Against Persons and Property Jun 05, 2025

The source outlines updates to Texas law, specifically focusing on offenses against persons and property. These changes include extending the statute of limitations for family violence, prohibiting pet ownership after certain animal cruelty convictions, and increasing the penalty for boating while intoxicated with a child passenger. New legislation also addresses illegal voting, catalytic converter theft, and voyeurism by incorporating the use of electronic means. Finally, the updates expand law enforcement's ability to impound vehicles used in drag racing and street takeovers.

Texas Transportation Code: Highway Patrol Student Manual Jul 01, 2025

This comprehensive manual outlines the Texas Transportation Code, providing essential information for law enforcement, particularly the Highway Patrol. It details a wide array of traffic laws and regulations, including those pertaining to vehicle registration, driver's licenses, equipment requirements, and rules of the road. The document also addresses specific scenarios like collisions, abandoned vehicles, and driving under the influence, defining key terms and explaining the legal ramifications of various offenses. Furthermore, it covers specialized topics such as commercial motor vehicles, emergency vehicle operations, and the legalities surrounding automated vehicles.

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