Senate Approves Rules On Sex Offender Prosecution
AUSTIN (AP) — New tools for prosecutors in cases of sexual assault against children are advancing through the state Capitol.
Under a bill approved by the Senate on Tuesday, evidence of prior similar offenses would become admissible in court.
Current rules allow prosecutors to introduce only evidence of prior assaults against the same victim.
The new rules would allow evidence of prior attacks on other victims. But the rules would apply only when the victim is under 17.
Republican Sen. Joan Huffman of Houston said her bill would align state rules with policies used in federal court. She is a former judge in felony criminal cases.
Democratic Sen. Royce West of Dallas noted that the new rules would still leave some discretion to judges. He has served as a prosecutor and defense lawyer.
(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
Also Check Out:
- Troopers Indicted After Roadside Cavity Search Of Two Women
- Possible New Miami Dolphins Logo Leaked
- Suspect In DeSoto Murder-Suicide Was Former Police Officer
- Woman Defends Beating Son Caught In Homosexual Act
- Emmitt Smith Says New Safety Rule Means NFL Has "Lost Its Mind"
MOST VIEWED GALLERIES
- PHOTOS: Your Pet Pictures
- PHOTOS: 105.3 The Fan In New Orleans - Day 5
- PHOTOS: Top 10 Cars We Miss
