Prosecutorial Integrity
For the administration of justice, transparency and accountability remain essential priorities for reform.
House Select Committee on Governmental Oversight
In recent years, local prosecutorial offices have increasingly engaged with for-profit and nonprofit nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and private consultants to support various functions, including policy development, data analysis, training, and diversion program implementation. These partnerships may be funded through public funds, private grants, or a combination of both. While such collaborations can provide valuable expertise and resources, they also raise questions regarding prosecutorial independence, ethical obligations, and transparency in decision-making. Prosecutors in Texas are vested with broad discretion to make charging decisions, negotiate plea agreements, and determine case priorities. External involvement in prosecutorial functions therefore requires careful evaluation to ensure that it does not compromise these foundational principles.
Read the full testimony in the link above.
