3 hero Austin cops who stopped deadly bar shooting expected to be dragged before grand jury thanks to George Floyd-era policy
Three brave Austin police officers are facing a grand-jury investigation after risking their lives to stop a deadly shooting rampage. The officers, whose identities have not been revealed, intervened when a maniac opened fire outside a crowded bar in Austin, Texas, killing three people and injuring more than a dozen.
The mandatory grand-jury review is a result of a policy implemented by Austin District Attorney José Garza in 2021, following the George Floyd killing that sparked nationwide outrage and calls for police reform. The policy, which is supported by a left-wing criminal-justice reform group called the Wren Collective, requires every officer-involved shooting to be presented to a grand jury.
Texas lawyer Doug O’Connell, representing the officers on behalf of the Austin Police Association, criticized the lack of transparency in the grand-jury process. He expressed concerns about the one-sided presentation of evidence by prosecutors, who have the power to control what information is presented to the grand jury.
Despite viral rumors claiming otherwise, the officers have not been formally charged with any wrongdoing. Detective Christopher Irwin of the Austin Police Association confirmed that there are currently no pending charges against the officers involved in the shooting.
In light of the uncertainty surrounding the gunman’s motives and potential ties to terrorism, O’Connell has decided not to disclose the identities of the officers involved. He emphasized the need to protect the officers from further jeopardy until more information about the shooter is uncovered.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in high-pressure situations and the legal scrutiny they may face in the aftermath. As the investigation unfolds, the officers remain committed to serving and protecting their community, despite the potential legal ramifications they may face.
