After Hurricane Beryl wreaked havoc across the region, Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton is doubling down on efforts to maintain law and order.
The DA’s office is working tirelessly to protect the public and swiftly address any threats that may arise after the storm.
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“We don’t tolerate predatory or violent behavior and especially not during a time when many are vulnerable in the aftermath of the storm,” Middleton said. “I commend the Needville Police Department’s quick response to the recent threat made to a lineman working to restore power in their city. The suspect was arrested and charged with misdemeanor deadly conduct. The investigation is ongoing and may result in felony charges.”
Middleton emphasized the importance of community solidarity during this challenging time.
“We are all suffering and frustrated. I myself have been without power for days. But threatening the lineman, or first responders, or volunteers, will only delay your world returning to normal. Now is the time to come together and support each other, to be part of the fix and not part of the problem.”
Under Texas Penal Code §12.50, penalties for certain crimes committed during a declared disaster are enhanced. With local, state, and federal authorities having issued emergency declarations for Hurricane Beryl, crimes such as assault, criminal mischief, robbery, burglary, and theft are subject to stronger punishments until these orders are lifted.
“The District Attorney’s Office is ready and willing to aggressively prosecute any criminal activity that occurs during the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl,” Middleton stated. “We intend to pursue enhanced penalties for all qualifying crimes committed during this period.”
In addition to addressing violent and predatory crimes, Middleton also reminded the public that price gouging is illegal and urged residents to report any instances to the Texas Attorney General’s Office at 800-621-0508 or online at the Texas Attorney General’s consumer protection website.