Houston's streets have become the backdrop for a contentious debate on criminal justice reform as nearly 900 individuals accused of murder are released on bond, many linked to the courtroom of Judge Hilary Unger of Harris County. The situation, brought to light by Mayor John Whitmire and journalist Savanah Hernandez, has escalated into what some are calling a severe public safety crisis.
Judge Unger, since her election in 2019 on a platform of "alternatives to incarceration," has overseen numerous cases where suspects, once released, reportedly committed additional crimes, including murder. This has raised alarms among law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community members concerned about the implications of such decisions on public safety.
One of the most alarming cases involves Dremone Francis, who was charged in 2024 with the capital murder of a Harris County police officer and tampering with evidence. Despite the gravity of the charges, Unger set Francis's bail at $1 million, which he posted, resulting in his release. This decision contradicted the standard procedure of denying bond for capital murder cases and has since drawn intense criticism.
Another case cited by Hernandez is that of Andrew Williams, released on bond by Judge Unger after a 2019 capital murder accusation. Williams allegedly committed another murder in 2021, running over a 71-year-old woman with his car following a robbery. Similarly, Marquise Wear, after being granted bond on two separate felony charges, allegedly shot and killed a man in front of the victim's 12-year-old daughter.
The Houston Police Officers' Union has expressed stern opposition to Judge Unger's actions, describing her as "rogue" and accusing her of betraying the public trust. The union's sentiment reflects the unease felt by many in Harris County, which holds the highest crime rate in Texas.
Judge Unger's decisions have not gone without defense. Advocates for reform argue that the high bond rates in many jurisdictions unfairly target the poor and that pretrial incarceration should not be a default for those accused but not yet convicted. The judge's supporters often point to the need for systemic change in the bail system, emphasizing the principle of "innocent until proven guilty."
However, the counter-argument is starkly illustrated by the case of Austin Collette. After pleading guilty to a 2019 murder, he was released by Judge Unger while awaiting sentencing. While under house arrest, he reportedly killed his girlfriend and then himself, a tragic event that many believe was preventable.
As Judge Unger seeks re-election, with her term ending in December 2026, the debate rages on over the balance between the rights of the accused and the safety of the community. The cases connected to her court will likely play a significant role in the upcoming election and the broader conversation on criminal justice reform.
