A Houston mother is speaking out after her son’s alleged killer was released on bond just weeks before the scheduled trial, highlighting growing concerns about bond policies for violent crime suspects in Harris County.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Grieving mother planning to push for bond reform after son’s suspected killer could get out of jail
Tameka Moore, whose son Jarrick Dontrell Hoskins was murdered on December 18, 2023, expressed frustration after learning that murder suspect Cedric Brooks was granted bond despite facing charges in three different counties.
“When we found out they were giving him a bond, he was being released with no conditions,” Moore said. “Only after they heard our voice did they decide to give him some conditions.”
Brooks, who now wears an ankle monitor under house arrest, was released on bonds totaling $325,000, covering charges that include murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, and unlawful possession of a weapon. Court records show Brooks was already out on bond when he allegedly killed Hoskins.
Rising Concerns About Multiple Bonds
Andy Kahan, Director of Victim Services for Crime Stoppers Houston, points to a troubling pattern in Harris County’s criminal justice system.
“We’ve documented since 2019 over 200 cases of defendants charged with murder or capital murder who were previously on more than one felony bond or personal recognizance bond,” Kahan said. “Since 2022, we’ve seen 162 such cases.”
Legislative Push for Bond Reform
A constitutional amendment currently under consideration in the Texas House Committee, after passing through the Senate, could give judges more discretion in denying bonds to defendants charged with violent crimes.
The proposed legislation, known as HJR15 and HB75, would allow Texas voters to decide whether judges should have the authority to deny bond to defendants charged with certain violent offenses.
Upcoming Trial and Safety Concerns
Jury selection in Brooks’ case is scheduled for May 9, with the criminal trial set to begin May 12. Moore expressed concerns about Brooks’ appearance at trial, citing his extensive criminal record.
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has voiced support for bond reform efforts, aligning with the governor’s office, which has been actively promoting the initiative.
