Leftist Judges Criticized After Release of Austin Murder Suspect on Reduced Bail

Leftist judges are facing backlash after a teenage murder suspect in Austin, Texas, was released following a significant reduction in his bond.

The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Stephon Martin Morson, is charged with the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Keshawn Cage, which occurred in October.

Citing Fox News, Morson was released from Travis County jail on Saturday after posting bail that was originally set at $800,000 but was drastically reduced to $100 per charge.

An outraged response followed, with a local official stating, "This is outrageous. It's why I made bail reform an Emergency Item. We must prevent leftist judges from releasing dangerous murderers out on our streets. Those responsible for this release should be held legally liable if anyone is harmed by this criminal."

Comments on social media echoed the sentiment, with one user stating, "It's time to hold these radical judges liable to the state of Texas and the public," and another expressing dismay over the low bail amount for a murder charge.

Authorities have reported that surveillance footage and witness testimonies placed Morson at the crime scene. Witnesses claimed he shot Cage at close range following an altercation regarding Cage's alleged cooperation with law enforcement in a prior case linked to his ex-girlfriend.

Evidence found near the scene included a handgun and clothing stained with blood, which were connected to Morson. Ballistics testing confirmed a shell casing found at the murder scene matched the recovered weapon.

Initially, Morson denied being present during the shooting but later acknowledged his presence when confronted with evidence. He claimed he was unaware of who shot the victim.

Michael Bullock, President of the Austin Police Association, criticized the reduction of Morson's bail, calling it a "slap in the face" to Austin residents who could be at risk. He asserted that local authorities have failed to prioritize citizen safety and suggested that irresponsible bail amounts have been letting violent offenders back onto the streets.

Bullock expressed gratitude to Governor Abbott for declaring bail reform an emergency issue, stating, "Too many innocent people, both citizens and law enforcement officers, have become targets of criminals due to irresponsible bail amounts that allow violent criminals to go free."

He concluded by warning that activist judges and prosecutors are undermining the principles of law and order.