Travis County District Attorney José Garza’s office faced hours of questioning at the Texas Capitol Wednesday as state lawmakers examined prosecutorial practices and the potential influence of outside organizations on local district attorneys.
Garza did not attend the House Select Committee on Governmental Oversight hearing. His office was represented by Stephanie Gharakhanian, who serves as its director of intergovernmental relations.
The hearing focused in part on Garza’s office and its relationship with the Wren Collective, a criminal justice reform organization that has worked with prosecutors around the country.
Critics alleged that outside organizations and donors have influenced prosecutorial policies and decisions. Garza’s office denied those allegations.
In a written statement provided to the committee, Garza said third-party organizations have no involvement in decisions involving individual criminal cases. His office also rejected allegations that it refuses to prosecute violent crime.
Several lawmakers questioned Gharakhanian about communications and agreements between the district attorney’s office and outside organizations.
At one point, state Rep. Mitch Little, R-Lewisville, proposed subpoenaing Garza to appear before the committee. Committee Chairman Cody Vasut, R-Angleton, did not take up the motion.
The committee also heard from crime victims’ families, law enforcement representatives, criminal justice policy advocates, and former Travis County Judge Bill Aleshire.
The hearing comes as Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows have called for increased oversight of local prosecutors. Republican state leaders have accused some district attorneys, including Garza, of failing to adequately prosecute certain crimes.
Garza and his office have disputed those characterizations.
Lawmakers are expected to consider additional measures involving prosecutorial accountability when the Texas Legislature returns for its regular session in 2027.
No legislation was considered or approved during Wednesday’s hearing.
