The morning docket of the 187th District Court in Texas on September 18, 2025, presided over by Judge Stephanie Boyd, addressed several significant cases involving probation violations and sentencing.
The session began with a case involving a defendant who faced a $1,500 fine, probation conditions including no contact with the victim, and a requirement to complete a TAP evaluation. The judge emphasized the importance of adhering to probation terms, including proof of employment within 45 days and restrictions on working with minors. The defendant, who disclosed disabilities including bipolar disorder and PTSD, was instructed to follow recommendations from the Center for Healthcare Services.
Next, the court addressed the case of Ricardo Gutierrez, who admitted to violating probation conditions by failing drug tests and not attending required programs. The state recommended revoking his community supervision and sentencing him to nine months in state jail. The defense requested credit for time served, noting Gutierrez had completed a parenting class and community service. Ultimately, the court sentenced him to nine months in jail, granting credit for time already served.
The session continued with Tanya Ortega, who initially pleaded not true to a motion to revoke her community supervision but later changed her plea to true. She faced a violation for theft of materials and was sentenced to eight years in prison, with the possibility of concurrent sentencing with another case in Bell County. The court acknowledged her efforts to comply with probation conditions, including employment and drug testing, but ultimately deemed the violations serious enough to warrant a revocation of her probation.
Throughout the proceedings, Judge Boyd maintained a structured approach, ensuring that each defendant understood their rights and the implications of their pleas. The court's decisions reflected a balance between accountability for violations and recognition of individual circumstances, particularly regarding mental health and rehabilitation efforts.