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Committee considers bill letting Comptroller CID apply for vehicle-tracking warrants in fuel-theft probes
Summary
Senate Bill 993 would allow officers in the Comptroller’s Criminal Investigative Division to apply directly to district courts for warrants to install mobile tracking devices in fuel-theft investigations. Supporters said the change would speed probes and strengthen applications; the committee left the bill pending.
Sen. Nichols explained Senate Bill 993 would authorize officers in the Comptroller’s Criminal Investigative Division (CID) to apply directly to district courts for warrants to install and use mobile tracking devices for investigations, including motor fuel theft.
Nichols said vehicle tracking is an investigative tool used in complex, often organized schemes that steal fuel, transport it, and resell it illegally; under current law CID officers must rely on other agencies to apply for such warrants, creating delays and additional burdens. Lieutenant Brett Frow of the Comptroller’s CID was present as a resource, and committee members asked questions and expressed support. One public witness, Enrique de Hoya, spoke in favor and said the bill would help trace vehicles in oil- and gas-producing areas.
The committee opened invited and public testimony; no opponents appeared. Because a quorum was not present the committee left the bill pending.
