Judge says probable cause found, reminds defendants they are presumed innocent and may consult an attorney

At a hearing at Travis County Court, the presiding judge told people charged with criminal offenses that a judge had reviewed the cases and determined there was probable cause based on a law enforcement officer’s sworn statement.

The judge said that probable cause means the officer’s sworn statement contains enough facts that a reasonable person could believe an offense occurred, and added that a finding of probable cause “does not mean you’ve been found guilty.”

The judge also reminded those charged that they are “presumed innocent unless proven guilty” and that they would have an opportunity to talk to an attorney before making decisions about how to handle their cases. The judge said defendants may request a copy of the police officer’s statement that is being used as the basis for the charges.

No formal rulings or sentencing were recorded in the provided transcript excerpt. The remarks in the transcript are advisory explanatory statements delivered at the hearing and describe the basis for charging decisions (a sworn officer statement leading to a judge’s probable-cause determination) and procedural rights (presumption of innocence, access to counsel, and ability to obtain the officer’s statement).

The hearing transcript does not identify the judge by name, does not specify the date of the hearing, and does not record any motions, bond decisions, or other formal court actions in the excerpt provided.