Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare spoke at the March 6, 2025 Business Network Breakfast, sharing the changes that he is making in the District Attorney’s Office.
He began with recognizing the positive impact that management districts have in their communities as a whole. DA Teare announced that he now has experienced line prosecutors working within the intake process on a 24/7 basis. While these attorneys make decisions on accepting charges, they are also a resource to officers in the field and are able to identify other evidence that needs to be collected during the initial investigation.
Teare also spoke about changes in how mental health issues are addressed. He identified the gap in available resources and the need for crisis or emergency services. He is proposing emergency detention in locked mental health facilities, with a “step-down” care continuum, follow up care and supportive housing. This approach could reduce the number of cases and speed up case processing.
DA Teare also spoke about the creation of a domestic violence bureau. Domestic violence often bleeds into other crimes. He proposes using trauma-informed and consistent prosecutors, clear messaging and support services to reach domestic violence survivors where they are.
He also addressed earlier intervention in violent juvenile crimes. Teare noted that studies have identified “markers” for the likelihood of escalating violence; if properly noted in intake steps can be taken to reduce that likelihood.
Watch the Business Network Breakfast Recap Below:
