Bastrop Interfaith met with Sheriff Maurice Cook today and we believe this was a good first step in addressing the issues we have been concerned about. The Sheriff agreed to meet with Bastrop Interfaith on a regular basis and discuss issues of common concern around community safety and building trust within the community.
Sheriff Cook assured us that he has the discretionary authority to ticket in the case of minor traffic violations, and that the term “zero tolerance” does not refer to arresting for all infractions. He also assured us that he has not and will not target the Stony Point community but will enforce the law evenly across the county.
The Sheriff also recognized the trust that Bastrop Interfaith has with the community and we believe this work speaks to the importance of local organizing with congregations and civic institutions to address issues impacting the county.
While we did not agree on everything, we did agree that we will work closely together moving forward, and Bastrop Interfaith will closely monitor the enforcement of public safety and its impact on the community.
Consul: DPS Helped Bastrop Traffic Operation That Led to Deportations, Austin American Statesman
Sheriff Listens to Community's Concerns Following Traffic Operation, Spectrum