Texas teen accused of murder released from jail after ‘outrageous’ bond reduction

A Texas teen accused of murder was released from police custody after his bond was drastically reduced from $800,000 to $100 per charge. Stephon Martin Morson, 19, was able to post bail and was released from the Travis County Jail in Austin, Texas, on Saturday. He had been charged in the shooting death of 20-year-old Keshawn Cage, who was found with a gunshot wound to the head back in October.

Morson was booked on Nov. 6, 2024, and charged with murder and tampering/fabricating physical evidence. Originally set at $800,000, his bond was recently dropped to $100 for each charge, totaling $200. However, there are strict conditions attached to his release, including wearing a GPS monitor, remaining under house arrest, and having no contact with the victim’s family or potential witnesses.

Austin Police Association President Michael Bullock expressed his disappointment in the reduced bond, stating that it was insufficient given the severity of the crime. He criticized the justice system in Travis County, accusing judges and magistrates of making similar decisions in other cases involving violent crimes. Bullock highlighted the risks of releasing accused murderers back onto the streets, emphasizing the importance of public safety.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott also condemned Morson’s release as “outrageous,” and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick echoed his sentiments. Both officials have been advocating for bail reform in the state, aiming to prevent violent offenders from being released on bail. A bail reform package is currently making its way through the state legislature, with the Senate Criminal Justice Committee recently passing the bills by a vote of 6-0.

Crime victims’ advocates in Texas have long been pushing for tougher bail legislation, especially in cases involving serious crimes. In the past, there have been instances where offenders were released on low or no bond, only to reoffend later on. Rania Mankarious, the CEO of Crime Stoppers of Houston, emphasized the need for stricter bail practices to protect the community.

Efforts to reform the bail system in Texas have gained momentum, with lawmakers and officials working to address the issue of releasing dangerous criminals back into society. The case of Stephon Martin Morson serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring public safety and holding offenders accountable for their actions.