Police chief outraged after teen robbery suspect released from jail
PASADENA, Texas (KTRK) -- Jakouri Jones, 18, was able to exchange jail time for his signature after posting bond for allegedly robbing four pharmacies with a weapon in a matter of weeks.
This past month, Pasadena police released surveillance video showing officers running over Jones after he pointed a gun at them while trying to run away.
Pasadena's police chief sounded off after Jones was released on bond, despite multiple violent felonies.
Authorities say Jones is the one who wore a mask and held up five pharmacies in Pasadena and Southside Place, shot at a man and his children and ran from police with a gun in hand.
When Pasadena Police Chief Josh Bruegger went public with his disappointment and called out 230th Criminal Court Judge Chris Morton, he said, "This is the first time it's come to my attention. It's been so egregious. The public should be concerned."
According to court records, Jones was first charged on Jan. 6 for gun possession and released on a personal bond, which is basically his signature for the promise to show up court.
On Jan. 16, he picked up four aggravated robbery charges and one aggravated assault charge. The personal bond remained.
Monday, another aggravated robbery was added and Judge Morton denied the state's second request for a high bond.
Twice the Harris County District Attorney's Office has asked for a high bond. Twice it was denied.
The judge has placed restrictions on Jones' movements and required him to wear a GPS monitor.
