Sandra Bland case discussion underway in Texas House committee

AP logo
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Sandra Bland case discussion underway in Texas House committee
A Texas House committee session featured discussion on the Sandra Bland case, including detailed discussion on mental illness in local jails.

AUSTIN, TX -- The arrest and death of Sandra Bland is bringing top state officials to the Texas Capitol to testify about jail standards and police officer protocols.

PHOTOS: Sandra Bland case

The hearing Thursday in Austin is the first time lawmakers are meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the death the 28-year-old black woman from suburban Chicago. Authorities say Bland on July 13 hanged herself in jail, a finding that her family has questioned.

Bland was in custody for allegedly assaulting a white Texas trooper who on July 10 pulled her over in Waller County for an improper lane change.

The Texas House Committee on County Affairs is now taking a new look at jail procedures and interactions with the police and the general public.

Texas Rangers and FBI are continuing to investigate Bland's death.

VIDEO IN SANDRA BLAND CASE

VIDEO: New dash cam video from Prairie View

VIDEO: Original dash cam video from Prairie View

VIDEO: From Waller County Jail