Scores of state highway troopers, usually found on roadways across Texas in their distinctive cowboy hats and black-and-white patrol vehicles, have descended on Austin, the state capital.
But in a booming city known for its progressive politics, the partnership between the local police, steeped in the language of reform, and the Texas Department of Public Safety, under the direction of Republican state leaders, soon began to raise concern.
Statistics emerged showing that those arrested on misdemeanor charges by state troopers were mostly Black and Hispanic.
In May, there was a fatal shooting by troopers after a chase.
Days later, two troopers drew their weapons on a father and son during a car stop.
Organizations:
Democratic, Austin Police Department, Texas Department of Public
Locations:
Texas, Austin