79 Trespassing Charges Dismissed at UT Austin Amid Pro-Palestine Protests

Travis County Attorney Delia Garza announced the dismissal of 79 criminal trespassing charges against pro-Palestine protesters at the University of Texas at Austin. Garza stated that her office could not meet the legal burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt and considered potential violations of free speech rights. The decision follows a comprehensive review of evidence, including body camera footage and offense reports. Other charges related to the protests, such as obstructing a highway and interfering with public duty, remain pending. The university expressed disappointment in the dismissals, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining safety and operational continuity. This decision is part of a broader trend of dropped charges against demonstrators at college campuses across the U.S. this spring.