BURLESON CO. FELONY JURISDICTION TO SHIFT THIS WEEKEND

  

Starting this weekend, Washington County District Attorney Julie Renken will no longer prosecute felony cases in Burleson County.

Earlier this year, state legislators approved a bill which granted Burleson County Attorney Susan Deski felony jurisdiction.

That bill becomes effective Sunday, and leaves Renken with just Washington County jurisdiction.  Meanwhile, all Burleson County felony and misdemeanor cases will now be prosecuted by Deski’s office.

Renken has been serving in both Washington and Burleson Counties since 2013.  She said previously that this move was initiated by Burleson County, who was interested in opening its own district attorney’s office.  She also said this decision lets her work full-time in Washington County, and allow her office to give more attention to Washington County cases.

At a meeting in February, Washington County Commissioners issued their support of the change with a resolution in favor of the bill.  Commissioner Kirk Hanath said at that meeting this decision would give the county more bang for its buck, while County Judge John Durrenberger said this is a “real positive move for Washington County”.

Deski will keep her current responsibilities as county attorney, while taking over felony prosecution responsibilities.  She will be sworn into office Sunday at the Burleson County Courthouse, and will begin her new role on Tuesday, after Labor Day.