The noncustodial admission is one of the most reliable forms of confession. But, then officers have been faced with the problem of whether to release the defendant, hoping they can find him again when they get a warrant.

Lawmakers perhaps have solved that problem by authorizing the warrantless arrest of a defendant who makes a legal confession. For details on the bill, go to SB 1896. What a simple, elegant solution. Congratulations to TDCAA for getting a great piece of legislation passed.

Shannon, who gets credit for this one?

Chuck Noll of the Harris Co. DA's office shepherded that one through the system, along with several other good bills.