Municipal Court - Security

The following information has been provided to assist those persons subject to court proceedings.

Bailiff

The Sweeny Municipal Court employees a bailiff for court security.  The bailiff is a contracted off-duty police officer.  The bailiff is responsible for court security, including:

• Searching the courtroom, surrounding offices, and the surrounding area for contraband and/or weapons

• Opening and closing the court to defendants, court participants, and visitors

• Observing and monitoring all persons in and around the court

• Conducting searches via metal detectors (hand-held or other)

• Bringing court proceedings to order

• Observing court proceedings

• Maintaining order and peace in the court

• Removing and/or instructing any person as per Judge's orders

• Detaining and/or arresting persons per Judge's orders

Concealed Handguns Prohibited in Court Buildings

Under Texas law (Penal Code, Section 46.03), the carrying of concealed handguns in any court building is prohibited.  It is a crime punishable as a Third Degree Felony.  An individual adjudged guilty of a Third Degree Felony may be punished by imprisonment in the institutional division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for any term of not more than 10 years or less than 2 years.  In addition to imprisonment, an individual adjudged guilty of a Third Degree Felony may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000.

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