A murder suspect in Texas has been released after a judge significantly lowered his bail, drawing criticism from state officials and law enforcement.

Nineteen-year-old Stephon Martin Morson was arrested for allegedly shooting and killing 20-year-old Keshawn Cage in Austin on October 16. Authorities found Cage with a fatal gunshot wound to the head at an apartment complex on Burton Drive. Witnesses and surveillance footage placed Morson at the scene, with reports stating the dispute stemmed from Cage’s alleged cooperation with police in an earlier case involving Morson’s ex-girlfriend.

Police recovered a handgun, a Nike hoodie, and blood-stained shoes near the crime scene, which forensic testing later linked to Morson. Ballistics confirmed that a shell casing found at the site matched the recovered firearm. Initially, Morson denied being present but later admitted to being there after investigators presented evidence. However, he claimed he had no knowledge of who fired the fatal shot.

Despite the severity of the charges, Morson was released from Travis County Jail on Saturday after his bond, originally set at $800,000, was reduced to just $100 per charge.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott voiced his frustration on social media, calling the decision unacceptable. He emphasized that bail reform must prevent leftist judges from releasing dangerous individuals back into communities. Abbott further stated that any officials responsible for Morson’s release should be held legally accountable if he commits further crimes.

The case has ignited widespread outrage, with social media users condemning the decision. Many expressed concern that lenient bail rulings could turn Texas into another California, where crime rates have surged under similar policies. Others demanded that judges be held accountable for putting public safety at risk.

Austin Police Association President Michael Bullock called the bail reduction a direct threat to community safety. He criticized local prosecutors and judges for failing to work with law enforcement, warning that their policies enable violent criminals to walk free. He commended Abbott for making bail reform a legislative priority, stating that activist judges are eroding the rule of law and putting innocent people at risk.