Texas Man With Criminal Record Gets 70 Years After Spitting At Police

A man in Texas has been sentenced to 70 years in prison for spitting on a police officer during an altercation in 2020. Jonathan Price, who had a criminal record, was initially charged with assaulting an officer, but the charge was upgraded to attempted capital murder after he tested positive for COVID-19. Price’s defense argued that he was not aware he had the virus when he spat on the officer, and that the charge was excessive. However, the judge ruled that Price’s past record and the danger he posed during the pandemic warranted the lengthy sentence.

What caught our attention about this story was the severity of the punishment for a seemingly minor offense. It raises questions about the criminal justice system and how it determines appropriate sentencing. In this case, the judge’s decision suggests that not only was the physical act of spitting considered assault, but also the potential risk of transmitting COVID-19.

While it’s important to hold individuals accountable for their actions, especially those that endanger public safety, it’s also crucial to consider the circumstances and the potential for rehabilitation. The decision to impose such a significant sentence on Price emphasizes the need for continued reform and reevaluation of our criminal justice system.