Texas DA seeks reversal of governor's pardon for man who killed BLM protester

A Texas prosecutor wants to reverse a pardon given by Governor Greg Abbott to a former Army soldier who shot and killed a Black Lives Matter protester in 2020. Travis County District Attorney José Garza plans to file a request with the Court of Criminal Appeals to undo the pardon for Daniel Perry. Garza criticized the pardon, saying it went against the law and justice. Perry was convicted for the death of Garrett Foster, a BLM protester and Air Force veteran, during a protest in Austin. Witnesses said Foster did not raise his weapon, and prosecutors argued Perry could have driven away without shooting. Perry was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Garza accused Abbott of violating the Separation of Powers Doctrine by interfering with the court's actions. Garza's office will file a request to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals to reverse the pardon. Perry was convicted of fatally shooting Foster at a BLM protest in Austin in 2020. Abbott pardoned Perry, stating it was self-defense under Texas' "Stand Your Ground" law. Garza believes Abbott exceeded his authority and violated the separation of powers doctrine. Perry's attorney argued that the governor had the power to grant pardons. The case is unique in state history due to the quick pardon request and approval. Garza aims to seek justice through the legal process. Perry's legal team defended the pardon as appropriate under the state constitution. Foster's family and prosecutors objected to the pardon. Garza welcomed federal scrutiny of the case, stating vigilante violence is unacceptable. Abbott's actions raised concerns about overturning a jury's verdict in the future.