Former UT Officer to Surrender Badge in Plea Deal

Austin Dubois reached an agreement with the Travis County DA following an excessive force investigation.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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A former University of Texas police officer, Austin Dubois, has agreed to permanently surrender his Texas peace officer license as part of a plea deal with the Travis County District Attorney's Office. Dubois was charged with official oppression, a Class A misdemeanor, following an investigation into allegations that he used excessive force against Laison Crenshaw during an arrest at Dell Seton Medical Center in 2024. The plea deal also requires Dubois to complete a 180-day pretrial diversion program and submit a letter of apology to Crenshaw's family.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts to hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct and excessive use of force, particularly in incidents that result in the death of civilians. The plea deal aims to rebuild community trust in the police by ensuring there are consequences for violations of the law.

The details

According to the District Attorney's office, during Crenshaw's arrest, Dubois placed his knee on the man's back for one minute even though Crenshaw was already handcuffed and lying prone on the floor. Dubois later said he saw "no signs" that Crenshaw was breathing during the arrest, but he still did not administer or request first aid. Crenshaw died five days later.

  • The incident occurred in 2024 at Dell Seton Medical Center.
  • Dubois reached the plea deal with the Travis County District Attorney's Office in February 2026.

The players

Austin Dubois

A former University of Texas police officer who was charged with official oppression following an investigation into allegations of excessive force.

Laison Crenshaw

The individual who died five days after the 2024 incident at Dell Seton Medical Center, where Dubois allegedly used excessive force during the arrest.

José Garza

The Travis County District Attorney who stated that ensuring accountability in law enforcement is essential for rebuilding community trust and maintaining public safety.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts go out to the Crenshaw family for the loss of Laison. We are grateful to the Texas Rangers for bringing this incident to light, as this case was investigated collaboratively by their agency and our Civil Rights Unit. Ensuring accountability in law enforcement when laws are violated is essential for rebuilding community trust and maintaining the safety of our community.”

— José Garza, Travis County District Attorney (statesman.com)

What’s next

If Dubois successfully completes the terms of the plea deal, including the 180-day pretrial diversion program, prosecutors will dismiss the case against him.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts to hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct and excessive use of force, particularly in incidents that result in the death of civilians. The plea deal aims to rebuild community trust in the police by ensuring there are consequences for violations of the law.