Sandra Bland’s arrest, death takes stage at Texas Capitol

AUSTIN, Texas — The arrest and death of Sandra Bland is bringing top state officials to the Texas Capitol to testify about jail standards and police officer protocols.

The hearing Thursday in Austin is the first time lawmakers are meeting to discuss the circumstances surrounding the death the 28-year-old black woman from suburban Chicago. Authorities say Bland on July 13 hanged herself in jail, a finding that her family has questioned.

Bland was in custody for allegedly assaulting a white Texas trooper who on July 10 pulled her over in Waller County for an improper lane change.

The Texas House Committee on County Affairs is now taking a new look at jail procedures and interactions with the police and the general public.

Texas Rangers and FBI are continuing to investigate Bland’s death.