SB487

SB487 extends an existing victim-privacy process to alleged invasive visual recording and indecent assault. Previously, this part of the Code of Criminal Procedure covered stalking and offenses in the same criminal episode as stalking. It now also covers the two added offenses and other offenses in the same criminal episode as any of the three. A conviction is not required by the definition, which refers to an offense that allegedly constitutes the listed crime. Signed May 13, 2025, the act took effect September 1, 2025. Expanded definition; History.

A covered victim may choose a pseudonym—a substitute name—for public files and records, including police summaries, press releases and judicial records. The victim elects this protection by completing the attorney general’s pseudonym form and returning it to the investigating law-enforcement agency. The agency must substitute the name in its records, notify the prosecutor, provide the victim a copy and protect the form; the prosecutor must use the pseudonym in legal proceedings. This is not an automatic erasure of every mention of the victim. Choosing a pseudonym; Agency and prosecutor duties.

Confidentiality has limits. The completed form may be disclosed to the identified victim, defendant or defense attorney without the special court finding; other disclosure requires a court order. A court may order identifying information disclosed when it is essential at trial, the victim’s identity is in issue or disclosure serves the victim’s best interest. Form access; Court-ordered disclosure.

A separate existing rule protects identifying information of covered victims younger than 17, subject to other law, court orders and investigation, prosecution or defense needs. It excludes the victim’s own disclosures and generally those of a parent, conservator or guardian—unless that adult allegedly committed the offense. Existing Class C misdemeanor provisions address specified knowing disclosures, with their own conditions and defenses. SB487 expands the victims covered; it does not replace those limits or make confidentiality absolute. Child-victim protection; Disclosure offense and defenses.