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What is one stated purpose of the Texas Penal Code?

  1. To promote community service

  2. To eliminate all crimes

  3. To guide and limit the exercise of official discretion by law enforcement

  4. To increase punishments for all crimes

The correct answer is: To guide and limit the exercise of official discretion by law enforcement

One stated purpose of the Texas Penal Code is to guide and limit the exercise of official discretion by law enforcement. This means that the code establishes clear legal standards and definitions for various offenses, which helps law enforcement officials make consistent and fair decisions in their enforcement of the law. By providing a structured framework, it reduces the risk of arbitrary or biased application of justice, thereby promoting accountability within the law enforcement system. This purpose is essential because it ensures that law enforcement operates within the boundaries of the law, which not only protects the rights of individuals but also upholds the integrity of the legal process. The clarity provided by the Penal Code allows officers to interpret and apply the law uniformly, making it easier to maintain order and protect the community.