The recent arrest of Santwan Dewayne Gray, a 44-year-old Paris resident, has brought to light significant concerns about the criminal justice system's handling of repeat offenders. Gray, who was apprehended by Paris Officers for Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance, has a long history of criminal activity dating back to 1996, raising questions about why he has not been incarcerated despite his extensive criminal record.
On August 19, 2023, Paris Officers received a call of "Assist Other Agency" from Camp County Deputies and responded to the 2500 block of North Main Street in Paris, Texas. A female runaway from Camp County had rented a room and was in the company of a male subject, which turned out to be Santwan Gray. Authorities have not revealed the age of the female runaway. During the investigation Gray was found to be in possession of crack cocaine.
Described as a 6'3" black male weighing 235 lbs, Gray's criminal record paints a troubling picture of a man who has repeatedly broken the law over the years. With at least 26 arrests in Lamar County alone, Gray's charges span a wide range of offenses, including criminal trespass, drug possession, assault cases, and even charges as serious as aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. His criminal history raises concerns not only about public safety but also about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in dealing with habitual offenders.
Local residents are left questioning why Gray has managed to avoid extended periods of incarceration given his extensive criminal record.
