| Motion | Ruling | Rationale | |--------|--------|------------| | (defense) | Denied (Oct 2022) | The DNA sample was collected under a valid search warrant based on probable cause. | | Exclusion of “dying declaration” (defense) | Denied (Jan 2023) | Court held that Payton’s last recorded 911 call (transcribed at 07:55) meets the statutory criteria for a dying declaration under Tex. Code Crim. Art. 38.03 . | | Motion to dismiss aggravated kidnapping | Denied (Mar 2023) | The prosecution demonstrated “force, threat, or deception” per Art. 20.02, as the victim was restrained in the back of Dalton’s truck. |