Texas Department of Criminal Justice ANNUAL REVIEW

Table of Contents

Mission, Philosophy and Goals ...... 5 Programs Letter from the Chairman ...... 6 Letter from the Executive Director ...... 7 Reentry and Integration Division ...... 36 Rehabilitation Programs Division ...... 37 Overview Victim Services Division ...... 42

Texas Board of Criminal Justice ...... 10 Texas Department of Criminal Justice...... 11 Support Services Financial Summary ...... 12 Organizational Chart ...... 13 Administrative Review and Risk Management Division ...... 46 Business and Finance Division ...... 47 Board Oversight Facilities Division ...... 50 Health Services Division ...... 51 Human Resources Division...... 52 Internal Audit Division ...... 16 Information Technology Division...... 53 Office of the Inspector General ...... 16 Manufacturing and Logistics Division ...... 53 Prison Rape Elimination Act Ombudsman ...... 18 Office of the Chief of Staff ...... 54 State Counsel for Offenders ...... 18 Office of the General Counsel ...... 55 Office of Incident Management ...... 56 Public Information Office ...... 57

Offender Management

Community Justice Assistance Division ...... 22 Correctional Institutions Division ...... 24 Parole Division ...... 29 Private Facility Contract Monitoring Oversight Division ...... 32

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice 3

Mission

The mission of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is to provide public safety, pro­ mote positive change in offender behavior, reintegrate offenders into society and assist victims of crime.

Philosophy

The Department will be open, ethical and accountable to our fellow citizens and work cooperatively with other public and private entities. We will foster a quality working environment free of bias and respectful of each individual. Our programs will provide a continuum of services consistent with contemporary standards to confine, supervise and treat criminal offenders in an innovative, cost-effective and efficient manner.

Goals

• To provide diversions to traditional incarceration through the use of community su­ pervision and other community-based programs.

• To provide a comprehensive continuity of care system for special needs offenders through statewide collaboration and coordination.

• To provide for confinement, supervision, rehabilitation and reintegration of adult felons.

• To ensure that there are adequate housing and support facilities for convicted felons during confinement.

• To provide supervision and administer the range of options and sanctions available for felons’ reintegration back into society following release from confinement.

• To establish and carry out policies governing purchase and public work contracting that foster meaningful and substantive inclusion of historically underutilized busi­ nesses.

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice 5 To the Honorable and members of the Austin, Texas

It is my honor to present the Fiscal Year 2011 Annual Review for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ).

This past year was a tremendous challenge for Texas government. The fis­ cal climate required state agencies to assess operations, analyze essential services, and reduce expenditures. Through decisive, innovative steps and careful fiscal planning, TDCJ was able to maintain a sound, operational level that will sustain its mission within the reduced appropriations levels.

Offender health care also presented complex challenges this past year, and a high level of commitment continues to be dedicated to this exigent chal­ lenge by both the TDCJ and the health care providers. I am confident the end result will be a system that will continue to provide appropriate, cost- effective health care to our offender population.

The TDCJ leadership team and the agency’s staff are innovative public ser­ vants and they are committed to making a difference. I am proud to stand with them as they serve this great state.

Sincerely,

Oliver J. Bell Chairman

6 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Dear Chairman Bell and members of the Board:

During Fiscal Year 2011 the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), as well as other state agencies, were challenged to reduce expenditures while continuing to provide essential services to the citizens of Texas. The magnitude of funding reductions was uncertain as the fiscal year began, and only became evident as the 82nd Legislature finalized the general ap­ propriations bill late in the legislative session.

Preliminary budget proposals would have substantially reduced agen­ cy funding and eliminated more than 2,000 TDCJ positions. While the spending plan finally approved by the Legislature did make significant reductions in appropriations, most notably in the area of offender health care, the most severe operational impacts associated with initial proposals were avoided. Funding, although reduced, was maintained at a level which supports our vital mission of providing for public safety, promoting posi­ tive change in offender behavior, reintegrating offenders into society and assisting victims of crime.

As to those dedicated men and women who served in positions directly impacted by the reduction in force necessary to comply with fiscal constraints, please know the agency made every effort to place them in available job opportunities. Although not every individual could be accommodated, I am pleased to say these efforts were very successful, particularly for those who took advantage of employment opportunities in correctional security.

One historic event that occurred during FY 2011, the closing of a prison for the first time in Texas history, was in part due to reduced appropriations, but may be equally attributed to legislative decisions that increased and later substantially maintained funding for treatment and diversion programs impacting offender population growth. Once again, the welfare of our employees was a primary consideration during the closing of the Central Unit, and most were able to continue employment at nearby correctional facilities.

Looking forward, I believe the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is poised to meet the ongoing challenges relating to security, street supervision and treatment, and to continue administering all aspects of agency opera­ tions in an efficient, effective and fiscally responsible manner. During the upcoming year the agency will­ par ticipate in the Sunset review process, and we welcome the independent review provided by staff of the Sunset Advisory Commission.

As always, this report is a tribute to our dedicated employees. Whether they supervise offenders in our correc­ tional facilities or in the community, deliver rehabilitative services aimed at reducing recidivism, support crime victims as they interact with the criminal justice system, or perform one of the many critical support functions necessary for this agency to effectively operate, these dedicated public servants proudly serve the people of Texas.

Sincerely,

Brad Livingston Executive Director

7 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Overview

Texas Board of Criminal Justice...... 10

Texas Department of Criminal Justice...... 11

Financial Summary...... 12

Organizational Chart...... 13

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Texas Board of Criminal Justice

The Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) is com- State Counsel for Offenders, and the Prison Rape posed of nine non-salaried members appointed by the Elimination Act (PREA) ombudsman report directly governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, to the board. The board meets, at a minimum, once to serve staggered six-year terms. One member of the each calendar quarter and more frequently as issues board is designated by the governor to serve as chair- and circumstances dictate. man. Board Membership Statutory Role Serving on the board during the fiscal year were Charged with governing the Texas Department of Oliver J. Bell of Austin, chairman; Tom Mechler of Criminal Justice, the board employs the agency’s ex- Amarillo, vice-chairman; Leopoldo R. Vasquez III of ecutive director as well as develops and implements Houston, secretary; and members John “Eric” Gam- policies that guide agency operations. Members also brell of Highland Park, Judge Larry Gist of Beaumont, serve as trustees for the Windham School District. Janice Harris Lord of Arlington, R. Terrell McCombs of San Antonio, J. David Nelson of Lubbock and Car- The Office of the Inspector General, Internal Audit, men Villanueva-Hiles of Palmhurst.

Front row from left: Vice-Chair Tom Mechler, Chairman Oliver J. Bell, Secretary Leopoldo Vasquez III. Back row, from left: members Carmen Villanueva-Hiles, Judge Larry Gist, John “Eric”Gambrell, R. Terrell McCombs, J. David Nelson and Janice Harris Lord.

10 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Texas Department of Criminal Justice

During Fiscal Year 2011 the Texas Department of work with the agency to provide beneficial program­ Criminal Justice, like most state agencies, was re­ ming in a manner consistent with budget constraints. quired to implement an immediate reduction in ex­ penditures while also preparing for further decreases The Community Justice Assistance Division and in appropriations during the next biennium. Actions community supervision and corrections departments taken in response to these fiscal challenges included began developing a new statewide assessment instru­ reductions in force impacting approximately 1,000 ment for community supervision, which is the first positions, the closing of the Central Unit in Sugar step in implementing a standardized assessment in­ Land, revisions to the offender health care plan, and strument for use in probation, in-prison treatment a slight reduction in state funding provided to com­ and reentry programming, and parole supervision. munity supervision and corrections departments. Despite the difficult fiscal environment, the agency The Parole Division began providing electronic notifi­ received sufficient funding to maintain critical func­ cations to trial officials for offenders being considered tions related to the incarceration, supervision and for parole release, transferring to a residential reentry treatment of the offender population, and staff con­ center (halfway house) or releasing to another county. tinued to successfully meet the ongoing operational Trial officials now receive an automatically generated and logistical challenges inherent in the administra­ email when offender notifications become available tion of a large criminal justice agency. through a link on the TDCJ website.

Other significant developments during FY 2011 in­ The installation of comprehensive video surveillance cluded a new Seminary College offering a four-year systems at the in Brazoria County accredited bachelor’s degree to participating offend­ and the Stiles Unit in Beaumont was also completed ers at the Darrington Unit. The program is a during FY 2011, while installation of a simi­ collaborative effort between TDCJ and lar video surveillance system began at Southwestern Baptist Theological the McConnell Unit in Beeville. Seminary, and is another example OOFF NNTT CCRR of how dedicated volunt eers EE II MM MM T II N R A A L L

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11 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Financial Summary Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2011

Goal A: Provide Prison Diversions Goal E: Board of Pardons and Paroles Goal B: Special Needs Offenders Goal F: Operate Parole System Goal C: Incarcerate Felons Goal G: Indirect Administration Goal D: Ensure Adequate Facilities

Goal C Goal A Goal F Goal G Goal D Goal E Goal B Incarcerate Provide Operate Indirect Ensure Board of Special Felons Prison Parole Administration Adequate Pardons Needs Diversions System Facilities and Paroles Offenders 79.54% 9.17% 5.10% 2.48% 2.22% 0.82% 0.67% $2,481,002,002 $286,024,332 $159,034,914 $77,325,650 $69,327,257 $25,648,426 $20,834,430

Total Operating Budget $3,119,197,031

Source: Operating Budget for FY 2011 (12/1/10) Figures are rounded and do not total 100%

12 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Texas Department of Criminal Justice Organizational Chart

Texas Board of Criminal Justice Office of Internal Audit Inspector General Division

State Counsel Prison Rape Executive Director Elimination Act for Offenders Deputy Executive Director Ombudsman

Office of the Chief Financial Officer General Counsel

Administrative Review and Risk Management Division Executive Administrative Services

Business and Finance Division Reentry and Community Justice Integration Division Assistance Division

Facilities Division Rehabilitation Correctional Programs Division Institutions Division

Manufacturing and Logistics Division Health Services Division Parole Division Information Technology Private Facility Human Resources Division Monitoring Oversight Division Division

Victim Services Coordination Division Prepared by Executive Services Current as of October 2011

13 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Board Oversight

Internal Audit Division...... 16

Office of the Inspector General...... 16

Prison Rape Elimination Act Ombudsman...... 18

State Counsel for Offenders...... 18

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Internal Audit Division

The Internal Audit Division conducts comprehensive audits of TDCJ’s major systems and controls.

Internal Audit prepares independent analyses, assess­ ments and recommendations concerning the adequa­ cy and effectiveness of the agency’s internal policies and procedures, as well as the quality of performance in carrying out assigned responsibilities. To accom­ plish its mission, Internal Audit performs financial and performance audits according to an annual au­ dit plan approved by the Board of Criminal Justice. Recommendations for improvements to the agency’s system of internal controls are then provided and tracked.

The audit plan submitted annually to the board is de­ veloped using risk assessment techniques and may include audits of internal operations, contract provid­ ers, and community supervision and corrections de­ Internal Audit Division employee Becky Thomason partments. In addition to routine auditing, the divi­ visits the to audit the farm shop op- sion may participate in investigations of specific acts. erations.

Office of the Inspector General

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is the pri­ leased by TDCJ. Through administrative and crimi­ mary investigative and law enforcement entity for the nal investigations, OIG investigators identify criminal Texas Department of Criminal Justice. OIG consists violations and serious staff misconduct. The depart­ of the Investigations Department, the Administrative ment responds to requests for law enforcement ser­ Support and Programs Department, and the Informa­ vices from numerous sources within and outside the tion Systems Division, which oversees the Offender agency. During FY 2011, Investigations Department Telephone System. OIG investigators are commis­ cases returned 402 indictments and 311 convictions. sioned peace officers assigned throughout the state. During Fiscal Year 2011, OIG opened 8,751 investiga­ Administrative Support tions. Of those cases opened, 5,041 involved criminal and Programs Department investigations, 178 were administrative investigations and 3,532 were information investigations. The Administrative Support and Programs Depart­ ment is responsible for budget and human resources Investigations Department activities, records management and information tech­ nology support. This department is also responsible The Investigations Department is dedicated to con­ for coordination and management of the special task ducting prompt and thorough investigations of alleged force investigative operations, as well as the Fuginet or suspected employee administrative misconduct or and Crime Stoppers programs. criminal violations committed on property owned or

16 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Task Force Investigative Operations from municipal, county, state and federal law enforce­ ment agencies have access to Fuginet. In addition to the law enforcement investigators as­ signed to prison units and regions across the state, Crime Stoppers OIG has investigators assigned to fugitive and gang task forces. These investigators, working closely with OIG coordinates the TDCJ Crime Stoppers program local, state and federal law enforcement, focus on by providing direct access and interaction with law identification, location and capture of violent parole enforcement investigators both inside and outside the violators and the apprehension of escapees. They also agency. The program solicits tips by publishing Crime target prison gangs and their counterparts for pros­ Stoppers articles submitted by law enforcement agen­ ecution of organized criminal activities. During FY cies in the monthly state prison newspaper, The Echo. 2011, the task force initiated 1,870 fugitive investiga­ During FY 2011, Crime Stoppers received 359 calls tions. that resulted in 128 tips, resulting in nine arrests and payment of $1,500 in reward money. The Inspector General also implemented a program for criminal analysts to receive daily reports on ab­ Information Systems Division sconded sex offenders. From September 1, 2010 to August 30, 2011, OIG criminal analysts studied 1,738 The Information Systems Division (ISD) monitors the absconded sex offenders, providing information to Offender Telephone System, which includes the of­ OIG task force officers and investigators from the Of­ fender electronic messaging service. Working in co­ fice of Attorney General and Department of Public ordination with the OIG Investigations Department, Safety to assist in apprehension. ISD conducts criminal, administrative and informa­ tion investigations. ISD responds to requests for as­ Fuginet sistance from federal, state and local law enforcement by providing information related to specific investiga­ Fuginet provides law enforcement agencies through­ tions. ISD also helps the Texas Fusion Center fulfill out the country with direct access to an extensive da­ its mission to provide timely information and analysis tabase of information concerning Texas parolees on necessary to prevent and protect against all threats by active supervision, as well as persons wanted by TDCJ gathering and disseminating unique gang-related in­ for violation of their parole. More than 3,125 users formation.

A criminal analyst from the Office of the Inspector General monitors an offender telephone call as part of an ongoing ef- fort to detect criminal activity, prevent intimidation of victims and witnesses, and to ensure offenders are abiding by TDCJ Offender Telephone System rules and policies.

17 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Prison Rape Elimination Act Ombudsman

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) ombuds­ allegations of sexual assault in TDCJ correctional fa­ man oversees TDCJ efforts to eliminate sexual assault cilities, and collecting data from TDCJ and the Office in the agency’s correctional facilities. The primary re­ of Inspector General regarding allegations of sexual sponsibilities of the PREA ombudsman are to moni­ assault in correctional facilities. tor TDCJ policies for prevention of sexual assault, to monitor administrative investigations to ensure the In Fiscal Year 2011, the PREA ombudsman conduct­ impartial resolution of offender complaints of sexual ed workshops or training for the Texas Association assault, and to collect data regarding all allegations of Against Sexual Assault Diversity Task Force, TDCJ sexual assault. Assistant Wardens’ Training, TDCJ Majors’ Training, and the TDCJ Office of General Counsel quarterly The PREA ombudsman uses a variety of techniques meeting. The PREA ombudsman also helped develop to achieve its mission, to include: reviewing agency the Fiscal Year 2010 Safe Prisons Annual Report, 2010 policy to determine potential effects on prevention, Bureau of Justice Statistics Survey on Sexual Violence, reporting and investigation of allegations of sexual as­ the agency response to proposed PREA standards, sault, directing initial reports of allegations of offend­ and agency policies regarding the responsibilities of er-on-offender sexual assaults to the PREA ombuds­ the PREA ombudsman. man, responding directly to public inquiries related to

State Counsel for Offenders

State Counsel for Offenders (SCFO) provides quality Trial Section legal advice and representation to indigent offenders incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal The Trial Section provides representation to indigent Justice. This enables the agency to comply with consti­ offenders indicted for felonies allegedly committed tutional requirements regarding access to courts and while the offenders are incarcerated in TDCJ. Trial right to counsel. There are five legal sections within attorneys, utilizing professional defense investigators, SCFO that cover general legal assistance, criminal de­ obtain discovery and meet with offenders to investi­ fense, immigration, civil commitment, and appeals. In gate their cases. They also represent the offenders at addition to the legal sections, SCFO is supported in all court appearances, file all necessary motions and its efforts by investigators, legal assistants, legal sec­ pre-trial writs, and fully litigate all relevant issues on retaries and a Spanish interpreter. behalf of the offender. In FY 2011, SCFO opened 241 new felony trial cases. Attorneys tried 12 cases to ju­ General Legal Section ries and obtained plea agreements for 170 offenders. In support of these efforts, investigators conducted The General Legal Section assists indigent offenders 832 interviews and served 371 subpoenas. with pending charges and detainers, extradition and probation revocation matters, family law issues and Immigration Section other legal issues not covered by other sections. This section handles the bulk of SCFO’s mail, which to­ The Immigration Section assists indigent offenders taled 28,528 pieces during Fiscal Year 2011. in removal proceedings and international prisoner

18 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice transfer requests. Removal proceedings are conduct­ offenders. In FY 2011, 51 commitment cases were re­ ed at the federal building on the Goree Unit in Hunts­ ceived, 35 cases were tried to verdict before a jury, and ville. Attorneys conducted 413 offender interviews 57 previously civilly-committed offenders underwent and 121 removal hearings during FY 2011. their biennial reviews.

Civil Commitment Section Appellate Section

The Civil Commitment Section represents indi­ The Appellate Section assists indigent offenders with gent sex offenders targeted under Chapter 841 of appellate and writ issues, parole and mandatory su­ the Health and Safety Code for civil commitment as pervision eligibility requirements, and time-calcula­ sexually violent predators. In preparation for trial, tion questions. In FY 2011, the section filed 79 crimi­ attorneys investigate cases, depose expert witnesses, nal and civil commitment appeals. The legal assistants respond to and file discovery motions, and meet with helped to obtain 334,000 days of credit for offenders.

Trial Section Chief Brian Lacour and General Legal Attorney Joyce Diaz Logue research a case in the law library of the Walker County Courthouse. The State Counsel for Offenders provides legal assistance to indigent offenders.

19 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Offender Management

Community Justice Assistance Division...... 22

Correctional Institutions Division...... 24

Parole Division...... 29

Private Facility Contract Monitoring Oversight Division...... 32

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Community Justice Assistance Division

The Community Justice Assistance Division (CJAD) CJAD is responsible for developing standards and oversees community supervision (adult probation) procedures for CSCDs, including best practices treat­ in Texas. Community supervision refers to the place­ ment standards, distributing formula and grant fund­ ment of an offender under supervision for a length of ing appropriated by the state Legislature, reviewing time, as ordered by a court, with court-imposed rules and approving each CSCD’s community justice plan and conditions. Community supervision applies to and budget, and conducting program and fiscal au­ misdemeanor and felony offenses, and is an alterna­ dits of CSCD operations and programs. CJAD over­ tive to a jail or prison sentence. The 121 community sees an automated tracking system that receives data supervision and corrections departments (CSCDs) from departmental caseload management systems, in Texas are established by the local judicial districts and provides community supervision officer (CSO) they serve. CSCDs receive approximately two-thirds and residential officer certification, in-service and of their funding through CJAD. Other funds, such educational training. CJAD also provides technical as court-ordered supervision and program fees, help assistance to CSCDs, and administers state benefits finance a department’s remaining budgetary needs. for CSCD employees. County governments provide CSCDs with office space, equipment and utilities.

Caldwell County probation officer Elisa Moya meets with a probationer at the community supervision and corrections department in Lockhart.

22 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice The judicial district’s community justice plans deter­ Another top priority is to increase assessment-driv­ mine the services offered by each CSCD. Basic CSCD en supervision and treatment consistent with EBP. duties include ensuring public safety, supervising and CJAD and stakeholders developed and distributed rehabilitating offenders sentenced to community su­ an assessment-driven substance abuse treatment pervision, and monitoring compliance with court- continuum of care for judges, prosecutors and com­ ordered conditions. CSCDs also provide a system of munity supervision professionals to use in Fiscal Year graduated sanctions, regular and specialized case- 2009. Working in cooperation with CSCD staff, uni­ loads, residential confinement programs, and both versity researchers and TDCJ representatives, CJAD residential and nonresidential treatment and correc­ continues the process of developing and validating a tional programs. statewide public domain risk and needs assessment tool for offenders in the Texas criminal justice system. Projects and Goals This tool would replace the existing assessment pro­ cess, which has been used for more than 30 years. The CJAD has been working to advance the implementa­ proposed assessment instrument will be applied from tion of evidence-based practices (EBP) in Texas pro­ initial arrest through community sentencing options, bation, most recently in the Bexar and Travis County and may expand to incarceration and community re­ CSCDs through a partnership with the Council of entry. Initial training on the proposed instrument was State Governments. The Council of State Govern­ completed in the fall of 2010, followed by training of ments recently published A Ten-Step Guide to Trans­ trainers in July 2011. Data collection and analysis are forming Probation Departments to Reduce Recidivism expected to be complete by March 2013. detailing the joint effort in Travis County. Other CSCDs continue to work toward full implementation In April 2010 CJAD began reporting data taken di­ of EBP in their local jurisdictions. CJAD is collabo­ rectly from the Community Supervision Tracking rating with the Correctional Management Institute of System (CSTS)/Intermediate System (ISYS) to ensure Texas to develop a mentoring and technical assistance accurate and timely formula funding calculations and program that will be used by mid- and small-sized de­ distribution of FY 2010-2011 funds. CJAD continues partments. CJAD is also collaborating with adult and to maintain an effective and accurate CSTS/ISYS to juvenile probation stakeholders across the state as fund CSCDs. part of the Texas Motivational Interviewing Coopera­ tive, combining resources and skill sets to build and sustain the effective use of motivational interviewing within Texas correctional communities.

23 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Correctional Institutions Division

The Correctional Institutions Division (CID) is re­ equipment for the agency. The Research and Tech­ sponsible for the confinement of adult felony and nology Section is responsible for testing and evaluat­ state jail felony offenders. At the end of the fiscal year ing security equipment and providing technical as­ 156,526 offenders were incarcerated in TDCJ facili­ sistance. The Budget Section monitors expenditures ties, consisting of 141,318 prison offenders, 11,921 for budgeted programs, audits and prepares financial state jail offenders and 3,287 substance abuse felony documents, budget requests and reports. The Securi­ punishment facility (SAFPF) offenders. CID employed ty Review/Serious Incident Review Section performs 27,515 security staff at the end of the fiscal year. reviews that monitor unit adherence to policy and provides agency leadership with trend analysis and This division has three components, each led by a information to enhance security operations system- deputy director: Prison and Jail Operations, Manage­ wide. The Field Operations Section provides monitor­ ment Operations, and Support Operations. ing, training and technical support to the field force staff. Prison and Jail Operations Notable Security Systems achievements during FY The CID deputy director for Prison and Jail Opera­ 2011 include the installation of surveillance equip­ tions oversees six regional directors responsible for ment at the front and back gate entry points for the management of secure prisons and state jails maximum security facilities, the installation of ma­ throughout the state. This position is also responsible jor comprehensive video surveillance system projects for the oversight of the Security Systems Department at the Darrington and Stiles Units, and a third video and the Canine Coordinator. surveillance system beginning installation at the Mc- Connell Unit. Additional installations include contra­ Regional Directors band interdiction enhancement equipment to include 48 parcel scanners on 24 units, 94 walkthrough metal Each of the six regional directors, in their respective detectors on 32 units, and 43 Body Orifice Security geographical region, is responsible for a hierarchy of Scanner (BOSS) chairs on 34 units, each designed and staff members who provide security at each state-op­ operated to enhance unit security. erated secure correctional facility. Canine Coordinator Security Systems Department The Canine Coordinator provides training and tech­ The mission of the Security Systems Department is nical advice to kennel staff and regional canine co­ to provide technical assistance and operational sup­ ordinators, and gathers and tracks data about the port to CID administration and correctional facilities program. To assist canine staff and administration in in the areas of staffing, video surveillance and produc­ training and tracking canine performance, the agency tion, armory, research and technology, budget, secu­ has obtained upgrades to the global positioning sys­ rity and serious incident review, and field operations. tems.

The Staffing Section is responsible for analyzing, de­ Management Operations veloping, and maintaining staffing documents for all units and conducting unit-specific staffing evalua­ The CID deputy director for Management Operations tions. The Surveillance and Video Equipment/Pro­ provides oversight of Correctional Training and Staff duction Section assists in maintaining and repairing Development, Plans and Operations Department, existing surveillance systems, as well as providing Safe Prisons Program Management Office, Fusion technical evaluation on augmentation and improve­ Center and the Security Threat Group Management ments. The Armory Section manages all use of force Office.

24 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Correctional Training and Staff Development Plans and Operations Department

During FY 2011, Correctional Training and Staff The Plans and Operations Department provides Development (CTSD) provided pre-service training support to divisional leadership by coordinating all to 4,964 participants, of which 4,439 graduated. Ad­ security-related policies and operational plans, and ditionally, 31,227 employees completed annual in- assisting with the tracking and implementation of service training. A total of 3,399 received specialized legislation. Additionally, this department serves as training, 1,460 supervisors attended leadership devel­ the liaison to other state agencies and government opment training and 2,857 participated in ancillary officials, conducts research and evaluation, manages training. the CID web page and distributes information con­ cerning emergency preparedness. This department CTSD remains committed to providing quality train­ also coordinates, trains, and audits the offender prop­ ing to ensure correctional employees receive the in­ erty process, community work project processes, of­ formation and skills necessary to perform their duties fender suicide reconstruction documentation and the safely and effectively. The agency’s enhanced hiring lifesaving response kit. In addition, this department standards require all uniformed employees to suc­ provides training to offender drug testing coordina­ cessfully pass a Physical Agility Test (PAT) prior to tors and compiles related statistical data. entering the Pre-Service Training Academy and an­ other PAT before graduation. Safe Prisons Program Management Office

Improvements to the In-Service Training Program The Safe Prisons Program Management Office pro­ included restructuring academic and firearms testing vides administrative oversight of the Safe Prisons standards as well as requirements for passing estab­ Program and technical support to the unit Safe Pris­ lished PAT standards. ons Program staff and executive administrative staff regarding in-prison sexual abuse.

Correctional officers are required to take a Physical Agility Test as part of the in- service training. Officers receive points based on their performance in six activities.

25 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice The agency has a zero tolerance policy for sexual Threat Group (STG) staff and law enforcement agen­ abuse. The Safe Prisons Program mission is to main­ cies, providing informative, timely reports and as­ tain a zero tolerance standard by acting as an infor­ sessments through comprehensive gang information mation clearinghouse and providing data analysis for and intelligence analysis, and increasing networking result-based decisions that lead to positive change interactions and improving relationships between and a safer prison environment. Safe Prisons Program STG staff and law enforcement agencies in order to training provides staff with an overview of the Safe encourage collaboration and sharing of gang informa­ Prisons Plan, as well as information regarding how to tion and intelligence. detect, prevent and respond to sexual abuse, extor­ tion and other acts of offender aggression. The Safe Security Threat Group Management Office Prisons Program Management Office maintains a da­ tabase of reported allegations of offender-on-offender The Security Threat Group Management Office (STG­ sexual abuse to analyze and evaluate trends in times, MO) monitors the activities of security threat groups locations and patterns. (STGs or gangs) and their members who threaten the safety and security of TDCJ units, staff and offenders. Fusion Center STGMO provides oversight, training and technical support for the unit-level staff who gather informa­ The Fusion Center serves as the hub for the collec­ tion on the activities of security threat group mem­ tion, assessment, analysis and dissemination of gang- bers. STGMO works closely with the Fusion Center related and intelligence information to all appropriate by sharing information on security threat groups and stakeholders. Operational duties of the Fusion Center their members. include maintaining an information clearinghouse to collect and appropriately process relevant TDCJ gang Support Operations information and intelligence provided by Security The CID deputy director for Support Operations oversees the support functions on all CID facilities. This department includes Classification and Records, Mail System Coordinators Panel, Office for Disci­ plinary Coordination, Counsel Substitute, Offender Transportation, and Laundry, Food and Supply.

Classification and Records

Classification and Records oversees diverse matters pertaining to offender management and provides technical support for various administrative and unit- based departments. It includes the Classification and Records Office, Unit Classification and Count Room, Intake, and the State Classification Committee.

The Classification and Records Office schedules, re­ ceives, processes, and coordinates transport of of­ fenders for intake, release and transfer. It creates and maintains records on these offenders and serves as the principal repository for the agency’s offender records. During FY 2011, programming was developed to au­ tomate the offender transfer process. This system also Offenders at the Polunsky Unit in Livingston are moni- keeps ongoing capacity numbers for each unit based tored by closed circuit video surveillance as they walk on transfer stops, decreasing the possibility of capac­ the hallways. ity overages on the receiving units.

26 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice The Unit Classification and Count Room Department rules and procedures by conducting division-level conducts routine operational review audits on each unit operational reviews. During FY 2011, this office unit every three years, and provides oversight, train­ completed 43 such reviews. This office also produces ing and technical support for all unit-based classifica­ management statistical reports each month, coordi­ tion and count room personnel and operations. nates the revisions to disciplinary rules and proce­ dures, and updates and coordinates the printing of The Intake Department conducts routine operational the GR-106, Disciplinary Rules and Procedures for review audits on each intake facility every three years Offenders, and the GR-107, Standard Offense Plead­ and provides training, supervision and support for ings Handbook. unit-based intake staff at 25 facilities statewide. Staff also conducts division-level operational review audits In addition, the Office for Disciplinary Coordination of the intake process. oversees the Office of Spanish Language Coordina­ tion, which manages the Spanish language assistance The State Classification Committee (SCC) is respon­ service and is responsible for coordinating and pro­ sible for making initial custody recommendations and cessing the testing of employees to determine their determining appropriate units of assignment for all of­ proficiency in speaking Spanish. Based on test results, fenders. The SCC reviews recommendations made by qualified Spanish language interpreters are desig­ unit classification committees regarding promotions nated. This office is also responsible for conducting in custody status, disciplinary actions at private facili­ division-level unit operational reviews of the Spanish ties, and transfers and special housing assignments language assistance service. During FY 2011, it com­ due to security or safety needs. The committee works pleted 43 unit operational reviews, 421 pages of trans­ closely with the Safe Prisons Program Management lations, and coordinated the testing of 126 employees. Office to identify aggressive and vulnerable offenders. During FY 2011, programming was completed which Counsel Substitute Program allows both unit classification staff and SCC members to enter detailed notes regarding offender issues, and The Counsel Substitute Program secures and protects to record the majority of the actions taken by the state the due process rights of offenders charged with disci­ classification members, such as transfers, Offender plinary infractions by providing trained staff to assist Protection Investigation reviews, and approvals and offenders during the disciplinary process. Counsel denials of administrative segregation/safekeeping re­ Substitute Program employees conduct certification views, eliminating the need for emails and printouts training, provide technical assistance and continu­ of those transactions. ous support to the disciplinary hearing officers and counsel substitute staff. Counsel substitute and disci­ Mail System Coordinators Panel plinary hearing officer training is provided quarterly. During FY 2011, 61 staff members attended the train­ The Mail System Coordinators Panel (MSCP) assists ing. offenders in maintaining contact with family and friends and arranges offenders’ access to courts and Offender Transportation public officials. The MSCP provides procedural train­ ing and technical assistance to unit mailroom staff Offender Transportation is headquartered in Hunts­ and conducts mailroom operational review audits. ville with five regional offices located in Abilene, Am­ This department also generates investigations regard­ arillo, Beeville, Rosharon and Tennessee Colony. This ing threats and unidentifiable substances received in department is responsible for unit-to-unit transfers, uninspected mail as reported by offenders. state and federal court appearances, medical trans­ fers, off-site medical offender tracking, county jail Office for Disciplinary Coordination transfers, out-of-state extradition, and emergency re­ sponse or evacuations during floods, hurricanes, and The Office for Disciplinary Coordination oversees any other catastrophic event. and monitors facility compliance with disciplinary

27 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Offender Transportation operates a fleet of vehicles items, and units are provided basic supplies needed to consisting of 122 buses, 62 vans, six vans for the phys­ operate. Offenders are also provided access to whole­ ically-disabled, three vans used to transport regional some and nutritious meals, to include special diets. release offenders, and two cars. More than 4.6 mil­ lion miles were traveled and 547,630 offenders were This department employs approximately 1,800 laun­ transported during FY 2011. This department works dry managers, inventory coordinators and food service closely with Classification and Records to ensure the managers. The unit-based staff works in more than 250 timely, efficient and safe transport of offenders. unit laundries, food service and unit supply programs. More than 29,000 offenders work in unit food service Laundry, Food and Supply and laundry departments. In addition to on-the-job training, offenders are afforded the opportunity to par­ Laundry, Food and Supply manages the food, laundry, ticipate in educational programs in food preparation necessities, and unit supply operations. These unit- through the joint efforts of Windham School District, based programs are vital to the units’ mission and of­ Alvin Community College, Central Texas College and fender well-being. The department is responsible for Lee College. After completing these programs, quali­ ensuring all offenders are provided access to clean and fied offenders have the opportunity to work at the San serviceable clothing, footwear and bedding. Offenders Antonio Food Bank to further enhance their cooking are provided access to appropriate personal hygiene skills and employment opportunities.

Executive Chef Marco Salazar (right) teaches participants in the San Antonio Food Bank’s culinary arts programs skills that could help them find employment when released.

28 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Parole Division

The Parole Division supervises offenders released Central Coordination Unit from prison on parole or mandatory supervision to complete their sentences in Texas communities. The The Central Coordination Unit provides support ser­ mission of the division is to promote public safety and vices to Field Operations. The unit monitors detainer/ positive offender change through effective supervi­ deportation caseloads, verifies death notices, receives sion, programs and services. and monitors interstate transfers and arranges for placement of offenders into and out of intermediate Field Operations sanction facilities (ISFs) and substance abuse felony punishment facilities. In Fiscal Year 2011, 9,234 of­ This fiscal year, more than 81,000 parole and manda­ fenders were placed in ISFs. The South Texas ISF tory offenders were under active supervision by ap­ provided services to 1,063 offenders in the Substance proximately 1,300 district parole officers. Offenders Abuse Counseling Program, while the North Texas must report to parole officers and comply with release ISF served 266 offenders before closing in February conditions established by the Board of Pardons and 2011. Programs and services offered in these facilities Paroles (BPP). Violations can result in increased su­ encourage offender compliance through appropriate pervision or arrest and reincarceration. Officers also supervision and interventions. supervise offenders transferred to Texas from other Ombudsman states and from the Texas Youth Commission.

Region directors in Tyler, Dallas, Houston, San An­ This year, the Parole Division ombudsman responded tonio and Midland manage 66 district parole offices to 6,104 inquiries from offender family members, pa­ across the state. Officers monitor an offender’s com­ role and mandatory supervision offenders, legislative pliance with conditions of release and society’s laws, offices and the public. applying supervision strategies based on an assess­ ment of each offender’s risks and needs.

Officer Tamica Swain checks in with a parolee at his place of employment.

29 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Interstate Compact ters. HPRU also processed 32,960 parole and manda­ tory releases to supervision. The Interstate Compact Office arranges for the trans­ fer of supervision to a state outside an offender’s state The Central File Coordination Unit (CFCU) coor­ of conviction. The Interstate Compact for Adult Of­ dinates the movement and maintenance of approxi­ fender Supervision is the statutory authority for the mately 240,000 case files of offenders under the Pa­ transfer of offenders among the 53 member states and role Division’s jurisdiction. CFCU tracks and verifies territories of the Compact. The Texas Interstate Com­ restitution owed by offenders, processes fee affidavits pact Office establishes practices, policies and proce­ and offender discharge certificates, responds to re­ dures that ensure compliance with Compact rules. In quests for file material, open records requests, busi­ FY 2011, 7,772 Texas probationers and 3,223 parolees ness records affidavits, expunctions, subpoenas and were supervised outside the state. Another 4,372 out­ correspondence. CFCU also facilitates the delivery of of-state probationers and 2,034 out-of-state parolees notifications to trial officials. were supervised in Texas. Specialized Programs Support Operations Specialized Programs administers and evaluates a Support Operations consists of Review and Release variety of programs and services to enhance the di­ Processing, Specialized Programs, Warrants, the Pa­ vision’s ability to supervise and reintegrate offenders role Officer Training Academy and Internal Review/ following release. In-Service Training. All provide direct support to Field Operations. District reentry centers target newly-released, high- need offenders using a comprehensive approach to Review and Release Processing promote personal responsibility and victim empathy. Volunteers and community agencies assist staff in ad­ Review and Release Processing (RRP) is responsible dressing anger management, cognitive restructuring, for reviewing and processing offenders for release on substance abuse, victim impact and pre-employment parole supervision. preparation. In FY 2011, a monthly average of 1,768 offenders was served. RRP staff prepares file material for supervision pur­ poses, reviewing and analyzing each file through the The Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative release plan approval process. Prior to issuing a re­ (SVORI) provides administrative segregation of­ lease certificate, RRP staff processes requests for the fenders with reentry services that begin during in­ imposition and withdrawal of special conditions. In carceration and continue to community supervision. FY 2011, RRP issued 37,265 parole/mandatory certifi­ Programming provided through the district reentry cates for release. centers addresses the needs of offender and family, while maintaining the goal of public safety. Fifty-sev­ The Huntsville Placement and Release Unit (HPRU) en offenders were placed in the program in FY 2011. is responsible for the placement of offenders into con­ tracted residential reentry centers (halfway houses) or The Special Needs Offender Program (SNOP), in con­ the Temporary Housing Assistance Program (THAP) junction with the Health and Human Services Com­ when all other residential resources have been ex­ mission, supervises mentally retarded (MR), mentally hausted. HPRU is also responsible for placement of impaired (MI), and terminally ill or physically handi­ Substance Abuse Treatment offenders into transi­ capped (TI/PH) offenders. In FY 2011, 82 medically- tional treatment centers following participation in the recommended intensive supervision (MRIS) offend­ In-Patient Therapeutic Community Program and the ers were released to supervision, with a monthly Substance Abuse Felony Punishment Program. HPRU average of 202 MRIS offenders supervised under the placed 7,100 offenders into residential reentry centers program. Averages of 194 MR, 5,371 MI and 705 TI/ and 3,666 offenders into transitional treatment cen­ PH offenders were supervised monthly.

30 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice The Sex Offender Program supervised a monthly Unit responds to requests for warrant information/ average of 3,338 offenders in FY 2011. Sex offender confirmation from law enforcement and maintains treatment services are provided statewide through wanted persons information. Additionally, these units contracted vendors, with the division subsidizing operate an absconder tip line, which allows the public treatment for indigent offenders. Polygraph testing is to inform officials about offenders who fail to report. a significant component of evaluating and treating sex offenders. The Extradition Unit tracks Texas offenders arrested in other states and offenders returned to a TDCJ cor­ The Therapeutic Community Program offers con­ rectional institution who have not been through the tinuity of care to offenders with substance abuse revocation process. This year, 650 offenders were ­ex problems. This three-phase aftercare program tar­ tradited to Texas, and 292 warrants were issued for gets offenders who have participated in an in-prison Texas offenders under Interstate Compact supervi­ therapeutic community or substance abuse felony sion in other states. punishment facility. A monthly average of 4,305 of­ fenders received services from contracted vendors The Tracking Unit tracks offenders held in Texas and specially-trained parole officers during FY 2011. county jails on prerevocation warrants and ensures that the offender’s case is disposed of within the The Substance Abuse Counseling Program (SACP) time limits prescribed by law. This unit calculates the provides relapse prevention services to offenders with amount of time credited to offenders while in custody substance abuse problems. Level I prevention services on a prerevocation warrant. were provided to 33,696 offenders in FY 2011. Level II outpatient treatment services were provided by ven­ The Super-Intensive Supervision Program (SISP) im­ dors and parole counselors to 10,855 offenders. The poses the highest level of supervision and offender ac­ SACP intermediate sanction facilities provided resi­ countability, including active and passive GPS moni­ dential treatment to 1,682 offenders. toring. Some 308 offenders were on active GPS during each month of the year, with real-time tracking in The Drug Testing Program’s instant-read testing de­ place for those at highest risk. A monthly average of vice increases accountability and reduces chain of 1,431 offenders was monitored on passive GPS, which custody issues. On average, 135,144 drug tests were downloads tracking data when offenders return to conducted each month in FY 2011. their residence.

Warrants Section Electronic monitoring allows an officer to detect cur­ few and home confinement violations electronically. The Warrants Section is primarily responsible for Offenders at higher risk of reoffending, or who have the issuance, confirmation and withdrawal of pre- violated release conditions, may be placed on elec­ revocation warrants. In FY 2011, 34,280 warrants tronic monitoring. An average of 1,206 offenders was were issued, 28,480 were confirmed and 29,604 were on electronic monitoring each month this year. withdrawn. This section is also responsible for the oversight of the Super-Intensive Supervision Pro­ Training Academy gram (SISP), which utilizes global positioning system (GPS) tracking and the Electronic Monitoring (EM) The Parole Officer Training Academy in Beeville pro­ Program, which utilizes radio frequency equipment vides 208 hours of pre-service foundation training for to monitor the offenders. new officers. Training was provided to 162 new of­ ficers in 12 classes during FY 2011. The Warrants Section has two units in operation 24 hours a day. The Command Center processes violation The academy conducts specialized officer supervision reports submitted by parole officers and alerts from schools on a quarterly basis, offering classes on the GPS/EM vendors and halfway houses. The Texas Law Super-Intensive Supervision Program, electronic mon­ Enforcement Telecommunications System (TLETS) itoring, sex offender, therapeutic community and the

31 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Special Needs Offender Program. A 40-hour firearms Disability Act, best practices, criminogenic needs, certification course provided training to 40 officers. Interstate Compact rules, Human Resources Topics During FY 2011, 630 officers attended training classes. for Supervisors, Principles of Supervision and vari­ ous aspects of the revocation process. A total of 1,455 Internal Review/In-Service Training parole employees participated in In-Service training classes in FY 2011. Performance reviews of the 66 dis­ Internal Review/In-Service Training provides train­ trict parole offices were completed during the fiscal ing on motivational interviewing, the Americans with year.

Private Facility Contract Monitoring Oversight Division

The Private Facility Contract Monitoring Oversight monitoring and oversight of privately-operated se­ Division (PFCMOD) is responsible for oversight and cure correctional facilities. Three regional supervi­ monitoring of contracts for privately-operated secure sors oversee contract monitors who, during Fiscal facilities and community-based facilities, to include Year 2011, performed daily, on-site operational and substance abuse treatment service providers. The contractual monitoring of seven private prisons, five PFCMOD protects the public by ensuring consti­ private state jails, one work program co-located on a tutionally safe and sound facilities through effective private facility, two pre-parole transfer facilities, two management, efficient monitoring and clear commu­ privately-operated intermediate sanction facilities nication between the agency and its contracted rep­ and one multi-use facility. There were 17,224 offend­ resentatives. ers in privately-operated secure correctional facilities monitored by the PFCMOD during FY 2011. The PFCMOD primarily supports the Correctional Institutions Division, the Parole Division, the Com­ Program Monitoring munity Justice Assistance Division and the Rehabili­ tation Program Division (RPD) by providing contract The Program Monitoring section is responsible for monitoring and oversight, performing contract re­ oversight and monitoring of contracts for commu­ views and working with the private vendors to ad­ nity-based facilities and substance abuse treatment dress any compliance issues. services. Two regional supervisors oversee contract monitors who monitor privately-operated halfway Contract monitoring staff conducts facility risk as­ houses for the Parole Division, and work with RPD sessments, coordinates compliance reviews and to monitor substance abuse treatment program con­ makes unannounced site visits. Compliance issues tracts, which include in-prison treatment programs are investigated and follow-up reviews are conducted. co-located on state-run or privately-operated facili­ The division responds to ombudsman and other in­ ties, residential aftercare treatment programs and quiries and provides after-hours emergency contact outpatient treatment programs. RPD and PFCMOD coverage for secure and community-based facilities. perform contract monitoring on a rotating schedule, The division is organized into three sections: Opera­ with RPD making quality assessments and PFCMOD tions Monitoring, Program Monitoring and Business performing contract delivery reviews. Operations. In Fiscal Year 2011, this section monitored contracts Operations Monitoring for seven privately-operated halfway houses, more than 22 substance abuse aftercare treatment facilities Operations Monitoring is responsible for contract (community-based transitional treatment centers),

32 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice 11 privately-operated substance abuse felony punish­ vision director. Functions of the Business Operations ment facilities/in-prison therapeutic community pro­ Section include, but are not limited to: monitoring grams, one driving while intoxicated (DWI) program spending and projecting future needs, preparing con­ and six state jail substance abuse programs co-located tract modification and renewal documents, monitor­ on state-run or privately-operated facilities. ing and verifying contractors’ monthly invoices, and calculating deductions for noncompliance. Business Operations

The Business Operations Section is supervised by the business operations manager who reports to the di­

33 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Programs

Reentry and Integration Division...... 36

Rehabilitation Programs Division...... 37

Victim Services Division...... 42

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Reentry and Integration Division

Established in September 2009, the Reentry and Inte­ cent by the court or granted a full pardon by the gov­ gration Division works toward developing a seamless ernor based on innocence. In addition, a 31-member resource support system for offenders as they transi­ committee composed of representatives from juvenile tion back into society under TDCJ supervision. The and adult criminal justice systems, health and human division works with groups within and outside the services, education providers, regulatory and law en­ agency to identify gaps in service delivery and pro­ forcement entities, the courts and advocacy groups mote best practices on reentry issues while sharing serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Crimi­ information to help maximize efficiency. nal Justice and TCOOMMI staff.

A reentry task force composed of criminal justice, Reentry and Support Services health and human services, education, regulatory, judicial and special interest groups provide technical During the 81st Legislature, lawmakers allocated funds assistance and advice on strategies for improving local for the creation of 64 reentry specialist positions to and state reentry activities. In addition, the task force help offenders develop a comprehensive reentry plan establishes topic-specific working groups to address through the following actions: priority reentry issues, such as housing, identification documents, employment, family reunification, access • Coordinating with TDCJ education, treatment, to treatment services and other critical supports. medical, employment and parole programs to identify continued service providers for post-re­ Prior to April 15, 2011, the programs under the over­ lease needs. sight of the Reentry and Integration Division were Project RIO, Reentry and Texas Correctional Office • Identifying, securing, and, when possible, sched­ on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments uling post-release appointments with community (TCOOMMI). Due to the elimination of funding for service providers. the Project RIO program during the 82nd Legislative session, many of the program functions previously • Communicating the offender’s post-release ser­ performed by RIO staff have now been absorbed by vice plan to any supervising officers, to include the reentry section. the offender’s needs and, if applicable, appoint­ ments. Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments • Assisting in the collection and compilation of in­ dividual demographic information obtained at TCOOMMI provides intensive treatment, continuity initial criminal justice contact or intake. of care and case management services to juvenile and adult offenders with special needs. It also provides • Coordinating activities related to identification continuity of care for non-offender populations, such verification including the preparation of applica­ as defendants initially found incompetent to stand tions for documents such as a birth certificate, so­ trial, mental health discharges from the Texas Youth cial security card or military ID needed to obtain a Commission and those who have been proven inno­ state-issued driver’s license or identification card.

36 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Rehabilitation Programs Division

The Rehabilitation Programs Division (RPD) manages the offender’s incarceration and has a transitional af­ activities related to offender programs within TDCJ tercare component. and is responsible for ensuring that all programs op­ erate with consistency and quality. Transformational Ministry Dorm

As the coordinating entity, RPD works with multiple Located at the Torres Unit in Hondo, the Transforma­ TDCJ divisions and offices, faith and community- tional Ministry Dormitory (TMD) is a collaborative based organizations, and volunteers to orchestrate effort with Prison Fellowship Ministries providing a effective, evidence-based treatment services for indi­ 63-bed faith-based pre-release program for offenders vidual offenders throughout their incarceration and within 12 to 20 months of release who are returning supervision. to the Dallas/Fort Worth, El Paso, Houston or San Antonio areas. Chaplaincy Services Offender DNA Collection Chaplaincy uses a holistic approach to enhance an of­ fender’s spirituality. Programs focus on the develop­ Blood specimens for DNA analysis are collected from ment of life-changing goals and are delivered through all offenders incarcerated in TDCJ facilities or facilities spiritual growth groups, mentoring and volunteer under contract with the agency. The samples are sent programs. to the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Combined DNA Index System lab for analysis and entry into the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary national DNA database.

Through collaboration between RPD and the South­ Dynamic Risk Assessment western Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS), par­ ticipants have the opportunity to achieve an accred­ State law mandates that before an inmate who is serv­ ited Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies in return ing a sentence for a sexual offense is discharged or is for ministering to other offenders for at least 10 years released on parole or mandatory supervision from after receipt of their diploma. The seminary is located TDCJ, the department shall use the dynamic risk as­ within the Darrington Unit in Rosharon and the first sessment tool developed by the Council on Sex Of­ core credit classes started in August 2011. fender Treatment. The assessment utilizes the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised, the Level of Service Faith-Based Dorms Inventory-Revised, and the Static-99. These instru­ ments are scored according to a matrix developed by Faith-based dorms were implemented in January the Texas State Council on Sex Offender Treatment. It 2003 and have expanded to 32 facilities. The dorms assigns each offender a risk level of low, moderate, or offer support and accountability, along with an inten­ high which is then reported as part of a sex offender’s sive faith-based curriculum and mentoring program. registration information that is recorded by the Texas The programming is conducted by local faith-based Department of Public Safety. community volunteers whose activities are directed by the unit chaplain and unit administration. Sex Offender Risk Assessment

Faith-Based Pre-Release The executive director of TDCJ is required by law to appoint five of the seven members of the Risk Assess­ Prison Fellowship Ministries at the Vance Unit in ment Review Committee. The committee includes Richmond operates the faith-based InnerChange pre­ members with experience in law enforcement, super­ release program. This program spans 18 months of vision of juvenile sex offenders and sex offender treat­

37 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice ment, victims of sex offenses, as well as two persons Civil Commitment of Sexually Violent Predators representing the Council on Sex Offender Treatment. The committee functions in an oversight capacity to The agency identifies and refers offenders with two or ensure that persons using the risk assessment tools are more qualifying sexually violent offense convictions properly trained. It also monitors the use of the screen­ to a multidisciplinary team for possible civil commit­ ing tools and revises or replaces them as needed. ment under the Texas Health and Safety Code. This process applies to offenders released on or after Janu­ Sex Offender Rehabilitation Programs ary 1, 2000.

The Sex Offender Education Program (SOEP) is a Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative four-month program which provides a comprehen­ Program sive evaluation and an educational component, with an emphasis on relapse prevention, to selected of­ The Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative fenders who are assessed as low sexual re-offense risk (SVORI) Program is a 63-bed program housed at the and are within two years of release. Priority is given Estelle Unit’s expansion cellblock in Huntsville. The to those who receive a further investigation (FI)-vote program provides pre-release and in-cell program­ to complete the program prior to parole release. Of­ ming for male offenders releasing directly from ad­ fenders who are released to supervision participate in ministrative segregation. SVORI is a coordinated outpatient sex offender counseling as a condition of partnership between the Rehabilitation Programs Di­ supervision. vision, the Correctional Institutions Division, the Pa­ role Division and the Board of Pardons and Paroles. The Sex Offender Treatment Program 9 (SOTP-9) is The program spans from six to 18 months and con­ a moderate-intensity treatment program designed to sists of one or two phases. Phase I is a six-month in- assist sex offenders assessed to pose a moderate risk cell cognitive-based program provided through com­ of sexual re-offense. The SOTP-9 employs a cognitive- puter-based equipment and self-help materials, using behavioral model and includes psycho-educational a curriculum which addresses the leading causes of classes as well as group and individual therapy. The recidivism. Phase II is required for offenders whose primary goal of this program is to reduce the rate of parole stipulation includes SVORI aftercare. re-offense and orient the participant toward a more pro-social lifestyle. Priority is given to offenders with Substance Abuse Treatment two or more convictions for a sex offense, who are dis­ charging their sentence and will be released without The substance abuse felony punishment facility (SAF­ supervision. Priority placement is also given to those PF) and in-prison therapeutic community (IPTC) pro­ who receive an FI-vote to complete the program prior vide services to qualified offenders identified as need­ to parole release. ing substance abuse treatment. Both are six-month in-prison treatment programs followed by up to three The Sex Offender Treatment Program 18 (SOTP-18) months of residential aftercare in a transitional treat­ is a high-intensity treatment program designed to as­ ment center * (TTC), six to nine months of outpatient sist sex offenders assessed to pose a high risk of sexual aftercare, and up to 12 months of support groups and re-offense and employs a cognitive-behavioral model follow-up supervision. A nine-month in-prison pro­ which includes psycho-educational classes with group gram is provided for special needs offenders who have and individual therapy. The primary goal is to reduce a mental health and/or medical diagnoses. the rate of re-offense and instill a pro-social lifestyle. Priority is given to offenders with two or more con­ *Both the SAFPF and IPTC programs now offer an alter­ victions for a sex offense, who are discharging their native to the three months of residential aftercare in the sentence and will be released without supervision. TTC. Offenders who meet strict eligibility criteria may be Priority placement is also given to those who receive released to an approved home plan, where they report to a an FI-vote to complete the program prior to parole contracted facility for the same number of treatment hours release. as received by the residential offender who lives at a TTC.

38 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Counselor Latrease Marshall teaches a class at the Hamilton Unit Drug Treatment facility. The six-month Pre-Release Therapeutic Community program is designed to give participants new tools for dealing with post-release problems and stress.

Offenders are sentenced to a SAFPF by a judge as a tion. Eligible offenders are placed in a 30, 60 or 90-day condition of community supervision in lieu of prison track, based on an Addiction Severity Index assess­ or state jail, or voted in by the Board of Pardons and ment and their criminal history. Paroles as a modification of parole. COURAGE Program for Youthful Offenders The Pre-Release Substance Abuse Program (PRSAP) and Pre-Release Therapeutic Community Program The COURAGE program for youthful offenders was (PRTC) are intensive six-month courses based on the established in 1995. The youthful offender may be principles of a therapeutic community. It is intended male or female and as young as 14. Youthful offend­ for incarcerated offenders with serious substance ers are assigned to the COURAGE program until they abuse, chemical dependency or criminality ideology. turn 18. The length of time in the program is deter­ Offenders are placed in the program based on a vote mined by age rather than completion of prescribed by the Board of Pardons and Paroles. The PRTC is a goals, and the issues presented by the population are coordinated effort between RPD, Windham School expected to be complex and varied. District and the Parole Division. The COURAGE program is structured according to a The In-Prison Driving While Intoxicated Program two-track programming system. This system focuses uses a six-month multimodal curriculum with an af­ on basic skills and values building, and incorporates tercare component which uses a variety of education­ an individual strategy for each offender. Track assign­ al modules and treatment activities, to include group ment and treatment planning is determined by the and individual therapy. transition needs of the participant, that is, whether they will be released to join the general population of The State Jail Substance Abuse Program (SJSAP) uses offenders or released from TDCJ custody. Offenders multimodal instruction designed to meet the needs in the COURAGE program are given an individual­ of the diverse characteristics of the state jail popula­ ized treatment plan designed to follow them through­

39 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice out incarceration to release, parole or probation. RUTH offers academic, emotional, cultural, social and Weekly comprehensive interdisciplinary treatment spiritual enrichment to the female offenders, as well as programs include education, social skills training, an­ their families. The course is based on the life and teach­ ger management, values development, goal setting, ings of Jesus Christ. The curriculum teaches women cognitive restructuring, substance abuse education, to teach and love others and to experience the love of conflict resolution, aggression replacement and life Christ. It prepares the women mentally, emotionally and skills. spiritually for a successful reintegration into society and helps open their hearts to God’s enduring grace. Female Offenders The Women’s Storybook Project is a long-term effort The Plane State Jail Wraparound Program allows to connect children with their incarcerated moth­ community resource providers to meet female of­ ers through literature. Approved volunteers visit fe­ fenders prior to their release. These services increase male prisons to record offenders as they read stories community support for the offender and help fulfill to their children. The mothers also give short mes­ their identified needs. sages, and the tapes and new books are then mailed to their children, allowing the child a chance to hear Girl Scouts Beyond Bars helps reforge and maintain their mothers’ voices while the mothers are away. the bond between girls and their incarcerated moth­ ers. Through prison visits arranged by the Girl Scout Baby and Mother Bonding Initiative (BAMBI) Council, mothers and daughters join for troop meet­ Program ings and traditional Girl Scout activities. Girls Scouts Beyond Bars is active at the in Gatesville This program partners the TDCJ Rehabilitation Pro­ and Plane State Jail in Dayton. grams Division with the Health Services Division, Correctional Institutions Division, the University of Through the Teeter Totter Village of Houston, Sup­ Texas Medical Branch, Santa Maria Hostel, Inc. and porting Kids of Incarcerated Parents (SKIP) provides local foundations to provide child development edu­ a curriculum focused on responding to the needs of cation and training in a residential setting for up to children, their caregiver and their incarcerated par­ 15 new mothers. The program gives eligible state jail ent. SKIP offers a 19-week family strengthening pro­ confinees and their newborns the opportunity to form gram, child interactive play-and-learn groups, and a healthy attachment in a secure setting. In addition, parenting classes at Plane State Jail. SKIP is also avail­ the confinee may attend GED, parenting, life skills, able through the COURAGE Program. and drug and alcohol education classes, and work with her case manager to prepare a solid transitional Truth-be-Told, or TBT, offers female offenders the op­ plan for herself and her infant. portunity to honestly recount, to an attentive and re­ spectful audience of invited guests, the events which Giving Offenders’ Kids Incentive and Direction led them prison. Before they can share their story to Succeed (GO KIDS) Initiative with an audience, however, they must first be part of an eight-week series of classes where they share GO KIDS brings to the forefront the importance of their story with their peers. TBT is a unique program preserving family ties and providing positive preven­ staffed by volunteers, and illustrates the need for gen­ tion and intervention services to high-risk children. der-specific programming. Maintained through the Rehabilitation Programs Di­ vision, a link on the agency’s website The RUTH (Restoration, Unity and Transformation (www.tdcj.texas.gov) provides a reliable connection through the Holy Spirit) program is managed through to valuable re­sources and services across TTexas. collaboration between Prison Fellowship Ministries, RPD and the Carole Young Medical Facility. As the Several organizations work in collaboration with GO first long-term, Bible-based women’s reentry initiative, KIDS. These organizations - Big Brothers Big Sisters

40 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice of North Texas, Amachi Texas, No More Victims, related and other volunteer groups working to help Inc., Texas Boys Ranch and KICKSTART - work di­ TDCJ offenders. Through the efforts of volunteers, of­ rectly with the children and offer mentoring, counsel­ fenders are given the opportunity to learn healthy life ing and empowerment opportunities. skills, gain an education, acquire vocational training, and develop good work habits while abstaining from Rehabilitation Tier Tracking and Placement drug abuse and criminal activity, in order to secure gainful employment and successfully and responsibly The Board of Pardons and Paroles has a rehabilitation reintegrate into the community. tier voting option. The vote specifies that an offender must successfully complete a rehabilitation program Volunteer Coordination Committee and comply with all elements of the individualized treatment plan prior to release on parole. RPD Tier The Volunteer Coordination Committee (VCC) was Tracking and Placement staff tracks offenders from the established in 1994 to enhance the utilization of vol­ time of the board vote to ensure they are transferred to unteers within the agency. The VCC consists of rep­ the designated program at the appropriate time. resentatives from Rehabilitation Programs Division (Substance Abuse Treatment, Chaplaincy, and Sex Volunteer Services Offender Treatment), the Correctional Institutions Division, the Victim Services Division, the Parole RPD’s Volunteer Services department manages the Division, the Private Facilities Contract Monitoring recruitment, training and oversight of volunteers for Oversight Division, the Reentry and Integration Divi­ TDCJ. This department’s mission is to recognize, en­ sion and the Windham School District. At the close of courage and support the valuable contributions of Fiscal Year 2011, there were 18,439 approved volun­ religious, business, community service, treatment- teers serving TDCJ.

41 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Victim Services Division

The mission of Victim Services Division is to provide phone service which gives VNS registrants access to a central mechanism for crime victims to participate limited offender information 24 hours a day, in Eng­ in the criminal justice system. lish or Spanish. If requested by the registrant, VINE will automatically call to notify them when their of­ Victim Notification System fender is being processed for release. This telephone service is available to victims in addition to written The Victim Notification System (VNS) uses a con­ notifications. There were 10,848 VINE call-ins and fidential database to provide registrants – typically 788 call-outs in FY 2011. crime victims, surviving family members, witnesses who testified at trial, and concerned citizens – written Case File Management notifications regarding their offender(s). The system provides more than 80 points of possible notification Offender case files are managed by case file analysts regarding several phases of an offender’s incarceration who serve as links between victims, surviving family and supervision, including the parole review process. members, witnesses who testified at trial, the Board of Most notification letters are automatically generated, Pardons and Paroles, law enforcement, criminal jus­ while others are manually created by Victim Services tice professionals and concerned citizens. Assistance staff. Since each case is unique and the points of no­ is provided to victims who request explanation of the tification are typically driven by the status of the of­ parole process, imposition of special conditions or fender, VNS registrants may not receive each point of clarification of victims’ rights. There were 268 trans­ notification or letter. Individuals are added to the VNS mittals processed to the BPP in FY 2011 requesting from Victim Impact Statements or at their request. At that an offender be denied release or have special re­ the end of Fiscal Year 2011, there were 159,854 indi­ lease conditions imposed. viduals who have registered on the VNS. During the fiscal year, Victim Services processed 126,862 pieces Texas Crime Victim Clearinghouse of correspondence, including VNS notifications, let­ ters sent and letters or emails received. The Texas Crime Victim Clearinghouse (TxCVC) provides technical assistance, information and re­ Toll-free Information Hotline ferrals to victims, victim service providers, law en­ forcement and criminal justice professionals. Every During regular business hours, the Victim Services odd-numbered year, the TxCVC updates the Victim Division representatives answer calls and provide in­ Impact Statement (VIS) upon adjournment of the formation about offender status, the criminal justice Texas Legislature. The VIS is available online in Eng­ system, personal meetings with the Board of Pardons lish and Spanish. The TxCVC provides VIS training and Paroles (BPP), and services available to victims to victim assistance and criminal justice profession­ through the division. There were 32,548 telephone als whose statutory responsibilities include the VIS. calls processed in FY 2011. In addition, 589 calls per­ In FY 2011, 64 training sessions were conducted with taining to protective orders were processed and re­ 723 attendees representing 155 Texas counties. Infor­ ferred to the Texas Advocacy Project. mational brochures and a quarterly newsletter, The Victim’s Informer, are produced by TxCVC and are Victim Information and Notification Everyday available online or by contacting TxCVC.

Victim Impact Panel Program The Victim Services Division has partnered with Ap­ priss, Inc., provider of the Victim Information and Through the Victim Impact Panel Program, crime Notification Everyday (VINE), to enhance notifica­ victims have the opportunity to share details of their tion services. VINE offers a toll-free automated tele­ victimization and subsequent journey through the

42 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice criminal justice system by addressing audiences of Viewing Executions criminal justice professionals, students and offenders. The purpose is to involve victims and survivors in the The Victim Services Division arranges for victims’ criminal justice process and give them a voice. There families to view executions. As many as five relatives were 51 impact panels conducted in FY 2011 with 13 or support persons can witness the offender’s execu­ new victim panelists and 91 existing or repeat panel­ tion. Witnesses may also include law enforcement ists participating. More than 603 criminal justice pro­ personnel, trial officials or a spiritual advisor. Victim fessionals or students and 1,243 offenders attended. witnesses are prepared for and accompanied to the execution by a Victim Services staff member. Sup­ Victim Offender Mediation/Dialogue Program porters of the victim are allowed to accompany victim witnesses to the , but are not allowed Victim Offender Mediation/Dialogue provides vic­ to witness the execution. Staff also provides follow- tims and survivors of violent crime the opportunity up support and referrals as needed. During FY 2011, to initiate a structured, person-to-person meeting at least one Victim Services representative attended with their offender in a safe environment. Mediation eight executions, providing support to 29 victim wit­ is chosen by some victims who wish to meet directly nesses and five victim supporters. with their offender to describe the impact of their vic­ Prison Tours timization and receive answers to questions regarding the offense. Under certain circumstances, alternatives are used in lieu of person-to-person mediation, such Prison tours are conducted to educate victims, crimi­ as written statements by the victim. There were 49 nal justice staff and others about the realities of prison mediations completed in FY 2011. life in Texas. In FY 2011, five prison tours were con­ ducted with 69 participants. Victim Support and Community Education Pro- Special Projects / Ombudsman gram In a continuing effort to evaluate, enhance and in­ The Victim Support and Community Education Pro­ crease awareness of the services offered by the Vic­ gram oversees a variety of services available to victims, tim Service Division, this position serves as a point of including training, prison tours and assisting victims contact for criminal justice professionals and victim who view executions. In an effort to enhance victim advocates, and provides direct support to crime vic­ awareness and sensitivity and prevent victimization, tims. During FY 2011 this position also reviewed re­ targeted training audiences include victims, criminal sponses to bills introduced by the 82nd Texas Legisla­ justice professionals and victim advocates. When ap­ ture which were related to victim services and budget propriate, training staff utilizes victim impact panels. projections. Collaborative efforts continued with the There were 18 training sessions conducted with a to­ Office of the Inspector General, Board of Pardons and tal of 411 attendees in FY 2011. Paroles and the Special Prosecution Unit.

43 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Support Services

Administrative Review and Risk Management Division...... 46

Business and Finance Division...... 47

Facilities Division...... 50

Health Services Division...... 51

Human Resources Division...... 52

Information Technology Division...... 53

Manufacturing and Logistics Division...... 53

Office of the Chief of Staff...... 54

Office of the General Counsel...... 55

Office of Incident Management...... 56

Public Information Office...... 57

Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Administrative Review and Risk Management Division

Access to Courts The primary focus of the Operational Review Pro­ gram is to monitor adherence to agency policy at each Access to Courts ensures offenders receive their correctional facility. This is accomplished through on­ constitutional right of access to courts, counsel and going monthly reviews at the unit level and reviews public officials, and that such access is adequate, ef­ every three years at the division level. fective and meaningful as required by law. It provides critical functions at all units, including legal research Offender Grievance Program resources, attorney visits and phone calls, public in­ formation requests, telephonic court hearings, cor­ The purpose of this program is to promote awareness respondence supplies for indigent offenders, notary and positive intervention between staff and offend­ public services, offender legal, educational, and reli­ ers, to identify and resolve issues at the lowest pos­ gious in-cell storage management, parole revocation sible administrative level, and to facilitate the flow of hearing reviews and court transcript administration. information between the units and agency leaders. By Law library attendance in Fiscal Year 2011 totaled providing an outlet for offender grievances, the pro­ 510,364. The number of legal research materials de­ gram enhances staff safety while providing agency livered to offenders with indirect law library access administrators with valuable insight into issues and totaled 251,979. problem resolution on the units. During FY 2011, unit grievance investigators handled more than 174,500 Administrative Monitor for Use of Force grievances at the unit level, while central office staff processed more than 43,000 appeals. This office manages the agency’s Use of Force policy and procedures, and coordinates training to promote Ombudsman Program staff understanding and compliance with policy. Dur­ ing FY 2011, 7,354 major Use of Force incidents oc­ The ombudsman office works with other agency staff curred in TDCJ. to answer questions and address concerns. Staff re­ sponded to approximately 17,300 inquiries in FY 2011 Monitoring and Standards through the U.S. mail, telephone and the Internet. The office also arranged for agency representatives Monitoring and Standards helps state-operated cor­ to speak at three engagements sponsored by offender rectional facilities in their efforts to obtain American family support organizations. Correctional Association accreditation (ACA). At the end of FY 2011, 108 of TDCJ’s 111 facilities had Risk Management been accredited. Two privately-operated facilities, the Bridgeport and Mineral Wells pre-parole facilities, This program has oversight of unit and departmental have been ACA partially-accredited for medical ser­ occupational safety and health standards, emergency vices. Hospital Galveston has been accredited by the management planning and disaster recovery, compli­ Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Or­ ance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and ganizations. The Baten Intermediate Sanction Facility liability loss control. It coordinates with all agency and the Correctional Training Academy are also ACA departments to implement risk reduction strategies accredited. regarding personnel, property and fiscal resources.

46 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Business and Finance Division

The mission of Business and Finance is to support the cessing plants and livestock production facilities that agency through sound fiscal management, provision provide canned vegetables, eggs and various finished of financial services and statistical information, pur­ meat products required to feed the offender popula­ chasing and leasing services, agribusiness, land and tion. mineral operations, maintaining a fiduciary respon­ sibility over offender education and recreation funds, During the 2010 calendar year, Agribusiness raised and ensuring fiscal responsibility through compliance 30 varieties of fruits and vegetables in gardens com­ with laws and court-mandated requirements. Busi­ prising 3,699 acres, with production exceeding 15.3 ness and Finance includes the departments of Ac­ million pounds. Community-style, unit-managed gar­ counting and Business Services, Agribusiness, Land dens contributed an additional 3.6 million pounds of and Minerals, Budget, Commissary and Trust Fund, fresh vegetables. More than 32,000 acres were dedi­ Contracts and Procurement, Historically Underuti­ cated to the production of cotton, grains and grasses, lized Business (HUB), Office of Space Management, resulting in the harvest of 116.7 million pounds of and Payroll Processing. product. At the close of calendar year 2010, on-hand livestock included 12,810 head of cattle, 19,028 swine, Accounting and Business Services Department

Accounting and Business Services consists of Finan­ cial Systems and Reporting, Accounting Services, Ac­ counts Payable, and Cashier, Travel, Restitution and Fee Services.

Accounting and Business Services carries out the fi­ nancial operations of the agency by providing mean­ ingful financial information, supporting financial pro­ cesses and maintaining effective financial control. In Fiscal Year 2011, Accounts Payable received and pro­ cessed approximately 150,000 invoices from vendors.

The department is responsible for general account­ ing of state funds and produces the agency’s annual financial report. This is achieved through the use of the agency’s financial system, LONESTARS, which is managed by the department, and the Uniform State­ wide Accounting System.

Agribusiness, Land and Minerals

Agribusiness, Land and Minerals is responsible for the oversight and management of the agency’s land and mineral resources to include administration of oil and gas leases, easements and other land issues. Land considered suitable for agricultural use is employed in the production of fresh vegetables, cotton, grain, hay Terry Hopkins, manager of feedmill produc- and livestock. In addition to these primary activities, tion at the Eastham Unit, inspects the quality of Agribusiness manages and operates several food pro­ grain stored in silos.

47 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice 258,727 laying hens and 1,568 horses. The poultry The inmate trust fund provides offenders access to program produced approximately 4.9 million dozen personal funds for the purchase of commissary items, eggs and the swine operation shipped 26,880 hogs to periodicals and subscriptions, some over-the-coun­ the packing plant. During this period, agency food ter medications and other approved expenditures processing plants canned 301,737 cases of vegetables such as craft shop supplies. In FY 2011, more than and delivered more than 23 million pounds of fin­ 1.9 million deposits totaling $110.8 million were re­ ished meat items. ceived and processed. The majority of deposits were received electronically through third-party vendors. Agribusiness makes use of approximately 2,500 of­ An automated remittance processing system is used fenders in its numerous enterprises. Many of these to encode, image, endorse and prepare money orders offenders are offered the opportunity to learn market­ received for deposit. able job skills that may assist them in securing em­ ployment upon release. The department operates two warehouse and distri­ bution centers that provide merchandise for resale at Budget Department 173 commissary locations throughout the state. Items sold include snacks, packaged meat and fish products, In providing financial oversight for all other agency coffee, soft drinks, greeting cards, shoes and electron­ departments, the Budget Department plans, formu­ ics. Using an offender’s bar-coded identification card, lates, analyzes and monitors agency revenues and ex­ the commissary’s point-of-sale system records detailed penditures by activity, function and department. The sales transaction information and debits the offender’s planning process is initiated through preparation of trust fund account. Sales from commissary operations the Agency Strategic Plan and monitored quarterly by exceeded $95 million in FY 2011. a system of performance measures. The department then compiles the biennial Legislative Appropriations In addition to supporting the commissary and trust Request, which serves as the fiscal representation of fund operations, income from commissary sales is the Agency Strategic Plan. used to fund or supplement other offender programs. These include recreational activities, sports and fit­ The Legislature appropriated approximately $6.2 bil­ ness equipment, television equipment located in lion to TDCJ for the 2010-2011 biennium, which also common viewing areas, library books and supplies, included funding to provide targeted salary increases and The Echo newspaper for offenders. for correctional and parole officers, unit staff, OIG in­ vestigators, community supervision officers and staff Contracts and Procurement Department providing direct care to probationers. The FY 2011 Operating Budget, developed and continuously moni­ The Contracts and Procurement Department is re­ tored by the Budget Department, totals $3.119 billion. sponsible for procuring the goods and services neces­ sary to support the mission of the agency. Certified The department routinely interacts with the state’s ex­ purchasers and contract specialists approve, record ecutive, legislative and regulatory agencies, to include and process purchases requisitioned by agency staff. the Legislative Budget Board, the Governor’s Office of The department’s mission is to acquire the right goods Budget, Planning and Policy, Public Finance Author­ and services at the right time and at the right price in ity and the Bond Review Board. accordance with laws, rules, policies and sound busi­ ness judgment. Agency requirements range from ba­ Commissary and Trust Fund Department sic needs, such as food for offenders, to complex pro­ fessional services and construction projects. The Commissary and Trust Fund Department is re­ sponsible for the administration and operation of the During FY 2011, the department processed approxi­ agency’s commissaries and inmate trust fund. mately 60,000 Advanced Purchasing and Inventory Control Systems (ADPICS) requisitions, with approx­

48 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice imately 54,000 purchase order procurement actions Office of Space Management processed. In addition, the department completed ap­ proximately 800 contract procurement actions. The responsibility of the Office of Space Management (OSM) is to acquire, allocate, approve and manage ad­ The Contracts and Procurement Department contin­ ministrative lease space based on TDCJ’s needs and ues to promote the Historically Underutilized Busi­ in compliance with various state statutes and depart­ ness Program and strives to improve HUB participa­ mental rules and regulations. tion in the procurement of goods and services. OSM activities include site visits to ensure efficient Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program use of both lease and state-owned administrative properties. Other routine OSM functions include The mission of the HUB Program is to promote and liaison activities involving the Texas Facilities Com­ increase equal contracting opportunities with histori­ mission (TFC), resolving payment issues between cally underutilized businesses. The program provides Accounts Payable and lessors, and assistance in reso­ those businesses and agency staff with the assistance lution of maintenance issues between tenants and les­ necessary to ensure the success of this mission. sors. When an emergency occurs in a leased adminis­ trative space, OSM staff provides immediate, on-site HUBs, as defined by the Texas Comptroller of Pub­ assistance with relocation, communications support, lic Accounts, are businesses that have at least 51 per­ assistance related to public safety issues and proper cent ownership by Asia-Pacific Americans, African- notification of the emergency to the TFC. Americans, Hispanic-Americans, Native Americans or American women. Payroll Processing Department

The HUB Program sponsors an annual vendor fair The responsibility of the Payroll Processing Depart­ and participates in numerous forums and events ment is to process accurate monthly salary payments across the state. The program also assists the State with authorized deductions for approximately 40,000 Comptroller’s Office with identification and certifica­ employees while ensuring compliance with state and tion of HUB vendors. federal laws. Core functions include payroll process­ ing, payroll deductions, direct deposit program, em­ ployee time program, distribution of payroll warrants and federal tax reporting.

49 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Facilities Division

The Facilities Division provides a full range of facility Program Administration management services to TDCJ, including facility plan­ ning, design, construction, maintenance and environ­ The Program Administration Department is respon­ mental quality assurance and compliance. The divi­ sible for facility project planning and programming sion’s headquarters is located in Huntsville, but it has functions. It engages in energy conservation initia­ maintenance employees working at state-owned and tives, energy audits and utility billing analysis. Envi­ operated facilities throughout the state. Those employ­ ronmental compliance is also administered within ees provide long range and day-to-day maintenance as this department, which includes the preparation of required to keep the facilities in proper working condi­ numerous technical and complex reports for all TDCJ tion and to support each facility year-round. facilities and oversight of special investigations, au­ dits and research. Engineering Program Analysis The Engineering Department provides professional architectural and engineering services to support The Program Analysis Department supports the di­ TDCJ. The department provides overall project de­ vision in all financial phases of design, construction, sign and construction management for all delivery maintenance and job closings. The department moni­ methods, including contract design and construction, tors construction and administrative budgets, devel­ and internal design and construction activities. The ops and analyzes project budgets, tracks expenditures engineers and architects also act as consultants to the in order to create a record which provides useful in­ Maintenance Department and to any other office re­ formation for future budget projections, and works quiring technical assistance. Oversight is provided for closely with all departments in the division to pur­ all activities affecting engineering and environmental chase and replace unit equipment. interests to ensure compliance with all state and fed­ eral rules and regulations. Project Administration

Maintenance The Project Administration Department provides support during both the design and construction The Maintenance Department is responsible for phases of project management, and assists project maintaining all TDCJ-owned and operated facilities. engineers during design reviews. It also administers A unit maintenance office is located on each correc­ project schedules and monitors construction perfor­ tional facility. Each office has a technical staff, the mance as related to established schedules. Additional makeup of which varies according to the unit’s mis­ responsibilities include management of construction sion and offender population. There are six regional projects, to include quality assurance performed by maintenance offices supporting the unit maintenance internal or contracted parties. offices. These regional offices have specialty crews performing construction projects, repairs and reno­ vations. This department is also a first responder to evaluate, assess and repair damage caused by hurri­ canes and other disasters.

50 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Health Services Division

The Health Services Division monitors access to TDCJ, UTMB, TTUHSC and the private vendors are timely and quality health care for offenders incarcer­ in partnership to implement and enforce the health ated within the Texas Department of Criminal Jus­ care delivery system. Each entity functions as an inde­ tice (TDCJ). The agency contracts with two univer­ pendent organization with separate and distinct lines sities, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) of supervision and responsibilities. and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) and private vendors for all healthcare ser­ Functions performed by the TDCJ Health Services vices at TDCJ facilities. Division include:

The 73rd Legislature established the Correctional • Monitoring the offenders’ access to the various Managed Health Care Committee (CMHCC) and em­ health care disciplines, to include medical, nurs­ powered the committee to develop a managed health ing, dental and mental health. care plan for offenders in TDCJ. This statutory man­ date was implemented through a series of contractual • Cooperating with the university medical schools relationships beginning on September 1, 1994 (In and private contractors to monitor quality of 2011, the 82nd Legislature changed the law and made care. The clinical and professional resources of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice responsible the health care providers are used to the greatest for contracting for the health care of TDCJ offenders extent feasible for clinical oversight of quality of in Texas). care issues as mandated by government code.

In Fiscal Year 2011 the CMHCC monitored the provi­ • Conducting compliance audits. sion of health care for TDCJ offenders as contracted with the UTMB at Galveston, the TTUHSC at Lub­ • Investigating and responding to Step 2 medical bock and private vendors; the universities may also grievances, inquiries and complaints. contract with private vendors to provide services. Each university and private vendor has its own in­ • Controlling the transmission of infectious diseas­ ternal organizational structure to assure the integ­ es in TDCJ. rity and quality of the managed health care program. Within each program there is a medical director, ad­ • Recommending unit assignment requirements ministrator, nursing director, dental director, mental to meet the medical needs of offenders, screen­ health director, clinical pharmacist and clinical labo­ ing offenders for programs and acting as a liaison ratory personnel, as well as health records staff. for the university providers, counties and private vendors.

51 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Human Resources Division

The Human Resources (HR) Division provides con­ Employment sistent application of TDCJ’s human resources pro­ grams, policies and services to ensure compliance September 1, 2010, marked the beginning of the sec­ with federal and state laws and to fulfill the needs of ond fiscal year of the pay increase for correctional of­ the agency’s employees. ficers, parole officers and unit-based employees. This increase, authorized by the 81st Legislature raised Administrative Support their gross monthly pay an average of 3.5 percent.

The Employee Classification Department completed Enhanced in-service training standards for COs, ef­ a project linking position numbers for all agency posi­ fective June 1, 2011, now require mandatory partici­ tions to the corresponding job description number in pation in and successful completion of the physical order to expedite the position posting and selection agility test as a condition of continued employment. processes, job description revisions, and performance evaluation processing. The Policy Development and Both the TDCJ and CO attrition rates increased in FY Legislative Review Department reviewed numerous 2011. The agency attrition rate was 19.1 percent. The bills during the 82nd Legislative session resulting in CO attrition rate for FY 2011 was 22.4 percent. The revisions to three personnel directives. During Fiscal CO vacancy level was 2,076 in August 2011, an in­ Year 2011, 33 personnel directives were reviewed and crease from 974 at the end of FY 2010. Actions taken 19 were published. to positively impact CO staffing include:

Employee Services • Participated in 65 job fairs and conducted 15 hir­ ing seminars. Staff Development and HR representatives delivered more than 21,840 training hours to 3,700 employees. • Conducted four prospector training sessions in Courses related to training in leadership, diversity, Regions I, II, IV and V. employee retention, disciplinary procedures, records retention, records and verifications, and other HR- • Conducted 10 Saturday CO screenings in Hunts­ related topics were presented. ville beginning in November 2010.

TDCJ employees participated in the FY 2011 Chair­ • Conducted CO screenings and informal meetings man’s Fitness Challenge that included four different to assist and place TDCJ and Texas Youth Com­ challenges designed to encourage physical fitness mission employees affected by the reduction in among all employees. The competition is part of the force into CO positions. TDCJ wellness program, Wellness Initiative Now. • Designated a total of seven units, Connally, Dal- Employee Relations hart, Lynaugh, Ft. Stockton, McConnell, Smith and Stiles, as Bonus Eligible Units during FY 2011. Sixty-three external Equal Employment Opportunity cases were closed with one cause finding. Intake re­ viewed 6,401 cases that were referred to the appro­ priate department within Employee Relations for pro­ cessing and resolution.

The Random Drug Testing Program tested 8,161 em­ ployees of which 8,098 tested negative and 63 tested positive.

52 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Information Technology Division

Automated information services and technology support are provided to all TDCJ departments, Cor­ rectional Managed Health Care, and other external entities by the Information Technology Division. Ap­ proximately 34,000 personal computers, terminals and routers, 15,000 radios, 183 telephone systems and other devices are operated and supported on behalf of the agency. The division also operates and maintains numerous computer and telephone voice networks and a Wide Area Network, which connects parole of­ fices, correctional facilities and administrative offices in Huntsville, Austin and across the state.

In Fiscal Year 2011, the division successfully imple­ mented the Electronic Notification of Trial Officials Web application, initiated the Meal Counter and Food Service Tracker systems pilot programs and assumed TDCJ staff members Tammy Bybee (left) and Merry Crane participate in an emergency response drill by the maintenance and support functions for all the entering tracking data into a Global Positioning System agency’s desktop computing and printing devices. In (GPS) computer on the agency’s Mobile Emergency Re- addition, significant cost reductions were realized as a sponse Command (MERC) trailer. result of the Business Line Reduction project.

Manufacturing and Logistics Division

The Manufacturing and Logistics Division benefits cated on the Daniel, Ferguson, Mountain View and the state by maintaining security of offenders while Wynne Units. The Daniel Computer Recovery and providing reentry opportunities for incarcerated of­ Wynne Computer Recovery facilities provide refur­ fenders. The division provides quality service in ware­ bished computers to Texas public schools. The Moun­ housing operations, freight transportation and fleet tain View Braille facility provides Braille transcription management of TDCJ vehicles, and by providing services to education agencies while offering eligible quality manufactured products and services to TDCJ, offenders Braille transcription certifications from the other state agencies and political subdivisions. Library of Congress. The Ferguson Geographic In­ formation Systems (GIS) facility provides GIS data The division collaborates with the Windham School conversion services to city, county and state agencies, District to establish work and training programs di­ while offering eligible offenders a GeoMedia Profes­ rected toward the effective rehabilitation of offenders. sional certification. The work and training programs are specifically tar­ geted to reduce recidivism by providing opportunities During Fiscal Year 2011, the division had oversight of for offenders to develop a work ethic while learning three adult Prison Industry Enhancement (PIE) cer­ marketable job skills in preparation for release. tification programs located on the Ellis and Lockhart Units. These PIE programs manufactured wood ve­ The division has four designated training facilities lo­ neers, AC and heating valves, computer components

53 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice and wiring harnesses. PIE participants earned more Fleet than $2 million and contributed $192,822 in fed­ eral taxes, $171,971 to crime victims’ compensation, Fleet has oversight of more than 2,200 licensed ve­ $8,257 to restitution, $347,620 for family support, and hicles as well as several thousand trailers and other $908,760 to room and board. equipment. The state’s online vehicle management system has the ability to measure how effectively Texas Correctional Industries TDCJ uses its fleet of licensed vehicles.

Texas Correctional Industries (TCI) manufactures Freight Transportation goods and provides services for state and local gov­ ernment agencies, political subdivisions, public edu­ Freight Transportation manages a fleet of 200 trucks cation systems, and public and private institutions and 435 trailers. During the fiscal year, four dispatch of higher education. TCI’s statutory objectives are offices coordinated more than 29,000 freight hauls to provide work program participants with market­ and logged approximately six million miles. able job skills, help reduce recidivism and reduce de­ partment cost by providing products and services to Warehousing and Supply TDCJ while selling products and services to other eli­ gible entities on a for-profit basis. Warehousing and Supply manages eight warehouse facilities with an average inventory of $23 million and During Fiscal Year 2011, TCI operated 43 facilities maintains 3,016 items in stock. Approximately $141 that produced items such as mattresses, shoes, gar­ million in supplies were distributed from food ware­ ments, brooms, license plates, printed materials, jani­ houses, Prison Store warehouses and other facilities torial supplies, soaps, detergents, furniture, textile during the fiscal year. and steel products. Services such as furniture refin­ ishing, tire retreading, and auditorium and school bus refurbishing are also available. Sales for FY 2011 were $77.4 million.

Office of the Chief of Staff

In Fiscal Year 2011, the Office of the Chief of Staff had Executive Support oversight of Governmental Affairs, Executive Support and Media Services. Executive Support consists of two departments: Ex­ ecutive Services and the Emergency Action Center. Governmental Affairs Executive Services Governmental Affairs ensures that all relevant legisla­ tion passed by the Texas Legislature is implemented Executive Services provides technical support to in a timely fashion, and coordinates with legislative TDCJ’s executive staff. Staff responds to inquiries re­ committees to assist in supplying departmental sta­ garding offender demographics, coordinates survey tistics and resource information for committee mem­ responses, maintains the Death Row Web page, and bers. This section also assists in the coordination of provides a variety of statistical information. Staff also special projects and in responding to enquiries about prepares agenda and meeting materials for the Texas TDCJ from legislative and executive offices. Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ), produces the TBCJ

54 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice minutes, and reports on the number of community Media Services work projects. Additionally, staff coordinates revi­ sions of TBCJ rules, the Department Policy and Oper­ Media Services supports TDCJ by providing audio­ ations Manual, the Human Resources Policy Manual, visual, photographic and written publication produc­ the Public Information Act Manual, and agency de­ tion services. partmental manuals upon request. Audiovisual Production Executive Services also coordinates the State Em­ ployee Charitable Campaign and serves as TDCJ’s Re­ Staff writes and produces informational and training cords Management Office. The department conducts videos dealing with criminal justice and prison man­ internal research and evaluations and coordinates re­ agement. Routine duties include providing video ser­ search conducted by external entities. Executive Ser­ vices and footage to criminal justice agencies, news vices produces unit profiles, agency organizational media and educators. Additionally, audiovisual sup­ charts and the following publications: the Fiscal Year port is provided for bimonthly Texas Board of Crimi­ Statistical Report, the General Information Guide for nal Justice meetings and special events. Families of Offenders, and the TDCJ Records Retention Schedule. Photography

Emergency Action Center The photography section produces photographic im­ ages for a variety of TDCJ displays and publications. The Emergency Action Center (EAC) staffs a 24-hour This section also manages the agency’s photo archive communications desk to provide a link between TDCJ, for distribution to both agency and outside groups. TBCJ, TDCJ managers, staff members, and other state and federal agencies regarding serious or unusual in­ Publications cidents occurring within the agency. The EAC is re­ sponsible for receiving all reports of serious or unusual Media Services produces the Criminal Justice Con­ incidents, notifying appropriate entities and adminis­ nections online newsletter for TDCJ employees, local trative staff of incidents, maintaining custody of all in­ and state government officials, concerned individuals cident records, preparing monthly audit reports, and and interest groups. Readers can access the newslet­ providing Executive Services with the information re­ ter from the TDCJ home page by clicking on the link quired to publish statistical reports. The EAC provides to the Connections newsletter. Media Services also valid, accurate, and timely information, which plays a produced the Fiscal Year 2010 TDCJ Annual Review critical role in managing risks associated with incidents and made regular updates to the TDCJ Phone and Ad­ inherent in the correctional environment. dress Directory.

Office of the General Counsel

The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) has three Legal Affairs sections: Legal Affairs, Litigation Support, and Pro­ gram Administration. Attorneys oversee the Legal Af­ The Legal Affairs section provides advice and counsel fairs and Litigation Support sections, while a program to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) supervisor manages the Program Administration sec­ regarding corrections law, victims’ rights, employ­ tion. ment law, business transactions, offender health care,

55 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice sentence time calculation, parole and community named defendants. Most of these cases involve tort, supervision matters. This section drafts formal and employment or civil rights offender litigation. Attor­ informal legal opinions for the agency as requested. neys in this section are involved with discovery and Attorneys in Legal Affairs provide advice about the records production, answer interrogatories, coordi­ Public Information Act, and seek opinions and rul­ nate trial and expert witnesses, and participate in me­ ings from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) diations and settlements. when necessary. They provide legal support regarding subpoena requests, expunctions and renditions. This Program Administration section also helps the OAG defend federal habeas cor­ pus writs and assists state district courts in processing The Program Administration section is responsible state writs of habeas corpus. for the overall administrative support of the OGC in­ cluding fiscal management, divisional human resource Litigation Support support, the preparation of OGC policies and proce­ dures, performance measures, case management, and The Litigation Support section acts as the liaison be­ records retention and storage. The Program Adminis­ tween TDCJ and OAG, and provides litigation sup­ tration section processes claims for damages involv­ port to OAG. This section tracks and reviews all ing the TDCJ property and schedules video telecon­ significant lawsuits when TDCJ or its employees are ferences for offenders’ legal proceedings.

Office of Incident Management

The Office of Incident Management (OIM) is the cen­ also trains agency staff on roles and expectations dur­ tral oversight authority for TDCJ emergency manage­ ing emergencies. The Office of Incident Management ment preparedness and response. The office coordi­ works with all TDCJ operational divisions to pro­ nates with groups throughout TDCJ to develop and vide a representative to disaster district committees update emergency response plans, continuity of opera­ throughout the state. tions plans and the Homeland Security Strategic Plan. Further, the office oversees all mitigation reports and The office represents TDCJ on the Texas Division of activities for the agency, works to identify potential Emergency Management State Emergency Manage­ hazards and threats to the agency, and develops map­ ment Council and oversees the Transportation Annex ping, modeling and forecasting tools to lessen their activities for the State Emergency Management Plan. effects. Working in conjunction with the Correctional This involves developing and maintaining an inven­ Institutions Division, OIM provides all necessary tory list of transportation assets in preparation for fu­ training for security staff and unit personnel on the ture emergencies, and directing the use and coordina­ Incident Command System. The office also coordi­ tion of transportation assets, including those of other nates National Incident Management System training state agencies, during actual emergencies. The office and hostage negotiation training.

56 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice Public Information Office

The Public Information Office (PIO) acts as the liai­ interest, and also provides assistance to documentary son between the Texas Department of Criminal Jus­ and film producers, researchers and book authors. In tice (TDCJ) and the media. Because of its rich history addition to its work with the outside media, PIO keeps and its place as one of the largest penal systems in the agency staff informed of important media coverage. United States, TDCJ is often the focus of in-depth re­ It is the philosophy of the agency to be as candid as ports and documentaries, as well as many timely or possible with media in order to inform the public breaking news stories. PIO works with reporters in of its activities. Information is given as allowed by covering the agency and its events, as well as the ac­ agency policy and in accordance with state public in­ tivities of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice. formation laws. A PIO staff member is always on call to answer media inquiries that come in after regular Last year, hundreds of news media calls were an­ business hours and on weekends. swered and information was provided to reporters from around the world on a variety of topics, such as The TDCJ Public Information Office responds to agency policies and procedures, budget matters, in­ news media inquiries in a timely and accurate man­ formation about individual inmates, prison programs ner. By taking a proactive stance, the office is able to and the death penalty. The PIO facilitates interviews disseminate information about TDCJ’s many positive between the media and inmates, and also coordinates programs to the media as a way of educating the pub­ death row media interviews and serves as a media es­ lic on how the agency works to fulfill its mission. cort at each execution.

PIO distributes news releases and media advisories on various events and activities of significance and public

57 Annual Review Fiscal Year 2011 Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Published by TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

www.tdcj.texas.gov

June 2012