TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICEFrequently Asked Questions
General
What is an Independent Ombudsman and what can it do?
An Independent Ombudsman is the official appointed by the TBCJ to receive, review, investigate, and respond to complaints and inquiries from the public, inmates, elected or appointed state officials, the TBCJ, or TDCJ leadership.
The Independent Ombudsman can act as a liaison between the TBCJ or the TDCJ and the public; respond to informational inquiries regarding agency policies, procedures, or actions; respond to questions concerning a specific inmate; facilitate problem resolution; make appropriate referrals to agency staff; act as a contact and information resource for special interest groups.
How can I find an inmate's location, TDCJ number, release date, or convictions?
Information about an inmate can be found on the TDCJ website by conducting an inmate search.
What if an inmate has concerns that are not being addressed?
An inmate should attempt to resolve his/her concerns at the lowest level possible. The inmate may discuss their concerns with any staff member and/or ranking supervisor. The inmate may present a formal complaint by filing a grievance through the inmate grievance process; there are two steps to the process. After all attempts to resolve the issue have been completed, contact may be made with the Office of the Independent Ombudsman.
How do I file a complaint with the Independent Ombudsman?
You may file a complaint with the Independent Ombudsman by mail at PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342, by e-mail at io@tdcj.texas.gov, or by using the available webform Ombudsman Request Form.
What information does the Independent Ombudsman need to complete a review?
Please provide as much pertinent information as possible to assist with the review; the name and TDCJ number of the inmate, unit of assignment, date of incident, the details of the incident, and if there were witnesses. You will want to include your contact information (e-mail address or mailing address) as well; the Independent Ombudsman will provide a response to your concerns.
What will occur once the Independent Ombudsman’s office has received a complaint?
The Independent Ombudsman shall gather information and respond to complaints and inquiries. Investigations shall be conducted according to policy and procedures of the Independent Ombudsman in a professional, thorough, timely, and unbiased manner.
What will occur once the Independent Ombudsman’s office has completed a review?
The Independent Ombudsman will provide a response to the requester once the review is completed.
If I complain, can the TDCJ retaliate?
There should be no retaliation from TDCJ staff for any complaints filed. If such occurs and is confirmed, corrective action will be taken.
My loved one wrongfully received a disciplinary case; what can be done about this? My loved one rightfully received a disciplinary case, but I feel that the punishment is too harsh. How do I get a disciplinary case expunged/overturned?
At the disciplinary hearing, all inmates are provided with information regarding how to appeal the decision of the disciplinary hearing officer. The appeal should be submitted by filing a grievance through the inmate grievance process. There are two steps to the process.
Who should I contact regarding my loved one allegedly being assaulted?
An assault or fear of an assault may be reported to any ranking staff member at the inmate’s unit of assignment. For review or investigation of the incident, contact the Office of the Independent Ombudsman.
When should an inmate contact the Independent Ombudsman’s office?
It is expected that all administrative remedies (informal resolution and/or completion of the inmate grievance procedure) available to an inmate be completed before the Ombudsman’s office begins an investigation, except for issues regarding the possibility of imminent health, safety, or rights concerns.
