The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is taking swift and immediate action to address a rise in dangerous contraband and drugrelated inmate homicides.
Over the last five years, the volume of illegal narcotics entering the system has substantially increased. This directly impacts the safety of staff and inmates. This year, TDCJ has had 16 inmate-on-inmate homicides. It is believed that the majority of the incidents are tied back to illegal drugs.
As a result, the agency is implementing an immediate lockdown and comprehensive search of all correctional facilities within TDCJ.
To combat this contraband challenge, TDCJ is taking the following measures to detect and prevent the entry of dangerous contraband into its facilities: Systemwide Lockdown: Each facility will limit the movement of inmates and their contact with those outside the prison. Inmates and staff will undergo intensified searches to intercept and confi scate contraband.
Digital Mail: TDCJ is completing the rollout of the digital mail program. Effective September 6, 2023, inmate mail will be sent to the digital mail center, scanned, and uploaded to the tablets.
Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in paper soaked in K2 or methamphetamines coming into our facilities. The digital mail program will halt this contraband being sent through traditional mail.
Tiplines: TDCJ is establishing dedicated tiplines for inmates, staff and families to report any suspicious activities or information related to contraband.
Increased K9 Searches and Other Technology: To assist in contraband detection and outside funding related to contraband, TDCJ will be deploying additional resources. Specialized search teams and narcotic dogs will be deployed to units and staff will be subject to enhanced search procedures.
Comprehensive Searches: All persons entering the facilities at all locations will undergo comprehensive searches.
Increased Drug Testing: A heightened drug testing protocol will be implemented to identify individuals involved in drug-related activities.
Additional measures may be implemented as necessary to safeguard the lives and well-being of all those within its care.
Due to the fact staff will be concentrating on these search efforts, visitation will be cancelled until further notice. Inmates will still have access to the phone system and tablets.
Once these comprehensive searches are complete, normal operations will resume.