Immediate Action Required: Addressing Urgent Water Safety Concerns in TDCJ Facilities

                    

Dear State of Texas, Federal Government, TDCJ administrates and Stakeholders,

I am writing to draw your attention to an urgent matter that demands immediate action concerning the health and safety conditions within Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facilities, particularly related to the water quality affecting inmates. Despite previous correspondence and ongoing maintenance activities at the facility, the critical issue of contaminated water remains unaddressed, posing significant health risks to inmates.

It has come to my attention that the continued use of contaminated water is directly linked to severe health problems among inmates, including the development of serious conditions such as multiple sclerosis. This is a matter of grave concern, revealing not only a systemic neglect but also a breach of basic human rights.

While it is commendable that officers and administrators have access to clean drinking water, it is deeply troubling that inmates are forced to consume and bathe in water that is deemed unsuitable for everyone else. This disparity is unjust and speaks to a significant oversight that endangers the health and dignity of those incarcerated.

The failures to ensure safe water access not only violate human rights principles but also echo legal precedents such as those established in Ruiz vs. Estelle, which mandates humane conditions in correctional facilities. Ignoring these obligations exposes the state to potential legal challenges and moral accountability.

I urge the administration of TDCJ, stakeholders, and elected officials in the State of Texas to take immediate, transparent, and concerted actions to resolve this issue. It is imperative that a detailed investigation is conducted, and measures are put in place to provide all inmates with safe and clean water.

Public awareness will be raised through upcoming media coverage shedding light on these unacceptable conditions. I appeal to you to act swiftly to ensure the safety, health, and dignity of all inmates are restored.

Thank you for addressing this crucial matter with the seriousness it warrants.

Sincerely,

Angela Thomas Smith

803-757-6090

www.linktr.ee/queenofcollaborations

INCARCERED AUTHORS ......... #INCARCERATEDVOICESPEAKS 2025 #VOICETOTHEVOICELESS

 

Certainly! Here's a draft for an engaging social media post:

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🚨 **Unveiling Hidden Stories: The Lives of Incarcerated Authors** 🚨

Did you know that the current prison system might be the new age of enslavement, providing free labor to big corporations? 🤔 As years pass, more of our Black men find themselves caught in this cycle. It’s time to shed light on the realities behind prison walls.

🔍 **Join Us on a Year-Long Journey** 🔍

We're diving deep into the lives of incarcerated authors—heroes who fight against the odds to share their stories and achieve success in a world that often overlooks them. 📖✨

🚀 **Why Follow This Journey?**

- **Witness Resilience:** Discover how these authors navigate immense challenges and find their voice.

- **Spark Change:** Engage in meaningful dialogues about prison reform and racial justice.

- **Be Inspired:** Learn from the personal stories of strength, creativity, and determination.

➡️ **Follow our magazine page to stay updated!**

💬 **Let's start a conversation: What are your thoughts on prison labor and the systemic barriers faced by incarcerated individuals? Share below!**

Your voice matters in this critical discussion. Together, let’s bring attention to these untold stories and advocate for a fairer justice system. 🔗 #IncarceratedVoices #PrisonReform #HiddenStorieshttps://www.facebook.com/Aspire2inspiremagazine

if you know an author that's incarcerated and would like to have them featured on the blog please connect with me..

If you are an incarcerated author connect with me 

please  call 803-757-6090 or email 3alac2016@gmail.com

 

CALL FOR ACTION REOPENING THE RUIZ VS. ESTELLE CASE:

 

                                                                      

January 4, 2025 - [6:43 p.m.]

[FREE TEXAS CAMPAIGN] CALLING ON THE STATE OF TEXAS: ADDRESS UNSANITARY PRISON CONDITIONS NOW!

ALERT: 

THE STATE OF TEXAS HAS FAILED YOU

*In a critical revelation, the Free Texas Campaign shines a spotlight on the grim realities faced by inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Institutional Division. The current situation is a stark violation of the Texas Prison Litigation Reform Act, stemming from the landmark 1972 Ruiz v. Estelle case, in which the cruel and unusual conditions within Texas prisons were vehemently challenged.*

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?

The prevailing unsanitary conditions, overcrowded facilities, inadequate medical care, and insufficient staffing in Texas prisons cannot be overlooked any longer. As stakeholders in the community and protectors of human rights, the State of Texas, its officials, and lawmakers must act decisively to rectify these injustices.\

PRISON CHALLENGES INCLUDE:

1. Overcrowding and excessive inmate populations.

2. Shortage of prison staff leading to an unsafe staff-to-inmate ratio.

3. Deficiency in medical personnel, causing substandard medical and mental health care.

4. Deteriorating living conditions—unsanitary cells, dormitories, and common areas.

5. Inadequate training and deployment of TDC guards and staff.

6. Incidents of staff brutality against inmates.

7. Flawed disciplinary procedures and lack of due process.

8. Abuse of inmate labor systems.

9. Mismanagement of administrative segregation units.

10. Denial of inmates' access to the courts.

A HISTORICAL OBLIGATION

As per the Fifth Circuit Court's directive in the Ruiz v. Estelle case, Texas prison officials are required to reduce inmate populations, bolster security, improve medical care, and elevate living conditions to meet established health and safety standards. Improvements mandated nearly half a century ago have been neglected, thus perpetuating violations of inmates' constitutional rights.

THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW

We urge the Texas Legislature and the State's leaders to re-commit to the promises made under the Texas Prison Litigation Reform Act. It is time to be accountable, to allocate the necessary resources, and to honor the human dignity of those within the correctional system. We call upon concerned citizens, human rights advocates, and policymakers to join us in demanding change and accountability.

TEXAS FAMILIES DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY: AN URGENT CALL TO ACTION FOR PRISON REFORM

The State of Texas has been found wanting in its duty to maintain humane and constitutional conditions within its prison system. As the Free Texas Campaign highlights glaring inadequacies, urgent intervention is imperative to address the deteriorating state of Texas prisons.

THE CRISIS UNVEILED: A FAILURE OF DUTY

Texas State Officials, entrusted with prison maintenance since federal oversight was relinquished decades ago, have allowed conditions to deteriorate to preposterous lows. Despite funds being allocated to mitigate these issues, the neglect and disconnect have resulted in untenable living conditions for inmates—a fact that should alarm every Texas taxpayer and legislator.

INTOLERABLE CONDITIONS REVEALED:

- Decades of eroding infrastructure, with obsolete equipment and non-functional toilets, showers, and sinks.

- Flooded medical and kitchen facilities leading to unsanitary food preparation methods.

- Exposure to contaminated drinking water, causing illness and risking inmate health.

- Negligent response to complaints and documented grievances, leaving issues unaddressed until state intervention was pleaded.

A CALL FOR TRANSPARENT ACTION AND LEGISLATIVE INTERVENTION

In a recent galvanizing move, a mere grant—unutilized until legislators were alerted—has stirred minimal responses. However, this is not enough. We demand that Texas lawmakers assert responsibility and conduct an in-depth evaluation of the Texas prison facilities. It's time to confront the harsh realities and take transformative action.

REOPENING THE RUIZ VS. ESTELLE CASE:

In the spirit of justice and human rights, we call upon the judiciary to reopen the Ruiz vs. Estelle case. The need to revisit this civil rights class-action lawsuit is paramount to ensure inmates' constitutional rights are upheld, and measures taken to alleviate overcrowded conditions through judicious parole practices.

A COLLECTIVE OUTCRY FOR CHANGE

Together with families, advocates, and concerned citizens, we implore Texas legislators to step inside the prisons they govern, witness firsthand the depravity of current conditions, and take decisive, corrective actions.

CONTACT:

ANGELA THOMAS SMITH  Co-Founder of the Free Texas Campaign and Contributing Writer  Aspiring Authors Magazine

Email:freetexascampaign@gmail.com

Phone: 803-757-6090

END OF RELEASE

***This message has been brought to you by the Free Texas Campaign, standing unwavering in defense of justice and humanitarian reform in the Texas criminal justice system.***

Let the record reflect, the Regional IV Maintenance Manager came in last night and took pictures of everything in the Shower area that needed to be fixed and they came in today and fixed most of everything that was broke today. They are coming back tomorrow to fixed the rest of it.

Still make sure to send the complaint in to the Texas Senate, State Representative, Inspector General, and to the Tyler Texas United States District Court about the RUIZ V. ESTELL Class Action Civil Rights Violation Law Suit about the cruel and unusual prison living conditions, TB out break, excessive drug use, mental health crisis, shortness of TDCJ-ID and UTMB Staff whom does not have the man power they need to maintain or operate an overcrowded Texas Prison system.

 As for the other situation I mentioned to you today about the Management Therapeutic Community In-Prison Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Treatment Programs designed for the purpose of providing Texas State Prison Inmates with the tools and resources they will need to reintegrate back into society, the Counselors whom are assigned to facilitate these programs are being forced to work with nothing that is required to help us reintegrate back into society. 

What is being discovered is that, because of the differences in the rules, regulations, statues,and Protocols of State, Federal, Legislative, Judicial, and Executive Branch of Government regarding the release of information, these Counselors are being required to work with little to no information at all regarding the history and current status of the Inmate. 

They are required to generate their own information from scratch. [Example]: today I was interviewed by an Intake FI-6 R (Rehabilitation Program) Counselor and the questions that she was required to ask me about was from everything about my entire history of child hood up until the current day, drug use, alcohol use, mother, father, brother, sister, mental issues, suicide, etc, etc. 

All of this information is already in the files of the Judicial and Executive Branch of Government's Computer File Data Base and could have easily been accessed by the click of a bottom. But no, by policy, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles who put us here in these programs and the TDCJ-ID Administration Division, are not allowed to give their information out to these Counselors regarding an Inmates current parole release status. 

If an Inmate has already completed the program and does not have a parole release date automatically placed on the computer by the Parole Board, the Counselors can not pick up a phone nor contact anybody about why the Inmate is still being held in prison? With this in mind, some Inmates are being held two and three months after completing the program.

 My point to you is this, out side of these Counselors being forced to work in unsanitary prison conditions, cold and hot temperatures, and bad Inmate living conditions, these Counselors are being used and taken full advantage of by the Executive and Administrative Branches of Government. With this in mind, this is what we do, send out an Email to all Legislative and Executive Branch of Government, Texas Governor, Senate, State Representatives, Health Director, and Director of TDCJ-ID and demonstrate to them: 

1. the lack of funds being provided to the rehabilitation division to operate these rehabilitation programs, 2. the lack of communication between the Parole Board, TDCJ-ID, the Rehabilitation Divisions and other outside work forces agencies, 3. the lack of computer systems to access jobs, housing and other information, Incentive In-Prison Housng Environment, Recreation, and other incentatives for the rehabilitation programs to assist the Inmate with their journey of reintegrating back into society, 4. better pay for all Rehabilitation Program Counselors and more Staff Counselors.

 With this in mind, we are demanding for the State to give us what we need. End P1.

Living in Inhumane Conditions: A Desperate Call for Change at Dominguez Unit**

Today, I find myself sitting with an Inmate Coordinator from the FI 6R Program at the Dominguez Unit in Texas, faced with an untenable reality that demands immediate action and systemic reform. The conditions here have reached a breaking point—so dire that they mirror those of third-world environments, subjecting inmates to unspeakable living conditions that no human being should endure.

Urgent Conditions in the FI 6R Program:

- **Leaking Toilets:** Four toilets continuously leak urine onto the floor, creating a hazardous and unsanitary environment.

- **Broken Sinks and Showers:** Constantly running sinks spill water down the walls, and the showers are practically nonfunctional with only one operating—providing only cold water.

- **Mold and Structural Decay:** Mold thrives on the walls, and open ceiling vents invite rainwater into living spaces, necessitating desperate attempts by inmates to use state-issued soap to block floods.

These appalling conditions aren't just uncomfortable; they are dangerous and dehumanizing. Yet, 58 parole-approved men linger up to a year in this environment, unable to leave until they complete the program. Meanwhile, those not yet eligible for parole enjoy significantly better housing conditions with amenities befitting a hotel rather than a correctional facility. This stark disparity raises the critical question: Why are inmates nearing reintegration into society subjected to such horrendous conditions?

Demand for Immediate Action:

It is time to demand accountability and immediate action from those in charge. We appeal directly to Warden Alonzo Hammond and state officials, including the Governor, Texas Department of Criminal Justice directors, health department heads, and parole board members, to witness these unimaginable conditions firsthand.

This is more than a call for intervention; it is an urgent plea to shut down the FI 6R program at Dominguez Unit or radically transform it to ensure humane living conditions. We must prioritize the health and safety of parole-approved inmates and provide them with the resources and support they deserve to foster dignity and successful reintegration into society.

Failure to act not only perpetuates the cruel and unusual punishment of these individuals but may also face legal repercussions for violating their civil rights under unsanitary conditions. We demand justice, accountability, and swift resolution to this egregious situation.

Take Action Now:

- **Contact Warden Alonzo Hammond:** Demand the immediate cessation of the FI 6R program under current conditions.

- **Reach Out to State Officials:** Inform the Governor, legislative representatives, and relevant departmental heads of these violations.

- **Call for Inspection:** Urge an immediate investigation by the Health Department and the Inspector General to address and rectify these conditions.

We cannot allow these inhumane conditions to persist. Stand with us in demanding change and ensuring that basic human rights are upheld in the Texas correctional system. The time for action is now, and together, we can drive meaningful reform to support those who deserve a fair chance at redemption and societal reentry.

The Urgent Need for Reform: 

Addressing Parole Delays and Inhumane Conditions at Texas' Dominguez Unit

The Dominguez Unit in Texas has become a focal point of dire concern, not just for its appalling living conditions but also for the systemic failures that exacerbate the plight of inmates who have completed their programs and await parole. As the state that leads the nation in incarceration numbers—a distinction far from commendable—Texas must urgently address these issues that waste taxpayer dollars and violate basic human rights.

Stuck in Limbo: The Cost of Parole Delays

Despite having completed mandated rehabilitation programs, numerous inmates remain in limbo, trapped behind bars due to bureaucratic delays in the parole process. This inefficiency is not just a personal tragedy for the individuals involved, but also a glaring misuse of taxpayer money. Housing inmates who are ready for reintegration is an unnecessary financial burden that drains state resources better allocated to community services, education, and rehabilitation efforts.

Unjust Incarceration: A Call for Justice

The situation is compounded by the troubling reality that Texas' correctional system holds a disproportionately high number of wrongfully and overly incarcerated individuals. This systemic issue demands immediate attention and reform. The state’s standing as the leader in incarceration rates is a call to action, not something to be proud of. It is imperative that state leaders confront these statistics with urgency and determination, working towards a justice system that prioritizes fairness, rehabilitation, and the efficient processing of parole.

Taking Action: Pathways to Reform

1. **Streamline Parole Processes:** Immediate reforms are needed to expedite parole hearings and releases for those who have completed their programs. Reducing bureaucratic red tape will save taxpayer money and allow individuals to return to society as contributing members.

2. **Review Incarceration Practices:** A comprehensive review of Texas’ incarceration policies must be undertaken, focusing on identifying and addressing wrongful and excessive imprisonments. This includes implementing robust review processes to ensure sentences are fair and just.

3. **Transform Living Conditions:** The inhumane conditions at facilities like the Dominguez Unit must be urgently addressed. Inmates deserve a baseline level of dignity and safety, in alignment with constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment.

4. **Engage Stakeholders:** It is crucial to involve a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, community leaders, and activists, in drafting legislation and policies that address the inefficiencies and injustices in the current system.

Demanding Accountability and Change

As stewards of public resources and justice, lawmakers must rise to the occasion and institute necessary reforms. Each day of inaction prolongs suffering, wastes valuable resources, and erodes trust in our criminal justice system. Texas must not only rectify these immediate issues but also pave the way for a future where justice is delivered fairly, efficiently, and humanely.

Join us in advocating for change. The time for reform is now, and together, we can work towards a system that truly embodies justice and equality for all.

Dear Honorable Members of the Texas State Legislature and the State of Texas,

I am writing to you as a concerned citizen regarding the urgent and unacceptable conditions present within the Texas prison system. I implore you to reopen the class action lawsuit Ruiz vs. Estelle in light of new evidence pointing to unsanitary and harmful conditions affecting inmates, particularly at facilities like the Connally Unit.

On January 15, 2025, the Regional Maintenance Manager for Region 4 personally visited a facility at 11:50 AM CST and witnessed firsthand the deplorable conditions that inmates, working hard to meet parole stipulations, are forced to endure. These conditions not only violate basic human rights but contribute significantly to unnecessary trauma that leaves permanent scars. Of particular concern is the recent outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) at the Connally Unit, which poses severe health risks to both inmates and staff.

The existence of such conditions is deeply inhumane and unacceptable. These situations demand immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration and to ensure the safety, dignity, and rehabilitation of all those incarcerated. We cannot allow those who are striving to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society to be subjected to environments that undermine their progress and wellbeing.

We call upon you, our elected officials, to take a compassionate and courageous stand against these injustices. Your position grants you the power and responsibility to enact change and to uphold the principles of justice and humanity for all Texans. We urge you to reopen the Ruiz vs. Estelle lawsuit to address and rectify these dire conditions, ensuring that inmates are treated with respect and provided with the sanitary and safe environment they are entitled to.

The time to act is now. Your leadership and commitment can bring about meaningful reform and prevent further harm to those already vulnerable. We hope you will be moved by empathy, fairness, and a commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of every individual under your jurisdiction.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. We eagerly await your decisive action to address and remedy the conditions within our state’s prison system.

Uncovering the Costly Truth: How Texas' Judicial System and Parole Policies Hurt Citizens and Families**

WHY IS THE PAROLE DELIBRATELIY HOLDING INMATES?

I HAVE INMATES SHOWING ME HOW THEY WERE GRANTED PAROLE IN 2024 

YET THEY STILL HAVEN'T BEEN MOVED TO COMPLETE THEIR PROGRAMS....

SO FEEL THEY SHOULD HAVE RECIEVED FI-1 BECASUE THEY ALREADY SERVED 25+ YEARS........... 

In the heart of the Lone Star State, the vast and complex Texas judicial system operates under a facade of justice and rehabilitation. However, beneath the surface lies a troubling reality: the current system costs taxpayers unnecessary money and often fails the very people it intends to serve. Despite generating significant revenue, the lack of effective, trackable rehabilitation programs results in a cycle of incarceration that disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities.

**The Financial Drain on Texas Taxpayers**

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice oversees one of the largest prison systems in the United States, consuming substantial public funds each year. Billions are spent maintaining facilities, housing inmates, and managing parole, yet little investment is made in rehabilitation programs that could break the cycle of recidivism. Without effective reforms, the system perpetuates a costly cycle of imprisonment, diverting taxpayer money that could be better used for education, healthcare, and community development.

**A Broken Path to Parole**

One of the most glaring inefficiencies lies in the parole process. While neighboring states like Alabama allow certain inmates to engage in activities akin to free labor, providing an opportunity to demonstrate rehabilitation and social reintegration, Texas often denies parole based on perceived threats to society. This contradiction highlights a fundamental flaw: the reliance on outdated metrics and biases rather than tangible evidence of rehabilitation.

**The Hidden Burden on Families**

The impact of this flawed system extends beyond finances, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown families. Young individuals often receive harsh sentences for minor offenses, removing them from their communities and families during crucial developmental years. The absence of fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters ripples through families, eroding bonds and perpetuating cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement.

**Proposing a Transformative Solution**

Amidst these challenges, a new vision for prison reform emerges: a comprehensive, trackable rehabilitation program that prioritizes education, mental health, and vocational training. This initiative would ensure that inmates not only serve their sentences but also leave the system prepared to reintegrate into society successfully. By shifting the focus from punishment to rehabilitation, Texas could reduce recidivism rates, ultimately saving taxpayer money and strengthening communities.

**Exposing the Revenue from Injustice**

The potential financial gains from maintaining the status quo raise uncomfortable questions about the motivations behind current policies. Allegations of kickbacks and illegal operations within the prison system suggest that some may profit from perpetuating incarceration. Greater transparency and accountability are essential to dismantle these incentives and realign the system with its intended purpose: justice and rehabilitation.

**A Call for Reform and Equity**

The time has come for Texas to reevaluate its approach to incarceration and parole. By embracing a rehabilitation-focused model, we can create a more equitable justice system that benefits individuals, families, and communities. It is crucial for citizens to raise their voices, demand transparency, and advocate for meaningful reform. The future of our children, particularly in Black and Brown communities, depends on our collective action to dismantle a system that unjustly targets and marginalizes them.

In the quest for justice, Texas has the opportunity to lead by example, transforming its judicial and parole systems into beacons of hope and rehabilitation. The path may be challenging, but the potential rewards—in terms of social equity, financial savings, and community well-being—are worth the effort. Let us awaken to the call for change and work towards a future where justice truly serves the people.