Texas Department of Criminal Justice Office of the Inspector General
TDCJ OIG
Summary
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The TDCJ OIG is established under Texas Gov't Code §493.019 as an independent law-enforcement agency within the Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ). The Inspector General — a TCOLE-certified peace officer — is appointed by and reports directly to the TBCJ chairman. The OIG investigates criminal offenses and misconduct by TDCJ employees (including correctional officers) and inmates, with jurisdiction over use-of-force incidents in state prisons.
OIG investigators are commissioned peace officers with full investigative access to TDCJ records and facilities. The OIG can recommend disciplinary action, but TBCJ/TDCJ retain final authority over personnel decisions.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | Not specified |
| Removal standard | At will (weak protection) |
| Budget independence | Executive discretion |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | No |
| Pre-publication review | Executive review |
Statute
- Name
- Texas Government Code, Chapter 493 — Texas Department of Criminal Justice: Organization
- Citation
- Tex. Gov't Code §493.019
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
TDCJ employees, inmates, and state correctional facilities