Where Do I Send Parole Support Letters in Texas?
When someone is incarcerated in Texas and becomes eligible for parole, one way to support their release is by writing a parole support letter. These letters can provide valuable information about the inmate’s character, rehabilitation efforts, and community support. But where should you send these letters? Here is a guide to help you navigate the process of sending parole support letters in Texas.
1. Addressing the Letter: Start by addressing the letter to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. This is the agency responsible for making parole decisions in Texas.
2. Include Inmate Information: Clearly state the inmate’s full name, TDCJ number, and unit location in the letter. This information is crucial for the board to identify the inmate and link the support letter to their parole file.
3. Find the Correct Parole Office: Each inmate is assigned to a specific parole office based on their unit location. To determine the correct parole office, visit the Texas Department of Criminal Justice website and use their offender search tool.
4. Check the Parole Office Address: Once you have identified the inmate’s assigned parole office, visit the official website of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to find the correct address for that particular office.
5. Mail the Letter: Print the support letter on plain paper, sign it, and mail it to the designated parole office. Ensure that the letter is legible, concise, and clearly expresses your support for the inmate’s release.
6. Send Multiple Copies: It is recommended to send multiple copies of the support letter to the parole office. This ensures that each member of the parole panel reviewing the case receives a copy.
7. Include Your Contact Information: Provide your full name, address, and contact information in the support letter. This allows the board to reach out to you if they require additional information or have any questions regarding your letter.
8. Be Respectful and Professional: Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter. Avoid using inappropriate language or making derogatory remarks about the inmate’s conviction.
9. Focus on Positive Attributes: Highlight the inmate’s positive attributes, such as their participation in rehabilitation programs, educational achievements, work history, and community involvement. Emphasize their readiness for reintegration into society.
10. Address Specific Concerns: If there were any specific concerns or issues during the inmate’s incarceration, address them in the letter. Explain how the inmate has worked towards resolving these concerns and has shown remorse or made positive changes.
11. Submit Letters Before the Parole Hearing: It is essential to submit the support letters well in advance of the inmate’s parole hearing. Check the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles website for the specific deadline for each hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I send the parole support letter via email?
No, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles only accepts support letters by mail.
2. How many support letters can I send?
There is no specific limit, but it is recommended to send multiple copies to ensure all panel members receive a copy.
3. Can I hand-deliver the support letter to the parole office?
No, all support letters must be mailed to the designated parole office.
4. Can I send the support letter to the inmate’s unit directly?
No, support letters should be sent to the assigned parole office, not the inmate’s unit.
5. Can I send the support letter after the parole hearing?
While it is best to submit the letter well in advance, you can still send it after the hearing. However, it may not have the same impact on the parole decision.
6. Can I send additional documentation along with the support letter?
Yes, you can include additional documents, such as certificates of completion for educational or rehabilitation programs, to support your letter.
7. Will my support letter guarantee the inmate’s parole?
No, parole decisions are ultimately made by the parole board based on various factors. Support letters are just one component considered during the decision-making process.
8. Can I write a support letter for any inmate in Texas?
Yes, anyone can write a support letter for an inmate, including family, friends, employers, or community members who have knowledge of the inmate’s character.
9. Can I request notification of the parole decision?
Yes, you can request notification of the parole decision by including a self-addressed stamped envelope with the support letter.
10. Can I send a support letter anonymously?
Yes, you can choose to send the letter anonymously. However, providing your contact information may allow the board to verify the authenticity of the letter.
11. Can I attend the parole hearing in person?
Generally, parole hearings are not open to the public. However, victims and their families may have the opportunity to attend and provide input.