The Code of Ethics in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is a state agency that provides public safety, promotes positive offender change and reintegration into the society, and assists victims of crime. The TDCJ has a Code of Ethical Conduct that guides the behavior and actions of its employees, especially the community supervision officers who are responsible for supervising offenders on probation or parole. The Code of Ethical Conduct is based on the principles of honesty, integrity, impartiality, respect, professionalism and accountability.
The Code of Ethical Conduct has several provisions that outline the expectations and obligations of the TDCJ employees. Some of these provisions are:
– Maintain the highest standards of honesty, integrity and impartiality. Uphold all federal, state and local laws, and adhere to the agency’s policies, procedures, rules and regulations.
– Be firm, fair and consistent in the performance of your duties, without retribution, retaliation, harassment or abuse toward others.
– Provide and support the provision of humane custody, supervision and care of offenders.
– Not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, geographic location or economic status.
– Not sexually harass or condone sexual harassment against any person, and report any violations of this policy to the appropriate authorities.
– Maintain confidentiality of information that has been entrusted to you, in your official capacity, unless legally compelled or authorized to release the information.
– Not use your official position for unauthorized personal gain or the unauthorized personal gain of your friends or family.
– Not conduct yourself in any manner which may lead any person or entity to expect official favors.
– Recognize that the Code of Ethical Conduct is a symbol of the agency’s commitment to the public and a direct reflection on you as an individual.
The Code of Ethical Conduct also specifies that TDCJ employees are servants of the court and must faithfully serve the court’s orders and instructions. They must also provide accurate and objective information to the court and the department, exercise care to verify pertinent factual information presented to the court, formulate an informed and unbiased judgment when making recommendations to the court, and promptly inform the court of any violation of or deviation from the court’s instructions and orders as directed by the court. Furthermore, they must endeavor to maintain the integrity and independence of the judiciary and not use their official position for partisan political objectives or personal biases.
The Code of Ethical Conduct is a practical guide for all TDCJ employees to follow in order to uphold the agency’s mission and values. It is also a tool for enhancing public trust and confidence in the TDCJ and its employees. By adhering to the Code of Ethical Conduct, TDCJ employees demonstrate their professionalism and dedication to serving the people of Texas.
References:
Code of Ethics – Texas Department of Criminal Justice. (n.d.). Retrieved January 8, 2024, from https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/divisions/ace/ethics/ethics_code_of_ethics.html
CJAD Code of Ethics – Texas Department of Criminal Justice. (n.d.). Retrieved January 8, 2024, from https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/documents/cjad/CJAD_code_of_ethics.pdf
Advisory Council on Ethics – Code of Ethical Conduct. (n.d.). Retrieved January 8, 2024, from https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/divisions/ace/ace_code_of_ethical_conduct.html
