Executive Administrative Services

Communications Department

The Communications Department serves as the external and internal communications arm of the agency.

Communications’ external functions include working with news media throughout the world to tell the TDCJ story and assisting reporters in covering prison events and understanding the objectives of the agency. Information is given to news media as allowed by TDCJ policy and according to current state public information laws. In addition, the department is responsible for the content and delivery of the agency social media channels and website.

• Executive Directive on News Media Relations - As a public agency, the TDCJ shall maintain a position of cooperation and responsiveness in informing the media concerning TDCJ operations and accomplishments. The actions of the TDCJ shall reflect this position. News media shall have access to inmates to the extent that such access does not disrupt the safe and secure operation of the unit/facility, impair the rehabilitation of an inmate, or detract from the deterrence of crime.
  
  
• Media Policies Regarding Inmate Interviews - Information for news media representatives who wish to interview an inmate at a TDCJ unit, including approval procedure, interview restrictions, dress code, restricted items, etc.

Communications’ internal functions include the production of training videos, providing photography services and photo archive management, and supplying stock video and photos to other criminal justice agencies, news media, and educators. The department also provides audiovisual support for bimonthly TBCJ meetings and special events.

Criminal Justice Connections is an online news website for employees, which can be accessed by clicking on the Connections link on the TDCJ home webpage. Connections Now is a digital broadcast of agency related news for TDCJ staff. Communications also produces the TDCJ Annual Review and regularly updates the TDCJ Phone and Address Directory.