1409. Office of the Governor 41 September 23 TO: FROM: RE: Austin, Texas 78711 Phone (512) 475-3901 _____MEW)_____________________________ IA, pc) /44:49 ;4 °"'"" ALTC4412.4.:-1,. 0- itAA& 41°441"7- Ruben Torres 4u4t Imea.lbb P'44(-- Johnny R. McCollum ZPOL VI IDIAjki;e( Population of the Texas Department of Corrections Larry Farnsworth, of the TDC Research and Development Department, has called me today and advised me that TDC population as of mid- night, September 22, 1981, was 30,724. As of September 18, 1981, TDC had sufficient beds to house 31,332 inmates. Although there is an excess of 700 beds, the vast majority of the excess bed space is on the female units. TDC is in a crisis situation, and pros- pects for its continued operation are diminis-hing. TDC population on September 4, 1981, was 30,283. The current popu- lation reflects an increase of 461 inmate7-77-77Ty twenty (20_) It is obvious that release mechanisms have fallen behind the number of inmates received in a rapid manner. A review of parole recommendations received since August 1, 1981, through September 23, 1981, reflect 542 parole recommendations made, while the same period of 1980 reflect 1,444 parole recommendations. Although the Conditional Parole Program would reduce the number of regular parole recommendations made, I seriously doubt that the re- duction would be so dramatic, especially in view of the increased population of TDC since last year. It is my opinion that a large number of parole cases are either waiting for institutional parole fficers' interview, awaiting action by the Parole Commissioners, action by Board Members, or a combination of these. It is obvious that immediate action must be taken. Absent action, I predict TDC will be closed to new admissions by October 15, 1981. Additionally, I have noticed a large number of parole recommendations where a set-off was made, either by the Commissioners or by the Gov- ernor, and then only two Board Members are marking the case "Flu. This I do not understand. While I think it would be entirely proper to re- review these cases for possible participation in the Conditional Parole . Program, the cases are being recommended for regular parole, without further updates by institutional officers. An explanation of this would be most appreciated. 6,A00LAAJ4srill."-- (AJJ- °?Y‘9 44-Tr#1/4 %4Y MY5Lfte% \'`°v4r.-1 Clemency Director -a