Understanding the Importance of Parole Support Letters
A Texas parole support letter can significantly impact an inmate’s chances of being granted parole. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles carefully considers these letters as they provide valuable insight into the inmate’s character, rehabilitation efforts, and potential for successful reintegration into society. These letters offer a perspective beyond the inmate’s record and can highlight positive changes and contributions made during incarceration.
Key Elements of a Strong Support Letter
An effective support letter typically includes several essential elements. Clearly state your relationship to the inmate. Describe your understanding of their offense and acceptance of responsibility. Provide specific examples of their positive behavior and growth during their incarceration, citing programs they have completed and actions they have taken. Most importantly, clearly express your willingness to support them upon release, including housing, employment, or emotional support. Avoid making excuses for their crime; instead, focus on their positive attributes and plans for a better future.
Crafting a Persuasive Narrative
Your letter should tell a story. Share personal anecdotes that illustrate the inmate’s positive qualities and their desire for change. Demonstrate how their release will benefit not only them but also their family and the community. Highlight their potential to become a productive member of society. Authenticity is crucial; write from the heart and let your genuine concern shine through. Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling, as this reflects attention to detail and the seriousness of your commitment.
Submitting and Following Up
Ensure that your letter is addressed correctly to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. Include the inmate’s full name and TDCJ number. Submit the letter well in advance of the parole review date to allow ample time for consideration. While a follow-up phone call may not be appropriate, you can confirm with the inmate or their attorney that the letter was received. Remember that the cumulative effect of multiple strong support letters can be powerful.
12 Sample Texas Parole Support Letters
Sample Letter 1: Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am [Inmate’s Name]’s [Relationship – e.g., mother, brother, wife]. I am writing to express my strong support for [him/her] being granted parole.
I understand the seriousness of the crime [he/she] committed, and I have been deeply affected by it. However, I have also witnessed [his/her] sincere remorse and commitment to change during [his/her] incarceration.
[He/She] has actively participated in [mention specific programs, e.g., anger management, substance abuse treatment, vocational training]. [He/She] has also [mention positive actions, e.g., mentored other inmates, obtained a GED, maintained a clean disciplinary record].
Upon release, I am committed to providing [him/her] with [mention specific support, e.g., housing, transportation, job search assistance, emotional support]. I believe that [he/she] is ready to re-enter society as a productive and law-abiding citizen.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 2: Friend
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I have been a friend of [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years. I am writing to advocate for [his/her] release on parole.
While I acknowledge the gravity of [his/her] offense, I also know [him/her] as a person of good character who made a mistake. I have seen [him/her] take responsibility for [his/her] actions and demonstrate a genuine desire to make amends.
During [his/her] incarceration, [he/she] has [mention specific examples of positive behavior and growth, e.g., earned a certificate in [trade], become a mentor to younger inmates, consistently participated in religious services]. These actions demonstrate a commitment to self-improvement and a desire to lead a better life.
I am prepared to offer [him/her] [mention specific support, e.g., a place to stay, assistance with finding employment, a supportive environment] upon release. I believe that with the right support, [he/she] can successfully reintegrate into society and become a contributing member of our community.
Thank you for considering my letter of support.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 3: Employer (Potential)
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Title] at [Company Name]. I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
I have learned about [Inmate’s Name]’s situation through [How you learned about them – e.g., a mutual acquaintance, a family member]. While I am aware of [his/her] past offense, I am impressed by [his/her] desire to rehabilitate and contribute to society.
Based on my understanding of [his/her] skills and qualifications [mention specific skills related to your industry, learned inside or outside prison], I am prepared to offer [him/her] a position at [Company Name] as a [Job Title] upon [his/her] release. This position would involve [briefly describe job duties].
I believe that providing [him/her] with an opportunity for employment will be crucial to [his/her] successful reintegration into society. I am confident that [he/she] will be a valuable and reliable employee.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 4: Mentor/Spiritual Advisor
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Organization Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I serve as a [Your Title/Position] at [Organization Name]. I have been mentoring [Inmate’s Name] for the past [Number] years and am writing to strongly support [his/her] request for parole.
I have witnessed firsthand the significant positive changes [Inmate’s Name] has made in [his/her] life during [his/her] incarceration. [He/She] has consistently demonstrated remorse for [his/her] past actions and a sincere commitment to leading a law-abiding life.
[He/She] actively participates in [mention specific programs, e.g., religious services, support groups, educational classes] and consistently seeks guidance and support from me. [He/She] has shown remarkable growth in [mention specific areas, e.g., self-awareness, empathy, emotional regulation].
I am confident that [Inmate’s Name] is ready to re-enter society and make a positive contribution. I am committed to continuing to provide [him/her] with guidance and support upon release. I believe that with the support of the community, [he/she] can successfully reintegrate and live a fulfilling life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 5: Victim Advocate/Support Group
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Title] at [Organization Name]. We provide support services to victims of [Type of Crime related to Inmate’s Offense]. While it may seem unusual for someone in my position to write a letter of support for an inmate, I believe that in certain circumstances, it is warranted.
I have been working with [Inmate’s Name] as part of a restorative justice program [Or other relevant program, if applicable]. I have observed a deep understanding of the impact of [his/her] crime on the victim(s) and a genuine remorse for the harm caused. [He/She] has actively participated in programs designed to promote empathy and accountability.
[He/She] understands that parole is not a right, but a privilege, and I believe that [he/she] is committed to making amends for [his/her] past actions by living a law-abiding and productive life.
My support is contingent upon [him/her] continuing to participate in restorative justice practices and acknowledging the harm caused to the victim(s). I believe that [his/her] release, under proper supervision, can contribute to the healing process for all involved.
Thank you for considering my perspective.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 6: Former Teacher/Educator
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School/Institution Name]
[School Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I was [Inmate’s Name]’s [Teacher/Professor] at [School/Institution Name] from [Start Year] to [End Year]. I am writing to express my support for [his/her] parole.
During [his/her] time in my class, [Inmate’s Name] demonstrated [mention positive qualities, e.g., intelligence, curiosity, a willingness to learn, respect for others]. I was always impressed by [his/her] [specific examples of positive behavior].
I understand that [he/she] made a serious mistake, but I believe that people are capable of change and growth. I have heard that [Inmate’s Name] has been actively involved in educational programs and has demonstrated a strong desire to turn [his/her] life around.
I am confident that [he/she] has the potential to become a productive and contributing member of society. I am willing to offer [him/her] [mention specific support, e.g., mentorship, guidance, networking opportunities] upon [his/her] release.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 7: Co-worker (Former)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I was a co-worker of [Inmate’s Name] at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I am writing to support his/her release on parole.
During the time that I worked with [Inmate’s Name], I found him/her to be [mention positive qualities, e.g., hardworking, reliable, a team player, helpful]. He/She was always willing to go the extra mile and was well-respected by his/her colleagues.
While I am aware of his/her past offense, I believe that [Inmate’s Name] is a good person who made a mistake. I have heard that he/she has taken responsibility for his/her actions and has been working hard to rehabilitate himself/herself.
I am willing to offer [him/her] assistance with [mention specific support, e.g., job searching, networking, transportation] upon his/her release. I believe that with the right support, he/she can successfully reintegrate into society.
Thank you for considering my letter of support.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 8: Church/Community Leader
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Title/Position] at [Organization Name]. I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years as a member of our [Church/Community]. While I am aware of the crime he/she committed, I have also witnessed his/her sincere remorse and dedication to changing his/her life.
During his/her incarceration, [Inmate’s Name] has actively participated in [mention specific programs, e.g., religious studies, community service projects within the prison, leadership roles]. He/She has demonstrated a genuine desire to make amends for his/her past actions and to become a better person.
Our [Church/Community] is committed to providing [him/her] with a supportive and welcoming environment upon release. We can offer [mention specific support, e.g., spiritual guidance, fellowship, assistance with finding housing or employment]. We believe that [Inmate’s Name] has the potential to become a valuable member of our community and to make a positive contribution to society.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 9: Volunteer Coordinator
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am the Volunteer Coordinator at [Organization Name]. I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
I have been working with [Inmate’s Name] within the prison system as he/she has volunteered his/her time to [mention specific volunteer activities, e.g., tutoring other inmates, assisting with library services, participating in animal care programs]. I have been consistently impressed by his/her [mention positive qualities, e.g., dedication, compassion, work ethic].
Despite his/her own circumstances, [Inmate’s Name] has consistently shown a desire to help others and to make a positive contribution. He/She is a valued member of our volunteer team.
While I am aware of the crime he/she committed, I believe that his/her volunteer work demonstrates a commitment to rehabilitation and a desire to make amends for his/her past actions. I am confident that he/she will continue to be a valuable asset to the community upon his/her release.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 10: Substance Abuse Counselor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor at [Organization Name] within the [Name of Prison]. I am writing to advocate for the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
[Inmate’s Name] has been a dedicated participant in our substance abuse treatment program for [Duration of Participation]. He/She has actively engaged in individual and group therapy sessions, demonstrating a strong commitment to recovery.
[He/She] has successfully completed [mention specific program components, e.g., relapse prevention training, cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step program]. [He/She] has also shown a willingness to confront his/her past behaviors and to develop healthy coping mechanisms.
I believe that [Inmate’s Name] has made significant progress in addressing his/her substance abuse issues and is well-prepared to maintain sobriety upon release. I recommend that he/she continue to participate in aftercare services in the community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 11: Mental Health Professional
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am a Licensed [Type of Mental Health Professional] working with inmates at [Name of Correctional Facility]. I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
I have been providing mental health services to [Inmate’s Name] for [Duration of Treatment]. He/She has been actively participating in therapy sessions and demonstrating a commitment to addressing [his/her] mental health concerns.
[He/She] has shown significant progress in [mention specific areas of improvement, e.g., managing anger, reducing anxiety, improving coping skills]. [He/She] understands the importance of ongoing treatment and is willing to continue seeking mental health services upon release.
I believe that with proper support and continued treatment, [Inmate’s Name] can successfully reintegrate into society and live a law-abiding life. I recommend that parole include a condition requiring participation in mental health services in the community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 12: Close Family Member (Child)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
RE: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ # [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am [Inmate’s Name]’s son/daughter. I am [Age] years old. I am writing this letter because I want my mom/dad to come home.
I know my mom/dad made a mistake, and it made me very sad. But I miss [him/her] a lot. [He/She] writes me letters and calls me sometimes, and [he/she] always asks about school and tells me to be good.
[He/She] promises that [he/she] will be a better mom/dad when [he/she] comes home. I really want [him/her] to be here so we can [mention specific activities, e.g., go to the park, play games, have dinner together].
Please let my mom/dad come home. I will be so happy.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature – if possible, otherwise just typed name]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion: Making Your Voice Heard
Writing a Texas parole support letter requires careful consideration and a genuine desire to advocate for the inmate’s release. By following the guidelines and utilizing the samples provided, you can craft a compelling letter that effectively communicates the inmate’s positive qualities, rehabilitation efforts, and potential for successful reintegration into society. Remember that your voice can make a difference in the lives of both the inmate and their family.