In a move that further reflects his commitment to addressing the needs of those affected by crime in Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has made a significant appointment to the Crime Victims' Institute Advisory Council, as reported yesterday. He appointed Representative John Smithee and Alexis Nungaray and reappointed Senator Joan Huffman along with five other members with diverse backgrounds in the legal and victim services arenas, according to the Office of the Texas Governor.
Appointee John Smithee of Amarillo, as stated by the Office of the Texas Governor, "represents Texas House District 86 and is chair of the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee." With the legal expertise honed as an attorney and grounded in his education from West Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University School of Law, Smithee's experience is expected to be invaluable to the Council. Alexis Nungaray from Houston joins him as an 'angel mom' and vocal advocate for crime victims, bringing the perspective of those directly affected to the table, as stated by the Office of the Texas Governor.
Senator Joan Huffman's reappointment adds her extensive legal and legislative experience to the body. According to the Office of the Texas Governor announcement, Huffman, hailing from Houston, has served as both Chief Felony Prosecutor and Judge prior to her current Senate tenure. Fellow reappointee Lee Ann Breading of Denton, currently a District Judge, boasts certifications and legal expertise that further diversify the council's expertise. Libby Hamilton, from San Antonio, with her focus on post-conviction victim services, contributes a distinct, critical viewpoint on the long-term impacts of crime.
Also returning to the council is Emmitt Jackson, Jr. of Argyle, bringing his law enforcement background to the advisory council having served with the Dallas Police Department and as Chief of Police for Argyle. Brandi Reed, CEO of Family Support Services of Amarillo, also reappointed, offers her experience in victim advocacy and trauma-informed care. Finally, Erleigh Wiley of Mabank, returns with her prosecutorial experience and community service record, completing the appointments aimed at deepening the Council's analysis of crime's societal impact, as per the Office of the Texas Governor.
The Advisory Council, as outlined by the Office of the Texas Governor, is tasked with "conducting an in-depth analysis of the impact of crime on victims, close relatives of deceased victims, guardians of victims and society." The diverse make-up of this council ensures a wide range of perspectives will inform their critical assessments. Each member will serve a term set to conclude on January 31, 2027, offering them ample opportunity to make a lasting impact in their new roles.
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