In a recent move by Governor Greg Abbott, the Commission on Jail Standards sees the appointment of new faces and the assignment of a new chair. As reported on the governor's official website, the commission, which develops regulations concerning the care, custody, and welfare of county inmates and maintenance of county jails, has welcomed four appointments. Kelly Rowe, the Lubbock County Sheriff, steps up as the chair with over three decades in law enforcement under his belt. With the completion of these appointments, the commission looks to uphold the standards for Texas jails with an experienced team at its helm.
Rowe, a figure familiar with law enforcement strategy and practice, brings a wealth of experience to the chair position. Serving in the past as the president of various associations, including the Sheriff’s Association of Texas and the Texas Jail Association, his extensive background is expected to enhance the commission's work. According to the governor's announcement, Rowe has also contributed to the 911 Emergency Communication District and the StarCare Board, among others, bringing a multi-faceted perspective to the table.
Alongside Rowe, Joe Fauth from Plantersville joins the commission. As the Grimes County Judge and vice chairman of Counseling Creations, his leadership roles extend to the National Association of Regional Councils and the Brazos Valley Council of Governments which, as a past chairman, he has seen the organization's various initiatives through. His engagement on both local and regional platforms provides a widespread understanding of Texan jurisdictions and their implications on jail standards.
With Richard Kirkpatrick of Kingsville also appointed, 19 years of his law enforcement expertise, particularly as a canine handler and a criminal interdiction instructor, is injected into the commission. His unique role in innovating law enforcement tools and training individuals worldwide for the United Nations suggests a forward-thinking approach to jail standards. It was during his time working with the United Nations that he was involved in the development of the first fiber optic tire inspection scope, according to the governor's news release.
The commission also reappointed Patricia M. Anthony and Monica McBride, both of whom bring considerable expertise and passion to their terms. Anthony’s 25 years at the Federal Bureau of Prisons and involvement with Women in Federal Law Enforcement lends an authoritative voice to the policy-making process. McBride, from Alpine, bridges diverse avenues with her experience in realty and conservation through her roles in McBride Guide Service and Faro Moro Eco Research. They collectively underscore the commission’s commitment to a balanced and pragmatic consideration of jail standards in Texas.
