Texas Juvenile Justice Department, Office of the Independent Ombudsperson

The Independent Ombudsman is a state agency established for the purpose of investigating, evaluating, and securing the rights of the children committed to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD).

Before contacting the Independent Ombudsman, you should try to resolve complaints through the TJJD grievance process. After going through the grievance process, if the problem remains unsolved, contact the Independent Ombudsman for assistance. When you believe the health, safety, welfare, or rights of a youth in TJJD have been negatively affected, it is important to contact the Independent Ombudsman.

To report non-emergency allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of TJJC youth, contact the Office of the Independent Ombudsperson by mail, via the 24-hour hotline, or by email.

The hotline is free for youth in TJJC facilities using the phones in their dorms.