TDCJ - W.J. Estelle Unit

09/25/2026

Behind every PEP statistic is a father hoping to reconnect with the people he loves.

09/20/2026

Please help the TDCJ - W.J. Estelle Unit recognize the outstanding commitment and dedication of Officer E. Mbah (5-year award) Officer A. Idakolo (5-year award) Officer O. Olaode (10-year award) Officer D. Smith Officer E. Fonye (5-year award) (20-year award) and Officer F. Nzabonimpa (5-year award), for their service.

07/25/2026

Today, we're proud to recognize Officer P. Amaratunga, who exemplifies what it means to serve with H.E.A.R.T.—Honor, Empathy, Accountability, Respect, and Trust. Through his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication, he sets the standard for correctional excellence and leads by example every day.

Thank you, Officer Amaratunga, for your commitment to the Estelle Unit, your fellow staff, and the mission of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Your service makes a difference, and we are proud to have you on our team.

07/17/2026

Today, we proudly welcome the newest class of Correctional Officers to the Estelle Unit family! We are excited to see the bright future ahead of each of you as you begin a career of service, leadership, and purpose. Your commitment to making a difference starts today, and we're honored to have you on our team.

As you begin this journey, we encourage you to lead with H.E.A.R.T.—Honor, Empathy, Accountability, Respect, Trust. Welcome to the Estelle Unit, and congratulations on the start of an incredible career!

07/16/2026

Please join us in congratulating Captain J. Stephens on his well-deserved promotion at the Estelle Unit!

This promotion is a testament to his unwavering dedication, outstanding leadership, and commitment to excellence. Throughout his career, Captain Stephens has been an invaluable asset to the Estelle Unit, consistently leading by example and making a positive impact on everyone around him.

He is the embodiment of the TDCJ H.E.A.R.T.—Honor, Empathy, Accountability, Respect, Trust. Whether mentoring staff, supporting his fellow officers, or tackling challenges head-on, he demonstrates the professionalism and character that make our agency stronger.

The Estelle Unit is fortunate to continue serving under Captain Stephens' leadership. Congratulations on this well-earned promotion! Wishing you continued success as you take on this new role. You have certainly earned it.

07/09/2026

ATTN: All Agency Employees

FOUR Days to go!

To prepare for the CAPPS go-live, don’t forget to review the CAPPS guides and resources for the below topics and more on our training site: www.tdcj.texas.gov/capps/index.html

•Enrolling and Logging Into CAPPS
•Entering Your Time
•Using Time Reporting Codes

This information is the key to ensuring that your experience logging in to CAPPS on day one is quick and easy! Remember to check your agency email often for important updates.

07/08/2026

Big things are happening in our Prison Entrepreneurship Program Culture Blend Pod. The men took on a “Shark Tank” style challenge, pitching their business plans and receiving personalized coaching from top Houston professionals.

This kind of hands‑on experience fuels confidence, builds leadership, and sets them up for success when they return to their communities. Their potential is powerful.

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is introducing a new set of core values that form the foundation of who we are, what we do, and how we do it. They guide how we serve, support, and lead across the agency.

🌟 H – Honor
🌟 E – Empathy
🌟 A – Accountability
🌟 R – Respect
🌟 T – Trust

Together, these values define our commitment to protecting the public and transforming lives.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/news/HEART_Launched_as_New_Core_Values.html

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06/19/2026

Please help the TDCJ - W.J. Estelle Unit recognize the outstanding commitment and dedication of Reentry Coordinator Tai'Shea Hyde (15-year award), for her service.