Letter of Protest
What is a letter of Protest?
A letter of protest is a letter you write that expresses your fear and feelings about the possibility of the offender’s release. THIS IS YOUR TIME. Let the Parole Board know why you feel the offender should not be released. We realize the frustration of writing a letter every time the offender may be reviewed, however, if you do not want the offender released, you should definitely write a protest letter each time there is a review. ONLY YOU, the victim, can decide what is best for you. If you feel the same today as you did the day the offense occurred, if you are still angry, hurt, or fighting to make one more day, you may find it necessary to advise the BOARD. As a victim, you may ask for a three year set-off before the case is reviewed again, but there is no guarantee that the Board will set the case off that long. It could be reviewed again the following year.
When do I write a Letter of Protest?
Start sending protest letters at the time you are notified by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Victim Services or the District Attorneys office of the offender being considered for parole. Keep your address and phone number updated to ensure you are notified. You can call TDJC Victim Services hotline at 1-800-848-4284 and the Denton County District Attorneys office at 940-349-2600 to update your information. Please not you must call both office to ensure updates.
Who can write a Letter of Protest?
Along with your letter some victims have family, friends, and concerned citizens throughout their community protest, even start a petition. ALL letters will be placed in the offender’s permanent record.
What other items do I include?
You have the option of asking for special conditions, such as no contact with you or your family. You may also ask that the offender not be released to your countyor surrounding counties. You may request a meeting with the Board; THAT IS YOUR RIGHT.
Where do I send my Letter of Protest?
Please send you letter of protest to the following address:
Angie McCown, Director Service Division
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
P.O. Box 13401
Austin, Texas 78711-3401
OR Email to : victim.svc@tdcj.texas.gov
** if you mail the letter , please print on color paper.
*** -Please write one letter per brother and include inmate number
- Damonta Skinner SID-18699304, TDCJ -02539324
- Denyrion Skinner SID-19945028, TDCJ- 02542430