AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas prison system is making it easier and safer to handle court appearances.
On Tuesday, the Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) announced it’s expanding a program that lets inmates appear in court virtually without leaving prison.
Officials say it saves money on inmate transportation and reduces security risks.
The state plans to keep expanding the program through 2030, adding new equipment to prison law libraries and improving internet connections for video court appearances.
“The shift to videoconference platforms in Texas courts proved that access to courts need not be limited to traditional courtroom settings,” said TDCJ Chief of Staff Rachelle White. “Rather, technology can help remove barriers, reduce safety risks and streamline legal proceedings.”
TDCJ said the Virtual Court Program reduces the need for bench warrants and extraditions to county custody, which in turn reduces transportation and housing costs at the county level.
“TDCJ Virtual Court is such a wonderful asset to our court system,” said Jennifer M. Dillingham, 81st Judicial District judge representing Atascosa, Frio, Karnes, LaSalle and Wilson counties. “By allowing a defendant to appear remotely, it greatly improves court efficiency and allows the defendant to minimize disruption while having access to open court. The program has helped us improve the flow of our docket, and we were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the program.”