The Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) has decided to rename the Mountain View Unit in Gatesville, Texas, to the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit, in honor of former TBCJ Chairman Patrick L. O’Daniel. The name change, which was unanimously approved at the December TBCJ meeting in Huntsville, is a testament to O’Daniel’s exceptional service to the state of Texas and the criminal justice system.
In his address to the board, current Chairman Eric Nichols highlighted the significance of naming facilities and the power that names hold. He expressed his deep admiration for O'Daniel, stating, "Patrick O’Daniel’s legacy will long outlast his time on this board." Nichols praised O'Daniel's commitment to public service and his instrumental role in implementing programs such as STRIVE, which have made a positive impact on the inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The Mountain View Unit, originally established in 1962 as a school for boys and later acquired by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in 1975, is currently home to general custody, security detention, and death row female inmates. With a maximum capacity of 644, the facility provides various educational and faith-based programs, including the STRIVE program, as well as operating a braille facility and agricultural operations.
Patrick L. O'Daniel, a distinguished graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and The University of Texas School of Law, served on the Texas Board of Criminal Justice from March 2017 to 2023 and was appointed chairman in January 2020. During his tenure, O'Daniel played a crucial role in the agency's response to the global pandemic, leading to significant achievements such as historic salary increases for correctional officers and the establishment of the Office of the Independent Ombudsman. He also focused on enhancing rehabilitation and faith-based programming within the prison system.
O'Daniel's dedication and leadership were not limited to the TBCJ. He made significant contributions to the Windham School District, improving access to prison libraries, securing salary adjustments for teachers, and implementing a technology plan to support classroom instruction and digital literacy.
Chairman Nichols expressed the TBCJ's deep appreciation for O'Daniel's loyal service, integrity, and tenacity. The renaming of the Mountain View Unit to the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit stands as a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions.
A ceremony dedicated to O'Daniel will be announced at a later date, celebrating his legacy and the impact he has left on the criminal justice system in Texas.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/connections/-articles/2024/20240105_O'Daniel_Unit.html
