Texas Commission on Jail Standards

07/22/2026

The Texas Commission on Jail Standards is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our friend and colleague, Cathi Williamson.

As a valued member of our agency, Cathi served with professionalism, kindness, and compassion. In her role in HR she welcomed, supported, and encouraged countless employees throughout the years. Her caring spirit and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working with her.

Beyond the office, Cathi had a deep love for animals, especially her horses, dogs, and cats. She also had the greenest thumb that she loved to share tips and tricks about how to grow a thriving garden.

Cathi's dedication to our agency and the friendships she built will not be forgotten. She will be greatly missed by all of us at TCJS.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Cathi's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as we remember and celebrate her life.

Rest in peace, Cathi.

06/24/2026

We are saddened to hear about the passing of Sheriff Mendoza in Knox County. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friend’s, and fellow coworkers. May he rest in peace.

It is with broken hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Sheriff Mendoza.

Today, Knox County lost more than a Sheriff. We lost a leader, a mentor, a protector, and a friend. We lost a man who dedicated his entire adult life to serving others before himself.

Sheriff Mendoza proudly served our nation for 4 years in the United States Army, answering the call to defend our country. When his military service ended, his commitment to serving others did not. He continued that calling in law enforcement, dedicating over two decades to protecting the people of Knox County and the surrounding communities.

His journey began as a Deputy Sheriff. Through hard work, dedication, and a heart for service, he became Chief of Police in Knox City, then Chief of Police in Munday, and ultimately the Sheriff of Knox County. Every badge he wore and every title he held was earned through sacrifice, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the people he served.

For those who worked beside him, Sheriff Mendoza was more than a boss. He was the steady voice during difficult times, the person who would answer the phone no matter the hour, and the man who always put his community and his deputies first. He believed in people, believed in service, and believed that taking care of others was one of life's greatest responsibilities.

The roads of Knox County will feel a little emptier. The Sheriff's Office will be a little quieter. The communities he loved will never be quite the same. His boots may no longer walk these halls, but his legacy will remain in every deputy he mentored, every life he touched, and every citizen he served.

While our hearts ache, we find comfort in knowing that his service here is complete. His watch has ended, but the impact he made will live on for generations.

Please join us in praying for the Mendoza family, his friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Sheriff, thank you for your service, your leadership, your friendship, and your sacrifice. We will carry on the mission, and we will never forget you.

Rest easy, Sheriff Mendoza. We'll take it from here.

06/18/2026

We would like to congratulate our very own Becky Perez on her promotion to the South East Region’s Field Inspector! We are excited to see you do great things on the road.

06/17/2026

A couple staff members recently attended the Texas Demographic’s Center conference here in Austin to help understand more about our growing state! Staying up to date with the most recent growth trends is key in helping counties adjust to their individual needs.

05/27/2026

We would like to congratulate our very own Jason Jouett on his promotion to Deputy Director here at the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. We look forward to the great things you’ll do! 👏

05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from TCJS. We thank and remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

05/20/2026

The Texas Jail Association Regionals were hosted by Melvin Bowser of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards and TJA Board Member Jason Davis in Milam County on April 6th.

The next class is scheduled for April 13th in Milam County; register now at www.texasjailassociation.com.

05/20/2026

05/11/2026

This past week, TCJS staff have been very busy attending the Texas Jail Association’s Annual Conference held in San Marcos, TX.

We’d like to thank all the TJA board members and attendees for wonderful week of classes and networking to help create a safer environment within our county jails and for each correctional officer who make a sacrifice each and every day to uphold that safety.

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day to all the hard working moms out there!

-TCJS