Being from Hispanic/Mexican Ancestry, I have never been ashamed to identify as such until I started working for TDCJ. I'm not sure if it's lack of education, lack of Diversity or just straight up racism. So many of the Officers assigned to Lopez or at least the two shifts I've worked are probably related to or are actually members of gangs. They are way too familiar and friendly with the Hispanic Prison Population and use nicknames like it's acceptable. So much policy violation is swept under the rug and ignored. The Supervisors pretend it doesn't exist just so they can get along. These Vallucos need to be investigated and weeded out, they're making us hard working and honest Officers look bad.
On state jails across the state a lot of the state jail staff went to school, played sports, lived in the same area with the inmates. If you have documented proof that staff members are gang members, send it to your elected officials (governor, state senator, state legislature). I would also send it to all the members of the House Corrections Committee. Collier and Mendoza will not do anything unless they get pressure from elected officials or the media. I was present when Mendoza said, “keep the legislature out of our business, talk to us first.” We informed him and he did absolutely NOTHING.” I wouldn’t trust going to him!