Thursday, May 2, 2024
A Texas prison facility in Gatesville has received a name change, according to a news release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
Formerly known as the Mountain View Unit, the Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) has renamed the prison to the Patrick L. O'Daniel Unit in honor of a former chairman and his service to the criminal justice system.
The name change passed by a unanimous vote at the December TBCJ meeting in Huntsville. Current Chairman Eric Nichols commented on the former chairman’s legacy during his address to the board:
“One of the responsibilities of this Board is to approve the naming of facilities that fall under the purview of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. It is a distinct honor because words have meaning, and names have power. This is particularly true for buildings. The name can represent its mission; it may reference a historical figure or an individual who accomplished great things, so choosing it is important. I have the distinct privilege of recognizing a great man who once led this board and who cares deeply about public service,” Nichols said. “Patrick O’Daniel’s legacy will long outlast his time on this board. Today, I recommend that we rename the facility where he spent so much time. The facility has numerous programs that provide individuals with the tools they need to turn their lives around successfully. Those programs, such as STRIVE, are a direct result of Mr. O’Daniel’s pursuit to positively impact the men and women inside our prisons.”
The unit first opened in 1962 as a school for boys before it was acquired by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in 1975. It currently houses general custody, security detention, and death row female inmates.
With a maximum capacity of 644, the facility is also home to various educational and faith-based programs, including the Strength Through Restoration, Independence, Vision and Empowerment (STRIVE) program, as well as the braille facility and agricultural operations.
O’Daniel served on the TBCJ from March 2017 to 2023 and was appointed chairman in January 2020. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the agency’s response to the global pandemic, leading to achievements such as historic salary increases for correctional officers, the establishment of the Office of the Independent Ombudsman, and enhanced rehabilitation and faith-based programming. He is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and The University of Texas School of Law.
O’Daniel’s dedication and leadership has also had an impact on providing educational services to inmates through the Windham School District, resulting in improved access to prison libraries, salary adjustments for teachers, and the implementation of a technology plan to support classroom instruction and digital literacy.
“The TBCJ and TDCJ express their deep appreciation for Mr. O’Daniel’s loyal service, integrity, and tenacity,” Nichols said. “The renaming of the Mountain View Unit to the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit serves as a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions.”
A renaming ceremony dedicated to O’Daniel will be announced at a later date.
