Governor Greg Abbott appointed Blake Harris, Ph.D., Stacey Mathews, and Nelda Cacciotti, and reappointed Trent Marshall and Casey O’Neal, Ph.D., to the Advisory Committee to the Texas Board of Criminal Justice on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments for terms expiring in 2029 and 2031, according to an April 1 announcement. The committee provides guidance to the board and director of the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments regarding matters related to offenders who have medical or mental health needs.
The appointments are part of ongoing efforts by state leadership to address challenges faced by individuals within the criminal justice system who require specialized care. The committee is tasked with advising on policy and performing duties as assigned by the board.
Blake Harris is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist from Belton who has previously directed veterans’ mental health programs at the Texas Veterans Commission. He also serves as an executive council member for suicide prevention initiatives. Stacey Mathews is a district court judge in Williamson County involved in various oversight boards and judicial commissions focusing on mental health. Trent Marshall is an attorney based in Burleson with experience serving in legal associations and military service in the Texas Army National Guard. Casey O’Neal practices clinical and forensic psychology in Austin, holding leadership roles within professional associations related to treatment services. Nelda Cacciotti serves as Associate Judge of Probate Court No. 2 in Tarrant County, participating actively in bar associations and judicial commissions focused on mental health issues.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to job growth across Texas while maintaining its primary offices at the State Insurance Building in Austin. The office delivers statewide services under Abbott’s leadership since his election in 2014 according to official information. Governor Abbott was also recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024 according to official records.
The governor’s priorities include job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment regarding schooling choices, and southern border security according to official sources.
These appointments reflect ongoing efforts by state officials toward improving support systems for vulnerable populations within Texas’ criminal justice framework.
