Sean Thierry, nominated to serve on the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) Board, told the Senate Committee on Nominations that he brings legislative experience and a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Thierry, introduced by Vice Chair Hagenbuch on behalf of Senator Middleton, described his legal and legislative background and said he would work to strengthen the board’s policy engagement and oversight. Responding to a committee question about a Sunset review that found the board was not adequately engaged in policymaking, Thierry said he is one of the newest board members and that during his brief tenure he has witnessed and participated in tougher, more engaged conversations at board meetings.

On the Department of Justice (DOJ) report that documented abuse and systemic issues at TJJD, Thierry said he had read the report and was "blown away" and "mortified" by its findings. He told the committee the department is working to correct problems, noting the legislature had appropriated additional funding and that the department is increasing staffing, improving screening and training and building smaller facilities to reduce lockdowns caused by understaffing.

Thierry said he serves on the board’s parole reentry committee and the finance and audit committee and emphasized that reducing recidivism and improving education, counseling and trauma-informed care for youth in custody are priorities. He told senators he plans to prioritize engagement with local providers and counties to keep youth closer to home where appropriate and to ensure funds are used effectively.