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 advises the board and director of the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments regarding issues related to offenders who have medical or mental health needs.
The appointments are intended to strengthen oversight and guidance for addressing the complex needs of individuals within the criminal justice system who face health challenges. The committee’s work supports ongoing efforts in Texas to provide appropriate services for these populations.
Blake Harris is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist from Belton. He previously directed veterans’ mental health at the Texas Veterans Commission and serves as an executive council member of the Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative. Stacey Mathews is a judge in Williamson County’s 277th District Court and is involved in several judicial committees focused on mental health. Trent Marshall is an attorney based in Burleson who has served in both legal practice and military service. Casey O’Neal provides clinical and forensic psychology services in Austin, while Nelda Cacciotti serves as Associate Judge of Probate Court No. 2 in Tarrant County.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to statewide job growth, record employment levels, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security since his election in 2014. The office maintains its primary location at the State Insurance Building in Austin but delivers services throughout Texas.
Governor Abbott was also recognized among TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People list for 2024 according to official sources.
The newly appointed members are expected to continue advising on matters that affect offenders with medical or mental impairments as part of broader state initiatives led by Governor Abbott.
