Parole panel orders work release and interstate-compact steps for Terrell Johnson instead of revocation

The Committee on Parole reviewed the case of Terrell Cortez Johnson (DOC number 721101) and, by majority, decided April–May 2025 to place him in a work-release program and assist with an interstate compact transfer to Texas instead of revoking his supervision.

Johnson acknowledged multiple supervision violations, including moving from his address of record without notifying his parole officer, an arrest in Texas with subsequent dismissal of an assault charge, and a guilty plea to resisting arrest in Brazos County, Texas. He told the panel he went to Texas for perceived safety and housing with his mother; facility staff and a public defender’s letter confirmed he had no disciplinary write-ups while detained in Brazos County and had planned substance-abuse treatment.

The panel heard from Kimberly Gard and representatives of First Pentecostal Church of Bryan, who offered a support network and employment opportunities in Bryan, Texas. Panel members discussed interstate-compact procedure and emphasized that a transfer requires formal approvals and fees. One panelist (Pete Freeman) voted to revoke based on prior revocations and absconding history; two panelists voted instead to place Johnson in work release, require he complete the interstate-compact process, and connect with the Bryan church after transfer approval.

The panel directed DOC/probation staff to provide paperwork and assist Johnson with compact paperwork and to enforce conditions of work release pending any transfer approval.