AMARILLO -- Texas prisons are facing a critical shortage of officers. They're operating about 3,000 short. Area prisons like Neal, Clements, and the Dalhart units are operating under the state average of about 83%. Dalhart even had to shut down one part of their unit in October. One of the reasons is the inadequate pay to do a dangerous job.
As for security now, they make sure high risk areas like the guard towers, gates, and housing areas have regular staff. But that means low risk areas like the craft shop and the recreational yard usually have fewer officers.

If you are interested in becoming a correctional officer at a Texas prison or any in the Amarillo area visit
www.tdcj.state.tx.us
-Select Employment.
-Select Request CO Screening.
-Choose screening location and date.
-Download and complete the employment application forms.