ERIKA A. GAMBRELL
Houston
Summary
Criminal justice expert with extensive experience in structured interviews, risk evaluations, and court documentation for justice-involved individuals. Proficient in synthesizing data, conducting background checks, and creating assessment reports to aid judicial decisions. Recognized for managing high caseloads and precise electronic documentation, committed to evidence-based practices enhancing client outcomes and reducing recidivism.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
CPI Child Protective Investigator
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
Houston
08.2023 - 10.2025
- Conduct structured and semi-structured interviews with youth, caregivers, and collateral sources to assess safety, risk, and service needs.
- Perform comprehensive background checks and review criminal justice, social service, and historical case records to support investigative findings.
- Analyze collateral information and interview data to identify risk factors, protective factors, and appropriate service recommendations.
- Prepare detailed, court-ready reports summarizing investigative findings and recommended interventions.
- Maintain accurate, timely case documentation within IMPACT and CLASS electronic case management systems.
- Manage high-volume caseload while consistently meeting strict legal and agency deadlines.
- Collaborate with attorneys, law enforcement, medical providers, educators, and community partners.
- Conduct home, school, and community field visits to verify information and assess supervision.
Special Education Teacher
Sharp Minds Academy
01.2022 - 08.2023
- Implemented structured behavior interventions and progress monitoring.
- Conducted regular parent conferences and multidisciplinary team meetings.
- Strengthened crisis response, documentation, and youth supervision skills transferable to justice settings.
Prairie View City Council Intern
City of Prairie View
Prairie View
01.2021 - 08.2021
- Supported community engagement initiatives and public service coordination.
- Assisted with interagency communication and administrative documentation.
- Developed strong governmental and professional communication skills.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Texas Southern University
Houston, TX08-2023
Bachelor of Arts - Poltical Science
Prairie View A&M University
Prairie View, TX08-2021
Skills
- Risk and needs assessment
- Structured and semi-structured interviews
- Background checks and records analysis
- Court report writing and testimony support
- Electronic case management
- Collateral information review
- Evidence-based decision making
- Crisis assessment and safety planning
- Interagency collaboration
Additional Qualifications
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and behavior dynamics in justice-involved populations
- Strong professional writing skills suitable for court and judicial review
- Experienced in compliance monitoring, statistical tracking, and documentation accuracy
- Skilled in interviewing individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
Timeline
CPI Child Protective Investigator
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
08.2023 - 10.2025
Special Education Teacher
Sharp Minds Academy
01.2022 - 08.2023
Prairie View City Council Intern
City of Prairie View
01.2021 - 08.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Texas Southern University
Bachelor of Arts - Poltical Science
Prairie View A&M University