Tonya Stephen
Palestine
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, skilled in conflict resolution and emergency response. Proven track record in enhancing inmate rehabilitation programs and maintaining facility security. Adept at supervising inmate behavior and implementing effective de-escalation techniques to ensure safety and compliance.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Beto Unit
Tennessee Colony, TX
08.2014 - Current
- Developed strategies for improving inmate rehabilitation programs through collaborative team efforts.
- Analyzed incident reports to identify patterns and implement corrective actions effectively.
- Led workshops on conflict resolution techniques, enhancing staff communication and teamwork skills.
- Managed high-risk situations with professionalism and composure, ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
- Assisted in the training of new correctional officers, providing guidance on best practices and procedures.
- Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records, and activity journals.
- Collaborated with fellow officers to maintain a secure environment for staff, visitors, and inmates.
- Prevented escapes by diligently inspecting perimeters, doors, windows, gates, fences, and other access points throughout the prison complex regularly.
- Maintained accurate records of inmate incidents or infractions using electronic databases or written logs as required.
- Tracked inmates through head counts, visitor logs, and scheduled activities.
- Improved communication between staff members by participating in daily briefings and sharing critical information about inmate activities.
- Implemented effective emergency response plans during crises situations, minimizing harm to staff and inmates.
- Monitored visitation sessions to ensure compliance with established guidelines and maintain facility security.
Associate
Andersson County Abstract
Palestine, TX
11.2013 - 08.2014
- Coordinated with clients to ensure accurate documentation and timely processing.
- Reviewed and analyzed legal descriptions for compliance and accuracy.
- Trained junior associates on best practices in title examination process
- Increased customer satisfaction by resolving complex issues and providing exceptional service at all times.
- Gathered, organized and input information into digital database.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Beto Unit
Tennessee Colony, TX
02.2002 - 11.2013
- Facilitated alternative dispute resolution sessions, promoting mediation as an effective conflict resolution tool.
- Enforced compliance with facility regulations to maintain safety and security.
- Conducted regular inspections of inmate living areas to ensure cleanliness and order.
- Responded promptly to emergency situations, employing de-escalation techniques to manage conflicts.
- Supervised inmate movements, ensuring adherence to established protocols and schedules.
- Trained new correctional officers on standard operating procedures and safety measures.
- Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items.
- Maintained inmate safety through vigilant monitoring of behavior and swift intervention during conflicts.
- Reduced instances of contraband by thoroughly searching inmates, cells, and common areas.
- Observed and supervised inmates throughout visits, meal time, recreation, phone calls, and showers.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
Flat Select
Stage Stores
Jacksonville, TX
07.1999 - 05.2001
- Ensured accuracy in order picking and shipping processes to maintain quality standards.
- Conducted regular inventory counts to verify stock levels and minimize discrepancies.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline receiving and distribution processes, enhancing productivity.
- Maintained clean workspaces by enforcing strict housekeeping guidelines for storage areas, dock bays, and equipment zones.
- Helped maintain an organized stockroom by labeling shelves clearly, designating specific areas for different products, and rotating stock regularly as required.
Associate
Whataburger
Palestine, TX
04.1996 - 03.1997
- Processed customer transactions accurately and efficiently, ensuring smooth checkout experiences.
- Provided exceptional service to customers, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work area, adhering to health and safety standards.
- Assisted in training new cashiers, fostering a collaborative team environment.
- Managed cash drawer with precision, balancing funds at the end of each shift.
Education
High School Diploma -
Hardin County High School
Radcliff, KY08-1998
Skills
- First aid training
- Emergency response
- De-escalation techniques
- Conflict resolution skills
- Inmate supervision
- Mental health awareness
- Correctional facility procedures
- Policy enforcement
Timeline
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Beto Unit
08.2014 - Current
Associate
Andersson County Abstract
11.2013 - 08.2014
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Beto Unit
02.2002 - 11.2013
Flat Select
Stage Stores
07.1999 - 05.2001
Associate
Whataburger
04.1996 - 03.1997
High School Diploma -
Hardin County High School