Does Texas have chain gangs?
No. Offenders are not on chain gangs because only low-risk offenders perform jobs or community service work outside of the prison walls. These offenders are supervised by correctional officers, usually on horseback. Offenders performing public service projects contribute tax savings to local governments. The service jobs range from removing asbestos in public schools to cleaning storm damage from creeks and rivers to building homes for Habitat for Humanity. Community service work not only benefits the general citizenry, but also allows offender to make restitution to the community. Often this work instills a sense of pride and connects the offender to society which may lead to rehabilitation.
