Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Robert “Sean” McCleskey as the Independent Ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) for a term set to expire on February 1, 2025. The Office of the Independent Ombudsman is a state agency established for the purpose of investigating, evaluating, and securing the rights of the children committed to TJJD.

According to a press release by the Office of the Texas Governor, McCleskey, a resident of San Antonio, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is the former chief criminal investigator for the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office and currently serves as an adjunct professor at The University of Texas at San Antonio. Prior to this, he spent over 16 years as a special agent and task force group leader with the United States Secret Service. McCleskey is affiliated with several professional associations including the Texas District & County Attorney’s Association, Texas Municipal Police Officer’s Association, State Bar of Texas, and is the first vice president of the Texas Area Police Chiefs Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Criminal Justice from Texas Christian University and a Juris Doctor from St. Mary’s School of Law.

In response to his appointment, McCleskey expressed his commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of the children under the care of TJJD. He stated, "I am honored to serve as the Independent Ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and look forward to ensuring that the rights of the children in our care are respected and protected."

Governor Abbott's decision to appoint McCleskey as the Independent Ombudsman underscores the state's dedication to maintaining transparency and accountability within the juvenile justice system.