Wallace Unit Senior Warden Arrested in Lubbock on Theft, Fraud Charges

Michael Miller, 48, who serves as the Senior Warden at the Wallace Unit state prison, was taken into custody on August 14 in Lubbock. He faces allegations of fraud and theft related to price tag tampering, as detailed in court records acquired by EverythingLubbock.com.

Miller was apprehended at the Walmart located on 114th Street and Quaker Avenue after reportedly utilizing self-checkout to scan multiple items under the barcode for embroidery floss, which is priced at 53 cents. Court documents revealed that the true price of his purchases was $137.90, yet by using the floss barcode, Miller ended up paying only $4.77.

A representative from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) stated that Miller's behavior was significantly below the agency's expectations.

“The agency expresses profound disappointment, and his behavior is completely intolerable.” A spokesperson stated, “TDCJ is moving forward with measures to distance him from the agency.”

Miller's jail records indicate that he was released from custody as of Monday.

Miller has dedicated 27 years to TDCJ and was appointed as the Senior Warden of the Wallace Unit, a state prison in Mitchell County, this past April. The arrest signifies a significant decline for a veteran corrections official who was responsible for overseeing one of Texas' state prison units.

This situation highlights a significant effort to address wrongdoing within the state prison system, emphasizing the responsibility of wardens and correctional officers to maintain high standards of accountability.

Legal actions are currently underway.