Ink with a stink

No, this program won't help you with the mermaid you got on your arm on that bender in Ojinaga.

But for those who are under supervision in federal or state probation or on parole, it could offer a second chance.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center is providing staff and offering tattoo removal at a fraction of what it would typically cost for offenders who display potentially offensive ink. It's particularly aimed at inmates or ex-inmates with markings from gangs or groups like the Aryan Circle, said U.S. District Judge Rob Junell, who spearheaded the program.

"If your tattoo says ‘Suzie' and you're with Mary now, we are not really going to change that," Junell said at a Wednesday news conference at Texas Tech's Odessa campus.

The program is needed to help make ex-offenders more attractive to employers, which Junell said helps keep them from appearing in front of him again. He said a large percentage of the cases he reviews involve suspects with detrimental tattoos.

"You think of the foulest word you can say, and it's written across this guy's neck in block letters," he said.

Junell said he decided to pursue the program after reading a Heloise column about a doctor performing tattoo removal in San Antonio. He was able to find Texas Tech as a partner and plastic surgeon Dr. Terry Tubb to perform the removal.

Tubb, who's been removing tattoos for 30 years, said he wanted to participate in the program even though he sees no money from it.

"I want to see fewer gang members in jail - (where) you and I have to pay for the room and board," he said.

Tubb uses a $10,200 white light machine that was purchased with money raised from Neighbors Against Burglary, Drugs Inc. of Midland and philanthropist Betsy Triplett Hurt. It creates a second-degree burn to remove tattoos in about three sessions.

Offenders pay $50 for each session, which Tubb said is a fraction of the $500 to $750 they could expect to pay.

Texas Tech regional dean Dr. John Jennings said the campus is performing a community service.

"To not be involved would really be a tragedy for us," he said. "It's an important thing for Tech to step up to the plate."

GOT PRISON TATS?

>> Who is eligible? Ector and Midland county residents with noticeable prison and gang tattoos that interfere with employment.

>> What to do? Contact your probation or parole officer or call 686-4060.