Department of Justice

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John Norton, 202-999-4268
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FAMM urges federal investigation into civil rights abuses at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center

 WASHINGTON – Based on evidence of deplorable and unsafe conditions at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center, FAMM sent a letter today requesting that the Department of Justice launch an investigation of the Tennessee prison and its potential violations of the civil rights of incarcerated people.

“Trousdale Turner Correctional Center’s problematic reputation has long been an open secret,” said FAMM Tennessee State Policy Director Matthew Charles. “Over the years, we have heard a number of stories alleging horrifying abuses — we are still stunned by what we learned.

“However, there are limitations to what an organization like ours can uncover and verify. That’s why we call on the Department of Justice to open an investigation. Those findings could lead to corrective actions that are long overdue at this troublesome prison.”

Media reports highlight a high number of deaths in custody, overdoses, and assaults at Trousdale Turner. Families reported to FAMM that loved ones in the prison often go without food, medical care, or rehabilitative programs and live in unsanitary conditions. In addition, some report that certain pods are run by gangs and the flow of drugs is rampant.

The letter was sent to Kristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, and Henry Leventis, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. FAMM justified the push for the inquiry based on the Civil Rights of Institutional Persons Acts (CRIPA).

For more than three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM has led the fight to reform extreme mandatory sentencing laws and to promote rehabilitation and dignity for all people in prison, 94 percent of whom will return to our neighborhoods one day.  

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FAMM is a national nonpartisan advocacy organization that promotes fair and effective criminal justice policies that safely reduce incarceration, save taxpayer dollars, and keep families together. Founded in 1991, FAMM has secured bold sentencing and prison reform across the country while elevating the voices of directly impacted individuals and families.

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