Tianzhou Private Prison Abuses Prisoners, State Government Still Renewes Contract, Ministry of Justice Investigates_1

The Trousdale Turner Correctional Center, the largest privately-operated prison in Tennessee, is currently under intense scrutiny by the federal Department of Justice. The facility’s contractor, CoreCivic, faces dozens of lawsuits related to allegations of inmate abuse and medical neglect. Since 2016, the company has spent over $4.4 million to settle nearly 80 cases out of court. Despite these troubling issues, the Tennessee government appears to downplay the concerns and continues to sign contracts with CoreCivic.

According to a report by the Associated Press, the Justice Department has announced an investigation into the Trousdale facility, highlighting a troubling history of violence since it opened in 2016. Prosecutor Henry Leventis stated that there are documented reports of “physical assaults, sexual abuse, murders, the trafficking of contraband, and severe staff shortages” over the years.

Since 2016, more than 300 deaths have been reported across four CoreCivic prisons in Tennessee, with only 22 cases resulting in settlements. The largest settlement involved a prisoner at the South Central Correctional Facility, who committed suicide due to staff falsifying records, resulting in a $900,000 payout. Additionally, three other cases saw settlements around $300,000. However, approximately half of the settlement amounts were less than $12,500, with some cases not involving any monetary compensation.

Leventis pointed out that the Tennessee government has been aware of the issues at CoreCivic facilities. Since 2016, the state’s Department of Corrections has imposed fines totaling $37.7 million across four CoreCivic prisons, with Trousdale accounting for $11.1 million. The state regulatory agency issued severe oversight reports in 2017, 2020, and 2023.

Nevertheless, top officials in Tennessee have consistently downplayed these issues and renewed contracts with CoreCivic. A company document indicates that the state is CoreCivic’s largest client, representing 10% of its total revenue in 2023. CEO Damon Hininger even announced plans to run for governor in 2026. After the Justice Department’s investigation announcement, current Republican Governor Bill Lee remarked, “CoreCivic has always been a very important partner for our state.”