Once again, it appears that some members of the Metro Nashville council are pushing an agenda that’s free of facts and ideologically driven. This proposed action would not only result in millions of dollars in increased liabilities to the Metro budget and taxpayers, but it would also potentially jeopardize the life-changing reentry programming currently delivered to those in our care.

Additionally, Councilmembers Benedict and O’Connell are being dishonest about our company. Contrary to statements in their press release, under longstanding policy, CoreCivic does not draft, lobby for, promote or in any way take a position on proposals, policies or legislation that determine the basis or duration of an individual’s incarceration. In fact, CoreCivic has been an outspoken advocate for numerous criminal justice reform initiatives, including the federal First Step Act, which has resulted in thousands of prisoner releases.

Additional information provided on background:

Reentry Programming at Metro-Davidson County Detention Facility

We are proud of our nearly 30-year partnership at the Metro-Davidson County Detention Facility and the extensive evidence-based reentry programming we provide to the State of Tennessee's locally sentenced inmates in our care. We provide educational services and counseling to help individuals leaving incarceration achieve success in work and life.

Examples of CoreCivic-administered programs offered at Metro-Davidson County Detention Facility include Go Further, Men of Valor (faith-based ministry), victim impact, anger management, alcoholics and narcotics anonymous, Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP), Healing Journeys (faith based), Second Chances dog socialization program, cosmetology, parenting, Paws Greyhound training program, Life Principles (faith based), Unlock your Thinking, Motivated for Change, Sending Musicians to Prison, Wheel for the World, Adult Basic Education, Computer classes, My Song for Life, Lee Company HVAC program and financial management.