TN DOC - Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center (DKJC)

You can support your loved ones at DKJC on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 615-741-1255.

Located at 3881 Stewarts Ln in Nashville, TN, DKJC carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. DKJC offers diverse educational and vocational programs aimed at equipping offenders for successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism. Through these initiatives, inmates gain skills and confidence, fostering personal growth and resilience.

When someone you care about ends up in a state prison, it can be tough to navigate the ins and outs of the system. From figuring out how to stay in touch to understanding what you can do to make their time easier, it can feel overwhelming. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get the lowdown on TN DOC - Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center (DKJC) so you can stay connected and support your loved one during their time inside.

Communication is important, the prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

The DJRC stands as Tennessee's primary women's prison and diagnostic center, accommodating up to 817 inmates with custody levels spanning from minimum to maximum security. Notably, DJRC houses the state's sole female death row offender. Originally dubbed the Tennessee Prison for Women, the facility was renamed in August 2020 to honor Debra K. Johnson, a revered public servant who tragically lost her life in the line of duty.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The state prison is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers.

The prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

DJRC prioritizes rehabilitation through evidence-based programs tailored to inmates' needs. Educational opportunities include Adult Basic Education and Title I special education classes, complemented by vocational programs offering nationally recognized certifications in career exploration, computer application and literacy, culinary arts, and career management for success. Behavioral health needs are addressed through substance use, anger management, cognitive behavior intervention, and victim impact classes.

Through partnerships with various institutions and initiatives, DJRC expands its rehabilitative offerings. Lipscomb University provides associate's, bachelor's, and master’s degree programs, while Tennessee Higher Education Initiative & Nashville State Community College offer an associate degree program. Vocational certifications in Computer Information Technology & Cosmetology are available through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. The BEST program empowers individuals with entrepreneurship skills, and Retrieving Independence trains service animals for individuals with disabilities.

DJRC's commitment to holistic support extends to family reunification via a child visitation program for incarcerated mothers or grandmothers, promoting familial bonds. Additionally, Thistle on the Inside, affiliated with Thistle Farms, offers structured care and healing for incarcerated women. Tennessee Rehabilitative Initiative in Correction (TRICOR) provides job opportunities for offenders.

Moreover, DJRC operates a transition center adjacent to the main compound in Nashville, focusing on preparing soon-to-be-released women with short-term transitional services and essential life skills for successful reintegration into society. Through these multifaceted programs and partnerships, DJRC strives to foster rehabilitation, education, and empowerment among its female inmate population.