Bledsoe County Correctional Complex: General Overview
Bledsoe County Correctional Complex (BCCX) is a state prison located in Pikeville, Tennessee, operated by the Tennessee Department of Corrections. The facility primarily serves as an intake and diagnostic center for male offenders entering the Tennessee prison system. It has a total capacity of over 2,500 inmates, with both minimum and medium-security male prisoners housed across its three main sites. BCCX also has an annex housing 150 male offenders and a female unit that accommodates around 300 female prisoners.
The complex offers numerous rehabilitative programs including vocational training, education, and substance abuse treatment. Offenders at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex can participate in a variety of vocational programs, such as culinary arts, cosmetology, computer repair, carpentry, and landscaping. This facility aims to help inmates reintegrate into society successfully upon their release.
Contact Information for Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
- Address: 1045 Horsehead Road, Pikeville, TN 37367
- Telephone: (423) 881-3251
- Warden: Brett Cobble
For inmate searches and additional information, you can visit the official Tennessee Department of Corrections website.
Bledsoe County Correctional Complex Visiting Information
Visitation at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex is an important way for inmates to maintain connections with their loved ones. Visiting hours take place on Saturdays, Sundays, and state-recognized holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Additionally, special visits are available on Wednesdays from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM by appointment only. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled visit.
- What to bring: A valid government-issued ID, approved visitor form, and be prepared to follow the facility’s dress code.
- Visitation duration: Each visit can last up to 2.5 hours, depending on the schedule and availability.
- Visitation booking: To book a visit, call (423) 881-3251 ext. 2010 no later than Tuesday noon for weekday visits. For weekend visits, appointments must also be scheduled in advance.
How to Book a Visit at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
To book a visit at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex, you must first complete a visitation application form, which can be found on the Tennessee Department of Corrections website. The approval process may take up to several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply early. Once approved, you can schedule your visit by calling the prison. Remember to provide valid identification and adhere to all facility guidelines during your visit.
Directions and Parking at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
Bledsoe County Correctional Complex is located in Pikeville, Tennessee. The facility is about 60 miles north of Chattanooga and can be reached via U.S. Route 127.
- Driving directions: From Chattanooga, take I-24 West and follow signs for TN-111 N toward Dunlap. Then, follow TN-30 E and turn onto Horsehead Road.
- Parking: There is on-site parking available for visitors, though spaces can be limited during busy visiting hours. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure parking.
What is Life Like at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
For inmates, life at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex revolves around their rehabilitation programs. The facility offers educational opportunities such as adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational courses. Inmates also have access to religious services, substance abuse treatment, and mental health support.
The complex is known for providing a safe and secure environment, with regular inmate assessments to determine the most appropriate security classification. Despite occasional incidents, BCCX is generally considered well-managed. In recent years, however, there have been high-profile events, such as the 2019 escape attempt by Curtis Ray Watson.
Famous Prisoners at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
Some notable inmates who have been housed at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex include:
- Letalvis Cobbins: Convicted for the 2007 murders of Channon Christian and Christopher Newsom.
- Travis Reinking: Convicted of the 2018 Nashville Waffle House shooting.
- William “Bill” Casey: A former Catholic priest convicted of aggravated rape.
FAQs about Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
1. What security levels does Bledsoe County Correctional Complex house?
Bledsoe County Correctional Complex accommodates a range of security levels, from minimum to medium, with specialized units for intake and diagnostics.
2. How do I schedule a visit at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
To schedule a visit, you must first be approved through the visitation application process. Then, you can book a visit by calling (423) 881-3251 ext. 2010.
3. Can I send care packages to inmates at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
Yes, care packages can be sent through approved third-party vendors, which can be found on the facility’s website.
4. What are the visiting hours at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
Visiting hours are on Saturdays, Sundays, and state-recognized holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Wednesdays from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM by appointment.
5. What programs are available for inmates at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
The prison offers educational programs, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment programs.
6. How many inmates can Bledsoe County Correctional Complex hold?
The facility has a capacity of approximately 2,500 inmates, including both men and women.
7. What is the address for sending mail to inmates?
Inmate mail should be addressed as follows:
Inmate Name, ID Number
Bledsoe County Correctional Complex
1045 Horsehead Road
Pikeville, TN 37367
8. Can inmates receive phone calls?
No, inmates cannot receive incoming calls but can make outgoing calls to pre-approved contacts via the prison’s phone system.
9. What vocational programs are offered at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
Inmates can learn skills such as culinary arts, carpentry, cosmetology, and computer repair through various vocational programs.
10. Are there female inmates at Bledsoe County Correctional Complex?
Yes, there is a female unit that houses approximately 300 inmates.
For more information, visit the official Tennessee Department of Corrections website.