Riverbend Maximum Security Institution: Overview
Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI) is a state prison located in Nashville, Tennessee. Established in 1989 to replace the overcrowded and outdated Tennessee State Penitentiary, Riverbend is known for housing Tennessee’s most violent and dangerous male offenders, including all male death row inmates. The facility operates with the highest level of security, including electronic surveillance, perimeter fencing, and constant monitoring to prevent escape attempts and ensure safety within the institution.
Riverbend’s capacity is approximately 786 inmates, who are housed in 20 different buildings spread across 132 acres. Inmates range from those in minimum to maximum security, with most being high-risk offenders. It is also one of the most technologically advanced prisons in the state, offering specialized programs for rehabilitation, education, and work training.
Contact Information for Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
- Address:
Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
7475 Cockrill Bend Boulevard,
Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0471
(Use zip code 37209-1048 for offender correspondence) - Phone Number: (615) 350-3100
- Warden: Kenneth Nelsen
- Email: Inquiries are typically handled via the official Tennessee Department of Correction website.
Visiting Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
Visiting at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution is strictly regulated and must be scheduled in advance. Each inmate is allowed one visit per week, and all visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list. Visits can last between one and two hours, depending on the security level of the inmate and the day of the visit. Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code and are not permitted to bring gifts or food into the facility.
Visiting Times:
Visiting hours are typically scheduled over the weekends, and holidays may have adjusted hours. Exact times depend on the housing pod of the inmate:
- Fridays: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM (various pods)
- Saturdays and Sundays: Morning and afternoon slots, dependent on the unit and pod
What to Bring for a Visit:
- Valid photo identification
- Completed and approved visitation application
- Small change for vending machines (available in the visiting area)
What Are Prison Visits Like at Riverbend?
Prison visits at Riverbend are conducted under close supervision. Visitors are seated in designated areas, often with glass partitions separating them from the inmates. In some cases, depending on the security level, face-to-face contact may be allowed, but this is highly regulated.
How to Book a Visit at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
To schedule a visit, visitors must first complete and submit a visitation application. Once approved, the inmate is notified, and they are responsible for informing the visitor. The process can take several weeks, and appointments must be confirmed in advance. On the day of the visit, all visitors should arrive early to allow time for processing and security checks.
Directions and Parking Information for Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
Riverbend Maximum Security Institution is located on Cockrill Bend Boulevard in Nashville, Tennessee. The facility is easily accessible by car and is about 15 minutes from downtown Nashville. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is recommended.
- Driving Directions: From downtown Nashville, take I-40 West and exit onto Cockrill Bend Boulevard.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the facility for visitors, though spaces may fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Life Inside Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
Life inside Riverbend Maximum Security Institution is highly structured, with inmates spending most of their time in single cells. For maximum-security and death row inmates, time outside the cell is limited to about one hour per day for exercise or showering. Riverbend offers several rehabilitative and educational programs, including GED courses, vocational training, and specialized programs like Braille transcription.
Inmates also have access to various mental health and substance abuse programs designed to address behavioral issues. While most interactions are highly regulated due to the security level, Riverbend aims to offer programs that help inmates build skills that can be useful after release
Famous Prisoners at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
Riverbend is notable for housing several infamous inmates, particularly those on Tennessee’s death row. Some of the notorious figures who have been held or executed at Riverbend include:
- Billy Ray Irick: Executed in 2018 for the rape and murder of a child.
- Daryl Holton: Executed in 2007 by electrocution for the murder of his four children.
- Nicholas Todd Sutton: Executed in 2020 for multiple murders
FAQs About Riverbend Maximum Security Institution
Where is Riverbend Maximum Security Institution located?
Riverbend is located in Nashville, Tennessee, at 7475 Cockrill Bend Boulevard.What is the capacity of Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
The prison has an operational capacity of 786 male inmates.Can I visit an inmate on death row at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
Yes, but visits are highly regulated and must be scheduled in advance. Only visitors on an approved list can visit death row inmates.How do I book a visit at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
You need to submit a visitation application and wait for approval. Once approved, visits are by appointment only.What security measures are in place at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
The prison is equipped with advanced surveillance, perimeter fencing, and armed guards to prevent escapes and maintain safety.What kind of educational programs are offered at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
Inmates can participate in GED courses, vocational training, and even Braille transcription programs.Who is the warden of Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
The current warden is Kenneth Nelsen.How long does it take to get approved for visitation?
It typically takes a few weeks, though the process may take longer during high-traffic periods.Does Riverbend house female inmates?
No, Riverbend only houses male inmates, including those on death row.What is life like for inmates at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution?
Life is highly regulated, with limited time outside the cell, strict visitation rules, and rehabilitative programs designed to improve inmates’ lives inside the facility.
Conclusion
Riverbend Maximum Security Institution is one of the most secure and technologically advanced prisons in Tennessee, housing the state’s most dangerous offenders, including all male death row inmates. While life inside is highly restricted, the facility offers educational and rehabilitative programs aimed at helping inmates develop skills for reintegration into society.
For more information, visit the official Tennessee Department of Correction website.
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