Starting next month, the Tennessee Department of Corrections (TDOC) is moving away from traditional pen and paper, transitioning to a digitally scanned mail system for its inmates. According to an announcement posted on the TDOC website, all personal mail received after November 3 will be processed at an off-site facility, then scanned and delivered to inmates electronically.
This shift to digital aims at tightening security measures and ensuring mail is distributed on time. The TDOC states that the process will "reduce contraband and increase security while providing faster and more reliable mail delivery to inmates." Inmates will be able to view the scanned images of their mail, including any drawings or personal touches that comply with the TDOC's mail policy, on their tablets. The service will be offered at no cost to the inmates, with the added benefit of mail tracking and notification services for senders.
For the friends and family members planning to send mail, all correspondence must now be directed to a centralized P.O. Box in Phoenix, Maryland. The correct mailing address format will require the facility name, inmate's full name, and TDOC ID number. However, privileged communications like legal mail won't be affected by this change and should continue to be sent directly to the inmate's actual place of incarceration.
The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) announced adjustments to its inmate mail process, transitioning to a digital system. Under the new policy, incoming physical mail will be scanned and delivered to inmates electronically. TDOC stated that personal messages and correspondence will continue to be shared within the established mail guidelines. Outgoing inmate mail will not be affected and will continue to follow existing procedures.
