Criminal Legal Reform

blind justice

America’s criminal justice system should keep communities safe, treat people fairly, and use fiscal resources wisely. ACLU-TN advocates for a criminal justice system that fosters public safety by reducing mass incarceration and ensuring police accountability. We work to ensure that constitutional protections are afforded to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity or income. We also confront discriminatory or unfair police practices and challenge the broken death penalty system.

The Latest

Press Release
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New Filings Detail Disturbing Accounts of Federal Agents Retaliating Against Memphis Residents

Residents describe being surveilled at home, pulled over under false pretenses, boxed in with vehicles, and jailed in retaliation for observing and documenting Memphis Safe Task Force activity
Press Release
Headshot of man with a long beard in sunglasses and a hat.

Statement on Tennessee’s Torturous Execution Attempt of Tony Carruthers

ACLU comments on the state of Tennessee's botched and torturous attempt to execute Tony Carruthers
Press Release
A red and grayscale collage of a mouth, megaphone, and protest sign, all symbolically representing free speech.

ACLU-TN Receives a Response from the City of Memphis to Formal Demand Letter

Press Release
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ACLU-TN Urges Independent Legal Monitor to Investigate the Memphis Police Department’s Conduct at the No Kings Rally

From the DOJ Report to the No Kings Rally — MPD’s Pattern of Conduct Demands Answers 
Campaign
Apr 2021

In Our Backyards: Money Bail in Rural Tennessee

Campaign
Jul 2017

Bail Reform