Tim Leeper shares son's tragic death at Trousdale Turner prison during legislative session

In a somber yet powerful moment during the Senate State and Local Government Committee meeting on March 25, 2025, the stark realities of Tennessee's prison system were laid bare. Tim Leeper, a grieving father, shared his heart-wrenching testimony about the loss of his son, Kylan, who died in a CoreCivic prison. His words echoed through the chamber, revealing the deep-seated issues plaguing the state's correctional facilities.

Leeper's testimony painted a grim picture of life behind bars, highlighting a lack of meaningful rehabilitation opportunities and chronic understaffing that has led to violence and drug overdoses. He recounted how his son, just 25 years old, was never able to participate in a program designed to help inmates due to staffing shortages. "Inmate violence, sexual assault, and stabbings are common," he said, recounting how Kylan was stabbed within his first week of incarceration. The emotional weight of his words resonated with committee members, as he described the conditions that led to his son's tragic fate.

The meeting, which aimed to address various legislative matters, took a poignant turn as Leeper urged lawmakers to consider the urgent need for reform within the prison system. He emphasized that the issues extend beyond individual tragedies, affecting families and communities across Tennessee. "My son will never see his four-year-old son grow up," he lamented, underscoring the far-reaching impact of systemic failures.

As the committee listened intently, the discussion shifted towards potential legislative solutions. While Leeper acknowledged that one piece of legislation would not solve the myriad problems, he expressed hope that immediate action could be taken to improve conditions. The committee's willingness to hear from stakeholders like Leeper signals a growing recognition of the need for reform in Tennessee's correctional facilities.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency, as lawmakers were reminded of the human cost of inaction. With families like the Leepers bearing the brunt of a flawed system, the call for change has never been more critical. As the committee prepares to deliberate on potential reforms, the echoes of Leeper's testimony will undoubtedly linger, urging them to prioritize the safety and rehabilitation of those within the prison walls.