NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Lawmakers and state officials discussed the West Tennessee State Penitentiary's policy and procedures during a hearing on Capitol Hill, but the meeting became emotional when discussing the reason for the hearing.
Investigators say Tennessee Department of Corrections administrator Debra Johnson was killed by an escaped inmate, Curtis Watson
"Debra Johnson was a true hero. Basically in every sense of the word."
The hearing comes after months long investigation from the American Correctional Association.
At one point prison officials questioned adding security cameras to on-site homes like the ones Johnson lived in.
Johnson's name will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial in Washington D.C. during National Police Week in May.
