NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's a startling statistic: a North Nashville neighborhood (ZIP code 37208) is said to have the highest incarceration rate in the entire country, according to the Brookings Institution.
So, what can be done about it? That's a question Metro leaders are set to tackle.
Herman Patton grew up in North Nashville -- but most people now know him by the nickname "The Pie Man," after he helped open up Sweet Creations bakery in the area, giving second chances to some employees with criminal records.
He says he's looking forward to Vice Mayor Jim Shulman's new plan to create a special committee looking into why this neighborhood has the highest percentage of incarceration in the country.
Having grown up here, Patton says he thinks the answer to that problem can be found in the nearby schools.
"Find out a way to give these people at the schools and everything more help," Patton said. "Extra boots on the ground."
This is not the only targeted issue that Shulman wants special committees to look at this year.
They'll also be tackling the issues of sidewalks in Nashville, and after school programs for kids, among other issues.
