Early Release Scam

NASHVILLE – The Department of Correction is encouraging the public to be aware of an apparent scam targeting families of inmates.  Several offender family members have reported receiving phone calls from someone claiming to represent the Comptroller’s Office and offering to help secure the release of inmates from prison. The caller instructs the family member to send two large sums of money through Western Union in order to secure the inmate’s release.

The TDOC reminds the public that the only options for a convicted felon serving a prison sentence to get released are through an expiration of sentence or a release by parole, probation or through a court order. Payment of funds will not secure a release from prison and the Department does not ask offenders or their families to submit such payments.

The public should use caution when responding to phone calls from anyone claiming to be able to assist with early release from prison.  Anyone who receives such a phone call should contact the Department of Correction’s Office of Investigation and Compliance at (615)741.7144.