'Justice, USA' Documentary Explores The Truth Behind Nashville's Prison System

A recent report released by the U.S. Department of Justice indicates that Tennessee is experiencing a faster growth rate in its prison population compared to most other states. The report revealed that between the end of 2021 and 2022, Tennessee witnessed an almost 8% surge in its incarcerated population, resulting in 1,740 additional individuals being held in state prisons. MAX Original's newest documentary series, Justice, USA, explores what really goes on behind the doors of prisons in Nashville, Tennessee.

Justice, USA, filmed over seven months, delivers a chilling reality that addresses the pervasive issues of poverty and juveniles caught in the system, while also confronting the mental health and addiction challenges that incarcerated individuals grapple with daily.

The documentary depicts the unfiltered side of the justice system, a perspective often absent in other documentary films, giving audiences a look into Nashville courts and jails. Each episode provides viewers with direct insights from the individuals comprising the system, including inmates from both the men's and women's jails, as well as the juvenile court. Access to the courthouse was granted with minimal restrictions giving viewers an intimate look at trials and proceedings. Notably, the documentary refrains from featuring narrators or experts, contributing to its authentic and immersive appeal.

Davidson County’s Juvenile Court Judge Sheila Calloway even agreed to participate in the series because she wanted to shed light on the realities within her courtroom. "I see blurbs and stuff that say Judge Calloway is just giving people cookies and milk and sending them on their way when they don’t understand exactly what we can do as the law and what we should do," Judge Calloway said.

Mike Tollin, Common and Marshall Goldberg are executive producers while Randy Ferrell served as the showrunner.

As the series wraps, the message is clear that the documentary wants to prioritize the community and state of Tennessee to prioritize homelessness, mental health and those who need help with addiction.

All episodes of Justice, USA are now streaming on MAX. Check out the trailer below.

Photo Credit: Warner Bros. Discovery