TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Azya Thornton on Jul 28, 2025

Retired Knox County Sheriff's Office Assistant Chief Brian Bivens took over leadership of the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Detention Center this month, launching reforms after longtime superintendent Richard Bean stepped down amid allegations of outdated practices and staff retaliation. According to Knox News, Bivens has begun implementing tighter security, new staff training, a facility management system and mental health screenings, while a temporary oversight board made up of county commissioners monitors operations until the Knox County Sheriff's Office assumes control in January. The facility, operating with a $5 million budget, had been under state scrutiny following investigations that revealed improper use of solitary confinement and inadequate care.