Execution Advisory: Media Guidelines

Media wishing to report on the August 5, 2025, scheduled execution of Byron Lewis Black #126220, held at the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI), must RSVP by 12 p.m. CST on July 28, 2025, to TDOC.Communications@tn.gov.

• News media will be allowed at the following locations:
  • The RMSI parking lot area
  • The general public area adjacent to the RMSI parking lot

• The roads on or adjacent to state property will be kept clear of people and vehicles. No taping or broadcasts from other TDOC sites in the Cockrill Bend area will be permitted. 

• Media check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. CST on August 5, 2025. No media will be allowed to enter the RMSI parking lot after 8:30 a.m. CST on August 5, 2025.  Please note: space is provided on a first-come, first-serve basis until the parking lot is unable to accommodate additional vehicles. An RSVP does not guarantee admittance; however, no one will gain admittance without an RSVP. 

• All media shall present appropriate credentials and a photo ID to be admitted to the designated media area at RMSI.

• Media representatives are restricted to the designated media area while in the RMSI parking lot. Individuals shall not cross any open areas beyond the parking lot. Media representatives shall enter and exit the RMSI parking lot by motor vehicle via the asphalt access road. 

• All members of the media shall wear special media identification badges which will be issued at the on-site checkpoint. The badges shall be prominently displayed at all times. The badge must be returned to the Communications Officers at the RMSI entrance point when the individual exits the RMSI parking lot.

• All media shall leave the RMSI premises no later than one hour after the conclusion of the news conference following the execution. No reporting or broadcasts from prison property or media access to RMSI will be allowed for 72 hours thereafter.

• Interviews with any TDOC staff involved in the execution plan are prohibited. 

• Only the TDOC Director of Communications (Dorinda.L.Carter@tn.gov)  and/or designee may answer questions about the execution. Media requests made directly to the prison will not be answered. 

• Violations of these guidelines may result in the revocation of privileges.

• To ensure the safety and security of the facility, all visitors are required to pass through multiple security screenings including pat searches.

• Finally, please note that firearms, weapons, drugs, alcohol, and the use of tobacco products and vapes are strictly prohibited on TDOC property and that vehicle searches may routinely be conducted. Violating these rules will result in being asked to leave the premises.

Note: These guidelines are subject to change.