Commentary: Tennessee’s Crucial Need for Marsy’s Law Is on the Horizon

by Sergeant Isaiah Thompson
Originally published at The Tennessee Star
April 9, 2025

As the Tennessee General Assembly winds down in the first session of the 114th General Assembly, I’m reminded of how we must recommit ourselves to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and calling for stronger protections of their rights. One of the most vital, yet sometimes overlooked, aspects of this support is ensuring survivors’ rights in the justice system. That’s why Marsy’s Law, which seeks to guarantee the rights of crime victims, is a crucial piece to ensuring victims of crime in Tennessee are protected. This proposed constitutional amendment mandates that victims are notified of their abuser’s release from custody or any crucial developments in their case.

Marsy’s Law hits particularly close to home with a personal account I shared during their social media series, “Why We Do What We Do”. In Oklahoma, my best friend, a domestic violence survivor, was nearly beaten to death by her ex-husband. After he was arrested, she finally felt a small ounce of peace of mind and safety. Without her knowledge, he was released on bail and showed up again, a terrifying scenario that she was not prepared for, as she had received zero notification of his release. My friend’s experience serves as a chilling reminder of how vital it is to have immediate and reliable notifications for survivors, something that Marsy’s Law will protect.

When survivors are informed of their abusers’ release, that crucial step allows them to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves. Without this notification, victims are left vulnerable and blindsided by fear and potential threats that could have been prevented.

As a member of law enforcement, my duty is to protect Tennesseans– protecting them does not just mean their physical well-being. Sometimes, the lingering trauma and PTSD are longer lasting than their physical trauma. 

With passage, Tennessee will be the 13th state to add Marsy’s Law to its constitution, and, as someone with a personal testimony to the benefits of this legislation, I am honored to support this effort. I hope that we will take the opportunity to stand with victims today and always. 

If Marsy’s Law can help one victim not endure the horrors my friend did, this is a success, but it doesn’t stop there. Survivors deserve every tool and protection available to reclaim their lives and move forward in safety and dignity. Our work matters because survivors deserve to be informed, empowered, and, above all, safe. In this session, the Tennessee General Assembly has the opportunity to stand with survivors of domestic violence and provide them with clear and enforceable rights. To support men and women like my friend, call your legislator and tell them to support Marsy’s Law. 

I was recently awarded a Champion of Victims’ Rights award. To me, this award is not just recognition, it’s a symbol of hope and voice in the justice system when, for so long, they have not had one. It’s special to be in Nashville during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week as this week we will see Marsy’s Law presented to the House Finance Subcommittee. I am confident that the legislature will get this right and that Tennessee will finally be one major step closer to supporting victims. 

Sgt. Isaiah Thompson is a member of the Jackson, Tennessee Police Department. He is a dedicated advocate for domestic violence victims and a strong supporter of Marsy’s Law for Tennessee.