DA Requests TBI Investigation Into Death of Correctional Officer at Morgan County Facility

MORGAN COUNTY, Tenn. — Russell Johnson has formally requested the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a correctional officer at the Morgan County Correctional Complex.

In a release, Johnson said the request follows consultation with Ken Yager, who represents Morgan County, along with Tom Hatcher and Ed Jackson, who serve as current and former chairs of the legislature’s Corrections Oversight Committee.

The request stems from the fatal stabbing of Corrections Officer Dustin Pedigo, who was killed on the night of February 24, 2026, while performing inmate cell checks at the Morgan County Correctional Complex, a facility operated by the Tennessee Department of Correction.

Johnson’s request outlines several concerns, including issues raised during a recent legislative hearing involving TDOC Commissioner Frank Strada. During that hearing, Senator Yager highlighted reports that inmates have the ability to “jam” cell door locks, allowing them to open doors unexpectedly.

According to testimony, TDOC has been aware of this issue since 2013, but the locking mechanisms—or the doors themselves—have not been replaced at the facility.

The release also points to concerns about the lack of additional safety measures, including the absence of secondary exterior locks to better protect correctional officers.

Johnson is asking the TBI to examine these issues as part of its investigation, while TDOC continues its internal review of the incident.

The Morgan County Grand Jury is scheduled to meet May 26.