Knoxville, TN – Brian Bivens, the interim director of the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Detention Facility, has resigned from his position, as confirmed by Knox County Commissioner and board member Larsen Jay on Monday.
Bivens, a former assistant chief with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office who previously managed the county jail, was appointed as temporary director in July by Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. His role was part of a broader plan to transition operational control of the facility to the sheriff’s office, with the full handover scheduled for next year.
“We are grateful for Brian’s service and wish him well in all of his future endeavors,” Jay stated. “We have great confidence in the leadership team and staff at the Juvenile Service Center, and look forward to building upon the good work that has been done since July 1. The facility is safe, secure, and being well managed.”
No official reason for Bivens’ sudden resignation has been provided at this time.
Background on the Leadership Shakeup
Bivens’ appointment followed the resignation of the facility’s longtime director, Richard L. Bean, amid serious allegations. In late May, Mayor Jacobs publicly expressed “no confidence” in Bean’s leadership after Juvenile Court Judge Tim Irwin reported that Bean had fired two employees in retaliation for submitting complaints to the state about the center’s operations.
State lawmakers also demanded immediate reforms, later issuing a report with recommendations for sweeping changes. Bean subsequently stepped down, prompting Knox County to accelerate its takeover of the facility and establish a new interim board of directors.
The prior board—consisting of attorneys Billy Stokes, John Valliant, and Sherry Mahar—was removed by Mayor Jacobs and his Chief of Staff Dwight Van de Vate, with the changes ratified by the Knox County Commission.
What’s Next?
The juvenile center’s board is set to meet on Thursday to discuss the path forward, including potential next steps for filling the interim director role.
Source: WVLT – Original Article
This marks the latest chapter in ongoing efforts to stabilize and reform operations at the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Detention Facility. Stay tuned for updates following Thursday’s board meeting.
Commissioner Angela Russell asked this afternoon at the 3 pm Knox County Commission Agenda Review Meeting why a delay in voting on items related to Juvenile Center operation, at Large Commissioner #10 failed to disclose Bivens departure.
