MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The county jail’s population is “soaring” this year, as repair issues force the sheriff’s office to close off sections of housing, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office says.
The sheriff’s office said bookings at 201 Poplar have reached “unprecedented” numbers as Memphis Police, U.S. Marshals Tennessee Highway Patrol and others bring more people than ever to the jail.
As an example, SCSO said 2,272 men were booked into the jail in June 2025, compared to 1,570 in June 2021.
Assessment report reveals deteriorating conditions at 201 Poplar
This comes as the county struggles to make repairs to 201 Poplar’s doors, plumbing, elevators and more, and the sheriff advocates for a new jail. Housing units were being closed on a rolling basis as repairs are made…