Governor Bredesen Signs Bill Naming TBI Headquarters In Honor Of Arzo Carson
August 5, 2009
Governor Phil Bredesen signed legislation into law on Tuesday naming the building that houses the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) in honor of Scott County native Arzo Carson. The ceremony was attended by Carson’s family, TBI colleagues, and legislative sponsors, including local State Senator Ken Yager (R-Harriman).
“This is a well-deserved honor for a man who has been an inspiration for law and justice in Tennessee,” said Senator Yager, who is also professor of History and Law at Roane State Community College. “His leadership in the beginning years of the TBI set a high standard for those who have followed him in this key state law enforcement role.”
Carson was District Attorney General for Scott County when newly elected Governor Lamar Alexander, who now serves in the U.S. Senate, asked him to help him draft legislation creating an independent Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Before, criminal investigations were handled by the Department of Safety. The agency was created in March 1980 when the bill was signed into law.
"It is not a passion for politics," said Carson. "It is a passion for knowing what the duty is."
Carson headed the agency until he retired in 1990. Under his direction, the many accomplishments in the agency included improvements and advances in forensics, computer science, intelligence gathering, and educational and training requirements for agents and other personnel. He is also a Navy veteran of World War II.
The TBI headquarters is located at 901 R. S. Gass Boulevard, Nashville. Carson was also conferred the honorary title of "TBI Director Emeritus."
