Governor Phil Bredesen has announced 13 appointments, including The Next Door CEO Linda Leathers, to the Governor's Criminal Justice Coordinating Council.

"Protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Tennessee is one of the highest priorities of state government," said Bredesen. "I appreciate the willingness of these 13 men and women to serve the state on this important Council, which is charged with coordinating the efforts of multiple state and local agencies that share responsibilities for the criminal justice system and non-government organizations like victim advocacy groups and faith-based service providers that also play critical roles."

The Council is composed of 19 members representing state and municipal officials, the judicial system, law enforcement, and other stakeholders. Thirteen members are appointed by the Governor. The other six members include the Commissioners of Children's Services and Correction, the Chairman of the Board of Probation and Parole, one member of the Tennessee Senate to be selected by the Speaker of the Senate, one member of the Tennessee House of Representatives to be selected by the Speaker of the House, and the Executive Director of the Tennessee General Assembly's Select Oversight Committee on Correction.

Memphis Mayor A.C. Wharton will chair the Council. "I'm very pleased at the level of expertise represented by the members of this Council," said Wharton. "We appreciate the confidence Governor Bredesen has shown in us and look forward to serving the citizens of the state of Tennessee in this role."

For a complete list of Council members, visit TN.gov Newsroom.