Area Attractions - Crime, Communication, and Consequences: New Exhibit Updates and Community Discount Days at Alcatraz East

 February marks the anniversary of the indictment against Michelle Carter for the role she played in Conrad Roy III’s death, and Alcatraz East Crime Museum is highlighting the case by displaying some new items related to the tragedy. Additionally, the museum is offering discount tickets to celebrate Local Appreciation Days and Homeschool Days.

 

"The death of Conrad Roy III hits home for a lot of people. We are so honored to share his story and raise awareness for families who may have loved ones struggling with similar things," said Ally Pennington, artifacts and programs manager at Alcatraz East Crime Museum. “It’s an ideal time to put this type of crime in the spotlight and remind people to be mindful of what they send others.”

 

According to news sources, Michelle Carter was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter as a result of text messages she sent her suicidal boyfriend. In the messages, she encouraged him to commit suicide, even after he expressed second thoughts about carrying out the act. She was sentenced to 15 months in prison but was released early for good behavior in 2020.

 

The museum is refreshing some of the artifacts related to the case, including adding Roy’s captain’s license and baseball glove. The items are being added to the white-collar crimes section of the museum. They are also adding new artifacts to other exhibits, including a high school yearbook from the Heaven’s Gate leader Marshall Applewhite, a stoneware mug from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, and a recovered tile from a bank robbed by the notorious duo Bonnie and Clyde.

 

"We love our locals and homeschool families and are holding special days to celebrate them at the museum," Pennington said. "These days provide them with an opportunity to score a discounted admission ticket that they won’t want to miss.”

 

Locals can get discounted tickets throughout the month of February 2026, paying only $15 per person, plus tax for a general admission ticket. The discount is open to all residents who live or work in the counties of Blount, Cocke, Jefferson, Knox, and Sevier. Guests must present their identification or paystub to redeem the discount offer at the box office.

 

Alcatraz East Crime Museum is offering special Homeschool Days throughout February 2026. Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 3 pm, homeschoolers will receive a discounted admission rate of $12 per person, plus tax. Groups of 10 or more who book in advance will pay $10 per person, plus tax. To arrange for a group visit, contact Rhiannon at groupsales@alcatrazeast.com.Proof of homeschooling is required, which may include a letter of intent/or verification of homeschool enrollment from a school district, homeschool co-op identification, or proof of enrollment in an umbrella program.

 

The museum features over 100 exhibits and interactives, as well as four temporary exhibit spaces, showcasing many famous items, including Al Capone's rosary, Ted Bundy's dental molds, and Charles Manson's acoustic guitar. This top museum is open daily at 10 am. The last tickets are sold 60 minutes before closing. These interactive experiences are available for an additional fee for birthday parties, school groups, scouts, team building, or other special events. To get a discounted rate for groups of 15 or more, complete the online form and allow up to 72 hours for confirmation. For more information about tickets, discounts, temporary exhibits, and all the museum has to offer, visit the website: https://www.alcatrazeast.com.

 

Alcatraz East Crime Museum has updated its board of crime experts, which includes Derwin Bradley, a retired master police officer; James R. Knight, a crime writer; Robin Maynard, a certified crime scene investigator in Florida; Derek Newport, a law enforcement veteran who worked for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for 20 years; and Judge Belvin Perry, Jr., who presided over the notorious case against Casey Anthony, among others.

 

About Alcatraz East

Alcatraz East is the most arresting crime museum in the United States. Guests of all ages can embark on a unique journey through the history of American crime, crime-solving, and the justice system. Through interactive exhibits and original artifacts, Alcatraz East is an entertaining and educational experience for all ages - so much fun it's a crime! This family attraction is at The Island's entrance, 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. The last ticket is sold 60 minutes before closing. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.alcatrazeast.com.