Marshall County Correctional Facility is a state-contracted private prison located at 833 West Street in Holly Springs, Mississippi 38635. It serves as a key detention center for Marshall County and the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The facility houses up to 1,000 inmates, with an average population of 945 in 2023. It handles around 4,200 intake requests each year and works closely with state agencies for inmate transfers. The prison is situated near US-78 and MS-7, making it easy to locate. Its mailing address is PO Box 5188, Holly Springs, MS 38634. The main phone number is 662-252-7111, and the fax number is 601-252-5777. The facility combines security with rehabilitation programs to support inmates during and after their sentences.
Location, Contact, and Basic Facility Information
Marshall County Correctional Facility is located at 833 West Street, Holly Springs, MS 38635. This address is used for in-person visits, mail delivery, and official correspondence. The mailing address for inmate mail and administrative documents is PO Box 5188, Holly Springs, MS 38634. The main telephone number, 662-252-7111, connects callers to inmate services, medical staff, and administration. The fax number, 601-252-5777, is used for sending official paperwork. The facility is easily accessible from major highways, including US-78 and MS-7. A public map is available on the county website to help visitors find the location. The prison operates 24 hours a day and serves as the primary jail for Marshall County. It handles pre-trial detention, short-term sentences, and state inmate housing under contract with the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Facility Type, Capacity, and Operational Status
Marshall County Correctional Facility is classified as a state-contracted private prison. It is not a federal or county-run jail but operates under a contract with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The facility has a maximum capacity of 1,000 inmates. In the 2023 fiscal year, the average daily population was 945 inmates, which is 94.5% of full capacity. This shows the facility is nearly full but not overcrowded. The prison opened in 2003 and has been managed by private operators under state oversight. It is one of three private prisons in Mississippi that house state inmates. The daily operating cost per inmate was $84 in earlier contracts, though current rates may vary. The facility undergoes regular audits to ensure compliance with state safety, health, and rehabilitation standards.
Security Levels and Inmate Classification
Marshall County Correctional Facility uses a mixed-custody system to separate inmates based on risk level. Inmates are classified as either minimum-security or medium-security. This separation is based on psychological evaluations and behavioral assessments conducted by certified correctional psychologists. Minimum-security inmates typically have shorter sentences and lower risk scores. Medium-security inmates may have longer sentences or prior disciplinary issues. The housing units are divided by security level to reduce conflicts and improve safety. This tiered system allows for better supervision and targeted programming. Inmates can move between levels based on behavior and progress. The goal is to prepare individuals for reintegration into society while maintaining order inside the facility.
Vocational and Educational Programs
Marshall County Correctional Facility offers several vocational training programs to help inmates gain job skills. These programs are approved by the Mississippi Department of Labor and focus on high-demand trades. One program teaches commercial painting techniques, including surface prep, spray application, and safety protocols. Another program involves horticulture, where inmates grow vegetables in on-site gardens that supply the prison cafeteria. A computer literacy course uses Dell OptiPlex stations to teach basic software skills, typing, and internet safety. The culinary arts program prepares inmates for ServSafe certification, which is recognized nationwide in food service jobs. Since 2003, over 2,500 inmates have completed these programs. Of those, 78% found employment within six months of release, according to facility reports. These programs aim to reduce recidivism and support successful reentry.
Visitation Rules and Procedures
Visitation at Marshall County Correctional Facility is managed through an on-site office. The main gate opens at 7:00 a.m. daily for authorized visitors. All visitors must present a valid photo ID and complete a background check through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. First-time visitors must register online before their scheduled visit. Visitation schedules are organized by housing block. Block A allows visits on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Block B allows visits on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Each inmate is allowed up to two visitors at a time. Visits last one hour and are supervised by correctional officers. Visitors must follow dress codes and behavior rules. Food, gifts, and electronic devices are not allowed. The visitation office can be reached at 662-252-7111 for questions or scheduling.
Inmate Communication: Phone and Messaging Services
Inmates at Marshall County Correctional Facility can make outgoing calls using a prepaid phone system. Calls are recorded and monitored for security. Local calls cost $0.15 per minute, while out-of-state calls cost $0.55 per minute. The facility reports an average of 12,000 inbound calls per month. Inmates can also send electronic messages through the Securus platform. This system allows family and friends to send messages online, which are then printed and delivered to inmates. Each message is logged for audit purposes. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls or use personal cell phones. All communication is subject to review by staff. Prepaid accounts can be funded online or by phone. This system helps maintain contact while ensuring safety and compliance.
Medical and Mental Health Services
Marshall County Correctional Facility operates a 24-hour medical clinic on-site. The clinic is staffed by a certified registered nurse practitioner and an on-call physician. Inmates can request medical care through their housing unit officer. Common services include routine check-ups, medication management, and emergency treatment. Mental health support is available through licensed counselors. The facility follows state guidelines for health care in correctional settings. Inmates with chronic conditions receive ongoing care and prescribed medications. Medical records are kept confidential and shared only with authorized staff. The clinic also handles dental emergencies and basic vision care. All services are provided at no cost to inmates, as required by state law.
Staff Training and Leadership Development
In early 2023, Marshall County Correctional Facility hosted the Global Leadership Summit, a two-day event sponsored by Willow Creek Community Church. The summit focused on restorative justice, conflict resolution, and ethical decision-making. Over 150 people attended, including correctional staff, local church members, and nonprofit leaders. Deputy Warden Beverly McMullen led the initiative. The event resulted in a new mentorship program that pairs experienced officers with new hires. The goal is to reduce staff turnover by 15% over the next year. Attendees rated the summit as highly valuable, with 78% saying it improved their professional skills. The facility continues to invest in staff development to improve safety and morale.
Employment Opportunities at the Facility
Marshall County Correctional Facility hires for several positions, including Corrections Officer and Facility Maintenance Technician. The pay range for Corrections Officers is $13.49 to $28.48 per hour, depending on experience. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, pass a background check, and complete a physical fitness test. The test includes a 1-mile run, push-ups, and flexibility exercises. The hiring process includes interviews and a 12-week training academy. Training covers legal procedures, use-of-force policies, and crisis intervention. In the summer 2024 hiring cycle, 1,842 people applied, and 12% were selected for interviews. The facility values safety, professionalism, and commitment to rehabilitation.
Warden and Administrative Leadership
The current warden of Marshall County Correctional Facility is Chris Loden. He oversees daily operations, including security, inmate programs, and staff management. The administrative team includes deputy wardens for programs, security, and medical services. The facility works closely with the Mississippi Department of Corrections to ensure compliance with state policies. Regular audits are conducted to review safety, health care, and rehabilitation efforts. The leadership team meets weekly to discuss facility performance and improvement plans. They also coordinate with local law enforcement and community organizations. The goal is to maintain a safe, secure, and rehabilitative environment for all inmates and staff.
Historical Context and State Oversight
Marshall County Correctional Facility has been a state-contracted private prison since 2010. It is one of three such facilities in Mississippi. In 2014, a federal investigation revealed corruption involving former Corrections Commissioner Chris Epps, who accepted bribes from private prison operators. This led to a $10 million civil settlement and a reevaluation of all private prison contracts in the state. The facility has since improved transparency and compliance. It now undergoes regular audits and publishes annual reports on inmate population, program outcomes, and safety metrics. The Mississippi Department of Corrections maintains oversight to ensure ethical operations. These changes have strengthened public trust and operational integrity.
Inmate Search and Public Records
To find current inmate information, contact the facility at 662-252-7111 or visit the Inmates Lookup portal online. The weekly inmate roster includes names, ID numbers, housing units, and projected release dates. Legal representatives and family members can request records during business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The facility also provides a downloadable visitor handbook with rules and procedures. All public records are subject to state privacy laws. Inmates can receive mail at PO Box 5188, Holly Springs, MS 38634. Mail is inspected for contraband but delivered promptly. This system ensures transparency while protecting security.
Rehabilitation and Reentry Support
Marshall County Correctional Facility focuses on rehabilitation through education, job training, and behavioral programs. Inmates can earn certificates in painting, horticulture, computer skills, and culinary arts. These programs are designed to improve employment chances after release. The facility reports a 78% post-release employment rate among program graduates. Counseling and life skills classes are also offered. The goal is to reduce repeat offenses and support successful reintegration. Partnerships with local employers help place former inmates in jobs. This approach benefits both individuals and the community by promoting long-term stability.
Security Infrastructure and Daily Operations
The facility uses advanced security measures to maintain order. It has perimeter fencing with motion sensors, 92 surveillance cameras, and a centralized control room staffed 24 hours a day. Officers conduct regular patrols and headcounts. Inmates are housed in 15 units based on security level. The industrial kitchen is 10,000 square feet and serves three meals daily. The vocational training wing is 4,500 square feet and includes classrooms and workshops. Daily operations follow strict schedules for meals, work, recreation, and programs. This structure helps maintain safety and routine for all inmates.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Marshall County Correctional Facility engages with the local community through outreach programs. Staff participate in job fairs, school events, and public safety forums. The facility hosts tours for students and civic groups to promote understanding of corrections work. It also partners with churches and nonprofits to support inmate families. These efforts build trust and encourage positive relationships. The facility believes that strong community ties help reduce crime and support rehabilitation.
Official Contact and Visiting Information
Marshall County Correctional Facility
833 West Street, Holly Springs, MS 38635
Mailing Address: PO Box 5188, Holly Springs, MS 38634
Phone: 662-252-7111
Fax: 601-252-5777
Visiting Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Block A)
Wednesdays & Saturdays 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Block B)
Website: mtctrains.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Marshall County Correctional Facility serves as a key detention center in northern Mississippi. It houses state inmates under contract and offers rehabilitation programs. The facility emphasizes safety, education, and reentry support. It is managed with oversight from the Mississippi Department of Corrections. The following questions address common concerns from families, job seekers, and the public.
How do I visit an inmate at Marshall County Correctional Facility?
To visit an inmate, you must first complete a background check through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s online portal. Bring a valid photo ID to the visitation office at 833 West Street. Visits are scheduled by housing block: Block A on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and Block B on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Each visit lasts one hour and allows up to two visitors. You must follow dress codes and behavior rules. No food, gifts, or electronics are permitted. Call 662-252-7111 for scheduling or questions.
What vocational programs are available to inmates?
Inmates can enroll in several vocational programs approved by the Mississippi Department of Labor. These include commercial painting, horticulture, basic computer literacy, and culinary arts. The painting program teaches surface preparation and spray techniques. The horticulture program maintains gardens that supply the cafeteria. Computer classes use Dell OptiPlex stations for training. The culinary program prepares inmates for ServSafe certification. Over 2,500 inmates have completed these programs, with 78% finding jobs after release. These skills help reduce recidivism and support successful reentry.
How can I send money to an inmate?
Family and friends can send money to inmates through the Securus platform or by calling the facility’s phone service. Prepaid accounts are used for phone calls and messaging. Funds can be added online or by phone using a credit or debit card. The system complies with Federal Prison Industries guidelines. Inmates use these funds for phone calls, messages, and commissary items. All transactions are recorded for security. For assistance, contact the inmate services desk at 662-252-7111 during business hours.
What are the job requirements for working at the facility?
To work as a Corrections Officer, you need a high school diploma or GED. You must pass a background check and a physical fitness test, including a 1-mile run, push-ups, and flexibility exercises. The pay range is $13.49 to $28.48 per hour. Selected candidates attend a 12-week training academy covering legal procedures, use-of-force policies, and crisis intervention. The facility also hires maintenance technicians and medical staff. Applications are posted on Indeed and the facility’s website. The hiring process is competitive, with a 12% interview rate in 2024.
Is the facility open to public tours or community events?
Yes, Marshall County Correctional Facility hosts community events and educational tours. It has partnered with local churches, schools, and nonprofits for outreach. The 2023 Global Leadership Summit attracted over 150 participants. Tours are available by appointment for students and civic groups. These events promote understanding of corrections work and support rehabilitation efforts. The facility believes in transparency and community engagement. Contact the administration office at 662-252-7111 to schedule a visit or learn about upcoming events.
How is inmate health care provided?
The facility operates a 24-hour medical clinic staffed by a certified nurse practitioner and an on-call physician. Inmates can request care through their housing officer. Services include routine check-ups, medication management, and emergency treatment. Mental health support is available through licensed counselors. Chronic conditions are managed with ongoing care. All services are free to inmates as required by state law. Medical records are confidential and shared only with authorized staff. The clinic also handles dental and vision emergencies.
What happened during the 2014 corruption investigation?
In 2014, former Mississippi Corrections Commissioner Chris Epps resigned after being indicted for accepting bribes from private prison operators, including the company managing Marshall County Correctional Facility. The federal investigation led to a $10 million civil settlement. All private prison contracts in the state were reevaluated. The facility has since improved transparency, compliance, and oversight. Regular audits now ensure ethical operations. This history underscores the importance of accountability in correctional management.
