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MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF)

State Prison

Last Updated: May 07, 2026
Address
10641 Hwy 80 E, Meridian, MS 39307
Beds
1362
County
Lauderdale
Phone
601-485-5255
Email
frank.shaw@mtctrains.com
View Official Website

East Mississippi Correctional is for State Prison offenders sentenced anywhere from one year to life by the State Court in the county where the charges were filed

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for State - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Looking for an inmate at this facility? Visitation Information, Times and Rules
Satellite View of MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF)
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If your loved one is at East Mississippi Correctional , InmateAid can help you stay connected. Call the facility directly at 601-485-5255 with any immediate questions.

Located at 10641 Hwy 80 E in Meridian, MS, East Mississippi Correctional carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. East Mississippi Correctional offers diverse educational and vocational programs aimed at equipping offenders for successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism. Through these initiatives, inmates gain skills and confidence, fostering personal growth and resilience.

When someone you care about ends up in a state prison, it can be tough to navigate the ins and outs of the system. From figuring out how to stay in touch to understanding what you can do to make their time easier, it can feel overwhelming. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get the lowdown on MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) so you can stay connected and support your loved one during their time inside.

Communication is important, the prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Questions About This Facility

The EMCF is situated on 100 acres of land, with 7 acres enclosed by a fence and operates under the authority of the East Mississippi Correctional Facility Authority and Warden Angela Johnson. EMCF has an authorized capacity of 1,362 beds for minimum, medium, and close custody male inmates, with the potential to expand to 1,500 beds.

EMCF offers various rehabilitation programs designed to facilitate the personal and educational growth of its inmates. These programs include General Education Development (GED) and Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses to enhance literacy and academic skills. Additionally, inmates have access to programs such as Alcohol & Drug Counseling, Life Skills workshops, Pre-release preparation, Smoking Cessation assistance, and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) to address substance abuse and behavioral issues.

Other programs available at EMCF include the Father Initiative Class, Bible Study Groups, Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous Groups, and Computer Training sessions to promote personal development and reintegration into society. Inmates also have the opportunity to participate in Art Classes, Psychoactive Services, Special Education programs, and Therapeutic Community activities, tailored to address their individual needs and challenges. Furthermore, specialized group therapy sessions and individual counseling services are provided to support inmates in addressing mental health issues and overcoming personal barriers.

EMCF emphasizes the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation to prepare inmates for successful reentry into society upon their release. Through its diverse range of programs and services, the facility aims to equip inmates with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to make positive changes in their lives and reduce their likelihood of reoffending. By addressing educational, vocational, behavioral, and mental health needs, EMCF endeavors to promote the rehabilitation and successful reintegration of its inmate population.

Table of Contents for East Mississippi Correctional

Inmate Locator

Finding a State Inmate at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF)

If you're trying to locate someone in Mississippi state custody at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) in Meridian, the Mississippi Department of Corrections maintains a state-level inmate locator that covers all DOC facilities. Every state runs its own system, so the search experience differs significantly from federal or county-level locators. If the DOC locator does not return the person you're looking for, call MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) directly at 601-485-5255 to confirm current custody status.

Using the State DOC Inmate Locator

The Mississippi DOC inmate locator searches by full name, DOC inmate number, or both. The state inmate number is assigned at intake and stays with the inmate across transfers between facilities within the state, but it does not transfer if the inmate moves to another state or to federal custody. State locators typically return the inmate's current housing facility, custody level, projected release date, and parole eligibility, though specific data fields vary by state.

When the Inmate Doesn't Appear in the DOC Locator

A state inmate may be missing from the DOC locator for several reasons. Newly sentenced inmates often spend weeks at a county jail awaiting transfer to the state reception center, during which they are not yet in the DOC system. Inmates in transit between facilities may be temporarily missing. Some states delay public records by 24 to 72 hours after intake. The InmateAid inmate search can help locate someone during this gap period because it pulls from county jail rosters as well as state systems.

State Inmate Numbers and Out-of-State Transfers

If the inmate was recently transferred from another state under an interstate compact, or moved to federal custody on writ, the Mississippi DOC locator may show them as "in transit" or remove the record entirely. To track inmates across state or federal jurisdictional moves, call 601-485-5255 for current location and case status.

Once You've Located the Inmate

When you confirm the person is at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) , set up an inmate phone account with the facility's contracted provider and arrange any money transfer or commissary funding needed. For phone discount plans, money transfer, and mail services that work with Mississippi state facilities, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 601-485-5255.

To confirm current custody status, recent transfers, or release information at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) , call 601-485-5255.

Visitation Information

Visiting an Inmate at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF)

Visiting someone incarcerated at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) in Meridian, Mississippi means working within the visitation rules set by the Mississippi Department of Corrections. State prison systems are larger and more bureaucratic than county jails, and visiting procedures, including application forms, approval timelines, and scheduling portals, are standardized across the state's DOC facilities. Before your first visit to MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) , confirm the current process and your approval status by calling 601-485-5255.

Visitor Application and Approval

Every state DOC requires visitors to submit a written application before being added to an inmate's approved visitor list. The application typically asks for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, relationship to the inmate, and your criminal history if any. The DOC runs a background check, and approval can take anywhere from two weeks to a couple of months depending on the state. Prior felony convictions, active warrants, or a recent release from custody yourself can result in denial. You'll receive written notice of approval or denial by mail.

Visiting Days, Hours, and Scheduling

State prisons schedule visits by housing unit, custody level, and day of week. Many state DOCs now require advance scheduling through an online portal such as GTL/ViaPath GettingOut, Securus Visitation, or a state-run system, with visits booked days or weeks ahead. Walk-up visits without an appointment are rare in modern state corrections. Visiting days at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) may differ for general population, restricted housing, and protective custody inmates. Call 601-485-5255 for the current schedule and to confirm whether the inmate's current status allows visits.

ID, Dress Code, and Visitor Conduct

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Most state DOCs require it to be unexpired and match the name on your approved visitor application. Dress code at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) is enforced at the entry point: no clothing matching inmate uniforms (colors vary by state; often blue, white, gray, or orange), no revealing attire, no underwire bras in some facilities (they set off metal detectors), no hats, no jackets in the visiting room. Phones, bags, and electronics stay in your vehicle or in lobby lockers. Searches of visitors are routine; refusing a search ends the visit.

Custody Level and Visit Type

Visits at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) depend on the inmate's classification. Minimum and medium custody inmates generally receive contact visits in a common visiting room. Maximum custody, administrative segregation, and protective custody inmates may be restricted to non-contact visits through glass or limited to fewer hours per month. Inmates in disciplinary status can have visits suspended entirely. If the inmate has been transferred recently, has a pending classification change, or is in restricted housing, call 601-485-5255 to verify what type of visit is currently allowed.

Video Visitation

Most state DOCs now offer video visitation as a supplement to or replacement for some in-person visits. Video visits at state facilities are typically handled through GTL/ViaPath, Securus, or HomeWAV and require setting up a paid account, scheduling in advance, and connecting from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some states have made video the primary or only visitation option at certain facilities. For information on inmate phone discount plans and money transfer options that work alongside video visitation, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 601-485-5255 to confirm what's offered at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) .

To start the visitor application process or check current visiting hours at MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF) , call 601-485-5255.

Frequently Asked Questions About MDOC - East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF)

  1. What is a state prison?
      A state prison is a correctional facility operated by the Mississippi Department of Corrections, housing individuals convicted of state crimes. Inmates typically serve sentences longer than one year. State prisons have different security levels and provide rehabilitation, education, and work programs.

  2. How do state prisons differ from federal prisons?
      State prisons hold offenders convicted of crimes under state laws, while federal prisons house those convicted of federal offenses. State prisons are managed by state DOCs and vary in policies, security levels, and resources. Federal prisons, run by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), often have more structured programs and uniform policies nationwide.

  3. What are the different security levels in state prisons?
      State prisons are classified as minimum, medium, or maximum security, based on inmate risk assessments. Minimum-security facilities house non-violent offenders with lower risks. Medium-security prisons have higher security protocols and structured daily routines. Maximum-security prisons, or supermax facilities, house the most dangerous offenders with strict confinement measures.

  4. How are inmates classified in state prisons?
      Classification is based on criminal history, sentence length, behavior, and medical or mental health needs. The DOC assesses inmates upon intake to determine their housing assignment, work eligibility, and rehabilitative program access. Inmates may be reclassified based on behavior or security concerns.

  5. What types of programs are offered in state prisons?
      State prisons offer GED courses, vocational training, substance abuse counseling, mental health treatment, religious programs, and work release opportunities. Many prisons collaborate with colleges and trade schools to provide certificates in fields such as welding, plumbing, and computer technology.

  6. Can inmates earn early release from state prisons?
      Some inmates qualify for parole, good behavior credits, or sentence reduction programs. State laws determine eligibility based on offense type, institutional behavior, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Some states offer compassionate release for elderly or terminally ill inmates.

  7. How do state prisons handle medical care for inmates?
      Inmates receive basic medical, dental, and mental health care inside the facility. For specialized care, they may be transported to hospitals under security escort. State DOCs often contract with private healthcare providers such as Corizon Health, Wellpath, and Centurion Health.

  8. Are state prison inmates allowed to work?
      Yes, inmates can work within the prison (kitchen, janitorial, maintenance) or in prison industries (manufacturing, farming, sewing, furniture-making). Some states allow inmates to participate in work-release programs, where they work outside the prison and return at night. Inmate workers may earn small wages (often $0.10 to $2.00 per hour) depending on the job.

  9. What are the visitation rules for state prisons?
      Visitation varies by facility but generally requires pre-approval of visitors, background checks, dress codes, and scheduled visiting hours. Some prisons allow contact visits (where inmates and visitors can hug or hold hands), while others allow only non-contact visits (separated by glass). Video visitation services are provided by companies like GTL (ViaPath), Securus, and IC Solutions.

  10. Can inmates receive mail and packages?
      Yes, inmates can receive letters, photos, and books, but all mail is screened for contraband. Some state prisons require mail to be sent through third-party processors, which convert letters into digital copies. Packages with clothing or hygiene items must often be ordered through approved vendors like Access Securepak, InmateCanteen, JailCanteen, iCareGifts, MyCarePack or Union Supply Group.

  11. How do phone calls work in state prisons?
      Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers through prison phone services, but cannot receive calls. Calls are typically monitored and recorded. Services like GTL (ViaPath), Securus, and IC Solutions provide prepaid accounts for families to deposit funds for calls. Some states offer tablet-based calls with limited messaging services.

  12. What are the disciplinary rules in state prisons?
      Inmates must follow prison regulations regarding behavior, movement, and interactions with staff and other inmates. Infractions like fighting, possession of contraband, or rule violations can result in loss of privileges, solitary confinement, or additional time added to their sentence.

  13. Do state prisons offer religious services?
      Yes, state prisons have chaplains and religious volunteers who provide services for various faiths. Many facilities offer Bible study groups, prayer meetings, and religious dietary accommodations for inmates who follow specific religious beliefs.

  14. How does parole work in state prisons?
      Inmates eligible for parole must appear before a parole board, which reviews their behavior, program participation, and risk to society. If granted parole, inmates serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community, following specific rules such as curfews and employment requirements.

  15. Can inmates transfer between state prisons?
      Yes, inmates may be transferred for medical needs, security risks, disciplinary actions, or administrative reasons. Some may request transfers to be closer to family, but approvals depend on facility capacity and eligibility requirements.

  16. What happens when an inmate finishes their sentence?
      Inmates released from state prison may receive reentry services, such as job training, housing assistance, and substance abuse counseling. Some states require certain inmates to remain under supervision (such as parole or probation) after release.

  17. Are state prisons overcrowded?
      Many states struggle with overcrowding due to high incarceration rates. Solutions include alternative sentencing programs, early release initiatives, and building new facilities to accommodate growing populations.

  18. How can family members send money to an inmate?
      Families can deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account through services like JPay, ConnectNetwork, or  Access Corrections. Money is used for purchasing snacks, hygiene items, and phone calls. Some states have limits on how much an inmate can receive per month.

  19. Do state prisons offer educational opportunities?
      Yes, many prisons provide GED classes, college courses, and vocational training programs. Some offer Pell Grants for inmates to take college-level courses. Popular vocational programs include auto repair, HVAC, and culinary arts.

  20. Can inmates be placed in protective custody?
      Yes, inmates who are at risk of harm due to gang conflicts, former law enforcement ties, or other safety concerns can be placed in protective custody (PC). These inmates are housed separately from the general population, often with limited movement and privileges for their safety.

Ask The Inmate

Connect directly with former inmates and get your questions answered for free. Gain valuable insights from individuals with firsthand experience in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and GEO and CoreCivic-run private prisons. Whether you're seeking advice, clarification, or just curious about life behind bars, this unique opportunity allows you to ask questions or explore answers to previous inquiries from the InmateAid community. Engage in meaningful discussions and get informed perspectives from those who truly understand the system.
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