MI DOC - Parnall Correctional Facility (SMT)

You can support your loved ones at SMT on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 517-780-6004.

Located at 1780 E Parnall Rd in Jackson, MI, SMT carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. SMT 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 MI DOC - Parnall Correctional Facility (SMT) 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.

The SMT, established in 1926, operates as a Secure Level I (Minimum Security) institution, part of the former State Prison of Southern Michigan. Situated on approximately 45 acres of land, the facility comprises five housing units and 21 additional buildings, accommodating nearly 1,700 adult male prisoners aged 18 and older. Michigan State Prison or Jackson State Prison, which opened in 1839, was the first prison in Michigan. After 150 years, the prison was divided, starting in 1988, into four distinct prisons, still in Jackson along with the Parnall Correctional Facility, the G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility where inmates can finish their general education the Charles Egeler Reception and Guidance Center which is the common point of processing for all-male state prisoners sentenced to any Michigan prison; and the Cooper Street Correctional Facility which is the common point for processing of all-male state prisoners about to discharge, parole, or enter a community center or the camp program.

Programming at Parnall is comprehensive, aiming to facilitate successful reintegration into society. The Education Department offers Adult Basic Education, with a focus on attaining General Education Diploma (GED), as well as Special Education and the Pell Grant College Program. The facility's Vocational Village provides vocational trade training in high-demand fields such as Auto Mechanic, Carpentry/Building Trades, and Computer Coding, among others. Employment readiness programs are also available.

Self-help programs include Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous, Substance Abuse (Phase II), and cognitive restructuring programs like Thinking for a Change and Violence Prevention Program (VPP). The facility also offers the Michigan Sexual Abuse Prevention Program (MSAPP) and the Michigan Domestic Violence Program (MiDVP) to address specific behavioral issues.

Parnall Correctional supports diverse religious practices with a dedicated chapel for all faiths. On-site health care services are provided, with more serious cases referred to external medical facilities. Mental health services are delivered by an integrated team of professionals. In terms of employment, prisoners are required to work in various capacities unless prevented by health reasons. Leisure activities include recreation, hobby craft, music, writing, poetry, and art programs. Access to general and law libraries is also available.

Security measures include a perimeter comprising a double chain-link fence with sensor alarms, concertina wire, security cameras, and a response vehicle, ensuring the safety and security of both staff and inmates.