Arkansas State Prison McPherson Unit: General Overview

The McPherson Unit, located in Newport, Arkansas, is a medium to maximum-security correctional facility specifically for female inmates. Established in 1998, this prison is one of the largest women’s facilities in the state, with a capacity to hold approximately 971 inmates. McPherson Unit serves as the intake and classification center for all female offenders in Arkansas, handling inmates with varying security levels, from medium to maximum. In addition to standard correctional operations, McPherson Unit houses the state’s death row for women.

The prison offers a broad range of rehabilitation and educational programs, including GED courses, vocational training in fields such as cosmetology and horticulture, and substance abuse treatment programs. These programs aim to prepare inmates for reintegration into society, equipping them with skills for employment and personal growth.

Arkansas State Prison McPherson Unit facility

Contact Information for McPherson Unit

Visiting Information for McPherson Unit

Visits are essential to maintaining family ties and boosting inmate morale. Visitation at McPherson Unit is structured around a classification system:

  • Class I inmates are allowed weekly visits.
  • Class II, III, and IV inmates are permitted two visits per month, scheduled on either the first and third, or second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

Visiting Hours:

  • 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on weekends for Class I inmates.

What to Bring:

Visitors must bring a valid government-issued ID, and if they have children, two approved adult visitors are allowed to accompany minors. A clear plastic bag with limited cash for refreshments is permitted.

Dress Code:

Visitors should avoid wearing revealing clothing such as tank tops, halter tops, or shorts. No see-through or camouflage attire is allowed. Clothing with excessive metal should be avoided due to security checks.

How to Book a Visit at McPherson Unit

To book a visit, family and friends must first be approved on the inmate’s visitation list. The process requires filling out a visitor application that undergoes a criminal history check. Once approved, visitors can schedule appointments through the prison.

  • Visitors can bring up to four people, including children, during each visit.
  • For special visits, visitors traveling over 300 miles can request to visit on weekdays by seeking approval 24 hours in advance.

How to Get to McPherson Unit

McPherson Unit is located approximately 100 miles north of Little Rock. To get there, take Highway 67 North and exit at Highway 384. Continue east for around 2.5 miles, and you will see the facility located on Corrections Drive.

Parking Information:

The facility provides on-site parking, but visitors are encouraged to arrive early to ensure a spot. Ensure that all personal items like phones and cameras are left in the car, as they are not allowed inside the prison.

Life Inside McPherson Unit for Inmates

Life at McPherson Unit is focused on rehabilitation and self-improvement. Inmates have access to numerous programs including substance abuse treatment, vocational training, and mental health services. The facility also runs parenting programs, helping inmates maintain relationships with their children and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

McPherson Unit operates several vocational and educational programs in collaboration with Arkansas State University, including courses in cosmetology, accounting, and business technology. Programs like AA/NA and the Substance Abuse Therapeutic Community Program help inmates recover from addiction and prepare for a successful return to society.

Famous Prisoners at McPherson Unit

One of the most notable inmates at McPherson Unit is Christina Riggs, executed in 2000 for the murder of her two children. Her case drew national attention and remains a significant part of the prison’s history.

FAQs About Arkansas State Prison McPherson Unit

1. What is the capacity of McPherson Unit?

McPherson Unit has a capacity of 971 inmates, with a focus on medium to maximum-security prisoners.

2. How do I contact McPherson Unit?

You can contact the prison at 870-523-2639 or by mailing correspondence to 302 Corrections Drive, Newport, AR 72112.

3. What security level is McPherson Unit?

McPherson Unit is a medium to maximum-security facility that also serves as the intake center for female inmates across Arkansas.

4. Can I visit an inmate at McPherson Unit?

Yes, family and approved visitors can visit inmates at McPherson Unit. Visits are held on weekends depending on the inmate’s classification.

5. What programs are available to inmates at McPherson Unit?

Inmates have access to a wide range of vocational, educational, and substance abuse programs, including GED courses, horticulture, and cosmetology.

6. Are there any famous inmates at McPherson Unit?

Yes, Christina Riggs was a well-known inmate who was executed in 2000 after being convicted of double murder.

7. What is the visitation dress code?

Visitors must dress appropriately. No tank tops, halter tops, shorts, or see-through clothing are allowed.

8. What are the visiting hours at McPherson Unit?

Visiting hours are from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on weekends for Class I inmates, and on alternating Saturdays for others.

9. How do I send money to an inmate at McPherson Unit?

You can send money via approved methods through the Arkansas Department of Corrections, including online services and postal money orders.

10. How do I schedule a special visit?

Special visits can be arranged for visitors traveling more than 300 miles. You must request approval from the warden 24 hours in advance.

For more detailed information on McPherson Unit, visit the official Arkansas Department of Corrections website.

 

Sources Used:

  • Arkansas Department of Corrections
  • InmateAid
  • Inside Prison

Visit  Arkansas State Prison Grimes Unit