General Overview of McPherson Unit
McPherson Unit, located in Newport, Arkansas, is a state prison specifically for women. Established in 1998, this facility is managed by the Arkansas Department of Corrections and has a capacity of 971 inmates. It serves as the intake and classification center for female offenders in the state, providing housing for prisoners ranging from minimum to maximum security. McPherson Unit also houses Arkansas’ female death row inmates.
Inmates at McPherson Unit participate in various educational, vocational, and rehabilitation programs designed to prepare them for reintegration into society. These include the GED program, vocational training in cosmetology and business technology, substance abuse treatment, and parenting courses. The prison places a strong emphasis on skill-building and mental health, offering life skills programs and mental health support groups.
Contact Information for McPherson Unit
McPherson Unit Address:
302 Corrections Drive,
Newport, AR 72112
Phone Number: 870-523-2639
Fax Number: 870-523-6202
For more information, you can also visit the Arkansas Department of Corrections website.
Visiting Information for McPherson Unit
Visits to McPherson Unit are allowed based on the inmate’s classification. Class I inmates are typically allowed weekly visits, while those in Class II, III, and IV may have fewer visits per month. Visiting hours generally occur on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
What to bring for a visit: Visitors need a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license) and must adhere to the prison’s dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing. Personal items like bags, phones, and keys must be left in your vehicle or in designated lockers. Be prepared for a security check before entering the visiting area.
Visits typically last a few hours, but exact times can vary depending on the prisoner’s classification. To ensure your visit goes smoothly, it’s important to confirm visitation schedules in advance by contacting the prison.
How to Book a Visit to McPherson Unit
To book a visit to McPherson Unit, contact the facility directly via phone at 870-523-2639. Visitors must be on the approved visitor list, and you may need to provide identification and other details during the booking process. Visits may also be limited to a set number of people, usually no more than four per inmate at one time.
Directions and Parking for McPherson Unit
McPherson Unit is located about 100 miles north of Little Rock. To get there, take Highway 67 North and exit at Highway 384 (Exit 83). Follow the road for approximately 2.5 miles before turning left onto 384S (Corrections Drive), and the prison will be on the right-hand side. Parking is available on-site, and visitors should arrive early to ensure a spot.
Life Inside McPherson Unit and Latest News
Life at McPherson Unit revolves around rehabilitation and skill development. Programs such as substance abuse treatment, vocational training, and educational services are widely available. Inmates have access to mental health services, a law library, and recreational programs. The prison also runs the “Paws in Prison” program, where inmates train shelter dogs, providing them with therapeutic benefits and improving their skills.
However, McPherson Unit has faced criticism over staffing shortages and allegations of abuse. In 2023, the Department of Justice launched an investigation into claims of sexual misconduct by staff members, highlighting ongoing challenges at the facility.
Famous Prisoners at McPherson Unit
McPherson Unit is known for housing Arkansas’ only female death row inmates. One of the most infamous is Christina Marie Riggs, convicted for the murder of her two children in 1997. She was executed by lethal injection in 2000, marking one of the most high-profile cases at the unit.
FAQs About McPherson Unit
What type of inmates are housed at McPherson Unit?
McPherson Unit houses female offenders, including those on death row, with security levels ranging from minimum to maximum.What are the visiting hours at McPherson Unit?
Visiting hours are typically on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, though this may vary depending on the inmate’s classification.How can I book a visit to McPherson Unit?
To book a visit, call the facility at 870-523-2639. Ensure you are on the approved visitor list and have a valid photo ID ready.Does McPherson Unit offer rehabilitation programs?
Yes, McPherson Unit offers a variety of educational and vocational programs, including GED completion, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment.Where is McPherson Unit located?
McPherson Unit is located at 302 Corrections Drive, Newport, AR 72112.Can I send mail to an inmate at McPherson Unit?
Yes, you can send letters and approved items to inmates. Ensure that any books or magazines come directly from the publisher.What should I wear when visiting McPherson Unit?
Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, and ensure your attire is appropriate for a correctional facility.How do I send money to an inmate at McPherson Unit?
Money can be sent through approved methods such as online deposit services. Contact the prison for specific instructions.What security measures are in place at McPherson Unit?
McPherson Unit operates with medium to maximum security protocols, including regular inmate checks and monitored communication.What is the Paws in Prison program at McPherson Unit?
Paws in Prison allows inmates to train shelter dogs, which helps with rehabilitation by teaching them responsibility and providing therapeutic benefits.
Conclusion
McPherson Unit in Newport, Arkansas, plays a vital role in the state’s correctional system, focusing on rehabilitation and skill development for female offenders. While it offers many programs to prepare inmates for life after incarceration, the facility faces ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and external investigations. Despite these issues, McPherson Unit remains dedicated to providing opportunities for inmates to better themselves and reintegrate into society.
For more information, you can visit the Arkansas Department of Corrections page.
Sources:
- Arkansas Department of Corrections – McPherson Unit
- Inmate Aid – McPherson Unit Information
- McPherson Unit – Wikipedia