Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility: Overview

Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility (MTU) is located in Ionia, Michigan, and operates as a Level II prison under the Michigan Department of Corrections. This facility, established in 1958, primarily houses male offenders aged 18 and above. MTU is known for its focus on rehabilitation and educational programs, including the highly regarded Vocational Village program, which provides inmates with training in skilled trades. The facility also offers the Calvin Prison Initiative, enabling prisoners to receive higher education in partnership with Calvin College. It is recognized for supporting prisoners’ successful reintegration into society by equipping them with marketable skills.

 

Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility exterior view

Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility Contact Information

  • Address:
    Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility
    1728 Bluewater Highway
    Ionia, MI 48846

  • Phone Number: 616-527-3100

  • Warden: DeWayne Burton

  • Email: For specific inquiries, it’s recommended to contact through the main line or official prison website Michigan Department of Corrections.

Visiting Information for Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility

Visitors to the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility can attend in-person visits, but these must be pre-scheduled. The prison also offers video visits for added convenience.

  • Visiting Hours:
    In-person visits are conducted by housing unit and require prior registration. Typical visiting hours are scheduled by weekday or weekend, with afternoon and evening slots available. It is recommended to check with the facility for the specific schedule of your loved one.

  • What to Bring:
    When visiting Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility, visitors should bring a valid ID and be mindful of the dress code and restrictions regarding personal items. The prison allows small amounts of money for vending machines, but electronic devices are prohibited.

  • Length of Visits:
    Visits are generally two hours long, depending on the prisoner’s housing unit and the visiting schedule. Extended visits can be arranged under certain circumstances.

How to Book a Visit at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility

Booking a visit at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility is a straightforward process. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. Visitor Registration: Before scheduling a visit, visitors must register with the Michigan Department of Corrections’ approved visitation system.
  2. Schedule a Visit: Use the GTL system to schedule a visit online. Select your preferred visiting date and time based on availability.
  3. Documentation: Visitors will need a valid government-issued ID.
  4. Limits on Visitors: Each inmate may have a limited number of visitors per session, typically around three to four people.

Directions and Parking for Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility

Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility is located in Ionia, Michigan, along Bluewater Highway. Visitors traveling by car can take US-131 and follow local signage to reach the facility.

  • Parking Information:
    Ample parking is available on-site. Visitors are advised to arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.

What is Life Like for Prisoners at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?

Life at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility is centered around rehabilitation. Inmates can participate in various educational and vocational programs aimed at reducing recidivism. The Vocational Village, launched in 2016, provides training in high-demand fields such as welding, auto mechanics, and carpentry, ensuring that inmates leave prison with valuable skills for employment. Academic programs, such as the GED and Calvin Prison Initiative, further enhance their educational opportunities.

Healthcare services at the facility include both mental health and dental care, while emergencies are referred to local hospitals or the Michigan Department of Corrections Duane L. Waters Health Center. The prison also provides recreational activities and religious services for inmates.

Famous Prisoners at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility

While Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility does not house high-profile criminals, its focus on rehabilitation has produced many success stories of former inmates who have reintegrated into society through the skills they gained during their time at the facility. Graduates of its Vocational Village program, for example, have gone on to secure employment in skilled trades, turning their lives around post-incarceration.

FAQs About Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility

1. What is the security level at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility is a Level II prison, which is medium security, housing male offenders.

2. How can I send mail to an inmate at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
Mail can be sent to inmates by addressing letters to the prison’s mailing address with the inmate’s full name and MDOC number.

3. Does Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility offer educational programs?
Yes, the facility offers a range of programs, including GED completion, vocational training through the Vocational Village, and higher education through the Calvin Prison Initiative.

4. How can I schedule a visit to Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
Visits can be scheduled online through the GTL system after registering as a visitor. Check the facility’s specific guidelines for visiting times.

5. What rehabilitation programs are available at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
The prison provides various rehabilitation programs, including vocational training, anger management, substance abuse treatment, and religious services.

6. Are there video visitations available at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
Yes, video visitations are available through the facility’s approved visitation platform.

7. How many inmates are housed at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
The facility has the capacity to house approximately 1,200 inmates.

8. What is the Vocational Village program at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
The Vocational Village is a specialized program that trains inmates in skilled trades, helping them prepare for careers after release.

9. Is there a commissary at Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
Yes, the facility has a commissary where inmates can purchase items.

10. How can I contact Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility?
You can contact the facility via phone at 616-527-3100 or by visiting the Michigan Department of Corrections website for more details.

Summary

Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility is a key part of Michigan’s correctional system, focusing heavily on rehabilitation through education and vocational training. Its state-of-the-art Vocational Village program is unique in its emphasis on preparing inmates for successful careers post-incarceration. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to the facility’s visiting guidelines and contact the facility for specific inquiries.

For more information, you can visit the Michigan Department of Corrections official page.

Visit Red River Correctional Facility