Mississippi State Penitentiary (Parchman Farm) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Mississippi State Penitentiary, also known as Parchman Farm, is a maximum-security prison located in Sunflower County, Mississippi. It is the oldest prison in the state and serves as the central facility of the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Contact Information
Address: 3794 Highway 468, Parchman, MS 38738
Phone: (662) 745-6611
Website: Mississippi Department of Corrections - Mississippi State Penitentiary
Inmate Locator
To locate an inmate, visit the Mississippi Department of Corrections Inmate Search page and enter the inmate's name or MDOC number.
Visitation Information
Visitation hours vary by unit and custody level. Contact the facility directly for specific visitation schedules. All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list and follow the dress code and visitation rules.
Sending Money
Money can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- Online: JPay
- Phone: 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 1279
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available through GTL, but check with the facility for availability.
Inmate Services and Programs
Mississippi State Penitentiary offers various programs including:
- Educational programs (GED, vocational training)
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Work programs
History of the Facility
Established in 1901, Parchman Farm was originally designed as a for-profit prison farm. Over the years, it has undergone significant reforms and modernization efforts to improve conditions and rehabilitation programs.
Security and Management
As a maximum-security facility, Parchman employs strict security measures. The prison is managed by the Mississippi Department of Corrections and houses inmates of various custody levels.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal representation and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be on the approved visitation list to visit inmates.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to Parchman from county jails after sentencing. The release process involves completing required programs, meeting parole conditions, or serving the full sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to visitation?
Visitors are typically allowed to bring a clear plastic bag with up to $20 in quarters for vending machines. No other items, including cell phones or cameras, are permitted.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Visitation frequency depends on the inmate's custody level and unit. Generally, inmates can receive visits on designated weekends, but it's best to confirm with the facility for specific schedules.
Can I send packages to inmates?
Personal packages are not allowed. Inmates can receive approved items through authorized vendors only.
Notable Inmates
Some famous prisoners who have served time at Mississippi State Penitentiary include:
- Elvis Presley's father, Vernon Presley (car fraud)
- Blues musician Bukka White (assault)
- James Earl Ray (assassin of Martin Luther King Jr., briefly held here during transfer)
- Edgar Ray Killen (convicted for the murders of three civil rights workers)
- Luke Woodham (school shooter)
