Department of Corrections opens a new work center in Pearl to help inmates transition. Here's a look

Joshua Williams, Mississippi Clarion Ledger
·2 min read

The Mississippi Department of Corrections reopened a transitional work center in Pearl to provide inmates with jobs, which will prepare them to work in society after being released.

Officials said the work-release program would operate with Central Mississippi Correctional Facility matching MDOC inmates with jobs.

The program will help 75 to 100 inmates on a case-by-case basis, primarily depending on the individual's parole date.

Burl Cain, MDOC commissioner said the first attempt for the program in 2021 was unsuccessful until Bryan Bailey, Rankin County Sheriff, proved it could work.

"The inmates we have now are looking forward to this program," Cain said. "This program was designed to let inmates know we care to correct the behavior that could prevent future crimes.

"Our job is to change their lives."

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Cain said some inmates could make up to $15 per hour depending on the job opportunity they receive.

"Next year, our goal is to have the data to show what worked and what didn't," Cain said.

Bradley Lum, MDOC deputy commissioner of workforce development said this is a new program, and there are many changes as we work through the process.

"The program is about changing the participants' outlook and giving them hope for the future, and that is happening with everyone that is in the program," Lum said. "This is a big day for our inmates, the state of Mississippi, and the core of the program, which is providing safety and security within our facility.

"Our hope is to provide a sustainable life for our inmates outside of prison."

Officials said work-release participants' wages will be distributed into four different accounts to help monitor spending until the program is complete.

  • 25% will be to pay off outstanding fines and fees

  • 50% will be placed into a saving account

  • 15% will go on a prepaid credit card for personal items

  • 10% will be used for administration fees

Lum said the center will also offer anger management and counseling session to inmates as a part of the program.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: MDOC opens work center in Pearl to help inmates transition into society