MCI-Concord is a medium-security correctional facility located in Concord, Massachusetts. It houses criminally sentenced males and is one of the largest prisons in the state. The facility has a capacity of 1,390 inmates and employs over 400 staff members.
MCI-Concord is part of the Massachusetts Department of Correction, which oversees all state prisons and houses over 8,000 inmates. The facility offers a variety of programs and services to its inmates, including educational classes, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment. Inmates also have access to religious services, recreational activities, and mental health counseling.
MCI-Concord has a long history of providing correctional services to the state of Massachusetts. It was originally established in 1878 as the Massachusetts Reformatory and has undergone several name changes and renovations over the years. Today, it remains a vital part of the state’s correctional system, providing a safe and secure environment for its inmates and staff.
| Security | Medium |
| Capacity | 1,390 |
| Physical Address | 965 Elm St., P.O. Box 9106, Concord, MA 01742 |
| Mailing Address | 965 Elm St., P.O. Box 9106, Concord, MA 01742 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Depends on the last name of the inmate |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (978) 405-6100 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
MCI-Concord is a medium-security correctional facility located in Concord, Massachusetts. It was opened in 1878 and has since undergone numerous renovations and upgrades to meet the changing needs of the correctional system.
Originally known as the Massachusetts Reformatory, MCI-Concord was designed to provide a more humane and rehabilitative approach to incarceration. The facility was built on a 1,300-acre farm and included a working dairy, poultry farm, and vegetable garden, providing inmates with a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Over the years, MCI-Concord has expanded to include multiple housing units, educational and vocational training programs, and specialized units for inmates with mental health and substance abuse issues. In 2013, a new Secure Adjustment Unit (SAU) was added to provide a safe and secure environment for inmates who require additional supervision and control.
Despite the changes, MCI-Concord remains committed to its original mission of providing inmates with opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation. The facility continues to offer a variety of educational and vocational programs, including adult basic education, vocational training, and college courses.
Today, MCI-Concord is home to over 1,000 inmates, and its staff is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff. The facility is an important part of the Massachusetts Department of Correction’s efforts to promote public safety and reduce recidivism.
Location and Contact Information
Physical Address
MCI-Concord is a medium-security facility located at 965 Elm Street in Concord, Massachusetts. The facility is situated on a 500-acre campus and is surrounded by a security fence. The facility is easily accessible by car and is located near several major highways, including I-495 and I-95.
Mailing Address
The mailing address for MCI-Concord is:
- MCI-Concord 965 Elm Street Concord, MA 01742
Visitors are advised to check with the facility before sending any mail to an inmate to ensure that the mail meets the facility’s guidelines.
Phone Number
The phone number for MCI-Concord is (978) 405-6100. This number can be used to contact the facility’s main switchboard, which can direct calls to the appropriate department or individual.
Visitors are advised to call the facility before visiting to ensure that they have the most up-to-date information on visiting hours, rules, and regulations.
The Massachusetts Department of Correction is responsible for overseeing MCI-Concord and other correctional facilities throughout the state. The department can be reached at (508) 422-3300.
Overall, MCI-Concord is a well-maintained facility that provides a safe and secure environment for inmates and staff alike. Visitors are advised to familiarize themselves with the facility’s rules and regulations before visiting to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit.
Visiting Hours and Policies
Visiting Hours
MCI-Concord offers visiting hours for inmates, but visitors must follow specific rules and procedures. Visitors can schedule non-contact visiting hours by calling (978) 405-6100 ext. 181. Non-contact visiting hours are one-hour sessions that must be scheduled in advance.
- In-person:
- Last name beginning with A-L
- Sunday: 1:00 pm – 3:50 pm
- Wednesday – Friday: 1:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Saturday: 6:20 pm – 8:30 pm
- Last name beginning with M-Z
- Sunday: 6:20 pm – 8:30 pm
- Wednesday – Friday: 1:00 pm – 8:30 pm
- Saturday: 1:00 pm – 3:50 pm
- Last name beginning with A-L
- Non-contact:
- Monday: 1:30 pm-3:30 pm, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm
- Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Visiting Rules
Visitors must follow specific rules when visiting an inmate at MCI-Concord. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and security of the prison system. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID and be on the inmate’s approved visiting list. Visitors must also dress appropriately and follow the prison’s dress code. Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visiting area, including cell phones, cameras, and weapons.
Contact Visits
Contact visits are not allowed at MCI-Concord. All visits are non-contact visits, and visitors and inmates are separated by a glass partition. Visitors and inmates can communicate through a phone system during the visit.
Non-Contact Visits
Non-contact visits are the only type of visits allowed at MCI-Concord. Visitors and inmates are separated by a glass partition, and communication is through a phone system. Visitors must schedule non-contact visits in advance and follow all visiting rules and procedures.
The prison system takes visiting policies seriously, and visitors must follow all rules and procedures. The warden and staff at MCI-Concord work hard to ensure the safety and security of the prison system while also allowing inmates to maintain relationships with their loved ones. Visitors should arrive early and follow all directions and visiting rules to ensure a smooth and successful visit.
Inmate Services
MCI-Concord provides various services to inmates to help them maintain communication with their loved ones and access necessary resources. These services include mail, phone calls, email, and visitation schedules.
Inmates can receive and send mail while they are incarcerated at MCI-Concord. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and must follow specific guidelines. Inmates can receive letters, photographs, and approved publications. They can also purchase postage stamps and envelopes from the commissary. Inmates should use the following mailing address:
Inmate Name, 965 Elm St., P.O. Box 9106, Concord, MA 01742Phone Calls
Inmates at MCI-Concord can make phone calls to their friends and family members. They can make collect calls, prepaid calls, or debit calls. The cost of the calls is determined by the service provider. Inmates can make calls during designated hours, and the calls may be monitored and recorded. Friends and family members can set up an account with the service provider to receive calls from the inmate.
Inmates at MCI-Concord can also send and receive emails through the JPay system. The emails are screened and monitored, and they must follow specific guidelines. Inmates can purchase email stamps from the commissary to send emails. Friends and family members can also send emails to inmates through the JPay system.
Visitation Schedule
MCI-Concord has specific visitation schedules for inmates. Visitors must follow specific procedures and guidelines to visit an inmate. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list and must provide valid identification. Visitors must also follow the dress code and behavior guidelines while visiting. Inmates can receive visits on specific days and times based on their housing unit.
Overall, MCI-Concord provides various services to inmates to help them maintain communication with their loved ones and access necessary resources. These services include mail, phone calls, email, and visitation schedules. Inmates must follow specific guidelines and procedures to use these services.
Security Level and Facilities
MCI-Concord is a medium security prison that houses criminally sentenced males. The facility is located in South Concord and has a rated capacity of 614 inmates. The prison is divided into several units that perform various functions, including the Central Date Computation Unit, Central Records Unit, Central Research Unit, Data Collection Unit, SFU Building, and B-Building.
Medium Security Facility
MCI-Concord is a medium security facility that houses approximately 1,350 male inmates. The facility is designed to provide a secure environment for inmates while also allowing them to participate in various programs and activities. The prison has a range of security measures in place, including perimeter fencing, electronic surveillance, and a staff of trained correctional officers.
Central Date Computation Unit
The Central Date Computation Unit is responsible for calculating the release dates for inmates. The unit uses a computerized system to track inmate data and calculate the time remaining on their sentences. The unit also provides information to the court and other agencies regarding inmate release dates.
Central Records Unit
The Central Records Unit is responsible for maintaining the official records of the prison. The unit keeps track of inmate files, disciplinary records, medical records, and other important documents. The unit also provides information to other agencies and individuals as required by law.
Central Research Unit
The Central Research Unit is responsible for conducting research on various aspects of the prison system. The unit collects data on inmate populations, recidivism rates, and other relevant topics. The unit also provides information to policymakers and other stakeholders to help inform decision-making.
Data Collection Unit
The Data Collection Unit is responsible for collecting and analyzing data related to the prison population. The unit collects data on inmate demographics, offense types, and other relevant factors. The unit uses this data to help inform decision-making and improve prison operations.
SFU Building
The SFU Building is a specialized facility that houses inmates with special needs. The facility provides medical and mental health services to inmates with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and other health conditions. The facility is staffed by trained medical professionals who provide care to inmates around the clock.
B-Building
B-Building is a housing unit that provides secure housing for inmates. The unit is staffed by trained correctional officers who ensure the safety and security of the inmates. The unit also provides a range of programs and activities for inmates to participate in, including educational programs, vocational training, and recreational activities.
Overall, MCI-Concord is a secure and well-managed prison that provides a range of services and programs to inmates. The prison is staffed by trained professionals who are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the inmates.
Notable Inmates and Events
Timothy Leary
Timothy Leary was a former Harvard professor and counterculture icon who was sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug-related charges in 1970. He was transferred to MCI-Concord in 1972, where he served out the remainder of his sentence. During his time at MCI-Concord, Leary became known for his advocacy of psychedelic drugs and his criticism of the prison system. He also wrote several books, including “Prison Diary” and “Flashbacks”, which chronicled his experiences in prison and his life as a counterculture figure.
Concord Prison Experiment
The Concord Prison Experiment was a landmark study conducted by psychologist Philip Zimbardo in 1971. The study aimed to investigate the psychological effects of prison life on inmates and guards. The experiment was conducted at MCI-Concord, where a group of volunteers were randomly assigned to play the roles of prisoners and guards. The experiment was intended to last for two weeks but was terminated after only six days due to the extreme psychological distress experienced by the prisoners.
Malcolm X
Malcolm X, the civil rights leader and political activist, was incarcerated at MCI-Concord in the early 1950s. During his time in prison, Malcolm X became involved with the Nation of Islam, a black nationalist organization. He also began to educate himself by reading extensively and studying the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, the leader of the Nation of Islam. Malcolm X emerged from prison as a changed man, having embraced Islam and adopted the name Malcolm X. He went on to become one of the most influential figures in the civil rights movement.
Overall, MCI-Concord has been the site of several notable events and has housed a number of high-profile inmates over the years. These individuals have left their mark on the prison and on the broader culture, and their stories continue to be studied and discussed by scholars and the public alike.