Montana State Prison, located in Deer Lodge, Montana is a correctional facility that houses nearly 1,600 male inmates. The facility provides inmates with a variety of evidence-based programming designed to assist them when they transition back into society. The prison serves inmates requiring low to high levels of security and provides them with the necessary resources to help them succeed.
Montana State Prison is one of the largest employers in the area, with approximately 700 employees supported by the Technical Correctional Services (TCS) Bureau. The TCS Bureau provides expertise, oversight, and practical service to the prison and the Department in areas of Inmate Classification, Discipline, Grievance, and Placement. The prison is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for staff, inmates, and the public.
Montana State Prison is an integral part of the state’s criminal justice system. It plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety by providing a secure and structured environment for offenders. The facility’s mission is to provide a safe and humane environment for inmates, staff, and the public while promoting rehabilitation and successful reentry into society.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 1526 |
| Physical Address | 400 Conley Lake Road Deer Lodge, MT 59722 |
| Mailing Address | Montana State Prison 700 Conley Lake Road Deer Lodge, MT 59722 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | In-person visitation at Montana State Prison is suspended until further notice. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (406) 415-6126 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
The Montana State Prison (MSP) has a long and storied history, dating back to the Montana Territorial Prison in the late 1800s. The original prison, located in Deer Lodge, MT, was established in 1871 and housed some of the most notorious criminals of the time. The prison was known for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates, and it was not until the early 1900s that significant reforms were put in place.
Montana Territorial Prison
The Montana Territorial Prison was established in 1871, and it quickly gained a reputation as one of the toughest prisons in the West. The prison was initially built to house criminals who were convicted of crimes in the Montana Territory, which at the time included parts of present-day Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.
The prison was located in Deer Lodge, MT, and it was built using local sandstone. The prison was designed to be a maximum-security facility, with high walls and guard towers. The cells were small and cramped, and the prisoners were often subjected to harsh conditions.
Riot of 1959
One of the most significant events in the history of the Montana State Prison was the riot of 1959. The riot was sparked by a group of inmates who were unhappy with the conditions at the prison. The inmates took control of the prison and held several guards hostage.
The riot lasted for several days, and it was eventually put down by a group of National Guard troops. The riot resulted in the deaths of two inmates and the injury of several others. The riot also led to significant reforms at the prison, including improvements in conditions for the inmates.
Frank Conley, the warden of the prison at the time, was widely criticized for his handling of the riot. Conley was eventually fired from his position, and he later wrote a book about the riot and his experiences at the prison.
Overall, the history of the Montana State Prison is a complex and fascinating one. From its early days as the Montana Territorial Prison to the riot of 1959, the prison has played an important role in the history of Montana and the American West.
Facilities
Montana State Prison is a modern facility that houses nearly 1,600 male inmates in a secure, 68-acre compound. The facility serves inmates requiring low to high levels of security and provides them with a variety of evidence-based programming designed to assist them when they transition back into the community.
The prison has four different facilities that cater to the different needs of the inmates. These facilities are Powell County Ranch, Pine Hills Correctional Facility, Montana Women’s Prison, and Riverside Special Needs Unit.
Powell County Ranch
Powell County Ranch is a minimum-security facility located in Deer Lodge, Montana. It provides a work-release program for inmates who are within two years of their release date. Inmates at the ranch work on a variety of tasks, including farming, ranching, and other jobs that help them develop work skills. The ranch also provides educational and vocational training programs to help inmates prepare for life after release.
Pine Hills Correctional Facility
Pine Hills Correctional Facility is a medium-security facility located in Miles City, Montana. This facility houses male inmates and provides a variety of programs to help them prepare for life after release. Inmates at Pine Hills can participate in vocational training programs, educational programs, and other programs designed to help them develop skills that will be useful when they re-enter society.
Montana Women’s Prison
Montana Women’s Prison is a facility located in Billings, Montana, that houses female inmates. The facility provides a variety of programs to help women prepare for life after release, including vocational training, educational programs, and other programs designed to help them develop skills that will be useful when they re-enter society.
Riverside Special Needs Unit
Riverside Special Needs Unit is a facility located in Boulder, Montana, that provides specialized care for inmates with mental health needs. The facility provides a variety of programs to help these inmates manage their mental health conditions and prepare for life after release. The programs include individual and group counseling, medication management, and other services designed to help these inmates develop the skills they need to succeed in society.
Overall, Montana State Prison provides a variety of facilities and programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. The different facilities cater to the different needs of the inmates and provide them with the necessary skills and tools to succeed in society.
Security
Montana State Prison has a comprehensive security system in place to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and the public. The prison has different custody levels, which determine the level of security required for each inmate. Additionally, overcrowding is a challenge that MSP faces, which can have an impact on security. Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining security and ensuring public safety.
Custody Levels
MSP has different custody levels, which are determined based on an inmate’s behavior, criminal history, and other factors. The custody levels range from minimum to maximum, with each level requiring a different level of security. Inmates with a minimum custody level require less security and have more privileges, while those with a maximum custody level require more security and have fewer privileges.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding is a significant challenge that MSP faces. The prison is designed to hold a certain number of inmates, and when that number is exceeded, it can impact security. Overcrowding can lead to increased tension and violence among inmates, which can make it more difficult for correctional officers to maintain order. Additionally, overcrowding can make it more challenging to provide inmates with the necessary resources and programs to help them transition back into society.
Correctional Officers
Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining security at MSP. They are responsible for supervising inmates, conducting searches, and responding to emergencies. To become a correctional officer at MSP, individuals must complete a rigorous training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Correctional officers must have excellent communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Overall, security is a top priority at MSP. The prison has a comprehensive security system in place to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. While overcrowding can be a challenge, correctional officers work tirelessly to maintain order and ensure public safety.
Visiting
Montana State Prison allows visitors to meet with inmates. Visitors are expected to adhere to a family-friendly dress code and conduct that promotes a healthy, positive environment focusing on family ties and supportive relationships. Upon entering Montana State Prison, the Visiting Officer will provide visitors with a list of rules and regulations to ensure safety and security for everyone involved.
Visiting Hours
Visitation at Montana State Prison is suspended until further notice.
Inmate Mailing Address
The inmate mailing address for Montana State Prison is 400 Conley Lake Road, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. Visitors are recommended to include the inmate’s name and identification number in all correspondence.
Inmate Search
Montana State Prison provides an online inmate search tool that allows visitors to search for inmates by name or identification number. The tool provides information on the inmate’s location, release date, and other details.
Send Mail
Visitors can send mail to inmates at Montana State Prison. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and may be read by prison officials. Visitors are recommended to include the inmate’s name and identification number in all correspondence.
Phone Calls
Inmates at Montana State Prison can make phone calls to approved phone numbers. Visitors can add their phone numbers to the inmate’s approved list by completing a phone list form. All phone calls are subject to monitoring and recording by prison officials.
Overall, visitors should review the Montana State Prison website for additional information on visiting hours, rules, and regulations.
Notable Inmates
Montana State Prison has housed a number of notable inmates throughout its history. Here are a few examples:
- Turkey Pete: Born in 1880, Turkey Pete was a notorious cattle rustler and horse thief who operated in Montana and Wyoming in the early 20th century. He was arrested and convicted multiple times for his crimes and spent a total of 15 years in Montana State Prison. He died in 1940.
- Lee Smart: Lee Smart was a member of the Montana Freemen, a far-right extremist group that gained national attention in the 1990s for their anti-government views and refusal to recognize federal authority. Smart was convicted of bank fraud and weapons charges related to his involvement with the group and was sentenced to 15 years in Montana State Prison. He was released in 2006.
Other notable inmates who have served time at Montana State Prison include:
- Gary Lee Cooper, who was convicted of murdering a police officer in 2006 and sentenced to death.
- David Burgert, a former Marine and member of the Montana Militia who was convicted of weapons charges and sentenced to 10 years in prison.
- Barry Beach, who was convicted of murder in 1983 and spent over 30 years in prison before being granted clemency by the governor in 2015.
Montana State Prison has also been the subject of controversy and criticism in recent years, with concerns raised about overcrowding, understaffing, and inmate safety. Despite these challenges, the prison continues to operate and house inmates from across the state.
Tourism
Montana State Prison is a popular tourist destination for history buffs and those interested in the criminal justice system. Visitors can learn about the prison’s history, architecture, and operations through various tours and exhibits.
Tours
The Montana State Prison offers guided tours that provide visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a correctional facility. The tours last approximately two hours and include a visit to the cell blocks, the prison yard, and the execution chamber. Visitors can also view historical exhibits that showcase the prison’s past and present.
Powell County Museum and Arts Foundation
Located in Deer Lodge, the Powell County Museum and Arts Foundation is a must-visit for those interested in the history of Montana and the American West. The museum features exhibits on the state’s mining industry, Native American culture, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Visitors can also view art exhibits that showcase the work of local and regional artists.
National Register of Historic Places
The Montana State Prison is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered a significant example of early 20th-century prison architecture. The prison’s Gothic Revival style is characterized by its use of stone, turrets, and towers. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the prison and explore its many architectural features.
In conclusion, Montana State Prison is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the criminal justice system. Whether you’re interested in tours, museums, or historic architecture, there’s something for everyone at this fascinating site.