Moose Lake Prison is a medium-security facility located in Moose Lake, Minnesota. The prison houses male inmates and has a capacity of over 1,000 beds. The facility is operated by the Minnesota Department of Corrections and is one of several prisons in the state.
Moose Lake Prison was originally built as a regional treatment center for people with mental illness and developmental disabilities. In 1986, the facility was converted into a prison and began housing male inmates. Since then, the prison has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing inmate population.
The prison offers a variety of educational and vocational programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. These programs include adult basic education, vocational training, and college courses. Inmates can also participate in substance abuse treatment programs and mental health services.
However, despite these efforts, the prison has faced criticism for issues such as overcrowding and violence.
| Security | Medium |
| Capacity | 1,029 |
| Physical Address | 1000 Lakeshore Drive Moose Lake, MN 55767 |
| Mailing Address | 1000 Lakeshore Drive Moose Lake, MN 55767 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Depends on the Unit |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 218-485-5000 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History and Overview
Background
Minnesota Correctional Facility – Moose Lake is a state prison located in Moose Lake, Minnesota. It was established in 1988 and is operated by the Minnesota Department of Corrections. The facility houses male inmates of all custody levels and provides a variety of programs and services to help them successfully reintegrate into society.
The prison has a capacity of 1,029 inmates and is staffed by approximately 400 employees. It is one of several correctional facilities operated by the Minnesota Department of Corrections.
Facility Overview
The Moose Lake prison is situated on a 1,500-acre campus that includes several buildings and structures. The facility is divided into several housing units, each of which is designed to accommodate inmates of different custody levels. The units are supervised by correctional officers and support staff who are responsible for maintaining safety and security within the facility.
The prison offers a variety of programs and services to inmates, including education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and religious programs. Inmates can also participate in work programs that allow them to gain job skills and earn money to support their families.
As of May 2023, the inmate population at Moose Lake was approximately 900. The prison has faced challenges in recent years due to overcrowding and staffing shortages, which have led to safety concerns and a strain on resources. However, the Minnesota Department of Corrections is committed to addressing these issues and improving conditions for both staff and inmates.
Overall, Moose Lake Prison plays an important role in the Minnesota Department of Corrections’ efforts to promote public safety and reduce recidivism. By providing inmates with the resources and support they need to successfully reenter society, the prison aims to help them lead productive and fulfilling lives after their release.
Inmate Information
Inmates at Moose Lake Prison are allowed to receive mail from friends and family. All mail must be sent to the following address:
- Minnesota Correctional Facility – Moose Lake
- 1000 Lakeshore Drive
- Moose Lake, MN 55767
All incoming mail will be opened and inspected for contraband. Inmates are not allowed to receive packages, but they are allowed to receive letters, photos, and money orders.
GED and Education
Moose Lake Prison offers educational opportunities for inmates, including GED classes and vocational education. Inmates can also receive tutoring and participate in post-secondary educational opportunities.
Inmate Search
Friends and family of inmates can search for an inmate by using the Minnesota Department of Corrections website. Inmates can also be located by contacting the prison directly at (218) 485-5000.
Visiting Hours and Regulations
Visiting hours at Moose Lake Prison vary depending on the security level of the inmate. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list and must present a valid ID.
Visitors are subject to a search before entering the facility. They are not allowed to bring in any items, including cell phones, cameras, or weapons.
Visitation Hours:
- General population – Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Restrictive housing population – Those in Restrictive housing may have visits on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. via teleconference television, by appointment only. To make an appointment, you must call 218-485-5170 at least 24 hours in advance.
Regulations
Moose Lake Prison has strict regulations regarding inmate behavior. Inmates are expected to follow all rules and regulations, including those related to personal hygiene, dress code, and work assignments.
Inmates who violate these regulations may be subject to disciplinary action, including loss of privileges and time in restrictive housing.
Moose Lake Prison also has regulations regarding holidays, mail, and phone calls. Inmates are allowed to make phone calls during designated hours and must follow specific guidelines when sending and receiving mail.
Overall, Moose Lake Prison is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for incarcerated individuals. The prison system offers a variety of educational and employment opportunities to help inmates transition back into the community.
Facilities and Programs
The Moose Lake Prison offers a variety of facilities and programs to its inmates, including manufacturing and maintenance, educational opportunities, treatment and counseling, and recreational activities.
Manufacturing and Maintenance
The prison provides manufacturing and maintenance programs to its inmates, which include woodworking, metalworking, and small engine repair. These programs provide inmates with valuable skills that can help them find employment upon release. Inmates work on projects such as constructing furniture, repairing equipment, and building structures.
Educational Opportunities
The Moose Lake Prison offers educational opportunities to its inmates, including GED classes, adult basic education, and college courses. These programs help inmates improve their literacy and numeracy skills, as well as their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Inmates can earn degrees in various fields, such as business, computer science, and liberal arts.
Treatment and Counseling
The prison provides treatment and counseling programs to its inmates, which include substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, and anger management classes. These programs help inmates address underlying issues that may have contributed to their criminal behavior. Inmates can learn coping skills, develop healthy relationships, and improve their overall well-being.
Recreational Activities
The Moose Lake Prison offers recreational activities to its inmates, such as sports, music, and art. These activities provide inmates with opportunities to socialize, express themselves, and relieve stress. Inmates can participate in intramural leagues, join a band or choir, or take art classes.
Overall, the Moose Lake Prison provides a range of facilities and programs that aim to help inmates develop skills, improve their well-being, and prepare for successful reentry into society.
Visitation Information
Visiting – Moose Lake
Moose Lake Prison allows visitors to visit inmates during specific hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the visiting hours to ensure that they are processed in time to visit their loved ones. Visitors are not allowed to bring any personal items, including cell phones, purses, or wallets, into the visiting room. Visitors are also not allowed to bring any food or drinks into the visiting room.
Facility Directly
Visitors can contact Moose Lake Prison directly for more information on visiting hours, rules, and regulations. The facility can be reached at (218) 485-5000. Visitors can also visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections website for additional information.
Visiting Regulations
Visitors must follow specific rules and regulations when visiting Moose Lake Prison. Some of the most important rules include:
- Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitors list.
- Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Visitors must dress appropriately and follow the prison’s dress code.
- Visitors must not bring any personal items into the visiting room.
- Visitors must not bring any food or drinks into the visiting room.
- Visitors must not engage in any inappropriate behavior during their visit.
Moneygram is the only way to send money to an inmate at Moose Lake prison. Visitors can send money online at the Moneygram website or at a Moneygram location. The MN DOC website has more information on how to send money to an inmate.
Visitation rules and regulations are subject to change at any time. Visitors should check with Moose Lake Prison or the MNDOC website for the most up-to-date information on visiting rules and regulations.