Woodland Correctional Facility is a secure state prison in Whitmore Lake, Michigan, run by the Michigan Department of Corrections. It serves as the state’s main center for inpatient mental health care and crisis stabilization for inmates. The facility has a 30-bed psychiatric unit that offers urgent medical treatment, therapy, and medication support. A team of psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers provides round-the-clock care. The prison also includes medical services like an infirmary, outpatient clinic, and a Level II unit with dialysis stations for inmates with kidney disease. A Level I housing unit holds 120 low-risk prisoners. The campus has ten modular pods and can house up to 352 adult male inmates. Each pod has steel doors, electronic locks, and privacy features. The facility opened in 2009 and sits on 125 acres near M-36.
Location and Contact Information
The Woodland Correctional Facility is located at 9036 East M-36, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The main information phone number is (734) 449-7141. Visitors and families can call this line for updates on inmates, visitation rules, and mail policies. The prison uses a centralized mailroom for all inmate correspondence. Every letter must include the inmate’s full legal name and MDOC ID number. If this information is missing, the mail is returned. People can look up an inmate’s ID using the MDOC Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS) online. The facility also has a secondary office at 12 E Woodland Towers for community programs and public records.
Housing and Security Levels
The prison has two main security levels: Level I and Level II. Level I housing holds low-risk inmates in a general population setting. Level II includes specialized units for inmates needing medical or mental health care. One such unit supports prisoners on dialysis. The campus has ten housing pods, each with 30 cells. These pods are monitored by motion sensors, cameras, and daily headcounts. About 40% of inmates receive ongoing mental health treatment. These individuals are placed in separate areas to reduce stress and prevent self-harm. The entire site is surrounded by dual fencing and electronic monitoring systems. Youth offenders under 18 may be admitted in rare cases but are kept apart from adults.
Mental Health and Medical Services
Mental health care is the main focus of Woodland Correctional Facility. The 30-bed psychiatric unit treats inmates with severe mental illness. Services include medication management, individual therapy, and group counseling. A multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and licensed social workers provides care. The on-site infirmary handles routine checkups, chronic conditions, and emergencies. A dental clinic offers cleanings, extractions, and repairs. The outpatient clinic supports inmates not in the psychiatric unit. The Level II dialysis unit serves those with kidney failure. All medical staff work closely with security officers to ensure safety and proper treatment.
Inmate Population and Demographics
The certified capacity of Woodland Correctional Facility is 352 adult male inmates. Most prisoners are serving long sentences. About 68% are serving 15 to 45 years, and 22% are under life-without-parole orders. The average age is over 35, with many inmates having chronic health or mental health needs. The facility does not house female inmates. In rare cases, youth offenders aged 17 or younger may be admitted but are isolated from the adult population. The prison maintains detailed records on each inmate, including housing assignment, medical status, and release dates. These records are updated nightly and available through FOIA requests.
Visitation Rules and Schedule
Visitors can see inmates on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. There are two daily time slots: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. All visitors must bring a valid state-issued photo ID. Dress code rules ban offensive clothing, revealing outfits, and excessive jewelry. Visits happen behind a plexiglass barrier, and each session lasts 15 minutes. The Huron housing unit has a special in-person visit time on Saturday evenings from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Only one visitor may sit at a time, and others must wait in the lobby. Children under 18 must be with an adult. Food, gifts, or physical contact are not allowed.
Mail and Communication Policies
All mail sent to inmates must include their full name and MDOC number. Letters without this information are returned. Packages are not accepted unless approved for medical or legal reasons. Inmates can make phone calls using prepaid accounts. Calls are monitored and limited to 15 minutes. The prison does not allow cell phones or personal devices. Legal mail is opened in front of the inmate to protect confidentiality. Families can check an inmate’s status using the OTIS database on the MDOC website. This system shows location, custody level, and upcoming court dates.
Staffing and Employment
Woodland Correctional Facility employs about 1,150 people. This includes correctional officers, medical staff, administrators, and support workers. Employees receive training in crisis de-escalation, mental health awareness, and inmate safety. Many staff members report a collaborative culture between security and health teams. The facility offers tuition reimbursement for education and certification programs. Some employees suggest improving electronic record systems and adding wellness resources. Job reviews highlight professional growth and team support. The prison values staff input and holds regular meetings to discuss safety and care improvements.
Programs and Inmate Activities
Inmates at Woodland Correctional Facility have access to educational and therapeutic programs. These include GED classes, substance abuse counseling, and anger management. Mental health groups meet weekly to discuss coping skills and emotional regulation. Religious services are offered for various faiths. Inmates can request books from the prison library. Work assignments are available in maintenance, food service, and laundry. These jobs help inmates learn skills and earn small wages. The facility encourages participation in programs to support rehabilitation and reduce stress.
Safety and Security Measures
Security is a top priority at Woodland Correctional Facility. The campus has dual fencing, motion sensors, and 24-hour camera surveillance. Staff conduct daily headcounts and random cell checks. Inmates in mental health units are monitored more closely to prevent self-harm. Crisis response teams are trained to handle emergencies calmly and safely. The prison has a lockdown procedure for incidents involving violence or escape attempts. All staff wear radios and follow strict communication protocols. Visitors go through metal detectors and bag checks before entering.
Community and Legal Resources
The prison works with local organizations to support inmates and families. A community liaison office helps with volunteer programs and public records requests. Legal aid clinics assist inmates with document preparation and court filings. Families can attend informational sessions about prison policies and inmate rights. The facility also partners with mental health agencies to improve care quality. Public tours are not offered, but officials may speak at community events. The goal is to build trust and transparency with the public.
Recent Updates and Facility Changes
In 2023, the facility upgraded its electronic health records system to improve patient care. New dialysis machines were installed in the Level II unit. Staff received additional training on trauma-informed care. The visitation area was renovated to allow better airflow and visibility. The prison also expanded its mental health group sessions to include more inmates. These changes aim to enhance safety, health, and rehabilitation. The MDOC continues to monitor outcomes and adjust policies as needed.
How to Find an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Woodland Correctional Facility, use the MDOC Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS). This free online tool shows current location, custody level, and release date. Search by name or MDOC number. If you don’t know the number, try different spelling variations. The roster is updated every night. For questions, call (734) 449-3320 during business hours. You can also submit a FOIA request for printed records. Keep in mind that some information may be restricted for security reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people ask about visitation, mail, and inmate care at Woodland Correctional Facility. Below are answers to common questions. These cover rules, procedures, and resources for families, legal representatives, and researchers. Each answer is based on official MDOC policies and recent facility updates.
Can I send clothes or personal items to an inmate?
No, you cannot send clothes, shoes, or personal items to inmates at Woodland Correctional Facility. All clothing is provided by the prison. Packages are only accepted for approved medical or legal needs. These must be sent directly from a vendor and pre-approved by staff. Sending unauthorized items may result in the package being returned or destroyed. Inmates can purchase hygiene products and snacks from the commissary using funds from their account. Families can add money online or by phone.
What happens if an inmate has a mental health crisis?
If an inmate has a mental health crisis, staff respond immediately. Trained officers use de-escalation techniques to calm the situation. The inmate is then evaluated by a psychiatrist or mental health nurse. They may be moved to the psychiatric unit for observation and treatment. Medication adjustments or therapy sessions are provided as needed. Family members are not notified unless the inmate consents or there is a medical emergency. The goal is to stabilize the inmate safely and prevent harm.
Are inmates allowed to have visitors with children?
Yes, children can visit inmates at Woodland Correctional Facility if they are with a parent or legal guardian. Visitors under 18 must stay with an adult at all times. Strollers are not allowed in the visitation area. Children must remain seated and quiet during the visit. Diaper bags are subject to search. The facility does not provide childcare or toys. Visits are short and supervised, so plan accordingly. If a child becomes disruptive, the visit may end early.
How do I add money to an inmate’s account?
You can add money to an inmate’s account online, by phone, or by mail. Use the MDOC website or JPay service to deposit funds electronically. Phone deposits can be made using a credit or debit card. Mail-in deposits must be in the form of a money order sent to the prison’s processing center. Cash and personal checks are not accepted. Funds appear in the account within 24 to 48 hours. Inmates can use this money for commissary items, phone calls, and medical co-pays.
What medical services are available at the facility?
Woodland Correctional Facility offers a range of medical services. These include routine checkups, chronic disease management, emergency care, and mental health treatment. The infirmary handles minor injuries and illnesses. The outpatient clinic treats conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. The dental clinic provides cleanings, fillings, and extractions. The Level II unit has dialysis machines for kidney patients. Specialists may visit for complex cases. All care follows state and federal health standards.
Can inmates receive books or magazines?
Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines, but only if they are sent directly from a publisher or bookstore. Used books, homemade materials, or items from individuals are not allowed. All mail is inspected for contraband. Books must be paperback; hardcovers are banned for security reasons. Subscriptions are permitted if the address matches the prison’s mailing format. Inmates can also borrow books from the prison library. Popular titles are often available, but waitlists may apply.
What is the difference between Level I and Level II housing?
Level I housing is for low-risk inmates who follow rules and have no major health issues. These prisoners live in general population pods and have more freedom. Level II housing is for inmates needing medical or mental health care. This includes those on dialysis or in crisis stabilization. Level II units have closer monitoring and limited movement. Inmates in Level II may have fewer privileges but receive targeted treatment. The classification is based on health, behavior, and security risk.
Official Website: https://www.michigan.gov/corrections/Prisons/Woodland-Center-Correctional-Facility
Phone: (734) 449-7141
Visiting Hours: Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM and 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
Address: 9036 East M-36, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189
