Family members of incarcerated individuals are often referred to as “hidden victims” -victims of the criminal justice system who are not acknowledged or given a platform! It’s time to help give these innocent victims a voice.

On March 12, 2020, the Mississippi Department of Corrections announced that they were canceling visitation in an effort to prevent the spread of Covid-19. We know that this was done in an effort to protect inmates, staff, volunteers, and visitors as well as the community from the potential exposure to the coronavirus.

State Legislatures provided funding to the MDOC, from the Cares Act, to provide virtual visitation. House Bill 1728, was signed into law by Governor Tate Reeves on July 8, 2020.

February 8th, will mark 7 months since MDOC was provided funding by Mississippi Legislators for virtual visitation. Commissioner Cain’s office had previously told families that virtual visitation would be up and running before Thanksgiving 2020. However the families have seen no progress.

It is imperative that family connections be maintained. They offer critical emotional and psychological support. Family is a vital tool to promote successful re-entry, and public safety.
Family connections mitigate the harm parental incarceration has on children.

The money is there, it’s time MDOC made visits a priority. We are seeking transparency and answers.
Families are innocent victims, who have grown tired of unfulfilled promises of a virtual visitation option until normal visitation can resume. They need your help to reunite families.