New technology in Michigan’s prison system aims to make the mail more secure

Lansing — The Michigan Department of Corrections is rolling out a new system in January designed to significantly reduce the amount of contraband sent to prisoners and ensure the safety of staff and inmates.

The system, called TextBehind, is a multipurpose document system designed to minimize the entry of contraband into correctional facilities, including by streamlining bulk mail management.

Shipping is particularly concerning because blotter paper can absorb fentanyl and other narcotics such as LSD, which can then be distributed through the mail. Experts say this poses a risk to inmates and mail handlers.

Jenni Riehle, public information officer for the Department of Corrections, said Michigan’s prison system is in the early stages of implementing TextBehind. The department requires those who want to send mail to an inmate to register.