Massachusetts Department of Correction

09/03/2026

Today, we honor the memory of Lieutenant Jason R. Earls, who tragically passed away in the line of duty on September 3, 2016. Jason served the Commonwealth with dedication for over 15 years at MCI–Cedar Junction, rising to the rank of Lieutenant and earning the respect of all who worked alongside him. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to service continue to inspire us a decade later. We remember not only his professionalism, but also the kindness, strength, and devotion he showed to his family, friends, and community.

09/02/2026

📍 Ready to build a career with purpose? Meet withour Recruitment Team this September!

Our Recruitment Team will be at events across the state and hosting virtual information sessions throughout the month to help those interested in exploring a career as a Correction Officer.

📅 View our full recruitment calendar for event details and registration information: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/recruitment-monthly-calendar

09/01/2026

We are grateful to the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation for standing with the family of fallen Correction Officer John David Edwards and providing support to his wife and their four daughters.

John dedicated 28 years to serving the Massachusetts Department of Correction, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and commitment to public safety. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Thank you to CPOF for reminding the Edwards family that they remain part of a correctional community that will continue to stand beside them. 💙

TAKING CARE OF OUR OWN: STANDING WITH THE EDWARDS FAMILY

For 28 years, Correction Officer John David Edwards served the Massachusetts Department of Correction with professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to public safety.

On May 31, 2026, Officer Edwards suffered a medical emergency while at his post at North Central Correctional Institution in Gardner. He passed away later that day at the age of 56.

Recently, CPOF Honor Guard member and former Massachusetts DOC Honor Guard Commander Joseph Garretson joined current Honor Guard Commander Lieutenant John Haskell in presenting financial assistance from the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation to John’s wife, Jana, at her home.

This presentation represented more than financial assistance. It was a reminder to Jana and the Edwards family that they remain surrounded by a correctional community that remembers John’s service and stands beside those he loved.

John dedicated nearly three decades to serving at MCI Concord and NCCI Gardner. Away from the institution, he was a devoted husband and father who loved spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, listening to music, playing his guitars, and visiting his cabin in Maine—his “happy place.”

CPOF is honored to stand beside Jana, their four daughters, and the entire Edwards family during this difficult time.

This is what it means to take care of our own.

Rest easy, Officer Edwards. Your service and legacy will never be forgotten.

08/31/2026

🚨 Deadline Today!

Today is the last day to apply for our next Correction Officer I Exam. Don’t miss your chance to take the first step toward a rewarding career in public safety. The Correction Officer I Exam is your gateway to stability, growth, and the opportunity to make a real difference.

Exam Date: October 10

Apply: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/2026-correction-officer-i-examination-october

08/28/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Deputy Director Hollie Matthews on her well-earned retirement after more than 30 years of dedicated service with the Massachusetts Department of Correction! Most recently serving as Acting Executive Director of Strategic Planning & Research, Hollie’s leadership, professionalism, and dedication made a lasting impact on the Department.

We are grateful for her many years of service and wish her all the best in this next chapter. Congratulations, Hollie!

08/27/2026

🚨 Last Chance to Apply!

Time is running out to register for the Correction Officer I Exam. Take the first step toward a steady, meaningful career with the Massachusetts Department of Correction and apply today.

Deadline: August 31
Exam Date: October 10

Apply: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/2026-correction-officer-i-examination-october

08/26/2026

🐾 Happy National Dog Day! 🐾

Today, we’re celebrating Mugsy, Al and Bandit, the three four-legged members of the Massachusetts Department of Correction’s Comfort Dog Program. 🐶💙

Part of the DOC’s Employee Assistance Unit, the Comfort Dog Program has served as wellness support to our staff since 2019, helping reduce stress, build resilience, and provide comfort and connection. Whether they’re offering a quiet moment, a friendly greeting or simply reminding us to take a breath, Mugsy, Al and Bandit play an important role in supporting the people who serve our Department every day.

Follow their adventures on Instagram at ! 🐾📸

08/26/2026

Interested in a career in public safety or public service? Looking for hands-on experience that can help launch your career? Applications are now open for the Massachusetts Department of Correction’s Spring 2027 Internship Program! 🎓

College, university and trade school students are welcome to apply. The Spring 2027 internship runs from January through May. The program will provide the opportunity to gain real-world experience, work alongside DOC professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and learn more about the many career opportunities within the Department.

📅 Applications are open now through October 16, 2026.
🔗 Take the first step here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/vW2ZE0w7kq?origin=lprLink

08/25/2026

Thank you to for highlighting the launch of our new digital patient portal, which builds on DOC’s ongoing work to strengthen healthcare and mental health services for the housed population.

The secure portal makes it easier for individuals to request medical assistance, receive appointment reminders, access their health information, and explore health resources.

🔗 Read more here:

The Massachusetts Department of Correction has launched a digital patient portal via department-issued tablets to help incarcerated individuals manage their healthcare needs and engage in wellness …

08/24/2026

Please join us in congratulating our 25 newly promoted Lieutenants! 🎉

We were proud to celebrate these promotions alongside families, loved ones and colleagues at a recent ceremony. Our newest Lieutenants will take on important leadership roles, helping support the safety, security, and operations of facilities across the Massachusetts Department of Correction.

Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to the positive impact you will make in your new roles.