What to Expect at Security Screening — body scanners, searches and exceptions (Missouri DOC)
Security screening happens at every visit, and it can feel stressful your first time through. Missouri DOC uses a combination of searches and scanning equipment to keep weapons, drugs, and contraband out of facilities. Knowing what to expect—and what to do if you need an exception to the body scanner—makes the process easier.
Once you enter Missouri DOC facility grounds, be ready for the possibility of a search. That includes you, any packages you bring with you, any children with you, and even your vehicle. Planning for that up front - keeping belongings minimal and making sure kids stay close - can make the entry process feel more predictable.
Expect to go through a metal detector. Every Missouri DOC facility uses them - it's a standard part of getting cleared to enter.
- ✓ Intercept full-body scanner - used to help detect weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items
- ✓ Walk-through metal detectors - used alongside the full-body scanner for screening
- ✓ Hand-held metal detectors - used alongside the other screening tools
- ✓ X-ray baggage scanners - used to screen items for weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items
The body-scanner system links each scan to your identity. Before your first scan, staff enter your name and an ID number into the system. For visitors, that's your visitor ID number. For other non-staff members, it's the ID number from your driver's license, non-driver's license, or passport. You'll also have a photograph taken and stored in the body scanner system before stepping in.
The full-body scanner is standard for most adults. Anyone 18 or older goes through it unless they have an approved exception - like a verified medical condition or pregnancy.
- Confirm you’re eligible to request an exception - Non-staff members, including offenders’ visitors, vendors, and contractors, may submit a request.
- Direct your request to the right person - Submit the request to the facility warden or superintendent.
- Make the request before you arrive when possible - The exception has to be approved; having it addressed ahead of time can prevent delays at entry.
Practical Tips Prepare
- ✓ Bring the same ID you’ll be using for entry and screening, since the body-scanner system stores your name and ID number before the first scan.
- ✓ Keep packages to a minimum and expect they may be searched once you enter facility grounds.
- ✓ Stay with your children and keep them close, since children are also subject to search when entering prison grounds.
- ✓ Leave extra items in your vehicle and remember that vehicles on facility grounds may be subject to search, too.
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