What to Expect During Your Loved One’s Short Intake at IMCC (About 60 Days)

Male offenders are processed through the Iowa Medical and Classification Center (IMCC) in Coralville. Think of it as a starting point, not a long-term placement. During this reception period, the system gathers basic information and determines where your loved one will go next.

Time at IMCC is brief - about 60 days or less. After that, your loved one transfers to a permanent facility. Things move fast, so it's normal to feel like you're constantly watching for updates and trying to plan ahead.

After a transfer, check the IDOC online Offender Search to confirm where your loved one is housed. If they're in transport, don't worry if the new location doesn't show up right away - updates typically appear within 24 hours after the move is complete.

Your loved one can usually purchase canteen items during reception, including hygiene products. Want to help right away? You can deposit funds to their account during intake so they can buy basics as soon as they're allowed.

New admissions can only bring a few personal items: a bible, an address book, a small number of photos, and any cash they have. This is why "just in case" extras rarely make it through intake.

Anything beyond that short list needs to be handled before arrival at IMCC. Other personal property must be picked up by family or friends - otherwise the county jail will discard it before transfer. If there's something important (keys, wallet, clothing, paperwork), arrange pickup as early as possible.

Checklist 2wks

• ✓ Print, sign, and mail the visitor application (electronic applications aren’t accepted); send it to Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility, Attn: Central Records, 1200 E. Washington St., Mount Pleasant, IA 52641
• ✓ If you plan to deposit money electronically, build in about a one-week delay for the new account to be set up in the banking system
• ✓ Deposit funds to your loved one’s account if you can, so they can buy essentials as soon as they’re able
• ✓ Remember that canteen purchases (including hygiene items) are offered during reception - having funds available can help
• ✓ Keep initial personal items simple: bible, address book, a small amount of photos, and any cash they already have

1. Stick to the allowed items - For reception, that means a bible, an address book, a small amount of photos, and any cash they already have.
2. Arrange pickup of everything else - Any other personal items must be picked up by family/friends or will be discarded at the county jail before arrival at IMCC.
3. Confirm the new location after a move - Use the IDOC online Offender Search to check the current facility assignment once a transfer is completed.