What to Expect When You Go Through Security at JCCC (metal detectors, itemizers, and full-body scanners)
Visiting Jefferson City Correctional Center can feel stressful the first time—mostly because you don't know what entry screening will be like. JCCC uses multiple layers of security, and knowing what to expect makes the process much easier to handle.
When you arrive at JCCC, you'll go through security screening before entering. Metal detectors are standard at all Missouri DOC facilities - this is just part of the check-in process before your visit.
You may encounter an "itemizer" test during entry screening. Staff hand you a small towelette and ask you to wipe your shirt front, pockets, and palms. The towelette goes into a machine that detects trace amounts of narcotics or explosives.
Why they do it: Missouri statute 217.360 makes it a criminal offense to bring drugs, alcohol, firearms, or other prohibited items into a correctional facility. Screening is designed to stop contraband before it gets inside.
Beyond the itemizer, expect airport-style screening. You'll walk through a metal detector, and staff may use a hand-held detector as well. X-ray baggage scanners are also part of the process at adult institutions like JCCC.
Missouri DOC uses Intercept full-body scanners at adult institutions. These work alongside metal detectors and X-ray baggage scanners - multiple layers designed to keep out weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items.
If you're directed to the full-body scanner, know that it takes a photograph before you step in. That photo is stored in the body scanner system.
Anyone 18 or older is subject to a full-body scan unless they have an approved exception. Exceptions include verified medical conditions or pregnancy.
Privacy note: The scanner takes and stores a photo, so the process feels more like an identity check plus screening - not just a quick walk-through.
Exceptions and Consequences
- ✓ If you’re 18 or older, expect that you can be required to complete a full-body scan
- ✓ A verified medical condition can qualify for an approved exception
- ✓ Pregnancy can qualify for an approved exception
These searches aren't just policy - they're tied to contraband enforcement. Under Missouri statute 217.360, bringing drugs, alcohol, firearms, or other prohibited items into a correctional facility is a criminal offense. Penalties can reach up to 15 years in prison. That's why staff take screening seriously and may use several methods - itemizer, metal detection, and body scanning - to confirm nothing prohibited is coming in.
- Plan for the itemizer - You may be asked to wipe your shirt front, pockets, and palms with a towelette so it can be tested for traces of narcotics or explosives.
- Assume adults will be scanned - If you’re 18+, you’re generally subject to a full-body scan unless you have an approved exception (such as a verified medical condition or pregnancy).
- Follow directions exactly - These steps are part of contraband screening, so treat staff instructions like you would at an airport checkpoint: calm, quick, and precise.
Find an Inmate at Jefferson City Corr Center, MO
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
