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Understanding Body Scanners and Security Screening at Missouri Prisons (including SECC)

Getting ready to visit someone at a Missouri Department of Corrections prison like Southeast Correctional Center (SECC)? Expect airport-style security on the way in. Here's how full-body scanners work, who gets scanned, and what to do if you need a medical or pregnancy exception.

• 2 min read • doc.mo.gov
Understanding Body Scanners and Security Screening at Missouri Prisons (including SECC)

Missouri DOC uses Intercept full-body scanners at adult institutions, along with walk-through metal detectors and X-ray screening for bags. The goal is simple: keep weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items out. This security approach applies broadly. When you enter prison grounds, you and anything with you can be checked - that includes your property, your vehicle, and any children accompanying you.

At Missouri DOC adult institutions, anyone 18 or older goes through the Intercept full-body scanner unless they have an approved exception. The scan is one part of the entry process - DOC pairs it with walk-through metal detectors and X-ray baggage scanners. Nervous about the scanner? Think of it as one step in a system of checks, not the only one. Staff use multiple tools at the entrance to screen for prohibited items before anyone reaches the visiting area.

Note: Metal detectors are used at all Missouri DOC adult facilities, and when you enter prison grounds, you, your packages, your children, and your vehicle are subject to search.

Exceptions to the full-body scanner exist. Missouri DOC specifically lists verified medical conditions and pregnancy as approved reasons. If you need one, submit an exception request ahead of time - don't try to sort it out at the door. Visitors, vendors, and contractors can submit a scanner exception request to the warden or superintendent. Once approved, the facility will tell you what alternative screening to expect when you arrive.

Understanding Body Scanners and Security Screening at Missouri Prisons (including SECC)

Tips Visitors

  • ✓ Bring documentation that supports a verified medical condition or pregnancy if you’re requesting an exception.
  • ✓ Submit your exception request to the warden or superintendent before your visit so you’re not trying to resolve it at check-in.
  • ✓ Plan your arrival carefully: you may arrive in the parking lot no earlier than 30 minutes before visiting starts.
  • ✓ Build in extra time anyway, since entry is first-come, first-served and alternative screening can take longer.
  • ✓ Don’t plan to leave anyone (or any pet) waiting in the car on institutional grounds - no person or pet may remain in a vehicle while visiting.

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