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Public Information

The MDOC’s Public Information Office is committed to providing timely and accurate information about the department to the media. 

MDOC Media Contact

Jenni Riehle, Public Information Officer

Phone: Mon - Thu, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 517-241-0363

Email: Riehlej2@Michigan.gov

MDOC Press Releases 

MDOC Press Statements

Lawsuit: MDOC Employee, Former MDOC Employee Gautz

On June 3, 2023, Chris Gautz informed MDOC for the first time that he was involved in a sexual relationship with his subordinate employee. MDOC took prompt, remedial steps to protect the subordinate employee and immediately began investigating the circumstances surrounding the disclosure.

The same day that Gautz informed the department, he requested a federally protected leave of absence. Gautz resigned while on leave before the investigation concluded and before the department could take any action against him. The department denies any claims of retaliation made by the subordinate employee.

MDOC maintains a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment at any level and is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees against sexual harassment.

View media items from MDOC events, trainings, and more. 
Photos and videos
The MDOC presents three awards annually: Corrections Officer of the Year, Agent of the Year, and the Director's Award. 
Award Recipients

In the 100+ years state corrections records have been kept, there have been 14 staff members killed in the line of duty. These are their stories.

Fallen Employees