My name is Michael McLendon, and I currently serve as the chief of security at South Mississippi Correctional Institution. My journey with the Mississippi Department of Corrections began in 1989, and over the past 37 years, I have had the privilege of serving in nearly every facet of correctional security.

I began my career as a correctional officer and have since held a variety of specialized roles, including transportation officer, where I was the first assigned to SMCI, as well as K9 officer, K9 lieutenant, and lockdown lieutenant. I later advanced into leadership roles as captain/watch commander, central security captain, deputy superintendent, and assistant commander of the George County Community Work Center.

Throughout my career, I have most valued the teamwork and the constant responsibility of maintaining a safe environment for both staff and those in our custody. I still remember the early days of developing transportation protocols at SMCI, which reinforced the importance of being proactive and vigilant.

Whether working with K9 units or managing high-security operations, my goal has always been to lead by example. I take pride in the career I have built and remain committed to the mission and security of MDOC.

I often tell new graduates, “Always be honest and serve with integrity, and you will go far in your career.” After nearly four decades, I can confidently say those values are what build a lasting legacy.