With a career in corrections that spans over 28 years, Kelly began his role as an MDOC Superintendent in 2001 at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility (CMCF) located in Rankin County.  He was appointed Superintendent of the Mississippi State Penitentiary, the state’s largest and oldest prison, in 2005.

 Prior to his Superintendent posts, Kelly held the rank of Sergeant for a Maximum Security Unit, Lieutenant/Correctional Administrator, Staff Development Specialist, Director of MDOC Correctional Training Academy, and Warden.  One of his most notable achievements included leading Central Mississippi Correctional Facility’s successful effort to become the state’s first institution to be accredited by the American Correctional Association.

“Over the course of the past 28 years, Lawrence Kelly has made important contributions to the Mississippi Department of Corrections,” said MDOC Commissioner Christopher Epps.  “His seasoned knowledge and experience has yielded a career of achievement and great respect amongst his peers.  He will be missed.”

Kelly will be honored at a retirement reception, Friday, Jan. 29, at noon at the MSP Visitation Center.  Coworkers, family and friends have been invited to attend.