Jay-Z helps fund sports equipment for MDOC inmates

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – One of Hollywood’s most famous celebrities and music artists is doing his part in assisting the inmates at the Mississippi Department of Corrections.

According to a press release, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter donated a boxing ring to the correctional facility as a part of a new program MDOC offers for its inmates.

Marcy Croft, Jay-Z’s attorney, facilitated the donation and has attended to see boxers enjoying their time in the program.

“We encourage our inmates to be involved in sports activities as it battles idleness in prison. We have created many different teams to allow them to get out of their dorms and participate in being active”, says MDOC Commissioner Burl Cain.

MDOC created this program that has increased focus on sports, including basketball, boxing, flag football, and softball to “help reduce idleness, change attitudes, and heighten inmates’ productivity level for rehabilitation.

During boxing events, medical staff and ringside trainers attend as well as official judges, referees, and timekeepers who facilitate the matches. MDOC held its first boxing event in November.

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