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Commissioner Arnold

Lloyd Arnold

Commissioner

Lloyd Arnold was appointed Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) by Governor Mike Braun in January 2025. In this role, Arnold oversees a statewide correctional system serving approximately 24,000 incarcerated individuals, 7,000 parolees, and more than 5,500 employees. Known for his results-driven leadership and innovative approach, Arnold is committed to fostering rehabilitation, enhancing safety, and supporting the development and well-being of staff and individuals under IDOC’s care.

Arnold joined the IDOC in 2018 as Chief Operating Officer of Indiana Correctional Industries (ICI), where he spearheaded transformative growth. Under his leadership, ICI achieved record-breaking sales, expanded manufacturing operations, and introduced robust job training and rehabilitation programs that equipped incarcerated individuals with valuable skills for successful reintegration into society. In 2022, Arnold led Indiana to be ranked number one in the nation for correctional industries.

Before his tenure with IDOC, Arnold served as Director of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Law Enforcement Division. There, he prioritized team building, leadership development, and operational excellence. His career also includes 10 years of management with Toyota Motor Manufacturing, where he honed his skills in lean operations, strategic planning, and workforce development. These formative years shaped his people-first leadership style, emphasizing collaboration and continuous improvement.

As a former state representative, Arnold brought a passion for public service and economic growth to the legislature. Serving as Vice Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, he championed initiatives that advanced Indiana’s economic, agricultural, and environmental interests. His leadership and advocacy supported job creation, strengthened communities, and bolstered resource management across the state.

An Iraq War veteran, Arnold was awarded the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge for his service. As the executive officer of his company, he led troops with distinction, demonstrating strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to mission success.

With a career defined by strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a focus on empowering people, Arnold brings a unique perspective to corrections, prioritizing safety, opportunity, and second chances for all those he serves.

Mission

We promote public safety by providing meaningful, effective opportunities for successful re-entry.

Vision

As the model of best correctional practices, we strive to return productive citizens to our communities and inspire a culture of accountability, integrity and professionalism.



IDOC Seal

Mission

We promote public safety by providing meaningful, effective opportunities for successful re-entry.

Vision

As the model of best correctional practices, we strive to return productive citizens to our communities and inspire a culture of accountability, integrity and Professionalism.


James Basinger

James Basinger

Chief of Staff

James Basinger, with 35 years in corrections and currently serving as the Chief of Staff for the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), is recognized for his innovative leadership and focus on cost-saving strategies. His approach to corrections emphasizes integrating technology and implementing operational efficiencies that reduce expenses while enhancing security and rehabilitative outcomes.

Holding a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in business administration, Basinger is skilled in both strategic and fiscal management, effectively using data-driven approaches to optimize IDOC’s resources. He has a proven track record of introducing reforms that cut operational costs without compromising safety, leveraging his 25 of years of military experience in combat arms both active and reserve components in the U.S. Marine Corps, Army and National Guard bolster emergency readiness and resourcefulness.

Basinger’s leadership extends nationally, where he collaborates with other correctional agencies to incorporate best practices and identify emerging trends, ensuring that IDOC remains on the forefront of cost-effective and humane correctional management. His relationships with county sheriffs, legislators, and other external stakeholders further support IDOC’s mission, building community partnerships that maximize public safety while minimizing taxpayer burden.

Julie Stout

Julie Stout

Deputy Commissioner of Operations

Julie Stout, Deputy Commissioner of Operations for the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), has over 40 years of experience in corrections. Beginning her career as a Correctional Officer, Stout has held a variety of key roles, including Caseworker, Release Coordinator, Classification Supervisor, Deputy Warden, Warden, and Executive Director of Adult Facilities.

Known for her expertise in operational efficiency and staff development, Stout has led critical initiatives such as designing and implementing IDOC’s Community Transition Program, which streamlines offender reintegration in collaboration with sentencing courts. Her contributions also include conducting statewide staffing assessments to ensure facilities operate effectively and developing innovative programming for female offenders.

Stout’s leadership extends beyond state borders. As part of a National Institute of Corrections team, she helped adapt offender-staff interaction models from Oregon to Indiana. She also represented the American Correctional Association internationally, delivering programming for female offenders in the United Arab Emirates.

With a degree in Criminology from Indiana State University and advanced training in correctional leadership, Stout continues to champion strategies that enhance safety, efficiency, and offender outcomes across IDOC operations.

Christine Blessinger

Christine Blessinger

Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Programs

Christine Blessinger brings over 24 years of dedicated experience to her role as Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Programs for the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC). With a deep understanding of both policy and people-centered solutions, her career has been marked by a strong commitment to advancing evidence-based practices and fostering positive outcomes within the correctional system.

Beginning her career in a juvenile detention center and then to Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility, Blessinger quickly rose through the ranks, serving in critical roles such as Caseworker, Unit Team Manager, Program Director and Executive Director of the Division of Youth Services. Her expertise in working with youth culminated in her role as Deputy Commissioner of Re-Entry and Youth Services, where she led programs that supported successful transitions for both youth and adults. Her innovative strategies in re-entry and rehabilitation have significantly enhanced IDOC’s mission to prioritize safety, rehabilitation, and reintegration.

Blessinger’s influence extends beyond the IDOC. She is an active member of the American Correctional Association (ACA), where she serves on the Commission for Accreditation, helping to uphold national standards in corrections. Additionally, she is a former Executive Board Member of the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators, further demonstrating her dedication to improving outcomes for justice-involved youth.

Blessinger earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Indiana State University, equipping her with a strong academic foundation to complement her extensive professional experience. Her leadership continues to shape innovative approaches in corrections, with a focus on fostering positive change for individuals and communities alike.

Annie Goeller

Annie Goeller

Chief Communications Officer

Annie Goeller serves as the Chief Communications Officer for the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC), where she leads internal and external communications efforts. Her work focuses on effectively sharing information with the public and media about IDOC facilities across the state.

Annie holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and began her career as a reporter, working her way up to senior reporter and managing editor. During her journalism career, she covered a wide range of topics, from breaking news to in-depth features.

In her current role, Annie is dedicated to showcasing the stories of the department, its facilities, and their impacts. She highlights IDOC’s role as a major employer, its contributions to education and workforce development for the incarcerated population, and its value as a community resource.

Lindsey Ellison

Lindsey Ellison

Chief Operating Officer
Indiana Correctional Industries

Lindsey Ellison began her career with the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) in 2010. Prior to her role as Chief Operating Officer, Lindsey most recently served as the Executive Director for Indiana Correctional Industries (ICI), where she was responsible for the strategic direction, growth, and performance of the IDOC’s Correctional Industries Division.

During her tenure, Lindsey has worked with both the juvenile and adult populations and has held positions and gained experience working in re-entry and operations. Prior to her position as Chief Operating Officer, Lindsey had the privilege of working for the IDOC and ICI as a Transition Specialist, Program Coordinator, Plant Manager, Assistant Re-Entry and Operations Manager, Deputy Director, and Executive Director.

Lindsey holds a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership from Liberty University and a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University. Lindsey is a certified Instructor for the National Institute of Corrections’ Offender Workforce Development Specialist Training Program, and she is a graduate of IDOC’s Commissioner’s Experienced and Emerging Leaders Program (EEL). Lindsey also serves on the National Correctional Industries Association’s Board of Directors.

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Incarcerated Population Tablet Upgrade
The Indiana Department of Correction will soon be updating the tablets used by the incarcerated population at our facilities. Indiana State Prison will be the first to get the new tablets. The transition will begin on December 10, 2024. The remaining facilities will be upgraded after the start of the new year. To learn more visit tablets and digital correspondence located in the Communication Support Hub.