Calico Rock Prison Renamed to Benny Magness Unit

Arkansas Department of Correction hosts dedication ceremony for longtime law enforcement leader

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:30am

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The Arkansas Department of Correction (ADC) officially renamed the prison in Calico Rock to the Benny Magness Unit during a dedication ceremony attended by over 100 people, including Magness, his family, prison officials, and state representatives. Magness, who retired in late 2025, was recognized for his 51 years of service to the Baxter County Sheriff's Department and 27 years on the Arkansas Board of Correction.

Why it matters

The renaming of the Calico Rock prison to the Benny Magness Unit honors the legacy of a long-serving law enforcement leader in Arkansas who dedicated his career to strengthening the state's correctional system. The ceremony and recognition highlight the importance of acknowledging the contributions of those who have made a significant impact on their communities through public service.

The details

The dedication ceremony included speeches from former State Representative Jack Fortner, State Representative Jason Nazarenko, and ADC Secretary Lindsay Wallace, all of whom praised Magness' dedication and impact. Presentations to Magness included a framed aerial photo of the prison and a large shield bearing the Department of Correction insignia. A ribbon cutting in front of the new entrance sign was also held on the prison grounds.

  • The dedication ceremony took place on Friday, March 14, 2026.
  • Magness retired from the Arkansas Board of Correction in late December 2025.

The players

Benny Magness

A longtime law enforcement leader in Arkansas, with 51 years of service to the Baxter County Sheriff's Department and 27 years on the Arkansas Board of Correction.

Jack Fortner

A former State Representative who spoke at the dedication ceremony, saying he is a better man for the years he has known Magness.

Jason Nazarenko

A State Representative who spoke at the dedication ceremony, saying he would not be who he is today without Magness.

Lindsay Wallace

The Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Correction, who spoke at the dedication ceremony and credited Magness with much of the strength of the state's correctional system.

Dubs Byers

The retired Superintendent of Correctional Schools, who presented Magness with a framed aerial photo of the prison and a large shield bearing the Department of Correction insignia.

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What they’re saying

“I am a better man for the years I have known you.”

— Jack Fortner, Former State Representative

“I would not be who I am today without Benny.”

— Jason Nazarenko, State Representative

“A strong correction system depends on the strength of those within it.”

— Lindsay Wallace, ADC Secretary

“A lasting reminder of your dedication to the people of Arkansas.”

— Dubs Byers, Retired Superintendent of Correctional Schools

What’s next

The Arkansas Department of Correction plans to hold an official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renamed Benny Magness Unit on April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The renaming of the Calico Rock prison to the Benny Magness Unit is a fitting tribute to a dedicated public servant who spent over five decades working to strengthen Arkansas' law enforcement and correctional systems. Magness' legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.