True-crime podcast The Murder Sheet released a new episode this week addressing developments related to Michigan prisoner Temujin Kensu (also known as Frederick Freeman). The episode has prompted renewed discussion about digital contraband inside Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) facilities, including altered tablets and unauthorized internet-capable devices, and how MDOC typically responds when such items are discovered.
According to the podcast’s reporting, the episode also addresses long-standing speculation within the true-crime community about the origin of certain social media posts associated with The Gallery.
Why Altered Tablets Matter in Michigan Prisons
MDOC issues controlled tablets for limited purposes such as messaging, education, and approved media access. These devices are intentionally restricted.
Under MDOC policy, altering or bypassing tablet security features—commonly referred to as “jail-breaking” is classified as Class I Misconduct, the most serious category of institutional rule violation. Each altered device may be treated as a separate infraction, depending on the findings of a misconduct hearing.
Unauthorized Wi-Fi Devices Raise the Stakes
MDOC policy also treats unauthorized Wi-Fi receivers, hotspots, or similar devices as dangerous contraband, comparable to prohibited cell phones. Possession of such items can result in internal discipline and may, in some cases, be referred for outside review. Charging decisions, if any, are made independently by prosecutors.
Attorney–Client Privilege Has Defined Limits
Incarcerated individuals sometimes assert attorney–client privilege when questioned about device use. As a general matter, legal privilege applies only to communications conducted through approved and lawful channels. It does not extend to the possession or use of contraband electronics, even if an individual claims the communication involved legal counsel.
What Typically Happens After a Significant Contraband Discovery
According to MDOC policy and individuals familiar with institutional practices, serious contraband findings often trigger a combination of administrative responses, which may include:
- Misconduct proceedings, potentially resulting in segregation
- Facility transfer, sometimes referred to as a “ride out,” to a different or higher-security facility
- Referral for external review, depending on the nature of the contraband
While outcomes vary by case, transfers following major contraband discoveries are not uncommon.
Individuals familiar with MDOC operations note that when a transfer does not occur after a serious incident, it can sometimes indicate the presence of additional institutional considerations, though MDOC does not publicly disclose such determinations. Any conclusions beyond the administrative record would be speculative.
Why This Matters
Digital contraband is not merely a technical violation. MDOC regulations governing tablets and internet access are designed to maintain institutional security, control communications, and prevent unauthorized external contact. Understanding these rules provides important context when evaluating reporting on incarcerated individuals whose cases receive public attention.
The Murder Sheet episode offers insight into how these issues are examined and why digital access inside correctional facilities remains a recurring and consequential topic in Michigan prison oversight.
FOIA Update
Clutch received a copy of the FOIA Request, see it here.
In Other News…
Aine Cain and Kevin Greenlee, the hosts of The Murder Sheet, have also released a new book examining the Delphi murders.
