Entrance of Southern State Correctional Facility with barbed wire fencing above.
The Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield seen on Friday, October 25, 2024. Photo by Glenn Russell/VTDigger

The superintendent of Southern State Correctional Facility has returned to her role after a state investigation found a misconduct allegation against her was unfounded. 

Michaela Merrill was placed on leave in July, a standard practice during misconduct investigations. The Vermont Department of Human Resources conducted the investigation, according to a Vermont Department of Corrections press release Tuesday.

Merrill has worked as the Springfield prison’s superintendent since December 2023. 

“We are glad to have Superintendent Merrill back at Southern State,” Jon Murad, interim Department of Corrections commissioner, said in the release. “While investigations can be difficult, they are an essential tool for accountability and ensuring our staff uphold the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.”