The scheme was designed to allow prisoners on short sentences to remain in employment, independent housing and maintain family ties during their jail terms.

[citation needed] In 2011 Morton Hall closed and re-opened as an Immigration Removal Centre,[5] holding adult males awaiting deportation.

[9] Morton Hall ceased operating as an Immigration Removal Centre in July 2021; in December that year it reverted to being a prison, and was designated for 'male foreign national offenders'.

"[10] On 5 September 2014 Rubel Ahmed, a 26-year-old detainee, died in controversial circumstances at Morton Hall, resulting in rioting and prompting calls for an independent inquiry.

[13] In April 2018, Home Secretary Amber Rudd was barred by the High Court from her attempt to deport a witness before he could give evidence to an inquest into the death of Carlington Spencer at Morton Hall.