Arizona Department of Corrections (AZ DOC) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Arizona Department of Corrections (AZ DOC) is the state agency responsible for managing and operating the adult correctional facilities in Arizona. It oversees multiple prison complexes throughout the state, housing both male and female inmates.
Contact Information
- Address: 1601 W. Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ 85007
- Phone: (602) 542-5497
- Website: https://corrections.az.gov/
- Email: Contact form available on the website
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate in the Arizona Department of Corrections system, use the online Inmate Datasearch tool available on the AZ DOC website. You can search by name or inmate number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Check the AZ DOC website or contact the specific facility for detailed visitation information.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates:
- Online: Through JPay
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 1019
- Mail: Send money orders to JPay, PO Box 260010, Hollywood, FL 33026
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts. Video visitation is available at some facilities through GTL.
Inmate Services and Programs
AZ DOC offers various programs including:
- Education and GED preparation
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Mental health services
History of the Facility
The Arizona Department of Corrections was established in 1968, replacing the Arizona State Prison system. It has since expanded to manage multiple prison complexes across the state.
Security and Management Information
AZ DOC operates facilities with various security levels, from minimum to maximum security. Each facility has its own management team, overseen by the central AZ DOC administration.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family visitation rights are subject to AZ DOC policies and may vary based on the inmate's custody level and behavior.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival, inmates go through a reception and assessment process. Release procedures vary based on the type of release (e.g., completion of sentence, parole) and may include pre-release programs to aid in transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate?
Inmates can receive approved items through authorized vendors only. Personal packages are not accepted. Check the AZ DOC website for a list of approved items and vendors.
How can I apply for visitation?
To apply for visitation, you must complete a Visitor Application Form and submit it to the facility where the inmate is housed. The inmate must add you to their approved visitor list.
What healthcare services are available to inmates?
AZ DOC provides essential medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates. Emergency care is available 24/7, and routine care is provided based on medical necessity.
Famous Prisoners
- Jodi Arias - Convicted of first-degree murder in 2013 for killing her ex-boyfriend.
- Ernesto Miranda - Namesake of the Miranda rights, convicted of kidnapping and rape in 1963.
- Sammy Gravano - Former underboss of the Gambino crime family, later entered witness protection.
- Don Bolles - Investigative journalist who died after a car bombing in 1976; his killers were imprisoned.
- Scott Peterson - Briefly held in Arizona while on death row for the murder of his wife and unborn son.
