Fort Madison Jail, Iowa: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Fort Madison Jail, officially known as the Iowa State Penitentiary (ISP), is a maximum-security prison located in Fort Madison, Iowa. It is the oldest operating prison west of the Mississippi River and serves as the primary maximum-security institution for male offenders in the state of Iowa.
Contact Information
Address: 2111 330th Avenue, Fort Madison, IA 52627
Phone: (319) 372-5432
Website: https://doc.iowa.gov/institutions/iowa-state-penitentiary
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Fort Madison Jail, you can use the Iowa Department of Corrections Offender Information website. Visit https://doc.iowa.gov/offender-information and enter the inmate's name or ID number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the inmate's housing unit. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Contact the facility directly for specific visitation schedules and requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through various methods:
- Online: Visit Access Corrections
- Phone: Call 1-866-345-1884
- Kiosk: Available in the prison lobby
- Mail: Send money orders to Iowa Department of Corrections, Attn: Offender Accounts, 510 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to phone services through a contracted provider. Friends and family can set up accounts to receive calls. Video visitation may be available; contact the facility for current options and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
Fort Madison Jail offers various programs including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Recreational activities
History of the Facility
Fort Madison Jail was established in 1839, making it one of the oldest prisons in the United States. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to modernize its facilities and improve security.
Security and Management Information
As a maximum-security facility, Fort Madison Jail employs strict security measures, including perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, and controlled movement of inmates. The prison is managed by the Iowa Department of Corrections.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be on an approved visitation list to visit inmates. All visitors must follow strict guidelines and security procedures.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to Fort Madison Jail from other facilities after sentencing. The release process involves a review of the inmate's sentence, behavior, and completion of required programs. Some inmates may be eligible for work release or parole before their sentence completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate at Fort Madison Jail?
Inmates can receive approved items through authorized vendors only. Contact the facility for a list of approved items and vendors.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Phone access varies depending on the inmate's status and behavior. Generally, inmates have daily access to phones during designated times.
Can I email an inmate at Fort Madison Jail?
Direct email is not available. However, some third-party services may offer secure messaging options. Check with the facility for current communication options.
Notable Inmates
Some notable inmates who have served time at Fort Madison Jail include:
- John Wayne Gacy - Serial killer, executed in 1994
- Victor Feguer - The last federal inmate executed in Iowa (1963)
- Robert Hansen - Serial killer known as the "Butcher Baker"
- Dustin Lee Honken - Iowa drug kingpin, executed in 2020
- Wesley Elkins - Convicted of murder at age 11, later pardoned
