Louisiana Department of Corrections (LA DOC) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Louisiana Department of Corrections (LA DOC) is the state agency responsible for the custody and care of adult offenders in Louisiana. It operates multiple correctional facilities across the state, including prisons, work release centers, and transitional facilities.
Contact Information
Address: 504 Mayflower Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: (225) 342-6740
Website: https://doc.louisiana.gov/
Email: N/A (Use the contact form on the website)
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate in the LA DOC system, use the online Offender Locator tool available on the DOC website. You'll need the inmate's name or DOC number to conduct a search.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Contact the specific institution where the inmate is housed for detailed information. Generally, visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list and follow dress code and behavior guidelines.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates through the following methods:
- Online: Use JPay
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 1224
- Mail: Send a money order to JPay, PO Box 260010, Hollywood, FL 33026
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation is available at some facilities. Contact the specific institution for details on phone and video services.
Inmate Services and Programs
LA DOC offers various programs and services, including:
- Educational programs (GED, vocational training)
- Substance abuse treatment
- Faith-based programs
- Reentry initiatives
- Work programs
History of the Facility
The Louisiana Department of Corrections was established in 1968 to centralize the management of state correctional facilities. It has since evolved to include various institutions and programs aimed at rehabilitation and public safety.
Security and Management Information
LA DOC operates facilities with varying security levels, from minimum to maximum security. Each institution has its own management team and security protocols designed to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and the public.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family visitation rights are subject to institutional policies and the inmate's behavior record. Inmates also have the right to file grievances and access legal materials.
Booking and Release Process
Upon sentencing, inmates are processed through a reception center for classification and assignment to a facility. The release process involves pre-release programming, discharge planning, and coordination with community supervision if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send mail to an inmate?
Address mail to the inmate's full name and DOC number, followed by the facility's address. Do not include cash or personal checks. Follow all facility guidelines for allowable items.
Can inmates receive packages?
Generally, inmates cannot receive packages directly from family or friends. Some facilities allow approved vendors to send pre-approved items. Check with the specific institution for their package policy.
How can I get medical information about an inmate?
Due to privacy laws, medical information is confidential. Inmates must sign a release form to allow the facility to share medical information with designated individuals.
What items are inmates allowed to have?
Allowed items vary by facility and security level. Generally, inmates can have basic hygiene items, writing materials, and a limited number of personal photographs. Check with the specific institution for a complete list of allowed items.
How can I report concerns about an inmate's treatment?
You can contact the facility's warden or use the LA DOC's online complaint form. For serious concerns, you may also contact the Department's Inspector General's office.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about famous prisoners in the LA DOC system is limited, some notable inmates who have served time in Louisiana correctional facilities include:
- Gary Tyler - Wrongfully convicted of murder in 1974, spent 41 years in prison before his release in 2016.
- Angola Three (Albert Woodfox, Herman Wallace, and Robert King) - Spent decades in solitary confinement at Louisiana State Penitentiary.
- C-Murder (Corey Miller) - Rapper sentenced to life imprisonment for second-degree murder in 2009.
- Edwin Edwards - Former Louisiana Governor who served time for racketeering charges.
- Wilbert Rideau - Award-winning journalist who spent 44 years in prison before being released in 2005.
