Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola Prison) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Louisiana State Penitentiary, commonly known as Angola, is the largest maximum-security prison in the United States. Located in Angola, Louisiana, it covers approximately 18,000 acres and is often referred to as "The Alcatraz of the South" or "The Farm" due to its vast agricultural operations.
Contact Information
- Address: 17544 Tunica Trace, Angola, LA 70712
- Phone: (225) 655-4411
- Website: https://doc.louisiana.gov/location/louisiana-state-penitentiary/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Louisiana State Penitentiary, you can use the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections' online offender locator tool: Offender Locator
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the inmate's housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are conducted on weekends and holidays. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list and follow strict dress code and conduct rules. It's recommended to contact the facility directly for specific visitation schedules and requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through several methods:
- Online: Through JPay
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 1037
- Mail: Send money orders to JPay, P.O. Box 260010, Hollywood, FL 33026
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available through JPay, but availability can vary. Check with the facility for current options and regulations.
Inmate Services and Programs
Angola offers various programs including:
- Educational programs (GED, vocational training)
- Religious services
- Agricultural work programs
- Angola Prison Rodeo
- Rehabilitation programs
- Mental health services
History of the Facility
Angola was founded in 1901 and was named after the plantation that formerly occupied the territory. It has a complex history, including periods of severe inmate abuse and neglect. Reforms in the 1970s led to significant improvements, though the prison remains controversial due to its size and the nature of its population.
Security and Management Information
As a maximum-security facility, Angola employs strict security measures. The prison is managed by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections and houses primarily long-term offenders and death row inmates.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal representation and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family visitation rights are subject to prison regulations and the inmate's behavior record.
Booking and Release Process
Due to Angola's nature as a maximum-security facility, most inmates are transferred here from other institutions rather than being directly booked. Release processes vary depending on the inmate's sentence and situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mailing address for inmates?
Inmate's Name and DOC Number, Louisiana State Penitentiary, 17544 Tunica Trace, Angola, LA 70712
Are inmates allowed to receive packages?
Generally, inmates are not allowed to receive packages directly from family or friends. Approved items must be purchased through authorized vendors.
What is the Angola Prison Rodeo?
The Angola Prison Rodeo is a public event held at the prison where inmates participate in various rodeo events. It's held on one weekend in April and every Sunday in October.
Famous Prisoners
- Gary Tyler - Wrongfully convicted of murder in 1974, released in 2016 after 41 years in prison.
- Wilbert Rideau - Convicted of murder, became an award-winning journalist while incarcerated.
- Robert King - One of the "Angola Three," spent 29 years in solitary confinement before his conviction was overturned.
- Aaron Mintz - Former New Orleans police officer convicted of murder.
- Glenn Ford - Exonerated after 30 years on death row for a murder he didn't commit.
- C-Murder (Corey Miller) - Rapper convicted of second-degree murder.
- Angola 3 (Albert Woodfox, Herman Wallace, and Robert King) - Held in solitary confinement for decades, their cases drew international attention.
- Henry Montgomery - His case led to a landmark Supreme Court decision on juvenile life sentences.
- Vincent Simmons - Convicted of attempted aggravated rape, released after 44 years when his conviction was vacated.
- Antonio Williams - Sentenced to life at 17, released after 41 years following changes in juvenile sentencing laws.
