New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) Guide for Inmates

Overview of the Facility

The New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) is responsible for the custody and care of individuals accused of crimes or convicted and sentenced to one year or less of jail time. It operates several facilities across New York City's five boroughs.

Contact Information

Address: 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Phone: (718) 546-0700
Website: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doc/index.page
Email: [email protected]

How to Locate an Inmate

To find an inmate in NYC DOC custody, use the online Inmate Lookup Service:
https://a073-ils-web.nyc.gov/inmatelookup/

Visitation Information and Hours

Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Generally, visits are allowed on weekdays and weekends. Check the NYC DOC website for specific facility information and to schedule a visit.

How to Send Money

You can send money to inmates through several methods:

Online: JailATM
By phone: 1-866-345-1884
At kiosks located in NYC DOC facilities
By mail: Send a money order to the inmate's facility

Phone Calls and Video Options

Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation is available at some facilities. For more information, visit:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doc/inmate-info/phone-calls.page

Inmate Services and Programs

NYC DOC offers various services and programs, including:

Educational programs
Vocational training
Substance abuse treatment
Mental health services
Religious services
Re-entry programs

History of the Facility

The New York City Department of Correction was established in 1895. It has evolved over the years to manage multiple facilities, including the well-known Rikers Island complex.

Security and Management Information

NYC DOC employs trained correction officers and uses various security measures to maintain order and safety within its facilities. The department is headed by a Commissioner appointed by the Mayor of New York City.

Legal and Visitation Rights

Inmates have the right to legal representation and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends can visit inmates according to the established visitation policies of each facility.

Booking and Release Process

The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and collecting personal information. Release procedures vary depending on the circumstances of the inmate's detention or sentence completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items can I bring during a visit?

Visitors are generally allowed to bring a small clear plastic bag with identification, car keys, and a small amount of money for vending machines. All other items are typically prohibited.

How often can inmates receive visits?

The frequency of visits depends on the facility and the inmate's status. Generally, inmates can receive visits once or twice a week.

Can I send packages to an inmate?

Package policies vary by facility. Some items may be permitted, but there are strict regulations. Check with the specific facility for their package policy.

What medical services are available to inmates?

NYC DOC provides basic medical care, including routine check-ups, emergency care, and mental health services. Specialized care may be arranged if necessary.

How can I report concerns about an inmate's treatment?

You can contact the NYC DOC's Office of Constituent and Grievance Services or file a complaint with the Board of Correction, an independent oversight agency.

Famous Prisoners

Notable individuals who have served time in NYC DOC facilities include:

Tupac Shakur - Arrested for sexual abuse charges in 1993
Sid Vicious - Arrested for the alleged murder of Nancy Spungen in 1978
David Berkowitz (Son of Sam) - Arrested for a series of murders in 1977
Mark David Chapman - Arrested for the murder of John Lennon in 1980
Plaxico Burress - Arrested for criminal possession of a weapon in 2008
Lil Wayne - Arrested on gun charges in 2007
DMX - Served time for various offenses, including tax fraud
Harvey Weinstein - Held at Rikers Island before transfer to state prison in 2020
Pedro Hernandez - Arrested for the murder of Etan Patz in 2012
Dominique Strauss-Kahn - Arrested on sexual assault charges in 2011 (later dropped)

General Visiting and Contacting Information

We provide detailed visiting and contact information for New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC). If you are have completed a New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) inmate search and have located an inmate, the information on this page will help you to stay in contact. We help you send money to jail, send & receive text messages, and provide the address for in-person visits.

Sending Money

Inmates who are currently imprisoned in New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) can receive money into their commissary account via money order, check or cash. Inmate visitors can also deposit money directly into the inmate's account at prison administrative office. Note: When sending the money via money order or check, mention the inmate id and full name on the back of the slip.

Sending a Package / Mail

You can send any mail to the inmates who are imprisoned in New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC). Please send the mail or package to the address mentioned below.

Inmate Name,

Inmate ID,

Bulova Building- DOC Headquarters 75-20 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst, NY, 11370

Please make sure the mail or package that you are sending comes under the list of approved items. For further clarification on the allowed items, contact the prison administration directly on 718-546-1500 .

Note: In case you want to send packages, you need to get prior approval from the prison administration. Contact the prison / jail staff for more information.

Phone calls

Inmates can call to any person outside who are on the approved members list between 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The cost of the call is beared by the receiver and the call can be of maximum 30 minutes. During rush hours, the calling time is reduced drastically to 10 minutes.

Visitation Rules

You need to get yourself registered in the visitors list before visiting any inmate in the prison. If you are visiting someone in New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC), make sure you are in approved visitors list. Confirm with the prison authorities before coming to visit the inmate.

Listed below are the basic visitation rules which one must adhere to:

Visitor must not be a prior felon.
Visitor must have a valid government ID.
A legal guardian must be accompanied for children below 16 years of age.

New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) Inmate Searcher

Fill out the form below and receive a detailed report on an inmate. This includes current and previous arrest records, social media handles, current and previous addresses & phone numbers.

First Name*

Last Name*

State