Guide to New York Department of Correction (NYC DOC)
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 sentenced to one year or less of jail time. The department operates several facilities, with Rikers Island being the main jail complex.
Contact Information
Address: 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Phone: (718) 546-1500
Website: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doc/index.page
Email: N/A (Use the contact form on the website for inquiries)
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate, use the NYC DOC Inmate Lookup Service:
https://a073-ils-web.nyc.gov/inmatelookup/
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation schedules vary by facility. Generally, visits are allowed on weekdays and weekends. Check the NYC DOC website or call the specific facility for current visitation hours and procedures.
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 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. For information on setting up an account, visit Securus Technologies.
Inmate Services and Programs
NYC DOC offers various services and programs, including:
- Education and vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Re-entry programs
History of the Facility
The NYC Department of Correction was established in 1895. Rikers Island, the main jail complex, opened in 1932 and has been a central part of the NYC correctional system ever since.
Security and Management Information
NYC DOC employs thousands of correction officers and support staff. The department uses various security measures, including surveillance cameras, metal detectors, and K-9 units.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends can visit according to the facility's visitation schedule, subject to security clearance.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrest, individuals are processed at local precincts before being transferred to DOC custody. Release occurs after posting bail, case dismissal, or completion of sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find out an inmate's release date?
You can use the NYC DOC Inmate Lookup Service or contact the specific facility where the inmate is held for release date information.
What items are inmates allowed to receive?
Inmates can typically receive books, magazines, and letters. Other items may be restricted. Check with the specific facility for a complete list of allowed items.
How can I report a concern about an inmate's well-being?
Contact the facility directly or use the NYC DOC website to submit a complaint or concern about an inmate's well-being.
Famous Prisoners
- Tupac Shakur - Served time for sexual abuse charges in 1995.
- Sid Vicious - Held on murder charges in 1978 before his death.
- Son of Sam (David Berkowitz) - Briefly held at Rikers before transfer to state prison for his serial killings.
- Dominique Strauss-Kahn - Former IMF chief held on sexual assault charges in 2011 (later dropped).
- Lil Wayne - Served eight months for weapons possession in 2010.
- Plaxico Burress - NFL player served time for weapons charges in 2009.
- Harvey Weinstein - Held at Rikers Island in 2020 before transfer to state prison for sexual assault convictions.
- DMX - Rapper served time for various charges, including tax fraud, over multiple stays.
- John Gotti - Mafia boss held at various times before federal imprisonment.
- Mark David Chapman - John Lennon's assassin was briefly held at Rikers before transfer to state prison.
