NYC DOC - Rikers Island - James A. Thomas Center (JATC) Guide
Overview of the Facility
The James A. Thomas Center (JATC) is one of the ten jails that make up the Rikers Island complex in New York City. It is operated by the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) and primarily houses adult male inmates.
Contact Information
Address: 15-15 Hazen Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Phone: (718) 546-1500
Website: NYC Department of Correction
Email: N/A
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at JATC or any Rikers Island facility, use the NYC DOC Inmate Lookup Service. You'll need the inmate's name and birth date or New York State ID Number (NYSID) or Book and Case Number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visits are scheduled by the first letter of the inmate's last name. Check the official NYC DOC visitation page for the most up-to-date schedule and guidelines. Visitors must arrive at least one hour before the end of the visiting period.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates using the following methods:
- Online: JailATM
- By phone: 1-866-345-1884
- At lobby kiosks in Rikers Island facilities
- By mail: Send money orders to the inmate's name and ID number, payable to "DOC/Inmate's name"
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through Securus Technologies. Video visitation may be available; check with the facility for current options.
Inmate Services and Programs
JATC offers various programs, including:
- Educational services
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
Security and Management Information
JATC, like all Rikers Island facilities, operates under strict security protocols. Inmates are classified and housed based on various factors, including security risk and special needs.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family visitation rights are subject to NYC DOC policies and may be restricted based on an inmate's behavior or security classification.
Booking and Release Process
Booking involves fingerprinting, photographing, and health screening. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's situation (e.g., posting bail, case dismissal, or sentence completion). Released inmates typically exit through the Rikers Island Control Building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are allowed to bring a small clear plastic bag with up to $20 in singles for vending machines. No other items, including cell phones or large bags, are permitted.
How can I send mail to an inmate at JATC?
Address mail to: Inmate Name, NYSID Number, James A. Thomas Center, 15-15 Hazen Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Follow all NYC DOC guidelines for allowable items.
Are there any restrictions on who can visit?
Visitors must be 16 or older, or accompanied by an adult if younger. Some individuals may be restricted based on criminal history or relationship to the inmate. Check with the facility for specific restrictions.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about inmates at JATC is not readily available, Rikers Island as a whole has housed several notable individuals, including:
- Tupac Shakur - Rapper, arrested for sexual abuse charges in 1993
- Lil Wayne - Rapper, held on weapons charges in 2010
- Dominique Strauss-Kahn - Former IMF chief, held on sexual assault charges in 2011
- Harvey Weinstein - Film producer, briefly held in 2018 on sexual assault charges
- Plaxico Burress - NFL player, held on weapons charges in 2009
