Queens County Jail (Rikers Island) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Queens County Jail, also known as Rikers Island, is one of the largest correctional facilities in the United States. It is located on Rikers Island in the East River between Queens and the Bronx, New York City. The facility houses both male and female inmates awaiting trial or serving short sentences.
Contact Information
Address: 18-18 Hazen Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Phone: (718) 546-1500
Website: New York City Department of Correction
Email: N/A (No direct email available)
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Queens County Jail, you can use the New York City Inmate Lookup Service. You will need the inmate's name and either their date of birth, NYSID number, or book and case number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation schedules vary depending on the specific housing unit. Generally, visits are allowed on weekdays and weekends. Visitors must register in advance and bring valid identification. For the most up-to-date visitation information, check the NYC DOC Visitation page.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates using the following methods:
- Online: Through JPay
- In-person: At a kiosk in the facility's lobby
- By mail: Send a money order to the inmate's name and book and case number
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to phones during designated hours. Collect calls and pre-paid phone accounts are available through Securus Technologies. Video visitation may be available for certain housing units.
Inmate Services and Programs
Queens County Jail offers various services and programs, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Law library access
History of the Facility
Rikers Island has been used as a jail since 1932. It has a long and controversial history, including numerous incidents of violence and allegations of human rights violations. In recent years, there have been plans to close Rikers Island and replace it with smaller, borough-based jails.
Security and Management Information
The facility is managed by the New York City Department of Correction. It employs a large number of correction officers and support staff. The jail has faced criticism for its security issues and management practices over the years.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can meet with their attorneys. They also have the right to receive visitors, make phone calls, and send and receive mail, subject to security protocols and restrictions.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival, inmates go through a booking process that includes fingerprinting, photographing, and medical screening. The release process varies depending on the inmate's legal status and may involve bail, completion of sentence, or transfer to another facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items are inmates allowed to have?
Inmates are generally allowed to have basic hygiene items, writing materials, and a limited number of personal photos. All items must be approved and may be purchased through the commissary.
Can I send packages to an inmate?
Generally, packages from family and friends are not accepted. Most items must be purchased through approved vendors or the facility's commissary.
What is the capacity of Queens County Jail?
The capacity of Rikers Island, which includes Queens County Jail, is approximately 15,000 inmates, although the actual population can vary.
Famous Prisoners
Some notable individuals who have been held at Rikers Island include:
- Tupac Shakur - Rapper, held on sexual assault charges in 1994
- Lil Wayne - Rapper, served 8 months for weapons possession in 2010
- Dominique Strauss-Kahn - Former IMF chief, held on sexual assault charges in 2011
- Harvey Weinstein - Film producer, held temporarily before transfer to state prison for sex crimes
- Sid Vicious - Musician, held on murder charges in 1978
- Son of Sam (David Berkowitz) - Serial killer, held before transfer to state prison
- Plaxico Burress - NFL player, held on weapons charges in 2009
- Foxy Brown - Rapper, served 8 months for violating probation in 2007
- DMX - Rapper, held multiple times for various charges
- Mark David Chapman - John Lennon's assassin, held before transfer to state prison
