Sing Sing Correctional Facility: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Sing Sing Correctional Facility is a maximum-security prison located in Ossining, New York. It is one of the most well-known and oldest prisons in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1826.
Contact Information
Address: 354 Hunter Street, Ossining, NY 10562
Phone: (914) 941-0108
Website: https://doccs.ny.gov/location/sing-sing-correctional-facility
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, you can use the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Inmate Lookup Service: http://nysdoccslookup.doccs.ny.gov/
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays
Processing hours: 7:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Visiting hours: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Visitors must arrive and register before 2:00 PM. All visitors must have proper identification and adhere to the facility's dress code.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates at Sing Sing Correctional Facility through the following methods:
- JPay: https://www.jpay.com/
- Western Union Quick Collect
- Money order by mail
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts. Video visitation is not currently available at Sing Sing Correctional Facility.
Inmate Services and Programs
Sing Sing offers various programs for inmates, including:
- Educational programs (GED, college courses)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Mental health services
History of the Facility
Sing Sing Correctional Facility was established in 1826 and has played a significant role in the American penal system. It was known for its harsh conditions in its early years and was the site of numerous executions by electric chair until 1963.
Security and Management Information
Sing Sing is a maximum-security prison operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. It houses approximately 1,700 inmates and employs a large staff of correctional officers and support personnel.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at Sing Sing have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends can visit during designated visiting hours, subject to prison rules and regulations.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to Sing Sing from other facilities. Upon arrival, they undergo a classification process. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's sentence and release conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are allowed to bring a clear plastic bag with up to $50 in cash for vending machines, identification, car keys, and necessary medications. All other items must be stored in lockers provided at the facility.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Inmates are typically allowed visits on designated days, with a limit of three visits per week. The exact number may vary based on the inmate's status and facility policies.
Can I send packages to an inmate?
Packages can be sent to inmates, but they must comply with strict guidelines. Only approved vendors can send packages directly to inmates. Personal packages must be sent through an approved secure vendor program.
Famous Prisoners
- Julius and Ethel Rosenberg: Convicted of espionage in 1951 for passing information about the atomic bomb to the Soviet Union.
- Albert Fish: Serial killer and cannibal, executed at Sing Sing in 1936.
- David Berkowitz (Son of Sam): Serial killer who terrorized New York City in the 1970s.
- Charles Luciano: Influential organized crime figure, served time at Sing Sing in the 1930s.
- Willie Sutton: Notorious bank robber who spent time at Sing Sing in the 1930s and 1940s.
- Eddie Lee Mays: The last person to be executed by electric chair at Sing Sing in 1963.
- George Metesky: Known as the "Mad Bomber," he terrorized New York City with homemade bombs in the 1940s and 1950s.
- Oreste Shillitoni: Bank robber who attempted a dramatic helicopter escape from Sing Sing in 1968.
- James J. Larkin: Labor union leader and activist, imprisoned at Sing Sing in the early 20th century.
- Ferdinand Ward: Notorious financial fraudster of the late 19th century, known as the "Napoleon of Wall Street."
