Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PA DOC) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PA DOC) is responsible for operating state correctional institutions and community corrections centers across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The PA DOC manages numerous facilities throughout the state, housing over 40,000 inmates.
Contact Information
- Address: 1920 Technology Parkway, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
- Phone: (717) 728-2573
- Website: https://www.cor.pa.gov/
- Email: [email protected]
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate in the PA DOC system, use the online Inmate Locator tool available at https://inmatelocator.cor.pa.gov/. You'll need the inmate's name or DOC number to perform a search.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Generally, inmates are allowed a certain number of visits per month. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list and follow dress code and behavior guidelines. Contact the specific facility for exact visitation schedules and procedures.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates in the PA DOC system:
- Online: Use the JPay system at https://www.jpay.com/
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729 to make a deposit using a credit or debit card
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 4831
- Mail: Send a money order to JPay, PO Box 260010, Hollywood, FL 33026
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through GTL at https://www.connectnetwork.com/. Video visitation is available at some facilities and can be scheduled through the same website.
Inmate Services and Programs
The PA DOC offers various programs and services, including:
- Education and vocational training
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Reentry services
- Work programs
History of the Facility
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections was established in 1829 with the opening of Eastern State Penitentiary. Over the years, it has evolved to become a large correctional system with a focus on rehabilitation and reentry programs.
Security and Management Information
The PA DOC operates facilities with various security levels, from minimum to maximum security. Each facility is managed by a superintendent and a team of correctional officers and support staff. The department employs over 16,000 individuals across its facilities and central office.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. They also have the right to send and receive mail, make phone calls, and receive visits from approved family and friends, subject to prison regulations and security requirements.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival at a state correctional institution, inmates go through a classification process to determine their security level and programming needs. Prior to release, inmates may participate in reentry programs to prepare for their return to society. The release process includes a review of release plans and coordination with community resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can inmates receive visits?
The number of visits allowed varies by facility and security level. Generally, inmates are permitted 1-4 visits per month, depending on their status and behavior.
What items can be sent to inmates?
Inmates can receive books, magazines, and newspapers directly from publishers or approved vendors. Personal items are generally not permitted, but some facilities allow for the purchase of approved items through specific vendors.
How can I send mail to an inmate?
Address mail to the inmate using their full name and DOC number, followed by the facility name and address. All mail is subject to inspection for security purposes.
Famous Prisoners
- Mumia Abu-Jamal - Convicted of murdering a police officer in 1981, his case has gained international attention.
- Jerry Sandusky - Former Penn State football coach convicted of child sexual abuse.
- John du Pont - Millionaire convicted of murdering Olympic wrestler Dave Schultz.
- Richard Baumhammers - Convicted of a racially motivated shooting spree in 2000.
- George Banks - Mass murderer who killed 13 people in 1982.
- Harvey Miguel Robinson - Serial killer convicted of three murders in the early 1990s.
- Robert Brodnick - Former Pennsylvania State Trooper convicted of murder.
- Mark Spotz - Convicted of four murders committed over a three-day period in 1995.
- Eric Frein - Convicted of killing a state trooper in a 2014 ambush.
- Joseph Kallinger - Serial killer active in the 1970s, convicted of three murders.
