Darrington Unit (DA) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Darrington Unit is a maximum-security prison for male inmates operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). It is located in Rosharon, Texas, and has a capacity of approximately 1,800 inmates.
Contact Information
Address: 59 Darrington Road, Rosharon, TX 77583
Phone: (281) 595-3465
Website: https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/unit_directory/da.html
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Darrington Unit, use the TDCJ Offender Information Search tool available at https://offender.tdcj.texas.gov/OffenderSearch/index.jsp.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation days: Saturdays and Sundays
Visitation hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Visitors must arrive no later than 3:30 PM to be processed for visitation.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates at Darrington Unit:
- Online: JPay
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use receive code 3368
- Mail: Send money orders to Inmate Trust Fund, TDCJ, P.O. Box 60, Huntsville, TX 77342-0060
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through Global Tel Link (GTL). Video visitation is not available at this facility.
Inmate Services and Programs
Darrington Unit offers various programs, including:
- Educational programs (GED, vocational training)
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Work programs
- Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary program
History of the Facility
Darrington Unit was established in 1917 and named after John Darrington, a former plantation owner. The facility has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years.
Security and Management Information
As a maximum-security prison, Darrington Unit employs strict security measures, including perimeter fencing, armed guard towers, and internal security checkpoints. The facility is managed by wardens and correctional officers employed by the TDCJ.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at Darrington Unit have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be on an approved visitation list to visit inmates.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are transferred to Darrington Unit from other TDCJ facilities after initial processing. Upon release, inmates go through a discharge process and may be eligible for reentry programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to visitation?
Visitors are allowed to bring a small clear plastic bag with up to $25 in quarters for vending machines, a photo ID, and car keys. All other items must be left in vehicles or lockers.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Eligible inmates can receive visits every weekend, but are limited to one visit per weekend.
Can I send packages to inmates?
No, personal packages are not allowed. Inmates can receive approved items through the commissary system.
Is there medical care available at Darrington Unit?
Yes, the facility provides basic medical care to inmates. For specialized treatment, inmates may be transferred to other TDCJ medical facilities.
Can inmates receive mail?
Yes, inmates can receive letters and postcards. All mail is screened for security purposes before delivery to inmates.
Notable Former Inmates
- David Owen Brooks - Convicted for his involvement in the Houston Mass Murders
- Elmer Wayne Henley - Convicted for his role in the Houston Mass Murders
- Angel Maturino Resendiz - Known as the "Railroad Killer," convicted of multiple murders
- Kenneth McDuff - Serial killer known as the "Broomstick Killer"
- Karla Faye Tucker - First woman executed in Texas since the Civil War, convicted of murder
- David Spence - Convicted of the Lake Waco murders, later executed
- Henry Lee Lucas - Convicted serial killer, though many of his confessions were later discredited
- Cesar Fierro - Convicted of murder, spent over 40 years on death row before sentence commutation
- Ronald Jeffrey Prible Jr. - Convicted of multiple murders, currently on death row
- Joseph Nichols - Convicted of capital murder, executed in 2007
