Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WI DOC) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WI DOC) is a state agency responsible for the management and operation of adult correctional institutions, juvenile correctional facilities, and community corrections programs throughout the state of Wisconsin. The WI DOC oversees multiple facilities across the state, including prisons, correctional centers, and juvenile facilities.
Contact Information
Address: 3099 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
Phone: (608) 240-5000
Website: https://doc.wi.gov/
Email: DOCWEBMail@wisconsin.gov
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate in the Wisconsin Department of Corrections system, you can use the online Offender Locator tool available on the WI DOC website. Visit https://appsdoc.wi.gov/lop/ and enter the inmate's name or DOC number to search for their current location and status.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by facility. Generally, visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list and follow specific guidelines. For detailed information about visitation at a particular facility, visit the WI DOC website and navigate to the specific institution's page. Due to COVID-19, visitation policies may be subject to change, so it's important to check for updates before planning a visit.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates in the Wisconsin DOC system:
- Online: Use Access Corrections at https://www.accesscorrections.com/
- Phone: Call Access Corrections at 1-866-345-1884
- Walk-in Cash Payments: Visit participating stores like Walmart, CVS, or 7-Eleven and use the Cash Pay Today option
- Mail: Send a money order to Access Secure Deposits, P.O. Box 12486, St. Louis, MO 63132
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make outgoing collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through SECURUS Technologies at https://www.securustech.net/ or by calling 1-800-844-6591. Video visitation options may be available at some facilities, but availability and procedures vary.
Inmate Services and Programs
The WI DOC offers various programs and services to support inmate rehabilitation and reentry, including:
- Education and vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Work release programs
- Reentry initiatives
History of the Facility
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections was established in 1990 when it was separated from the Department of Health and Social Services. Since then, it has evolved to manage a complex system of correctional facilities and programs across the state, focusing on public safety, offender rehabilitation, and successful reentry into society.
Security and Management Information
The WI DOC operates facilities with various security levels, from minimum to maximum security. Each institution has its own management team and security protocols. The department employs trained correctional officers, administrative staff, and program specialists to ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff, and the public.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates in the Wisconsin DOC system have certain rights protected by law, including access to legal resources and visitation. The department provides law libraries or legal research materials to inmates. Visitation rights are subject to facility rules and may be restricted based on security concerns or disciplinary actions.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves initial intake, health screening, and assignment to a facility based on security classification. Upon release, inmates may be subject to supervision or participate in reentry programs. The WI DOC works with community partners to support successful reintegration into society.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I send mail to an inmate?
To send mail to an inmate, address the envelope with the inmate's full name, DOC number, and the complete address of the facility where they are housed. All mail is subject to inspection and must comply with facility rules.
What items can I send to an inmate?
Allowed items vary by facility but generally include letters, photos, and approved publications. Personal property must be purchased through approved vendors. Contact the specific facility for a list of allowed items.
How can I get on an inmate's visitor list?
To be added to an inmate's visitor list, you must complete a Visitor Questionnaire form. The inmate can provide this form, or you can contact the facility to request one. Once submitted, the facility will review and approve or deny the request.
Famous Prisoners
While the Wisconsin DOC manages numerous facilities, here are a few notable individuals who have served time in Wisconsin correctional institutions:
- Jeffrey Dahmer - Convicted serial killer, served time at Columbia Correctional Institution before his death in 1994.
- Ed Gein - Infamous murderer and body snatcher, was held at Central State Hospital for the Criminally Insane (now Dodge Correctional Institution).
- Steven Avery - Subject of the Netflix documentary "Making a Murderer," currently incarcerated at Waupun Correctional Institution.
- Brendan Dassey - Also featured in "Making a Murderer," serving his sentence at Oshkosh Correctional Institution.
- Christopher Scarver - Known for killing Jeffrey Dahmer in prison, currently incarcerated at Wisconsin Secure Program Facility.
