Guide to Donaldson Correctional Facility, Alabama
A detailed resource for families and friends of inmates at Donaldson Correctional Facility.
Overview of Donaldson Correctional Facility
Donaldson Correctional Facility, officially known as William E. Donaldson Correctional Facility, is a maximum-security prison located in Bessemer, Alabama. It is managed by the Alabama Department of Corrections and primarily houses inmates serving long sentences, including life imprisonment.
Contact Information
Address: 100 Warrior Lane, Bessemer, AL 35023-7299, USA
Phone Number: +1 205-436-3681
Website: Donaldson Correctional Facility Page
How to Locate an Inmate
Locate your inmate in the Donaldson Correctional Facility by visiting the Alabama Department of Corrections website's inmate locator section. You will need the inmate’s full legal name or their inmate ID number for a successful search.
Visitation Information
Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list to visit. Visits are scheduled according to the inmate's housing assignment, generally on weekends and holidays. All visitors must go through a security check before entering the facility.
Visitation Hours: Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sending Money
Families can send money to inmates in Donaldson Correctional Facility through JPay, a service that allows money transfers online. Visit JPay to create an account and send funds using the inmate's ID.
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates at Donaldson are allowed to make outgoing calls using a prepaid account or phone cards purchased through the prison. Video visitation is also available via approved third-party vendors.
Inmate Services and Programs
Donaldson Correctional Facility offers various programs including educational programs, vocational training, mental health services, and religious programs to aid in the rehabilitation of inmates.
History of the Facility
Established in 1982, Donaldson Correctional Facility was initially opened as a special needs facility before transitioning to a high-security prison. It is named after an officer from Bessemer who was killed in the line of duty.
Security and Management Information
As a maximum-security prison, Donaldson has strict security protocols, including multiple security fences, controlled movements, and comprehensive surveillance systems to ensure the safety and security of both staff and inmates.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmate's legal rights are preserved under the United States Constitution, with access to legal resources and the right to receive visits under specified conditions as directed by the Alabama Department of Corrections.
Booking and Release Process
Upon booking at Donaldson, inmates are processed, fingerprinted, and photographed. Release processes depend on the completion of the minimum sentence, parole decisions, or other legal determinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Donaldson Correctional Facility
Can I send packages to an inmate at Donaldson?
No, Donaldson Correctional Facility does not allow package deliveries from families directly. Certain pre-approved care packages can be sent via specific third-party vendors.
What items are inmates allowed to receive?
Inmates can receive letters, money via JPay, and pre-approved books directly sent from the publisher.
