Guide to Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola)
Overview of the Facility
The Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola, is the largest maximum-security prison in the United States. It is located on an 18,000-acre former plantation in West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana. The facility is named after the Angola Plantation that once stood on this ground, which was named after the country of origin of many of its former slaves.
Contact Information
Address: Louisiana State Penitentiary, 17544 Tunica Trace, Angola, LA 70712, USA
Phone Number: +1 225-655-4411
Website: Louisiana State Penitentiary
Locating an Inmate
To locate an inmate at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, use the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections website. The inmate locator feature allows you to search using their name or offender number.
Visitation Information
Visitation rights vary by the inmate's custody status and behavior. Generally, visiting hours are on weekends from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. All visitors must be approved and listed on the inmate’s visitation list. Visitors are advised to contact the facility directly to confirm visitation hours and other requirements before traveling.
Sending Money
Friends and family can send money to inmates through JPay, an online payment system. Money can be sent online, through the JPay mobile app, or at kiosks available in the visitors area. Visit JPay for more details.
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates are allowed to make outgoing calls to approved numbers, which must be listed on their approved calling list. Video visitation is also available via JPay, providing an alternative to physical visits. Schedules and fees apply, and details can be found on the JPay website.
Inmate Services and Programs
The facility offers educational programs including GED and college courses, vocational training, anger management classes, and religious services. Angola is also known for its inmate-run rodeo, an event that provides both an entertainment avenue and an engagement program for inmates.
Security and Management
As a maximum-security prison, Angola employs strict security measures, including perimeter patrol, surveillance systems, and controlled access points. The prison is also equipped with dedicated incident response teams to manage emergencies.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at Angola have the right to receive visitors and legal aid. Visitation rights can be revoked as a disciplinary measure but generally adhere to state regulations to ensure inmates maintain contact with the outside world.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process includes recording personal information, fingerprinting, and photographing. Release processes are scheduled by the facilities' administration and include provisions for transportation and post-release supervision, if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find out if someone is incarcerated at Angola?
You can use the inmate locator feature available on the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections website to find someone incarcerated at Angola.
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring only essential items such as a wallet and keys, which are subject to search. Specific regulations can be obtained from the facility's administration.
Can inmates receive mail?
Yes, inmates can receive mail, but it will be inspected for contraband before delivery. Make sure to follow the facility's guidelines on mail correspondence.
Is there a limit to the amount of money I can send to an inmate?
No specific limits are set on the total amount, but transaction limits may apply depending on the method used (e.g., JPay).
Famous Inmates
- Wilbert Rideau: A former death row inmate who became a journalist during his time in Angola and was released in 2005 after his conviction was overturned.
- Gary Tyler: Convicted as a teenager and became a case study in racial tensions and justice flaws of the 1970s. His sentence was eventually commuted, and he was released in 2016.
- Clyde Giddens: Involved in a high-profile kidnapping case in the 1960s, later became notable for his transformation and efforts towards rehabilitation.
Recent News
- "Angola Rodeo returns with enthusiasm post-pandemic" — April 2023: The famous Angola Rodeo, an inmate-directed event, resumed with notable public engagement.
- "New educational programs introduced at Angola" — February 2023: The introduction of new vocational and educational programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates.
