Visitor's Guide to Thomas Goree Unit - Correctional Institution
Overview of the Facility
The Thomas Goree Unit is a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) men's prison located in Huntsville, Texas. Originally opened in 1912, the facility has a capacity to house over 1,300 inmates, with a mix of security levels, including minimum and medium.
Contact Information
Address: 7405 Highway 75 South, Huntsville, TX 77344
Phone Number: (936) 295-6331
Website: tdcj.texas.gov/unit_directory/gr.html
Email: Not available; typically, TDCJ units do not provide direct email contacts publicly.
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at the Goree Unit, use the TDCJ Online Inmate Search. Enter the inmate’s last name and first name. Information available includes inmate location, TDCJ number, and projected release date.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation at the Goree Unit is held on Saturdays and Sundays, generally between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Visitors must register in advance through the eVisits system provided on the TDCJ website and abide by specific inmate visitation rules including dress code, identification requirements, and allowable items.
How to Send Money
Family members can send money to inmates via the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's eCommDirect system. This service allows for online deposits into an inmate's commissary account, which they can use to purchase various items while incarcerated.
Phone Calls and Video Visitation Options
Inmates can make outgoing calls through a system managed by Securus Technologies. Setting up an account can be done via the Securus Technologies website. Video visitation is also available and can be scheduled through the same service.
Inmate Services and Programs
The Goree Unit offers a variety of programs and services including educational programs, vocational training, and mental health support aimed at aiding the rehabilitation process of the inmates.
History of the Facility
The Goree Unit has a significant history as it was one of the first all-women prisons in the state before becoming a male prison. The unit was well-known for its Goree All Girl String Band, a musical group made up of inmates that became a public relations success in the mid-20th century.
Security and Management Information
The unit is a medium to minimum security facility with advanced security measures including controlled movement, security cameras, and routine checks ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at the Goree Unit are entitled to legal representation and are allowed visitation rights as prescribed under Texas law. Legal visits can be pre-arranged through the unit’s administration.
Booking and Release Process
Individuals are booked through initial processing after which they undergo classification to determine their appropriate housing within the facility. The release process involves preparing the inmate, finalizing paperwork, and ensuring post-release plans are in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I send personal items to an inmate at the Goree Unit?
No, personal items cannot be directly sent to inmates. All items must be purchased through the commissary or approved third-party vendors.
Q: What are the photo ID requirements for visiting an inmate?
Visitors aged 18 and older must present a valid, government-issued photo ID card such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport.
