Guide to Washington Department of Corrections (WA DOC)
Overview of WA DOC
The Washington Department of Corrections (WA DOC) manages and administers a variety of correctional facilities within the state of Washington. It aims to improve public safety by focusing on offender rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.
Contact Information
Address: PO Box 41100, Olympia, WA 98504-1100
Phone Number: (360) 725-8213
Website: https://www.doc.wa.gov
Email: docpubinfo@doc1.wa.gov
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate within the WA DOC system, you can use the offender search tool available on their Inmate Search Page.
Visitation Information
Visitation rules may vary by facility, but generally, you need to be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Pre-registration and scheduling a visit are often required. Details and scheduling can be performed through the main WA DOC website or directly at the specific facility's page.
Sending Money and Online Payment Systems
Family and friends can send money to inmates via the JPAY service, which can be accessed through www.jpay.com. This system allows for the transfer of funds online to the inmate’s account.
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates at WA DOC facilities are allowed to make phone calls through a system provided by Securus Technologies. Video visitation is also available via the same service provider. Details and account setup can be found at www.securustech.net.
Inmate Services and Programs
WA DOC offers various programs, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and reentry programs to aid with the rehabilitation process.
History of the Facility
The WA DOC was established to handle all state-operated adult correctional institutions in Washington, growing and evolving in response to laws and societal needs.
Security and Management Information
WA DOC facilities are classified into minimum, medium, and maximum security levels based on the inmates' custody and security requirements.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Correctional facilities in Washington must adhere to legal standards ensuring inmates' rights to visitation and communication, governed by state law and federal regulations.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are booked based on directives from law enforcement or court orders and released according to their parole board decisions or sentence expiration.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Facility
Q: How can I send a letter to an inmate?
Letters can be mailed to the correctional facility's address with inmate's full name and ID number. Check the specific rules of the facility regarding mail content.
Q: What items are inmates allowed to receive?
Inmates can typically receive letters, photos, and approved packages. Restrictions apply, and it's advisable to consult the facility's guidelines.
