Visiting an inmate at Donaldson Correctional Facility can be an intimidating experience. Knowing what to expect and understanding the visitation process can help both you and your inmate have the best experience possible.
It is important to remember that visits are scheduled and monitored by the facility. In order to visit an inmate, a visitor must be on the inmates approved visitor list. All potential visitors 18 and older must have a valid photo identification with them for each visit. Every visitor is subject to a pat-down search and a metal detector check prior to entry.
Visiting areas are divided into two categories, contact and non-contact. Non-contact visits are conducted through a glass partition and do not allow physical contact. Contact visits are conducted in a common room where direct physical contact is allowed.
Every visitor must adhere to the facility rules and regulations, which can be found on the facility’s website. Special considerations for visits can be made in certain circumstances, such as for greater than usual distances of travel. It is best to consult with the facility in advance to verify proper documentation for eligibility and to discuss any other special conditions.
There are plenty of things to keep in mind when visiting an inmate at Donaldson Correctional Facility. It is essential to be aware of the visitation policies and procedures to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Additionally, visitors should plan to arrive early to ensure they can take full advantage of their visitation time.
Donaldson Correctional Facility – Overview and Information
Donaldson Correctional Facility is a state prison located in Bessemer, Alabama, within the Jefferson County Department of Corrections. The facility is one of the state’s 14 prisons, and it’s home to a maximum of 1,500 male inmates. Donaldson is a medium-security prison that houses inmates convicted of felonies ranging from simple drug possession to murder.
Built in 1977, the prison is located on more than 700 acres of land near Birmingham. It houses a mix of inmates, including those awaiting trial, those serving sentences and those who are part of work-release or parole programs.
Donaldson is divided into 11 separate units, each offering a variety of services. The South Unit is home to general population inmates; the West Unit contains administrative offices and vocational programs; the East Unit includes a medical unit, mental health program and infirmary; and the Central Unit contains the prison’s intake and transfer services.
Unlike many Alabama prisons, Donaldson is known for its educational and vocational programs, which include GED preparation, basic life skills, intro to computers and a horticulture program. The facility also offers pre-release and extended-release programs for inmates.
In 2010, the facility was the target of a lawsuit initiated by the Southern Poverty Law Center alleging that Donaldson was failing to provide inmates with constitutionally mandated mental health services. The case was eventually settled in 2014 when the state agreed to provide better care and oversight for Donaldson’s mentally ill inmates.
If you have a friend or loved one at Donaldson Correctional Facility, there are a few things you should know. You’ll need to contact the facility directly to find out what rules apply for visiting, sending mail or speaking on the phone. You can also look up current information on the Alabama Department of Corrections website.
Donaldson Correctional Facility – Classes, Services, and Programs
Donaldson Correctional Facility is a prison located in Atmore, Alabama. The facility opened in 1982 and is one of the state’s main correctional facilities, housing male offenders with a variety of sentences.
Classes
Donaldson Correctional Facility offers a variety of educational and vocational classes, including GED preparation classes, golf and mechanics courses, and training in carpentry and computer technologies. The facility encourages inmates to take advantage of these opportunities in order to better prepare themselves for life after prison.
Services
Donaldson Correctional Facility offers a variety of services to support its inmates, including counseling and religious services, and a staff-run library. There is also a Recreational Therapeutic Program which helps inmates learn healthy coping mechanisms for stress. Additionally, inmates can take advantage of the facility’s medical services, which provide for both small and large medical issues.
Programs
Donaldson Correctional Facility has a variety of programs in place that help inmates overcome addiction, participate in rehabilitation activities, and reduce recidivism. For example, the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program offers inmates the chance to overcome addiction, while the Mental Health Program provides support and counseling for those struggling with mental health issues. Additionally, the Custody Enhancement Program helps inmates adjust to a secure environment and encourages positive behavior.
Overall, Donaldson Correctional Facility offers an array of classes, services, and programs designed to help inmates become better equipped to return to society after their sentence is complete. By taking advantage of these offerings, inmates are able to gain valuable work and life skills that can help them lead more productive lives once they are released.
Inmate visiting application in Donaldson Correctional Facility
In order to visit an inmate in Donaldson Correctional Facility, it is necessary to complete an Inmate Visitor Application. This application must be completed and submitted to the Visiting Room Sergeant before any visit is allowed.
The Inmate Visitor Application is used to collect information about the visitor, including name, address, date of birth, Social Security Number, relationship to the inmate, and more. The visitor’s photo must also be submitted with the application. The inmate must approve the visitor and all of the information must match the information that is on file.
It is important to note that any visitor that is convicted of a felony or any offense related to domestic violence must get permission from the warden before being approved for a visit. All visitors must also have valid government-issued identification with them, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Once the application is approved, the visiting schedule will be determined. Visits are held Thursday-Saturday from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. Each visiting session is two hours in length and visitors must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session. Each inmate is allowed only two visitors per session and visitors can’t bring other people along.
Visitors should also be aware that all visitors and belongings will be searched prior to the visit. Items such as cell phones, cameras, and weapons are not allowed. Any food or contraband that is found will be confiscated.
If you are planning to visit an inmate in Donaldson Correctional Facility, the best way to do so is to complete the Inmate Visitor Application and submit it to the Visiting Room Sergeant. This will ensure that the visit is safe and secure for all involved.
Donaldson Correctional Facility: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q: What is Donaldson Correctional Facility?
A: Donaldson Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison located near Bessemer, Alabama and is operated by the Alabama Department of Corrections. It is the oldest prison facility in Alabama, founded in 1929. Donaldson houses over 1,500 inmates and is the home to some of the most notorious criminals in the state.
Q: What are the visiting hours for Donaldson?
A: The visiting hours for visitors for Donaldson Correctional Facility are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 7 days a week. All visitors must be pre-approved by the facility’s warden prior to visitation. It’s essential that visitors have valid identification when entering, and the list of acceptable forms are listed on the Department of Corrections website.
Q: How can I send mail to an inmate at Donaldson?
A: All mail must be sent using the United States Postal Service in order to be accepted. Letters must contain the inmate’s name, ID number, and address at Donaldson Correctional Facility. All incoming mail is opened, inspected, and scanned into the system before being sent to the inmate.
Q: Are there opportunities for work and education at Donaldson?
A: Yes. Donaldson offers inmates the opportunity to receive education and work experience. Educational opportunities range from GED classes to bachelor’s degrees. Inmates may also participate in vocational training and work in jobs such as building maintenance, garbage collection, and landscaping.
Q: What safety measures exist at Donaldson?
A: The facility utilizes multiple security measures to ensure safety, such as surveillance cameras, metal detectors, and random searches. In addition, Donaldson has adopted a zero tolerance policy when it comes to contraband and substance abuse.
These are some of the most common questions and answers about Donaldson Correctional Facility. For more detailed information, please refer to the Alabama Department of Corrections website.
