When an inmate is transferred to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) Reception and Treatment Center (RTC), there is typically a process that must be completed before they can begin making phone calls or accessing a tablet. Here's an overview of what you can expect:
1. Initial Intake and Assessment Period:
- Intake Process: Upon arrival at the NDCS Reception and Treatment Center, inmates undergo an intake and assessment process, which can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. During this time, they are evaluated for medical, mental health, security, and classification purposes.
- Limited Communication: It’s common for inmates not to have immediate access to phone calls during this initial intake period, as the facility focuses on processing their paperwork, assessments, and determining their housing assignment.
2. Phone Call Access:
- Timing: Inmates are generally allowed to make calls once they have completed the intake process and have been formally classified. This process can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days, but it may vary depending on the facility’s workload and the individual case.
- Phone System: NDCS uses a contracted phone service provider (typically GTL/ConnectNetwork) for inmate phone calls. Ensure you have an account set up with this service, as your loved one will need to add you to their approved call list before they can reach out.
3. Tablet Access:
- Distribution of Tablets: NDCS has implemented tablet access for inmates, allowing them to make calls, send messages, and access educational content. However, inmates typically receive a tablet only after they have completed the intake process and have been fully classified.
- Registration and Access: Your loved one will need to register their tablet and add funds to their account to use services like phone calls or electronic messaging.
4. Reasons for Delays:
- High Volume of Transfers: If there have been a large number of inmates transferred recently, the intake process can be slower, which may delay when your loved one can contact you.
- COVID-19 or Facility Restrictions: If there are any COVID-19 protocols or temporary restrictions in place, these might also impact how quickly your loved one can make contact.
What You Can Do:
- Set Up a Phone Account: Ensure you have a GTL/ConnectNetwork account and add funds so your loved one can call once he's permitted to do so.
- Send a Letter: If you haven’t already, consider sending a letter with your phone number and encouraging your loved one to call as soon as he is able. Inmates often receive mail faster than they gain access to phones or tablets.
- Contact the Facility: Reach out to the NDCS Reception and Treatment Center’s administration or inmate information line to inquire about the status of your loved one’s intake process.
It’s normal for there to be a waiting period before inmates can make their first call, especially during the intake phase. However, once your loved one completes the assessment, he should be able to reach out to you via phone or tablet.