Elmira CF is for State Prison offenders sentenced anywhere from one year to life by the State Court in the county where the charges were filed
All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for State - medium facility.
The phone carrier is Securus Tech®, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.
If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders
Elmira CF is a State - medium state correctional facility in Elmira, NY, operated by the New York Department of Corrections. Inmates serve sentences ranging from one year to life and have access to programs including education, vocational training, and work assignments. This page covers how to locate an inmate, schedule visits, make calls, send money, and stay connected throughout their sentence at Elmira CF.
While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.
Elmira Correctional Facility, also known as "The Hill," is a maximum security state prison situated in Chemung County under the jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. It serves both as a reception center for inmate intake/classification and as a high-security prison, accommodating approximately 1800 inmates. Inmates at Elmira CF have access to substance abuse and alcohol addiction treatment, sex offender counseling, and mental health services. Vocational courses provided include building maintenance, carpentry, electrical work, masonry, plumbing, printing, welding, business, and machining. The facility also participates in Correctional Industries, offering work opportunities in various fields.
Originally established as the Elmira Reformatory in 1970, the complex underwent several changes over the years, including the introduction of programs in ethics, religion, and vocational training. Inmates were classified into three grades based on behavior, with privileges and sentences affected accordingly. However, tension arose due to indeterminate sentencing and disciplinary measures, leading to questions about the reformatory system.
Despite challenges, the Elmira system influenced prison reform, emphasizing the differentiation between juvenile and adult offenders and the potential for prisoner rehabilitation. The complex grading system and education programs introduced were replicated in numerous reformatories across several states. Following administrative changes, the facility transitioned into the Elmira Correctional and Reception Center, focusing on standard custody and treatment methods.
In the late 1970s to late 1980s, Elmira collaborated with Corning Community College to offer inmates the opportunity to earn associate degrees. However, budget cuts during the early 1990s led to the termination of the program amid public outcry over taxpayer spending on inmate education. Attempts to revive the program were unsuccessful, resulting in its permanent termination.
Elmira CF gained notoriety when convicted murderers Timothy Vail and Timothy Morgan escaped in 2003 by digging through the roof of their cell. Their escape, featured in a National Geographic documentary, resulted in their capture and placement in solitary confinement. The facility has housed notable inmates such as rapper Trevell Gerald Coleman, serial killer Patrick Baxter, and cult leader Dwight York.
Overall, Elmira Correctional Facility plays a significant role in the New York state prison system, offering various programs and services aimed at inmate rehabilitation and reintegration into society while maintaining security and order within its walls.
