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Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle

Private Facility

Last Updated: September 02, 2016
Address
118 CR 206, Haskell, TX 79521
Beds
555
County
Haskell
Phone
940-864-5694
Fax
940-864-5002
Email
haskcoso@wtxs.net
Mailing Address
118 CO. RD. #206, Haskell, TX 79521

Rolling Plains Detention is for Private Facility offenders have not been sentenced yet and are detained here until their case is heard.

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 Regional Detention - low 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

Satellite View of Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle
Search Arrest Records

If your loved one is at Rolling Plains Detention, InmateAid can help you stay connected. Call the facility directly at 940-864-5694 with any immediate questions.

Located in Haskell, TX, Rolling Plains Detention operates as a private contractor with various government agency agreements providing state-minimum custody requirements. Programs are offered to all custody levels, including work release residents focused on reentry success. With a strong emphasis on rehabilitation, Rolling Plains Detention provides comprehensive educational and vocational opportunities. Onsite amenities include dietary, health, fitness, educational, religious, and recreational services. Regular inspections ensure compliance with government standards, ensuring the facility's continued operation.

The Rolling Plains Detention Center in Haskell, Texas, is a federal immigration detention facility that houses ICE detainees under contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Located in rural West Texas, the detention center operates as part of the broader ICE detention network used to process, transfer, and house detainees awaiting immigration hearings, deportation proceedings, asylum decisions, or other federal immigration actions. The facility serves the Dallas ICE Field Office and frequently receives detainees transferred from border regions, county jails, and other federal holding locations throughout Texas and neighboring states.

The detention center has a reported operational capacity of approximately 500 to 555 detainees, making it a moderate-sized ICE detention facility within Texas’ expansive immigration enforcement system. Rolling Plains was temporarily closed in 2017 due to staffing shortages, then reopened in 2018 following renewed operational demand and local hiring efforts. Following its reopening, reports indicated the facility quickly returned to near-capacity occupancy levels due to increasing federal detention needs. The complex includes secure housing pods, intake and processing units, visitation rooms, medical services, transportation infrastructure, and recreation areas specifically designed for long-term detention operations. Search here - ICE Inmate Locator

ICE Detainee Information

This facility holds immigration detainees under an active contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in addition to its regular population. ICE detainees are civil immigration detainees, not criminal defendants, and are held while their immigration cases are processed. The rules, rights, and services that apply to ICE detainees differ from those that apply to the general jail population.

To locate an ICE detainee at this facility, use the ICE Online Detainee Locator at locator.ice.gov. You will need the detainee's A-Number, a nine-digit Alien Registration Number that appears on any immigration document they have received. If the A-Number has fewer than nine digits, add zeros at the beginning. If you do not have the A-Number, you can search using the detainee's full legal name, country of birth, and date of birth. Names must be an exact match; try variations if the first search returns no results.

Immigration bond works differently from criminal bail. Not all detainees are eligible for bond; those with certain criminal convictions or prior deportation orders may be subject to mandatory detention. For those who are eligible, bond is set by an immigration judge and typically ranges from $1,500 to over $10,000. Bond must be paid in full before release. An immigration attorney can request a bond hearing and argue for a lower amount based on the detainee's circumstances.

Unlike criminal defendants, ICE detainees do not have the right to a government-appointed attorney. They must hire a private immigration attorney or find free legal help through a nonprofit organization. RAICES provides legal services and bond assistance at raicestexas.org. The National Immigrant Justice Center offers free legal representation at immigrantjustice.org. Many immigration courts also maintain a list of free and low-cost legal service providers available to detainees upon request.

ICE transfers detainees between facilities frequently and with little advance notice, sometimes to locations far from family and legal counsel. If you cannot locate your family member through this page, search the ICE Online Detainee Locator again at locator.ice.gov with their A-Number. If they have an attorney, notify the attorney immediately as transfers affect court appearances and case timelines.

The facility sits within Haskell County, where Sheriff Conrad “C.J.” Saucedo currently leads the local sheriff’s office. Although Rolling Plains operates primarily through federal contracts and detention management agreements rather than direct county jail administration, local law enforcement agencies remain involved in emergency coordination, transportation logistics, and regional public safety support surrounding the detention center. In smaller rural counties like Haskell County, detention facilities often play a substantial economic role by providing correctional and administrative employment opportunities within the community.

Rolling Plains Detention Center has periodically drawn attention from immigration attorneys, detainee advocacy groups, and federal oversight officials because of conditions tied to staffing, detainee healthcare access, and long-distance detention transfers. The facility’s remote location, situated roughly 180 miles west of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has created challenges for some detainees and family members attempting to access legal representation or in-person visitation. ICE inspections and detention oversight reviews have periodically evaluated operational standards at the facility, including housing conditions, grievance procedures, and detainee services.

Despite past operational interruptions, Rolling Plains remains an active component of ICE detention infrastructure in Texas. The facility continues to process and house immigration detainees under federal authority while supporting broader enforcement operations across the southern United States. Its centralized location within North and West Texas allows ICE to utilize the detention center as both a long-term housing site and a transfer point within the national detention network. As immigration enforcement priorities continue evolving, Rolling Plains Detention Center remains one of several Texas facilities heavily relied upon for federal detainee management and transportation operations.

Inmate Locator

Finding an Inmate at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle

If you're trying to locate someone in custody at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle in Haskell, Texas, the fastest path depends on how recently the arrest happened, what type of facility holds the inmate, and how quickly that facility updates its public records. There is no single nationwide inmate database that covers every detention facility in real time, so locating a specific person often means checking multiple sources or calling Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle directly at 940-864-5694.

Using the InmateAid Inmate Search

The InmateAid inmate search is the fastest starting point for locating someone at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle. The search pulls from facility rosters, booking systems, and arrest record databases to return current custody status, charges, and housing facility. If the person was arrested or transferred recently and doesn't appear yet, the facility likely hasn't updated its public roster, which can lag by hours or a full business day. Try again later or call 940-864-5694 to confirm.

When the Inmate Doesn't Appear in the Search

Several explanations are possible if a person isn't showing up. The booking may not be complete. The person may have been released, transferred to another facility, or moved to federal or immigration custody. Some facilities deliberately delay public records by 24 to 72 hours for security reasons. Minors are never published in any public locator, regardless of facility. To rule out a transfer or release, call 940-864-5694 and ask the booking desk to confirm the current status.

What You'll Need to Search Effectively

Have ready: full legal name and any aliases, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest. If you know which agency made the arrest, that narrows results significantly. A booking number locates the record immediately. Without at least a full name and approximate date, searches return too many results to be useful.

Once You've Located the Inmate

When you confirm the person is at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle, set up a prepaid phone account so you don't miss the first call, and arrange any money transfer or commissary funding needed. For phone discount plans, money transfer, and mail services available at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 940-864-5694.

To confirm current custody status, recent transfers, or release information at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle, call 940-864-5694.

Visitation Information

Visitation Information - Rolling Plains Detention Center

Facility Contacts

ICE Supervisory Deportation Officer: 214-424-7863 VTel Coordinator (Maria Nunez): 940-864-6200 ext. 152 or maria.nunez@lasallecorrections.com

Visiting Hours

Visit times are split by gender and classification.

Saturday: Medium-High and High Level Males: 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Low and Medium-Low Level Females: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday: Low and Medium-Low Level Males: 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Medium-High and High Level Females: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Weekday visitation is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., by submitting a request to the Warden. The facility tries to accommodate, but these visits depend on the visitation room and security needs of the facility.

Each visit runs one hour. The Warden can authorize more time for family members traveling significant distances, depending on visitor numbers and staff availability. A maximum of two adults and two children per visit. These rules are interpreted flexibly and exceptions can apply.

Plan to arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled visit so you can clear security.

Who Can Visit

Adult visitors must show a valid, verifiable government-issued photo ID. Minors must be accompanied by an adult guardian who is 18 or older. Children cannot be left alone in the waiting room, visiting room, or any other area.

Visiting Rules

All friend and family visits are non-contact.

No firearms or weapons of any kind. No electronic devices (cell phones, pagers, radios) in secure areas. Visitors cannot pass anything to detainees or carry items into the visitation area.

Every visitor is subject to a pat-down, bag inspection, and metal scan. Refusing a search means you will not be admitted. If you appear intoxicated, you will be turned away.

Attorney Visits

In-person attorney visits run seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., including holidays. Attorneys and paralegals are both allowed.

A list of pro bono legal organizations is posted in every housing unit and updated quarterly. Detainees are responsible for contacting these organizations to schedule appointments.

Virtual Attorney Visits

Legal service providers can schedule a video visit by contacting the VTel Coordinator, Maria Nunez, at 940-864-6200 ext. 152 or maria.nunez@lasallecorrections.com. Communication can be done via Zoom, telephone, or in person.

Attorneys are required to provide their bar card and G-28, if available.

Consular Visits

Consular officials can meet with their nationals at any time. Call the ICE Supervisory Deportation Officer at 214-424-7863 to make arrangements when possible, and bring credentials.

Clergy Visits

Clergy can visit at any time but must arrange the visit ahead of time through the Chaplain's Office.

How to Save Money on Inmate Calls

Understanding Prison Phone Services: The Lowest Rate Is Now the Law

For decades, prison phone companies held a monopoly within the facilities they contracted with and charged whatever the market would bear, sometimes a dollar a minute or more. InmateAid spent years doing the legwork for families, finding the lowest rate available at each facility. On April 6, 2026, the government finally did what InmateAid's service did for years: it put a guaranteed ceiling on what every family pays. Federal rate caps now limit phone calls to $0.11 per minute at prisons and large jails, and no more than $0.18 per minute at even the smallest county jails, plus a small facility fee. Video calls are capped for the first time.

What that means in real dollars: a 15-minute call from a state prison now tops out around $1.95 before taxes, where that same call once cost $12 or more. Rates have flattened nationwide, and you can be confident the price you pay sits at or below a legal ceiling, guaranteed. Six states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New York) have gone further and made calls from state prisons free.

Some things have not changed. The provider at your facility is still the only option, prepaid accounts still beat collect calls nearly every time, and add-on fees for funding accounts can still creep onto your bill. Check the per-minute rate you are actually paying, switch to prepaid if you are receiving collect calls, and review your first statement. In federal prisons, note that pandemic-era free calling ended in January 2025; inmates enrolled in First Step Act programming earn 300 free minutes per month, so encourage your loved one to ask their case manager about enrollment.

For the complete breakdown of the new caps, facility size tiers, and which states are affected, read InmateAid's full guide: FCC Prison Phone Rate Caps 2026: What Changed and What It Means for Your Family. For facility-specific phone details, visit the InmateAid page for the facility where your inmate is incarcerated.

How to Send Money to an Inmate

How to Send an Inmate Money in Texas

Sending money to inmates is a crucial way for family members and friends to support their loved ones during incarceration. Inmates often rely on financial assistance to purchase basic necessities, maintain communication with the outside world, and participate in programs that aid their rehabilitation. This guide provides a thorough overview of how to send money to inmates, the rules and restrictions involved, and the importance of these funds in the lives of incarcerated individuals.


Why Do Inmates Need Money?

Incarceration provides the bare minimum of necessities, such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. However, these basic provisions often fall short of inmates' actual needs. Money allows inmates to access:

  • Commissary Purchases: Items such as snacks, beverages, toiletries, stationery, and entertainment products like radios or MP3 players.
  • Communication Services: Phone calls, emails, and postage for letters are not free in most facilities, and funds are required to stay connected with loved ones.
  • Healthcare Co-Pays: Inmates may need to pay nominal fees for medical or dental care within the facility.
  • Rehabilitation Programs: Some facilities charge fees for participation in educational or vocational training programs.

Funds in an inmate’s account provide a sense of autonomy and improve their quality of life, helping them maintain a connection to normalcy.


How Are Inmate Funds Managed?

When money is sent to an inmate, it is deposited into their trust account. This account functions as a personal bank account within the facility. Inmates use these funds for various expenses, and any earnings from prison jobs are also deposited here. For inmates with outstanding fines or restitution orders, a portion of the funds may be garnished to meet these obligations.


Methods for Sending Money

The process for sending money to inmates varies by facility type (county, state, or federal) and the service providers they contract with. Below are the most common methods:

1. Online Transfers

Many facilities partner with electronic money transfer services like JPay, Access Corrections, and MoneyGram. These platforms allow friends and family to deposit funds conveniently via a website or mobile app.

2. Postal Money Orders

Money orders can be mailed directly to the facility. Be sure to include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and any other required details to ensure the money is credited to their account.

3. Kiosks

Some facilities have kiosks located in their lobbies or visitation areas. These kiosks accept cash, debit, or credit card payments for direct deposit into an inmate’s account.

4. Phone Transfers

Certain service providers offer phone-based transfers, where funds can be sent using a credit or debit card.

5. Centralized Banking Systems

In some state and federal facilities, centralized banking systems allow funds to be sent without requiring the inmate’s exact location. Examples include the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) system, which centralizes transactions for inmates across the country.


Rules and Restrictions

Each facility imposes specific rules to regulate money deposits:

  • Deposit Limits: Some facilities cap the amount of money that can be sent in a single transaction or within a set period.
  • Approved Senders: Certain prisons require that money senders be on the inmate’s approved visitation or contact list.
  • Fees: Many electronic transfer services charge processing fees, which can vary based on the amount sent and the method used.
  • Restricted Uses: Funds may be garnished for restitution payments or disciplinary fines before the inmate can access them.

It is essential to review the facility's guidelines to avoid delays or rejection of your deposit.


How Inmates Use Commissary Accounts

The commissary, sometimes referred to as a canteen, is a store within the correctional facility where inmates can purchase goods not provided by the prison. Common items include:

  • Snacks and beverages.
  • Hygiene products like toothpaste and soap.
  • Writing supplies for correspondence.
  • Entertainment items such as books, magazines, and radios.

For indigent inmates who lack funds, many facilities provide basic supplies like paper and stamps, ensuring they can maintain communication with loved ones.


Tips for Sending Money

  • Verify the Facility’s Policies: Before sending funds, confirm the approved methods and requirements for the specific institution.
  • Keep Records: Retain receipts or confirmation numbers for your deposits in case of disputes or delays.
  • Set Boundaries: If an inmate requests excessive funds, establish clear limits to avoid potential misuse.

FAQs

1. Can anyone send money to an inmate?
Most facilities allow family and friends to send money, but some require the sender to be on an approved list. Always check with the facility for specific requirements.

2. Are there fees for sending money?
Yes, electronic transfer services like JPay or MoneyGram typically charge fees, which vary depending on the amount sent and the method used.

3. How quickly does the inmate receive the funds?
Electronic transfers are usually processed within 24 to 48 hours. Money orders and mailed funds may take up to a week to process.

4. What happens if an inmate has outstanding fines?
Funds in an inmate’s trust account may be garnished to pay for fines, restitution, or other obligations. The remaining balance is available for the inmate's use.

5. Can inmates send money to others?
Inmates are generally prohibited from transferring money to other inmates. Exceptions may exist for approved family transfers, but this is rare.

6. What should I do if I suspect misuse of funds?
If you believe an inmate is misusing funds or being extorted, contact the facility’s counselor or case manager discreetly to address the issue.

Possible Concerns to Consider

Who Can Access the Money You Send?

If an inmate has outstanding fines or restitution, the funds in their commissary or trust account may be garnished. The facility will typically deduct a portion of each deposit, or in some cases, the entire amount, depending on the nature of the financial obligation. To avoid surprises, inmates should speak with their counselor or case manager before their incarceration begins to understand these deductions. Knowing in advance that 20-25% of all deposits might be withheld is better than discovering the account is empty when attempting a commissary purchase.


Why Is My Inmate Asking for More Money Than Usual?

An unexpected request for additional funds may indicate that the inmate is facing trouble or engaging in prohibited activities. This could involve gambling, extortion, or other situations requiring extra money. It’s important to establish clear boundaries, such as stating, “This is the amount I can send each month,” and adhering to that limit. Avoid sending more than you can afford or being pressured into exceeding your set amount.

Important Note: Never send money to another inmate’s account at the request of your loved one. This is often a red flag indicating a deeper issue. Such transactions are usually monitored by correctional staff, and if discovered, can result in disciplinary action for the inmate, including the loss of privileges.


What Should I Do If I Suspect Misuse of Funds?

If you suspect misuse of funds or believe your loved one is being coerced, contact the facility’s counselor or case manager to discuss your concerns. Use neutral language to avoid putting the inmate in a more difficult position if your suspicions turn out to be unfounded. Facility staff are trained to handle these situations discreetly and can guide how to proceed

Send Photos, Letters, and Postcards

Sending Mail to Inmates at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle: Guidelines and Services

Looking to send heartfelt greetings to your loved one in prison? Some facilities have recently updated their rules for incoming mail to protect staff from potential drug contamination through the ink used in mail pieces. These new rules require mail to be sent to a third-party post office box, where it is scanned into computer files and shared with inmates without anyone physically handling the original mail. When sending letters, photos, postcards, greeting cards, and magazines to inmates at Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle, adherence to specific guidelines is essential. Both incoming and outgoing mail undergo inspection to prevent the introduction of contraband that could compromise the safety, security, or well-being of the facility, its staff, and residents.

Inmate mail must not contain content that poses an immediate threat to jail order, such as descriptions of manufacturing weapons, bombs, incendiary devices, or escape tools that could realistically endanger jail security. Content advocating violence, racial supremacy, or ethnic purity is also prohibited. Additionally, inmate-to-inmate mail is not allowed and will be destroyed.

To simplify the process, individuals can utilize the mailing services offered by InmateAid. This automated system makes sending special messages or pictures to loved ones convenient and efficient. InmateAid has successfully sent tens of thousands of mail pieces per month without encountering issues with prisons or jails. Envelopes bearing the InmateAid logo assure mail room staff that the contents comply with regulations, establishing a trust that has been maintained since 2012.

Inmates are permitted to receive only metered, unstamped, plain white postcards no larger than 4" x 6". Writing must be done in pencil or blue or black ink. Any other type of mail will be returned to the sender. If there is no return address, unauthorized mail will be stored in the inmate's locker until their release. Again, InmateAid's service for postcards and greeting cards complies with the old and new rules. You can get 8 postcards/greeting cards for only $8.

By following these guidelines and using reliable services like InmateAid, you can ensure your mail reaches your loved one safely and without complications.

Inmate Commissary

Understanding Inmate Commissary

An inmate commissary, often referred to as a "canteen," is a store within a correctional facility where incarcerated individuals can purchase items not provided by the institution. Commissary services play an essential role in improving the quality of life for inmates by giving them access to additional goods and services. Here's what you need to know about how commissaries function and the impact they have:


What Is Available at Commissary?

Commissary stores typically offer a wide range of products, including:

  • Snacks and Beverages: Chips, candy, coffee, and instant noodles are common purchases.
  • Hygiene Products: Toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and feminine hygiene items.
  • Writing Supplies: Paper, envelopes, pens, and stamps to facilitate correspondence with loved ones.
  • Entertainment Items: Books, playing cards, radios, and sometimes MP3 players or tablets for facilities with digital programs.
  • Clothing and Accessories: Basic clothing, shoes, and thermal wear.
  • Miscellaneous Items: Batteries, headphones, and over-the-counter medications.

How Do Inmates Pay for Commissary?

Inmates use funds from their trust accounts to make purchases. These accounts are funded by money sent from family or friends, as well as wages earned from jobs within the facility. Without available funds, inmates cannot access commissary items unless they qualify as indigent, in which case the facility may provide limited basic supplies like paper and stamps.


Why Is Commissary Important?

Commissary services enhance the overall well-being of inmates in several ways:

  • Comfort: Access to familiar snacks and hygiene products provides a sense of normalcy.
  • Communication: Purchasing writing supplies and stamps enables inmates to stay connected with family and friends.
  • Rehabilitation: Items like books and educational materials contribute to personal growth and development.
  • Autonomy: The ability to choose and purchase items fosters a sense of independence.

Regulations and Limits

Each facility has strict rules governing commissary purchases:

  • Spending Limits: Weekly or monthly caps are set to prevent hoarding or misuse of funds.
  • Item Restrictions: Facilities may prohibit certain products to maintain safety and security.
  • Delivery Schedules: Commissary orders are typically processed and distributed on designated days.

Inmate commissaries provide more than just goods—they offer a vital connection to the outside world and an opportunity for inmates to manage their daily needs. For families and friends, ensuring your loved one has funds in their trust account can significantly improve their experience during incarceration. Always check the specific rules and options available at the facility to better support your loved one.

Inmate Care Packages

How to Buy Inmate Commissary Care Packages Online

Purchasing commissary care packages for an inmate is a thoughtful way to show support and provide essential items they may not otherwise have access to. These packages often include a variety of approved products such as snacks, hygiene items, and personal necessities. Here’s how you can buy commissary care packages online:

  1. Find the Facility’s Approved Vendor
    Correctional facilities typically partner with approved providers like Keefe Group, Access Securpak, Union Supply Direct, Walkenhorst’s, or CareACell. These vendors work directly with facilities to ensure that the items in the packages meet all regulations.

  2. Search for the Inmate’s Facility
    Visit the vendor’s website and select the correctional facility where your loved one is housed. This ensures that you see the packages and items specifically allowed for that institution.

  3. Select a Package
    Browse the available packages, which often include bundles of snacks, toiletries, and even seasonal or holiday-themed items. Many services also allow customization, so you can tailor the package to your loved one’s preferences.

  4. Enter the Inmate’s Details
    Provide the inmate’s full name and ID number to ensure the package is delivered to the correct person. Double-check this information to avoid delivery issues.

  5. Complete Your Purchase
    Add the selected package to your cart, proceed to checkout, and make your payment using a credit or debit card. Some vendors may also offer alternative payment methods.

  6. Confirm Delivery Guidelines
    Delivery schedules vary by facility, so check when packages are typically distributed. Most vendors provide estimated delivery times and tracking options.

By following these steps, you can easily send a commissary care package to brighten an inmate’s day. These packages not only provide comfort but also remind your loved one that they are supported and cared for. For added convenience, many vendors offer affordable pricing and frequent promotions to help you maximize your support

Frequently Asked Questions About Rolling Plains Detention Center (ICE) - LaSalle

  1. What is a private prison?
      A private prison is a correctional facility owned and operated by a private corporation under a contract with federal, state, or local governments. These facilities house detainees in exchange for a per-detainee daily fee, which the government pays to the company. Private prisons handle security, food, medical care, and rehabilitation programs, but their goal is to operate profitably, which has led to controversy over cost-cutting measures that may affect detainee welfare.

  2. How do private prisons differ from public prisons?
      Unlike state or federal prisons, which are directly operated by government agencies, private prisons function as for-profit businesses. While they must follow contracted guidelines, they often have different staffing policies, fewer rehabilitation programs, and more cost-cutting measures to increase profitability. Public prisons are held directly accountable to taxpayers and elected officials, whereas private prisons are accountable to shareholders and company executives.

  3. Who owns private prisons?
      The two largest private prison companies in the U.S. are:

    • CoreCivic (formerly Corrections Corporation of America - CCA)
    • The GEO Group
      These companies manage numerous facilities nationwide, contracting with state correctional departments, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some smaller companies, such as Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and LaSalle Corrections, also operate private correctional facilities.
  4. Do private prisons have different security levels?
      Yes, private prisons operate minimum, medium, and maximum-security facilities, though they primarily house low to medium-security detainees due to contractual limitations. Detainees with violent criminal histories or severe disciplinary problems are often transferred to government-run facilities because private prisons lack the infrastructure and staffing for high-risk populations.

  5. Are private prisons more dangerous than public prisons?
      Multiple studies have shown that private prisons experience higher rates of violence, detainee assaults, and staff turnover than government-run facilities. Cost-cutting measures in staffing and training lead to:

    • Fewer correctional officers per detainee
    • Lower wages lead to high turnover and inexperienced staff
    • Reduced medical care access, contributing to untreated illnesses and mental health crises
      However, some private facilities claim to have lower incident rates due to strict behavioral screening of detainees before placement.
  6. Why do governments use private prisons?
      Governments contract with private prisons to reduce overcrowding, lower operational costs, and provide flexibility in managing detainee populations. When state or federal prisons reach capacity, private prisons act as overflow facilities, housing detainees until space becomes available in public institutions. Some states rely heavily on private prisons due to budget constraints and lack of funding to build new government-run facilities.

  7. Which states use private prisons?
      As of recent reports, the states with the largest private prison populations include:

    • Texas (over 12,000 detainees)
    • Florida (over 10,000 detainees)
    • Arizona (about 8,000 detainees)
    • Georgia (over 7,000 detainees)
      Some states, including California, Illinois, and New York, have banned private prisons for housing state inmates but still allow federal contracts for immigration detainees.
  8. How are private prisons funded?
      Private prisons generate revenue through contracts with government agencies, which pay a fixed daily rate per detainee housed. Additional revenue streams include:

    • Detainee phone services (provided by companies like GTL and Securus, with high per-minute rates)
    • Commissary sales (charging premium prices for snacks, hygiene products, and personal items)
    • Detainee work programs (where detainees are paid as little as $0.12 per hour for labor)
    • Medical co-pays (some facilities charge detainees for non-emergency medical visits)
  9. Do private prisons save taxpayers money?
      Supporters argue that private prisons reduce costs through lower staff wages, fewer pension benefits, and operational efficiencies. However, critics claim these cost savings come at the expense of safety, rehabilitation, and detainee care. Reports indicate that private prisons cut corners on healthcare, food quality, and staffing, which may increase long-term costs due to higher recidivism rates and legal challenges.

  10. Can private prison detainees make phone calls?
      Yes, detainees can make outgoing calls using prepaid phone services such as GTL (ViaPath), Securus, NCIC, Paytel, and IC Solutions. Calls are monitored and recorded, and rates vary by state. Some facilities offer video visitation services, but these are often costly for families.

  11. How do families send money to detainees in private prisons?
      Funds can be deposited through JPay, Western Union, MoneyGram, or facility-approved JailATM kiosks. Private prisons often outsource financial transactions to third-party companies that charge higher fees than public institutions.

  12. Do private prisons offer education and rehabilitation programs?
      Programs vary by contract, but many private prisons offer GED courses, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. However, these programs are often underfunded, and detainee participation may be limited due to facility staffing shortages.

  13. Do private prisons house federal inmates?
      Yes, private companies contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house federal and immigration detainees. However, in 2021, the Biden administration ordered the DOJ to phase out private prison contracts for BOP inmates, reducing their role in federal incarceration.

  14. What happens if a private prison contract is terminated?
      If a state or federal agency ends a contract, inmates are transferred to public facilities or another private facility. Some private prisons are repurposed for detention centers, mental health facilities, or immigration housing.

  15. Are private prisons subject to the same oversight as public prisons?
      Private prisons must comply with state and federal laws, but they are not subject to the same transparency requirements as public facilities. Some states audit private prisons to ensure compliance, while others allow more operational secrecy due to corporate protection.

  16. Can inmates transfer from private to public prisons?
      Transfers depend on contract terms, inmate classification, and bed availability. Some inmates are transferred if security risks arise, while others remain in private facilities until their sentence is completed.

  17. Do private prisons have higher recidivism rates?
      Studies suggest that private prisons have higher recidivism rates due to fewer rehabilitation programs, lack of mental health support, and profit-driven incentives to keep beds full.

  18. Why are private prisons controversial?
      Critics argue that private prisons prioritize profit over inmate welfare, leading to:

  • Staffing shortages and high officer turnover
  • Inadequate medical care and long delays in receiving treatment
  • Higher rates of violence and assaults
  • Minimal educational and vocational programs
    These concerns have led to state and federal efforts to reduce reliance on private prisons.

Ask The Inmate

Connect directly with former inmates and get your questions answered for free. Gain valuable insights from individuals with firsthand experience in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and GEO and CoreCivic-run private prisons. Whether you're seeking advice, clarification, or just curious about life behind bars, this unique opportunity allows you to ask questions or explore answers to previous inquiries from the InmateAid community. Engage in meaningful discussions and get informed perspectives from those who truly understand the system.