JACKSONVILLE Correctional Center

[Dazzler]

Post info in this thread

[Forevermah]

Jacksonville Correctional Center  

Glen Austin, Warden  

Facility Data

Jacksonville Correctional Center
 Opened: October 1984
 *Operational Capacity: 1,625
 Minimum Security Adult Male
 *Population Jacksonville Correctional Center: 1,004
 *Population Greene County Work Camp: 183
 *Population Pittsfield Work Camp: 384
 *Total Current Population: 1,571
 Average Age: 34
 FY2010 Average Annual Cost Per Inmate: $22,543.00
 
*As of 11/30/2011. Reflects bed space capacity analysis as outlined in the January 1, 2012 Quarterly Report to the Legislature.
 
Jacksonville Correctional Center is the parent institution for Greene County Work Camp and Pittsfield Work Camp

Visiting Hours

  

IDOC Visitation Rules and Information—please review before visiting
 
Visitors to any correctional facility will be required to produce photo identification and verification of
 date of birth. Please be sure to bring 2 forms of identification with you; these would include a current photo ID such as a driver’s license, a state ID card, government ID card, military ID/driver’s license, or acceptable documentation of non-U.S. citizenship including a current Passport, or Visa, documentation must contain the visitor’s date of birth. Expired forms of identification will not be
 accepted. Visitors will also be required to provide vehicle information and other pertinent data, such as government identification, official credentials, attorney registration, and or law student certification.
 

Jacksonville Correctional Center
 9:00AM to 8:00PM daily
 Visitors must arrive by 7:00pm
 Inmates are only allowed five visits per month
 


Facility Address

Business Mail:
2268 East Morton Avenue
 Jacksonville, IL 62650
 
Inmate Mail:
Inmate Name & IDOC#
 2268 East Morton Avenue
 Jacksonville, IL 62650
 
Phone: (217) 245-1481
 Fax: (217) 245-1287

Facility Information

Jacksonville Correctional Center is designed to provide for the custody, care and safety of the adult males who have been placed under its jurisdiction. The facility works to provide the inmate population with the skills necessary for a more positive and successful reintegration process back into the community by providing services that focus on the first-time offender as well as the recidivist. The operational and program philosophy, which has been developed at the Jacksonville Correctional Center, focuses on providing opportunities for program participation and increases the range of the individual's responsibility and decision-making authority.
 
The institution consists of approximately 70 acres of which 24 acres are located within the perimeter fencing. The facility consists of 13 buildings containing in excess of 152,000 square feet. The living units consist of five housing units, one segregation unit and a 7-bed health care unit. The Jacksonville Correctional Center is also the parent institution of the Pittsfield Work Camp and Greene County Work Camp.
 
Inmate Programs
 
Academic:
•ABE (Adult Basic Education)
•Pre GED (General Education Development)
•GED (General Education Development)

Vocational:
•Custodial Floor Maintenance
•Horticulture
•Construction Trades
•Career Technology

Industries
 •Telemarketing

Volunteer
 •Religious

Other:
•Substance Abuse
•Chaplaincy
•Alcoholics Anonymous
•Narcotics Anonymous
•Leisure Time Activity
•Individual Counseling
•Parole School
•Reentry Summits
•Library

http://www2.illinois.gov/idoc/facilities/Pages/jacksonvillecorrectionalcenter.aspx

[Dazzler]

Although Pittsfield Work Camp is a satellite facility of Jacksonville C.C. it is not located near the prison.  Pittsfield Camp is about 40 miles west of Jacksonville CC on I-72.  Their phone number is 1-217-285-2280.  If you plan on visiting Pittsfield, it would be best to call in advance to receive the particulars for this facility.

[rsandelli]

It is my knowledge however that the Pittsfield workers do visit in the Jacksonville visiting room.  I was there a while back and you could tell the difference because the guys from the camps had stripes on their pants.  Now, the girl I knew there visiting her husband said they brought him over from the work camp and she had to get there at a certain time.  Just for info..............but as usual, always call and check it out first.

[mattgirl]

 >:) ?>
hey guys i am new here and i need to know about jacksonville, my fiance in now at vandalia but he thinks he is getting moved to jacksonville, well thats what sprinfield said but anyways, is it a dorm? and if it is why is a tv on there commisary list can they have tvs in a dorm, also it says they get 5 visits a month but is that anyday you wanna go like if i wanna go once a weekend i can?  i know some say you can only have 2 weekend visits and the rest wekday visits?  are they locked down alot ?  and what kind of schooling do they have, like what kind of classes?  sorry for so many questions but i am so curious!!!! thanks matts girl

[FREDESTINY]

yeah dazz my sweetie is in jacksonville, to answer your question mattgirl the housing is sort of like dorms my sweetie says he shares it with other inmates.
yes they have to by there own tvs with ear plugs, even though they do have access to the television in the rec room my sweetie prefers to have his own so can watch what he wants and when he wants.
you do have 5 visits and i think any day would would be fine, but no more then 5. all my visits have been pleasent. the guards are cooperative if you are. make sure you dress in proper attire nothing see through, or to short, they are very strict on how you dress.
to me i haven't heard any thing about a lockdown since he's been there and he's been there for about 4 months.
i'm sure there are a lot of trades or constructive activities there to get into.
hope i helped a little, but like dazz said forevermah has been here longer then me and she'll cover everthing you want to know.

[mattgirl]

thank you so much what do you mean it is kinda dorm like how many share a room?????

[Forevermah]

Mattgirl, the guys are in rooms like a dorm with 20 guys to a room  .. When your boyfriend gets there, he will be assigned a top bunk and in time, if he wants, he will be able to move to a bottom one, but all the new guys go on top.   

Mah         

[mattgirl]

 it says there are no time limits, so it can be 1 hour up to how many hours, sorry i am being a pain in the butt but i am just verycurious

[Forevermah]

You are never a pain in the butt.. LOL...   You can visit whenever they start at 9am and stay as long as you like, providing the visiting room is not crowded, then its first in, first out..  The weekends are the ones you would have to worry about getting there too early and being asked to leave, in case they get overcrowded. The weekdays you probably would never have that problem..

Keep asking, because that is the only way you are going to learn!  and by you asking someone else just might get their question answered too.

Mah   snowglo

[mattgirl]

has your loved one ever had any problems in there with anyone else like fights or anything like that, i am so worried about mine casue he has always had a short circut b4 the whole 14 months in county, i think hes learning but i am worried that someone is gonna start a fight with him and hes kinda stuck between a rock and a hard place ,fight and go to seg or dont fight and sorry to say but look like a little bitch.  oh yeah its hard for me to understand the whole dorm thing with tvs where do they put em and do they all have tvs, i understand in a reg cell but i really cant seem to picture 20 people in one room and being able to have tvs. do they have little sections for all their stuff?? ././/

[Forevermah]

There is always going to be someone, if you let them get your temper up, that will try to start something, but he is the only one that has to learn to control that. I can tell you this, they Will NOT put up with it at Jacksonville. He will be in seg and on a bus out of there sooner than he can blink.

They have TVs and radios and they all must use headphones, so they do not bother each other.. they learn to cope..  If he follows the rules, keep his nose clean, he'll either have to work or go to school, he'll be fine. When he first gets there, he will go through orientation and they will let him know exactly what they expect from him.  It's his choice if he wants to follow those rules and stay there. Many older inmates there, have been in higher security facilities and have worked their way down and know that Jacksonville is a good facility to be in.. Good luck to him!

[robertamarie]

MATTGIRL,  I AM FROM JACKSONVILLE AND HAVE FRIENDS THAT WORK THERE, SO IF I CAN BE OF ANY ASSISTANCE PLEASE LET ME KNOW,           

[loveyourheart]

My fiancee is also in Jacksonville.  I try to visit all the time but it's hard to do. As long as u go in the week ull be fine. I've spent 6 hours in a visit with my fiancee. Make sure you guys don't do more than hold hands (we've already gotten in trouble for more). And watch the way u dress. He can get pictures taken when u visit so make sure he knows when  ur commingwhat my to see him. From what  my fiancee says there are a lot of young men in there than don't know how to keep to themselves. So make sure u can keep his temper as cool as u can. Min runs into problems with his temper all the time.

[mattgirl]

hey how do they get to take pics in there, do they have to buy a camera and they get it devoloped or do we??? how does that work, can he take a pic with me or just of his visitors???? thanks
amy

[Forevermah]

No mattgirl, the guys have to buy photo coupons through commissary, and at your visit, he turns in the coupons and you can have pictures taken with all his visitors...

[mattgirl]

that is wonderful to hear, thank you guys so much for all the help, do you know if all prisons do that or just that one

[Forevermah]

Not all prisons allow pictures anymore.. everyone is not that lucky..     $%^   )(*_

[mattgirl]

okay well this is another stupid question  ok heres the story he was sent to vandalia and they skrewed up and sent him to the wrong prison well we called springfield and they said he was being screened for jacksonville  doe sthat mean he is going there??? okay 2 weeks ago i called his warden to get a contact visit caseu they had put him in seg and she granted it, so i tried again this week and she said no because he was leaving this week, but he told me on mondays they come with a transfer list to tell him they are leaving wednesday well he didnt get the list saying he was going, could this be they are just not saying for security reasons or he is not going, i guess there was no list at all who knows he is freaking out sitting in seg for something that he hasnt even done :~)

[Forevermah]

mattgirl, have you signed up for VINE service... if not go there and do sign up,  they will notify you immediately either by phone or email, once he is on the bus to any new prison.. For security reasons, I don't think they will be telling him too far in advance what they are going to do with him..  

Also, sometimes when they know they are going to move them, they put them into seg until the move is made to free up his bunk.





Just remember too, that no question is a dumb question.. so keep asking .. frostie1

[mattgirl]

great news guys my man finally got transfered today to jacksonville so now we can get some regular visits and he wont be locked down all day, does anyone know how long it takes to get a visit, or if i sent money thru western union how long it will take b4 he gets it, thanks guys
 ..)

[Forevermah]

He has to now go through orientation, put in his visiting and phone lists and get those approved.  At any time now you can send him money so when he is able to go to commissary he will have money on his books to shop.  If you send him a USPS money order, he will get that also by the time he is able to shop commissary.

If you send him a USPS money order, be sure to put his full name, # &  facility name address  and send it to the attention of the Business Office. Make sure you add     Attn:Business Office    and put your full name and address on the money order and envelope... Also, do not send money orders in amounts larger than $50. You can send him any amount up to $50, just nothing over $50 on one money order.

Mah    .>>

[FREDESTINY]

I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU MATTGIRL, IT TOOK ABOUT 2 WEEKS OR SO TO SEE MY SWEETIE. (*%#
I'M SURE WHEN ITS TIME TO VISIT YOU'LL ENJOY YOURSELF.
DON'T FORGET TO TAKE A 1 DOLLAR BILL WITH YOU TO PURCHASE A CASH CARD BECAUSE THEY DON'T HAVE CHANGE.
YOU'LL BE ABLE TO GET ALL THE GOODIES YOUR BABY LIKES.
YOU CAN ADD UP TO 40.00 DOLLAR ON YOUR CARD.
THE MONEY IS NONE REEDEMABLE SO I JUST PUT WHAT I'M GONNA USE THAT VISIT.
I ALWAYS GO ON THE WEEKDAYS, I ALWAYS END UP STAYING LONGER.
IT'S A VERY PLEASENT THERE!!!!!!! ENJOY
 (*%# ..)

[mattgirl]

 @(%+~%
does anyone know if you can get married in jacksonville and if you can what are the steps we need to do,  does it take a long time to get it okayed we were trying for 7/7/07 but i am not sure if you get to pick your day  please any info from anyone would be greatful
amy

[Locasarai80]

Is this prison out in the middle of no where?

[Forevermah]

It is approximately 30 minutes from Springfield on Rt. 72 and is right off the highway. You can see if from Rt. 72.  Greene County workcamp is out in the middle of nowhere, a ways away from the prison.

[Locasarai80]

He's not "in" the prison..he is in pittsfield work camp..any thoughts?

[Forevermah]

 

  any thoughts?

Yes, the work camps are in the vicinity of the prison.  Call Jacksonville and ask them what their procedures are for visiting inmates from Pittsfield, do they still bring the guys there, if not, let them give you the address of Pittsfield and mapquest will get you there. 

From the IDOC site under Jacksonville:

Greene County and Pittsfield Work Camps
9:00AM - 3:00PM, seven days a week
All visits must arrive 1 hour prior to the end of visiting time.

The Pittsfield Work Camp opened in September 1996 and houses 400 offenders who must meet stringent criteria to be housed at that facility. The work crew program at Pittsfield has continued to grow due to the closing of Greene County and lack of eligible offenders at Jacksonville to comprise work crews. However, with careful planning and scheduling adjustments, all requests for work crews were granted. Staff and offenders from Pittsfield contributed more than 108,000 hours of community service to churches, schools, municipalities and other not-for-profit groups.

[Schrader42]

I did go to Jacksonville once and visiting hours are 4 hours long.  If I remember correctly, it's on the right once you get off the highway.  The visiting room is a bit small though.

[Forevermah]

You can visit all day long providing it does not get crowded and they bump you out.  This is for the main prison not the work camps, their visitng hours are shorter and I am not sure how long you can stay.  Call First!

[FREDESTINY]

Just like to add,
If I am Correct I think the Work Camp vists are over no later than 3pm.
The van service that I use always have alot of passangers that go out to different work camps,but
Like Forevermah said it's best to always call first.

[elz]

My husband just informed me that the new warden has changed the visiting rules starting Aug 1st.  It will no longer be from 9-8pm 5 visits on any day. Now only 2 weekend visits 5 total a month  and 4 hours visits. My main concern is that fathers will no longer be able to hold the children. I am very irrate about this i don't think that is a positive decision , how will they bond if they can't even hold them. Is there any suggestions? Please i need everyones help.

[Dazzler]

A lot of other prisons have already implemented similar rules.  It is sad if fathers can't hold their children?  This is actually a new rule?  Some prisons only allow one weekend visit per month and much shorter visiting hours.  The IDOC makes their own rules and they don't really care what input visitors have. 

[elz]

yeah i know those visiting hours are pretty standard but the fathers not being able to hold their children is what bothers me. do have any numbers for springfield that i might be able to contact to complain?

[Dazzler]

You might want to start with Inmate Issues:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.com/index.php/topic,10482.0.html

They may be able to register your complaint or direct you to the proper office.  Have you complained to the Warden's office at J'ville also?

[Shari]

With regard to holding children...I know at Danville, they get the normal in and out hug and kiss, but other than that, my boys can only hold his hands.  My boys are still at the lap stage, especially since they hardly see their dad, but it is not allowed.  Shame too as my oldest is a cuddly little guy.

[ambrosegrlz]

My LO was recently transferred to Jacksonville from Graham. I visited him yesterday and was given a copy of the new visitation rules. In regards to children sitting on their father's laps it states that children over the age of 5 must have their own seat. Father's will still be able to hold their young children.

[elz]

thank for the info. you are correct i went and asked one of the co's they said it was a misprint .

[jimmysgirl08]

Does anyone know how many people can visit him at a time here???? I was just wondering this is all so new to me and I am really nervous to go and visit.

[Forevermah]

Does anyone know how many people can visit him at a time here???? I was just wondering this is all so new to me and I am really nervous to go and visit.

Only four adults at once,and you can bring children, but they have to sit at all times.

[jimmysgirl08]

   Thank you so much!!!  I am so nervous and asking like every question possible.  Do you know if they can receive hardcover books or not???

[Forevermah]

 Thank you so much!!!  I am so nervous and asking like every question possible.  Do you know if they can receive hardcover books or not???

I would call the mail room and ask them if they still can .... bring your books with you on visit, you can take 3 [updated from 5 as of 7- 2009] at one time. saves on shipping.  

[jgraff49]

Did I read this correctly:  YOU can bring up to five books with you for the inmate and you don't have to mail them?

My son is currently in Vandalia and between today (8/11) and tomorrow, there are going to be approximately 80 inmates shipped from Vandalia to Jacksonville.  He doesn't think he's one of the ones going just yet but this poses some problems which maybe I can get some answers to.

1.  what will happen to all the mail and books I've sent in the past week that hasn't arrived at Vandalia if he gets transferred?

2.  We have three vending cards with almost $100 on them totally.  Will we be able to use those cards for the machines in Jacksonville?  If not, who do we contact to get a refund for the money already posted on those cards?

IDOC and money seem to be a profitable relationship for them but from the threads I'm reading, not for the families of the inmates.  Between Consolidated Public Service and the vending company, it's a losing proposition for the families.

JG

[Forevermah]

Did I read this correctly:  YOU can bring up to five books with you for the inmate and you don't have to mail them?

My son is currently in Vandalia and between today (8/11) and tomorrow, there are going to be approximately 80 inmates shipped from Vandalia to Jacksonville.  He doesn't think he's one of the ones going just yet but this poses some problems which maybe I can get some answers to.

1.  what will happen to all the mail and books I've sent in the past week that hasn't arrived at Vandalia if he gets transferred?

2.  We have three vending cards with almost $100 on them totally.  Will we be able to use those cards for the machines in Jacksonville?  If not, who do we contact to get a refund for the money already posted on those cards?

IDOC and money seem to be a profitable relationship for them but from the threads I'm reading, not for the families of the inmates.  Between Consolidated Public Service and the vending company, it's a losing proposition for the families.

JG

YES, you can bring up to five magazines on each visit, just remember, what he can't fit in his property box, has to either be returned to you or given away. They will hold property for one month after he packs it up and then it is thrown away.

Anything that you have sent to him at Vandalia should be sent to J'ville if he is moved. I say should, cause with IDOC you never know.

You will NOT be able to use the vending cards from Vandalia at J'ville, you can either see if someone will buy them or give them away, they probably won't give you a refund, but you can call Vandalia and ask.

[kindhearted217]

Jacksonville only allows 3 magazines, books, etc to be brought in. They just changed it from 5 in the last 30 days.

[Forevermah]

Jacksonville only allows 3 magazines, books, etc to be brought in. They just changed it from 5 in the last 30 days.

Thanks kindhearted for the update, we'll change the information post!

[impatientlywaiting]

I received an email from VINE today and it stated my husband has been transferred to Jacksonville. There is a new pic of him on IDOC but it still says Stateville. Will that be changed? Also is Jacksonville good with receiving mail in a timely manner unlike Stateville? And how long before he could make phone calls? Our numbers are on the list and Consolidated said it was approved for Jville and my husband said when he was in stateville that he is just waiting for his pin...how long does that take? thank you for any info in advance..

[Forevermah]

If you check back late tonight, it might show Jacksonville or as soon as they update the IDOC site. Once he arrives he will have to go through orientation and then fill out his visiting and phone lists, which will take a bit to be approved.

 You can write him as much as you want, mail to J'ville is good and they do receive their mail on a timely basis.  Be sure he has all all the information to put on his phone and visiting lists so he has everything he needs to complete these lists.

Please go here and read up on more on Jacksonville:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/topic,10526.0.html

[impatientlywaiting]

great thank u but I was told he phone list has already been approved and that he is just waiting for his pin #

[Marks_guy]

It's stupid, but he has to submit a new phone/visiting list when he gets to his new facility. But definitely keep writing. When M was transferred, he thought it was funny that I sent out a letter before he had a chance to tell me himself.

[impatientlywaiting]

does anyone know if the same rules apply from jacksonville to pittsfield? and what is there visitation rules? what does pittsfield consist of???? is it dorms or a cell? do they get calls? thanks in advance

[nun_as_precious]

Does Jacksonville still allow pictures to be taken? Is the rule still 3 magazines and/or books only?
Is consolidated the company that provides the calls for Jacksonville?
Thanks in advance for any information.

[sadboysmom]

No pictures and, yes it's still only three books or magazines . Consolidated is the phone company for all Illinois prisons I think.

[me]

I have a question about Jacksonville if anyone knows - are the cells dorm style or 2 man or what?  And if they are dorm style - how many men to a room? 

[Forevermah]

I have a question about Jacksonville if anyone knows - are the cells dorm style or 2 man or what?  And if they are dorm style - how many men to a room?  

There are no cells, it's all dorms at Jacksonville and each dorm has twenty men to a room, double bunked.  I know I answered this here:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/topic,10526.msg32454.html#msg32454

[me]

Thanks Mah!   

I went through the thread but not far enough back I guess.  Sorry about that. 

[myoneandonlyson]

Can anyone tell me if a post go to Jacksonville

[Forevermah]

Can anyone tell me if a post go to Jacksonville

Not sure what your mean by a "post"????

[momsusan]

I just got a letter from my son and he is being transferred to Jacksonville tomorrow!!! I'm so excited! He has been in receiving at Graham since October 19th!  Can anyone tell me if Jacksonville is an OK place?

[Forevermah]

I just got a letter from my son and he is being transferred to Jacksonville tomorrow!!! I'm so excited! He has been in receiving at Graham since October 19th!  Can anyone tell me if Jacksonville is an OK place?

Take a deep breath and know as long as he follows the rules, he will be fine at Jacksonville.  As soon as his lists are approved you'll be able to visit and that first visit is the best !!!   Just read the first couple posts in this topic, it'll give you an idea of how things are at Jacksonville, you can relax now!

[momsusan]

I am so thankful for this site! I dont know what I would do sometimes if I couldnt come here to get my questions answered. I still have a ways to go but I cant wait to see him to make sure he is doing ok. Thanks Forevermah  for everything!!!

[MrsRamos]

I just saw my hubby got transfered here! Im breaking down as we speak. I need some support please. It was hard seeing the new picture of him. I just feel helpless. I feel mad at him for doing this to me..to us...to himself!

K

[momsusan]

Hello, my son is in Pittsfield work camp, and you have the right to feel as you are feeling. I know that i felt that way to in the beginning. But I'm hoping that when this is all over things Will be better and he will change. When i think back on things now i think that if this wouldn't have happened something worse might have. He was headed down the wrong path and not a good one so this may have been a blessing. I know that he will be coming home in October and that is something that i might not have had if he was not where he is now. He has a whole different outlook on things now. I'm hoping that when he gets back home that he will have that same outlook on things. I hope thing get better for you!! Now that your L/O in in Jacksonville you will be able to talk to him and maybe that will help you. Good Luck and I hope things get better for you soon.

[ambersammy]

Hey there all Im new to this prison talk. My boyfriend just got moved to jacksonville. he was in another prison but I heard this one is diffrent can some one help me please with the question i have please let me know

[Marks_guy]

  to IPT. I would scan over the previous posts in this board as a start to having your questions answered. If the information you are looking for isn't there, feel free to ask away! Someone should be around who can give any answer you need.

[Pamalynn]

I just wanted to pass on a little info re: Jacksonville. If you're going to visit a l/o get there before 2:30 PM or after 3:00 PM, they do headcount and no one is allowed to move. You will either have to sit in the parking lot or leave the premises during this time. You are not allowed to sit inside the building.

They are allowed to have hardcover books, but you can only bring 3 books/magazines per visit instead of 5

Rules seem to change depending on who the c/o's on duty are. The one on Thurs PM would not permit my husband & I to use the restrooms in the visitation center at the same time (we had to take turns), but on Friday it wasn't an issue for the c/o that worked that day. ?

Thurs PM's CO commented on another visitors clothing.The girl had a hole in her jeans just above the knee she told her not to wear them again.

I made an error and commented to another inmate that his baby was very cute & looked just like him. The CO told me about that too. No talking is permitted with any other inmates. I won't do it again. It was just an innocent comment I would make to anyone. I'm still learning the rules - there are so many.

If you don't live close and have a long drive, a 2 day visit was wonderful. There is a Super8 Motel a couple of miles west of the prison. It was $49 for the night which is cheaper than gas (driving back & forth twice). I visited one day from 4-8 PM and went back at 9AM for another 4 hour visit. It was great. I won't be able to afford it much, but sometimes you just have to do what you need to do. I felt like I was ready to lose my mind....I'm a little better now. Back to reality..................

[HekLjp3]

thanks for the heads up im going soon myself its about a 4 hr drive for me so i might stay at the hotel thanks so much for the info!

[Pamalynn]

You are very welcome. Just so you know too, they do seem to be sticklers on the days you visit eg only 2 weekend/holiday & 3 weekday per month. They even counted Friday's visit as a holiday - Lincoln's Birthday (unbelievable) if the month weren't 1/2 over already I'd probably be upset, but it wouldn't change anything.

I prefer to go during the week anyway, it's less crowded. My husband's "days off" are during the week so it works out fine so far for us.

I also read on some previous posts that you might get an extended visit if they're not crowded. That has not been the case for me. I got to stay an extra 15 mins Fri only because they were having a fire drill.

Another thing, last time I visited they made a woman change her clothes before her visit with her husband.  They said her clothes were too tight. She was a great-grandmother (In good shape & not dressed very hootchie-like in my opinion & I'm fairly conservative.)

I know I probably sound kind of negative. I'm not trying to be I just don't "get" some of the rules. For the most-part I've had very pleasant experiences there so far.

[HekLjp3]

thanks i went a few months ago it didnt seem as bad but there was only 2 other people visiting i will bring a change of clothes just in case thank you very much!

[bmonska]

Ok so hubby just got transfered here today and from reading all of these posts from the beginning that I should:

1. Dress like a nun but be prepared to be felt up by the Priest ( the CO)
2. Take a dollar for the vending card
3. Bring money to put ON the vending card but not too much cause there are no refunds
4. Talk to no one but my hubby and the CO
5. Take 3, not 5, books/magazines to save on shipping
6. Arrive before 230pm or after 300pm but don't arrive too early because first in, first out
7. Clean out the car

Did I miss anything?

Looking at the list I have two questions:
1. Do I need to bring a couple quarters for the lockers or do they just provide the key without charge?
2. Wedding rings- will they make me remove them and put them in the locker (which I'd rather not do) or should I just leave them at home to be safe?

Thanks for all the tips!

[BettyBlue]

He just there so I havent been to visit for the first time yet. Do they charge 5 or 1 dollar for the vending card? His last place it was 5 and the locker was free.
 Thanks.

[Pamalynn]

Ok so hubby just got transfered here today and from reading all of these posts from the beginning that I should:

1. Dress like a nun but be prepared to be felt up by the Priest ( the CO)
2. Take a dollar for the vending card
The card is $5 and you need to have exact $ - You do get a credit back on it. I can't rem,  $ember exactly how much. Somewhere between $1 & $3
3. Bring money to put ON the vending card but not too much cause there are no refunds
True, the most you can put on is $40 - Pop is $ 1.25 (?), chips .90 cents, Sandwiches about $5
4. Talk to no one but my hubby and the CO
5. Take 3, not 5, books/magazines to save on shipping
True - Just so you know it takes about a week for my husband to get what I bring.
6. Arrive before 230pm or after 300pm but don't arrive too early because first in, first out
Visits start at 9AM - If you arrive in afternoon don't get there between 2:30 & 3PM. Visits are over by 8PM

7. Clean out the car

Did I miss anything?
To save you a few steps because  it's a long walk: You are not allowed to bring in anything besides your keys, ID's, Money (no more than $100) and your coat. Also 3 books/magazines. You have to leave everything else in your car including purse & cell phone.
Looking at the list I have two questions:
1. Do I need to bring a couple quarters for the lockers or do they just provide the key without charge?
Lockers are free
2. Wedding rings- will they make me remove them and put them in the locker (which I'd rather not do) or should I just leave them at home to be safe?
I always wear my wedding rings. No problem.

Thanks for all the tips!

Bmonska - One other thing, you need to know your license plate #. Hope this helps. It sounds harder than it is. Once you get the basics down it's ok. You probably won't want to talk to anyone but your l/o anyway. I'm just a sucker for a baby - LOL

[bmonska]

I just got word that he's at Pittsfield work camp so I'm lost as to how the calls work. I see now that I don't need a Concolidated account since their calls work differently? I'm assuming visits work the same as far as rules but do they need to be scheduled so the inmates are brought over? I'm assuming he's going to have a work schedule so visits will take place on days that don't interfere with that. Now I'm starting over as far as info goes! Any helpers?

[Forevermah]

I just got word that he's at Pittsfield work camp so I'm lost as to how the calls work. I see now that I don't need a Concolidated account since their calls work differently? I'm assuming visits work the same as far as rules but do they need to be scheduled so the inmates are brought over? I'm assuming he's going to have a work schedule so visits will take place on days that don't interfere with that. Now I'm starting over as far as info goes! Any helpers?

Pittsfield work camp is not an ATC and you do need a Consolidated Account. The camp is affiliated with Jacksonville CC, the parent prison.  Once he has his pin# and his phone lists are approved, he will be able to call and once his visiting lists are approved you will be able to visit.   We just had someone else who's LO'd went to Pittsfield and there was a topic about visiting, I will see if I can find it.

[bmonska]

I just got word that he's at Pittsfield work camp so I'm lost as to how the calls work. I see now that I don't need a Concolidated account since their calls work differently? I'm assuming visits work the same as far as rules but do they need to be scheduled so the inmates are brought over? I'm assuming he's going to have a work schedule so visits will take place on days that don't interfere with that. Now I'm starting over as far as info goes! Any helpers?

Pittsfield work camp is not an ATC and you do need a Consolidated Account. The camp is affiliated with Jacksonville CC, the parent prison.  Once he has his pin# and his phone lists are approved, he will be able to call and once his visiting lists are approved you will be able to visit.   We just had someone else who's LO'd went to Pittsfield and there was a topic about visiting, I will see if I can find it.

Thanks so much. That makes so much more sense. Much appreciated!

[BettyBlue]

Well, I have another question and comment so here goes. I put money on his books yesterday (J-Pay), looked today and it still says pending, called J-Pay to find out if something was holding up the transaction. She said it was up to the facility to accept the funds?????? Well, I then called J-ville and asked them whats up, the man I spoke to asked me what J-pay was  and i told him.  He laughed and said "save your money, if its like W.U. it will just sit on someones desk until they get enough of them to make it worthwhile to enter in the system". I swear that is what he said......Has anyone heard of this crap before? Man, I am ********, he needs that money to get a start there.

[Marks_guy]

That is not true. But calling the prison itself is not going to help unless the money has taken a long time to get there. On the Jpay website, it has a chart saying when to send money if you want it there by a certain day. It is not (usually) an overnight service. It takes a couple of days to post to his account. Western Union is the same way.

[Cashyc]

This seems strange,to me. I use Jpay all the time. I used it last Tues.8th & visited him  Fri.11th and he said he recieved it THE SAME DAY. I'v never had a problem using it. Maybe it depends on 'the time' you send it? I sent it around 7:30am'ish. Maybe it does depend on The Staff their log'n it in the system.

I've also used it at other insitutions as well...never a problem. BettyBlue, I hope this problem gets resolved soon.

[Pamalynn]

I've sent money orders, JPay & Western Union to Jacksonville - no problem with any of them. I'm pretty sure WU was there by the next day.

[bmonska]

Sounds like it depends on who you talk to. Did you ask to speak to someone in the business office? I wouldn't go on anything other than what a person working in the actual business office tells you. Any random CO who answers the phone is just going to tell you what he or she thinks if they don't know the real answer.

I sent mine yesterday using Jpay and it says SENT right now on my status. Hope it's been cleared up for you.

[BettyBlue]

I made my call after work 4:30ish so I talked to just the person who answered the phone. When I checked the J-pay site last night it says "sent". I also talked with my l/o and he said he heard nothing yet on any $ so hopefully it will be there today for his first shop.Thanks to all who  responded, I was hoping it was just a randum comment by someone who didnt know the process. My nerves are just on edge with this move, dont know why!! It is what it is..

[BettyBlue]

Well, I will pass along my update, I just got of the phone with my l/o. It figures, he did not get the funds that I sent on Wed. by J-pay so he could not shop yesterday. Of course the other facility has not forwarded any funds he had on the books there. He was bumbed out and so was I. I tried, this was my first time using J-pay, I had always sent m.o. before. Do you think this is because he is a new transfer that the money didnt get credited to him yet?

[kp18437]

Hi Betty,  I can only speak from personal experience.  I know a lot of people here like using JPay.  I hated JPay.  The payments never got to him on time and I always followed their online chart.  the online chart does not allow for the specific routines at the different facilities.  I've not liked the m.o. idea either, these mailrooms can get backed up too often.  Now, I always use Western Union.  My husband told me when he was at Vienna, that there was one officer who "received" all the money at 7:30 every morning...  Where he's at now, they only "receive" Western Union payments three times a week.  I've learned their pattern and now we have a excellent track record of getting $ on his books at the right time.  I think you have to just learn the dynamics of the specific facility, they all seem to run a bit differently.  I try not to call his facility, and I depended on him to tell me how long it takes the other fellas to get their $ on the books and what method was used.  We figured out the pattern and now its good to go!  I hope that helps a little.  Good luck!

[bmonska]

I spoke with the lady in charge of the drug program yesterday. I wanted to check the wait times. She said that they are two months out before there will be any spots open for new inmates to be able to start the program. Just wanted to let anyone waiting to hear about the program at Jville know.

[Swansrideordiechic]

Hello, I am trying to set up a phone account so that my fiance can call me, I had one with securus when he was in county can I still use that account or do I have to have one with some one else. I read that everything goes through consolidated. If anyone could help me that would be great I just need to hear his voice been 8 mo. 

[bmonska]

Go to the main IPT home page and type in CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS in the search box. Everything about the phone service is listed there. You must use Consolidated to gets calls from your inmate.

[Swansrideordiechic]

Me and my fiance are talking about getting married while he is in Jacksonville does any one know the steps that we each need to go through to get this done...Any help would be appreciated. I am just trying to get on top of things to get this done. 

[Forevermah]

Someone else just asked this question today about getting married from the work camp at Jacksonville.  You need to go to our Marriage in Illinois Prisons board, someone else posted that they also wanted to get married there.

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/board,155.0.html

 I believe the guys have to go through a program before this can happen.  Call the prison and ask to talk to the Chaplin to explain and tell your LO to get the details from inside.

Good Luck!