HILL Correctional Center

[Dazzler]

Post information here please

[Peanuts]

Hill Correctional Center  
Joseph Yurkovich, Warden  

Facility Data

Hill Correctional Center
 Opened: October 1986
 *Operational Capacity: 1,867
 Medium Security Adult Male
 *Current Population: 1,840
 Average Age: 33
 FY2010 Average Annual Cost Per Inmate: $19,240.00
 
*As of 11/30/2011. Reflects bed space capacity analysis as outlined in the January 1, 2012 Quarterly Report to the Legislature.

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.
 
General Population
 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (daily)
 Visitors must arrive by 5:00 p.m. or they will not be allowed to visit.
 
Inmates are only allowed two weekend visits per month.
 

Segregation Inmates
 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
 Visitors must arrive by 12 noon
 
No weekend and no holiday visits permitted for inmates in segregation.

Facility Address

Business Mail:
600 South Linwood Road
 P.O. Box 1327
 Galesburg, IL 61402  
 
Inmate Mail:
Inmate Name & IDOC#
 P.O. Box 1700
 Galesburg, IL 61402
 
Phone: (309) 343-4212
 Fax: (309) 343-4287

Facility Information

Hill Correctional Center, located in Galesburg, a north central community, is a medium security adult male prison within the state of Illinois.
 
Hill Correctional Center is comprised of 71 acres of land, 38 acres within the security fences. The facility is situated in the southwest corner of Galesburg. The facility consists of a total of 29 buildings. The living units consist of four housing units and one orientation/receiving unit. In addition, there is one segregation unit, a 17-bed infirmary unit and two main recreational yards.
 
Inmate Programs
 
Academic:
•ABE (Adult Basic Education)
•GED (General Education Development)
•Pre-GED (General Education Development)

Vocational:
•Custodial Maintenance
•Career Technologies

Industries:
•Milk
•Juice
•Meat

Volunteer:
•Religious
•Alcoholics Anonymous

Other:
•Lifestyle Redirection
•Life Skills, TRAC 1
•Parole School
•Reentry Summits
•Substance Abuse Education
•Anger Management
•Leisure Time Activity
•Chaplaincy
•Library Activities - Legal and General
•Empathy Skills Group
•Inside Out Dads
•Fatherhood Initiative

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

[Dazzler]

Photos of Hill will be coming shortly.  I will be there this week and post accomodations when I return.  There are a number of chain hotels and it's a beautiful charming town with lots of antique shops and shopping and dining.  It was a hub for railroading at the turn of the century and the beautiful Victorian homes are amazing to see.  Carl Sandburg's boyhood home is in Galesburg and it's open to the public as a museum.  Hill is on the outskirts of town almost right off the Interstate Exit.  It's easy to find.  It looks similar to the other prisons built in the 80's.  It looks very much like an office park of one-story buildings except for the barbed fencing.  There are two outdoor areas for recreation.  One for general population and one for protective custody.  My guy says the weights are outside, that's where he works out.  Telephone calls are allowed every other night.  Even or odd days, it rotates with the calendar.  Phone calls can be made during dayroom time every day.  Visiting is very relaxed.  No wait time.  Vending machines take debit cards, the same as at the other prisons.  The visiting tables are the metal four-seater ones.  Ladies make sure you have a panty waistband to snap during the brief search.  You must wear underwear or you'll be refused a visit. 

[jewels]

Fancy you thinking that some of us would even think of not wearing any panties! I do like the ladies bit, though I have never professed to be  a lady :-)

[Dazzler]

 ?>     I only mentioned that because I brought a friend with to visitng and she never wears them...she had jeans...and they sent her out to get some....OF MINE....LOL.  Luckily my suitcase was in the trunk of the car.  She wanted to die of embarassment.  The female CO was very cool about it too...it's just their rules.  Shake our your bra and snap your pants...

[sweet pea]

Does anyone now about segeration at the hill????? I know they dont get phone calls, but do they get to go to comminsary?????  Also do they get their mail???

Thanks,

Paula        .>>

[Dazzler]

Paula, as far as I know, any SEG inmate is only allowed to spend $30 per month on 'personals'.   That includes toiletries and write-outs.  They are allowed to purchase 20 write-outs per month as part of that $30 limit  They are usually allowed non-contact visits and mail may NEVER be withheld from any inmate in any prison.  Sometimes inmate mail must go through Internal Affairs, depending on the conditions of his segregation, but it is a Federal offense to withhold or not allow an inmate mail privileges.   If you look under Title 20 in our DOC Rules and Regulations Forum you will find a list of subjects that govern IDOC inmates....including violations that may result in SEG and how long SEG time can be given for each offense.  Sorry you're going through this.  I also did for nine months.  It's rough....

[sweet pea]

Well thanks for the info it helped alot, well one good thing is that he will be only in their for a couple more weeks.

thanks,

Paula   <<<

[bigsis1]

Hi there I am still a little new to this site, but as I read on I see there is not that much
stated about Hill C.C..  Is there not a lot of people who go there? 

[Forevermah]

Bigsis, there are many here who do indeed go to Hill(or have gone) and have loved ones there ... If you do a search about HILL, I am sure you will come up with  posts from members, not just on this profile page.   

[dancer]

I got my first letter from E from Hill today.   He says  it is CLEAN!  He's excited there is no fence like stateville and he can see cars,  trains,  scenery.  He said most inmates there get a job or can go to school.  He says you can hold hands at visits and have a decent kiss.   

[EMERALD]

Thats good news Dancer, I reckon if youve got to be locked up, it may as well be somewhere a bit more humane. ?>

[Dazzler]

 *(%$# *(%$# *(%$#  He can hear trains, huh?  LOL..that's all he can hear, morning, noon and night...it about drove J crazy for nine months....and there's an airport directly behind the prison....Galesburg is a hub for Burlington Northern RR and there are many sets of tracks leading to Galesburg, right next to the prison...the trains could be heard at my motel when I visited there...they never stop running....

[BoosMom]

Got to love those Galesburg trains!  Dancer, I take it your guy is new to Hill?  PM me if you have any questions, my son has been there 18 months.  They do allow some hand holding at visits.  Obviously, the big kiss is not important to me and my son, but I have witnessed some fairly decent smackers!

[sweet pea]

Hello.  My b/f has been the hill for about 7 months he like it their . He likes the trains he said you can hear them all hours of the night . There are alot of people on Illinois prison talk that are in the hill . So if you have question about the hill i gladly help any way i can .

[muah]

I had my first visit to Hill this weekend.  I have to say that The guards at Hill are wonderful.
To be honest, going into a correctional facility is quite hard.  It is an enviroment that no one wants to be in.

The people that work there were very professional and nice.  I felt comfortable!

Seeing him of course was the best part of all!

Ok! so my quick question;
Does anyone send magazine subscriptions.  I want to set him up with a subscription to a few magazines?

[Forevermah]

Yes, I have sent my son  some subscriptions. Just be sure to get a # or something to contact them if he gets moved that you can have the subscription address changed.  Also, if you want to buy single magazines and are going to mail them, use MEDIA MAIL, just right it on the front of the manila envelope that contains any magazines, publications, etc  MEDIAL MAIL on both the left and right side of envelope and when you go to the post office just tell this it is Medial Mail that it contains books etc.  The postage for Media Mail  is so much less than regular 1st class.  They tell you that it can take up to 10 days to get there, but I have never had a problem and it gets there as quick sometimes as priority mail ...

[muah]

Thanks Mah for my favorite tip of the week!!!!!

I send my boyfriend magazines all the time! And now I am saving lots of money using media money!! 
It is amazing how fast it adds up when your sending a undle of magazines once or sometimes twice a month!

Now if only we could get those collect call charges lowered a bit!!! hahahha

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[mamacita1]

Does anyone know about the tranfer policy at Hill?  My loved one was admitted in December and was told that he had to serve a full year of his sentence before making a transfer request and had to have at least one year left in his sentence in order to be qualified for such a request.

And yet, I have seen others post that their loved one was able to place a request after 6 months and got transferred.

Are there new policies in place for Hill and other institutions about tranfer policies?

[Jims]

Was your loved one transferred from one prison to another, or did he just get into IDOC in December?

If an inmate transfers from one prison to another, he has to wait 6 months before requesting another transfer. But if he's just getting into the system, then perhaps what he's being told is true.

[cherylkeel]

Does Hill cc have a place for prisoners to work? I know it's about $28 a month. Is there any prisons that pay more than that?
 -)-

[Dazzler]

Yes, there are jobs at Hill CC..however, there aren't as many as inmates who wish to work.  There is usually a waiting list to get a job.

[muah]

AHHHHHHHH  I have to vent!!!

So my boyfriend just called me for hill. ABout 2 minutes into the conversation the phone made a crazy sound and cut off the call.  He called back and said--"it happened to evryone".  Then it happened again!  He calls back. We get to talk about ten minutes.  Lucikly he had said that he loved me..and of course..we got cut off again. 

On the third call we said he would not try again

So,  We spoke about 14 minutes total..but I won the opportunity to pay consolidated THREE first minute connection charges!!  I tried to call them...but they of course are not open.  But I will be calling tomorrow.  They better fix the charges. 

I am also bummed that I never did tell him that I loved him.  first time ever.  booo hissss consolidated

Anyway...I am posting this under Hill, so that you all know that the phones at hill are cutting off.  It was not just the phone he was using.  So if you are expecting a call tonight, and don't get one, that may be why

It may just be in his house.  but who knows

[Dazzler]

There is one particular phone at Hill that has been doing this for several years.  Yes, it happened to us all the time....it would take three connections sometimes to even be able to talk.   Consolidated did nothing about it....

[muah]

Thats interesting.  He did say though that everyone on the phone got cut off all at the same time.  So hopefully others will be calling to complain.  The website does not have a way to contact thme regarding inmate calling via email.  I just spent a lifetime on their website..which is poorly designed..you would think with all the money we pay they would have an easier and more navigatable site.  Booo consolidated...and get ready..I will be calling tomorrow! 

[muah]

Ok!  So guess what.  I called consolidated today.  They are going to adjust the charges and were so nice on the phone! 

I just wanted to share the good news. 

[joyfulgirl]

I'm so jealous...I didn't realize immediate family members; brother, sister, mom, dad, grandparents, got to visit right away at Hill. They are allowed only one visit until the list is approved but that is so awesome! For the first time ever I almost wished I was my guy's sister. That feeling was shortlived however!...and a little disturbing but anyways. I thought some people might like to know that they can visit right away before the list is approved. My question is how long the lists took to be approved. I know it can take up to a month but I'd like to hear the actual time frames that people have experienced. Also, how do I find out? Do I wait for a phone call from him and then know that if the phone list was approved that the visiting was as well? I live 3 hrs away so I can't drive there everyday to pop in and see if today is the day. However, I do want to be there ASAP.

[dancer]

He should send you a letter letting you know.  Phone lists and visit lists are two different things. Usually outgoing mail is pretty quick!

[SMD]

When my inmate was at Hill and he was out of receiving it took 2 weeks for his list to be approved.
You can visit 5X a month and only 2 of the days can be weekends
Visits are 4 hours unless on lockdown then 2 hours..
If you need to know anything else just ask
                                             SMD

[mrs.valentin]

Hello everyone!!! My boyfriend just got transferred to Hill from Menard. I've been reading all the posts which are very helpful being that I'm used to the rules at Menard. I have a couple questions... My first question is about the weekend visit. SMD you wrote how they can get only 2 visits  on the weekend so that  if I were to go see him Saturday and Sunday nobody else would be able to visit him on the weekend until the next month? My second question is also  about visiting are the visiting rooms packed? At Menard there were times that it got so packed that our visits were cut to an hour.. Ok one more questions so much for a couple questions lol is there a bus service that goes to hill? I would appreciate any information anybody can give me.....

Thank you

[dancer]

Mrs Valentin,  there is now a "chat"  area prison by prison that you might want to check out.   

[joyfulgirl]

the visiting rooms when i've been there are never completely full. i usually get in within 15-20 minutes of checking in. i've never had my visits cut short...always the full 4 hours. you are right, if you go on a sat and sun then nobody can go on a weekend until the next month. i always visit at the same time every day so it could be different at different times. i go late in the morning and it works out really well.

[mrs.valentin]

THANK YOU LADIES!!! YOU HAVE BEEN REALLY HELPFUL... I'M PRETTY SURE I'LL HAVE PLENTY MORE QUESTIONS BUT I'LL KEEP LOOKING AROUND FIRST FOR MY ANSWERS BEFORE I ASK... THANX AGAIN ?>?>?>

[SMD]

I see most of your questions was answered... There was 2 weekends allowed when my inmate was at HIll. If you visit Sat and Sunday that counts for 2 weekends. If you visit on Sat you still have one more weekend left. I am not sure if this has changed or not my inmate has been gone from there for almost a year now. Visits are usually not to bad.. The inmate can't move from there stool once seated, you have to go get everything at the vending mechine for him. The visiting guards was usually really nice. They allow a pretty good kiss comming and going.. Hope this helps you some.. Oh you are allowed 5 visits a month...
                                                                                                SMD

[Danie2716]

Hey everyone, I am going to my first visit at Hill and was wondering if you can visit two days in a row?  I want to visit on a Monday and Tuesday cause I'm coming from another state and I'm really hoping there's no restrictions on this.  Also, anyone know how far Moline, IL is from Hill?

[SMD]

Yes you can visit 2 days in a row, They are allowed 5 visits a month included in the 5 can be 2 weekends only.
I am not sure how many miles it is from Moline to Hill, but it is 1 hour 45 mins drive. If you miss your turn off, you will pass by the back of the prison. Then you will need to turn around and take the first exit..

                                                                               SMD

[Danie2716]

 ./.// Thank you so much for the speedy response!  I am so excited to hhear I can visit both days!!

[Danie2716]

Hey everyone, I just came back from my first visit at Hill and it was great!!!!  Thanks all for your info cause it helped so much.  I wanted to mention two things:  you can drop up to 5 softcover books/magazines off at Hill for your inmate and there is a really nice hotel I stayed at about 3 minutes down the road from Hill.  Its called Country Inn and suites, the price was $74 and it was super clean and up-to-date.  They had a great breakfast and staff was really friendly.  The other benefit is that its right across the street from a mall!!  The only warning I have to anyone not from Illinois is that it is COLD there-really COLD!  It was 29 degrees when I was there (it felt colder) and I asked the guard if it was always that cold and her and another lady laughed at me.  She said, Honey this ain't cold!!  Hey in NJ it was 65 on Thanksgiving so 29 is COLD!!!

[hilde1951]

My son told me that he was allowed to have a necklace with a budda on it...I  assume it's something to do with religous symbols...If thats true...where do I get something like that...can it be from anywhere...or do they have a place you must buy from?

Thanks;

[PrettyBrwnEyes]

You can purchase a necklace anywhere. There are no restrictions on that. Just keep the receipt, because the receipt (you should probably send a copy)will have to be sent in with the personal property. Also the necklace and pendent can not be worth more than $50, or at least the receipt can not say it's worth more than $50 . You feel me?
  

[hilde1951]

Thank you for your time and information

Hilde

[cacia]

Post information here please

Hi, i am very new all this my fiance has been in hill for about 6 weeks now and i was curious of how things are ran in there? If any one has any info please let me know! Thanks

[jcocroft]

my husband has been at hill 8 months and he hates it of course he was at dixon before so incomparison this is not a great place They usually come out once in the morning and once in the evening for about 1-1/2 each time. The visits are 4 hours they are only allowed 2 weekend visits per month. It is very crowded almost every weekend so I would get there early if you want to stay the whole 4 hours.

The co's are usually nice you occasionally get a rude one. Let me know if you have any other questions

[HisGirl]

Hello:

Can anyone give me more information about Hill Correctional Center who has a loved one there? In particular, I would like to know about Inmate services, yard, showers, job availability, etc.

Thanks

[jcocroft]

The inmate come out each day for about 3 hours per day once in the morning for about 1 1/2 hours and once inthe evening for an 1 1/2. They alternate times every week, during this time they can take a shower play cards use the phone etc... There are no T.V.'s in the dayrooms.

They have yard or gym 2 or 3 times per week there are phones on some yards but not others.

Other than yard  dayroom time or going to chow they are locked in their cells. The inmates can sign up for school or get a job, but there are waiting lists for both. They do offer religious services nd a few other programs but they haveto sign up and there are wating lists for all of them even to go to church!

The visits are 4 hours (2 hours if they are busy) you can kiss/hug at the begining and end of the visit. The c/o's are okay not the nicest especially at first but most are ok once they know you.

[Dazzler]

My inmate paroled from Hill in 2006.  I'm not sure if things have changed much...except I understand there's a max unit there now.  My inmate got a few hours out each day.  He used the outside weights in the yard.  Phone calls were allowed every other night.  They rarely went on lockdown then but the past couple years have seen quite a few lockdowns after a big influx of inmates from Stateville.  The staff was pretty courteous and the food wasn't too bad.  There is a community college that offers courses but I'm not sure how plentiful the jobs are.  It looks like most of the other prisons all built in the 80's...like an office park with a center square.  It's in Galesburg, a great historic community with lots of points of interest.  It's a huge railroading town.  If you visit make sure to see Carl Sandburg's home and the Victorian house district.

[HisGirl]

Thanks Dazz and Jcocroft for this helpful information. Do you know how many visits they get per month? The website does not give this information. I notice that the visits are four hours, which is good.

[Dazzler]

I believe only five.

[Forevermah]

HisGirl, a lot of the information you are asking about, has already been answered and is in this topic:

Hill CC Profile Page:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.com/index.php/topic,7249.0.html


The visits are five per week and only 2 on weekends.

[HisGirl]

Thanks Mah and everybody else. I think that answers about all the questions I can ask. For now anyway. You all have been a lot of help.   

[Carmelk]

Hello my husband was recently moved to Hill correctional center . I was wondering if any one knew of a bus /van company that do round rips to Hill cc. Thanks 

[Forevermah]

Hello my husband was recently moved to Hill correctional center . I was wondering if any one knew of a bus /van company that do round rips to Hill cc. Thanks  

Welcome to IPT Carmelk... you can check out our Transportation board, I think there a few companies that go to Hill:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/board,117.0.html


There are schedules to check and phone #'s there for you to call.

[HisGirl]

I don't know if there is a way to find  out, but somebody asked me if it is possible to find out what Hill allows an Inmate to bring in when they transfer from another Institution. Is there anyway to find out what the rules are?

Thank you

[lvanrs2]

I think each prison is different.  Here is an example.  Dwights commissary list is large and has things on there that Decatur and Lincoln dont.  Dwight sells plastic tweezers on their list but if you get moved to Decatur they take them as contraband and you have the option to send them home or throw them away.  If it is missed in the transfer and they do cell searches and find them they take them then and you are issued a ticket. It sounds crazy as Dwight is a maximum security prison and Decatur is not.  My husband is at Lawrence and they do not sell hot pots there but other mens prisons do so if he would have been transferred from another prison to Lawrence I imagine they would have taken it and he would have had to send it home.

[HisGirl]

So what should an inmate do when he/she is transferred. Do they just take their belongings and hope that they will be allowed? That is crazy, why can't these people have some consistency. It seems as if the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing??? Why don't they focus on the serious things like drugs and weapons?

Thanks for you help.

[Dazzler]

My guy's stuff was sent back home when he changed prisons.  It's was ridiculous....by the time everyone got a shot at his property there wasn't much left in the box....just his hot pot, a couple broken pens, a half-eaten box of cereal and a few magazines.  The box was huge and he had to pay the postage from his account.  He said all the good stuff had been stolen before it was shipped....like his cigarettes and toiletries...

This is when he went to Pontiac for SEG.

Some items they will keep in the property room for inmates, in case of future transfer, especially electronics.  They kept my guy's TV in property until he could have it again. Same with electric shavers, lamps, fans, cassette players, etc.

[HisGirl]

Thanks,

Well, in this case this particular inmate has things he bought on comissary, such as visiting shirts that are not the typical ones they are issued, and he has prescription glasses that were sent in, and paid for by his family. Let's see what else they said. A rosary, a black panasonic radio. I think those are the main thing. He does have an electric shaver he also bought on comissary.

I wonder if those things will get sent home? I guess it is just hit or miss then?

[Amarie]

I don't think I've seen any other shirt on a visit aside from the blue shirts they all wear. I didn't know they could buy extra. As for his eye glasses if he is wearing them he may get lucky enough to keep them. Once they are sent home there is no sending them back in. He has to take what the prison gives him. His rosary he should be able to keep at any prison but you never know.

Has he been in for a while? I ask this because I know I heard a long time ago they use to let inmates receive items from home but now they either are provided by IDOC (like glasses)or they must buy them from the prison (like the shirts). 

[lvanrs2]

Just for FYI in the womens prisons you are allowed to buy blue polo shirts on commissary to wear.  I do not know if they offer this in the mens prisons or not.

[Ricks Ma]

I have learned a lot here already. Thanks to all who have posted this valuable information. My son just was transferred to Hill from Statesville Reception. I have one question I haven't seen addressed yet. For the intitial visit, before the list approval, is proof required that you are married. His wife is very anxious to go and see him, but we just wondered if the drivers license ID with the same last name would be enough. Also, would she be allowed to take her 10 year old son from a previous relationship into see the only man he knows as Dad? His last name is different.
Ok one more question, probably more to follow as I think. Can anyone tell me what it would cost him for a tv and fan??

Thanks a bunch![/img]
Ricks ma

[jcocroft]

His wife can definitely get one visit without the inmate having an approved list on file, I'm not sure about her son because technically he is not immediate family. To be on the safe side I would have her bring the marriage certificate just in case I doubt they will ask for it, but you never know.

T.V.'s are about $220 and fans are $35...

[Ricks Ma]

  Thank you fo the quick reply!
I will let her know to bring her proof with her.
Rather than risk him sitting in the car for 4 hours,
I think we will have him wait until the next time then.
He wasn't getting our mail when he was in Statesville so
by now I'm sure he is feeling forgotten. Hopefully we can get
there Monday.
Ricks me

[Shari]

I would call and ask his counselor regarding a visit from your son.  I could be wrong, but since you are married, and he is your son, it is my impression that he is considered immediate family if he lives under your roof.  Someone will come along and verify this.

I would also ask the counselor about having to wait for the visiting list to be approved.  Last I knew, Hill had a policy of allowing immediate family one visit prior to having the list approved.  This could have been stopped, though.  The only way to find out for sure about both issues would be to call and ask the counselor.

[Ricks Ma]

The counselor did tell me we could have one visit before the list was approved, but I totally forgot to ask about her son (he is my daughter in law's boy, it's my son that is in Hill.) I will call early Monday before we leave to see if he can come along. THAT would be fantastic. He was really disappointed when he found out that we are going and he'd have to spend the day with Grandpa Not that he doesn't like spendng time with Grandpa, he just wanted to go and see dad.
It is so funny how all the questions pop up right after you hang up the phone.
I really wish they would at least get his phone list approved soon, consolidated won't even let us set up accounts until we have been approved.
I am so thankful for this group. It takes away the feeling of being so alone during this time. I'll have about 3 1/2 years here and knowing there are others to share with really helps.
Ricks Ma

[Shari]

I realize that it is your son at Hill.  Didn't you say it was his wife that is wanting to visit, and it is her son that you are questioning can come?  If so, it is my belief that her son is considered immediate family to the inmate.  They go by his immediate family; not yours.  But to verify, contact the counselor.

[Ricks Ma]

Ok, NOW I understand what you were saying. Thanks again. I did call today and talked to someone at the gate and they said exactly what you did. That his relatonship to my son is through his mom who is his wife which makes him his son! WOW that sounds terribly confusing to make so much sense. Anyway thanks for all  your help. You have been more help than you know.
Ricks Ma

[Shari]

Glad I could help.  I now realize that I had posted "your son" in my first posting.  That was my error, and I see how it confused you.  My brain didn't connect with my fingers for typing. 

[Ricks Ma]

 :wc7:We went today for our initial visit, and wow was he ever relieved to see us. He's been in custody of the system since May 29 and has not received any of our cards or letters and was really feeling neglected. As far as getting in, we had no problems. She didn't have to show her marriage certificate, we both just used our drivers licenses and every one of the people in charge treated us in a friendly manner, even joking around with us while we waited for him to get to the visiting room. Her son decided not to go along after all saying he'd let mom and Grandma have some time with him today.
Thanks to this list, we knew exactly how to get the card for the vending machines and we had a wonderful visit.
He isn't real happy about being confined so much, with so little yard time, but he says if he must tolerate that to be only an hours and 20 minutes away, he could do it. his biggest complain was the food! He said he'd even settle for a TV dinner, which is what they had for supper EVERY night in Carroll County Jail. He was thrilled to get the double cheese burger chips and pop from the vend. Said it was better than steak!
  for the information that made this first visit so comfortable and easy.
He did ask if we could send him some money through Western Union to get some of the things he needs, since he didn't want to risk being stuck in a lock down and maybe miss first commissary. I really had a tough time getting it to go through on the internet, but once I read some more from the lists I managed to finally get it to take. The promo code d01000 didn't work, it said it was expired, but it didn't cost too much even paying full price.
Again  for all the help.
Ricksma

[mamacita1]

Glad you had a wonderful visit.  According to my son who was at Hill, the food was better than his current facility (lower level)!

The confinement sucks, but as was explained to me, he is safer....albeit one must consider their cell mates.  How lucky is he and your family to be so close to visit as often as you can!

If you are able, I would gather as much money as you possibly can to ensure that he can obtain commissary, watch TV.....all without "owing" favors. 

Once again, welcome to the forum....

[Ricks Ma]

With Hill not being air conditioned, and the guys only getting out 2 or 3 hours a day, is anything done to help them to cope with the heat?  I would think this would cause tempers to flare and create more problems. Even those fortunate enough to have a fan, must be miserable. With the forecasters puttinh out heat advisories and such it almost seems inhumane to keep them locked up in the small cell. My heart cries out for them all.
Ricksma

[mamacita1]

They can purchase fans, which does help.

[scoobygrl23]

I went and visited my boyfirend on Mon 6/22 and it was quite warm in the visiting room.  everyone was sweating sitting at the tables.  I thought the heat was well worth it is see my guy but i can not imagine what it must be like to be in that small space with his cellie.  He does have a fan but it is still very warm air being moved around.  I feel bad for my baby.

[Ricks Ma]

I talked to my son tonight and he said he hasn't had commissary privilege yet. He's been there over 2 weeks and they tell him it will be July 7th before he can even put in his first order. So no fan, no soap, no snacks or alternative for the food that he doesn't like. I know this is prison, but good grief, almost a month before he can even put IN a commissary order seems a bit extreme. Once he put in his his request can anyone tell me how long it will take him to get it? We plan to go up again Monday and will fill him up with vending machine food and soda pop during our visit, but this seems to be a bit extreme even for our 'bad boys'.

Ricksma

[jlnjy]

Ricks Ma

It is my understanding that when they have their commissary day - they get what they order that day, however there may be a delay in getting big items - I'm not sure. Each facility may differ and someone else may know something more than I do. My guy has been in since the early 90's and I don't remember all the details like many of the other members here.

Visiting your son and giving him that vending machine food and drinks - ahhhh the little things mean so much.

I think you mentioned something about no air conditioning in another post. I'm actually not aware of any IDOC facility that has a/c in the inmate areas - someone can correct me on that as its my understanding from what I've been told. Where my guy is now there is a/c in the visiting room - which is nice for visitors. My guy was at Hill for a while and he said it was too cold there for him - he's from the south and said he'd rather be hot than cold any day of the week. (I'm sure he was referring to the winter time)

Answers to your questions will come...welcome to IPT

[HisGirl]

Rick's Ma:

At Hill they only get Commisary every three weeks. This may be the reason that he has to wait. He must have arrived right after they had it for his particular unit. I am assuming he is no longer in receiving.

I hope he gets store soon. I know how it is. You feel so bad for them even when they have done wrong. That's love.

[Forevermah]

Ricks Ma


I think you mentioned something about no air conditioning in another post. I'm actually not aware of any IDOC facility that has a/c in the inmate areas - someone can correct me on that as its my understanding from what I've been told. Where my guy is now there is a/c in the visiting room - which is nice for visitors. My guy was at Hill for a while and he said it was too cold there for him - he's from the south and said he'd rather be hot than cold any day of the week. (I'm sure he was referring to the winter time)

Three prisons I know do have a/c are Taylorville, Robinson & Jacksonville.   I am sure anyone with knowledge about any other prisons that may have it will let us know.

[Ricks Ma]

My concern was that being locked in a cell for 21 or 22 hours a day when it's in the upper 90's plus that is just seemed a bit extreme, and for those who, for whatever reason don't have even a fan it has to be a very miserable exisiance. I know the Iowa prison where he was before did have a/c.  I do know that it's not the Hilton but humane treatement does include at least minimal comfort. My main concern is how people's tempers flare in the hot weather, and that has to pose a threat to security as well as the welfare of both our L/O's and the guards.
 
Ricksma

[jlnjy]

My concern was that being locked in a cell for 21 or 22 hours a day when it's in the upper 90's plus that is just seemed a bit extreme, and for those who, for whatever reason don't have even a fan it has to be a very miserable exisiance. I know the Iowa prison where he was before did have a/c.  I do know that it's not the Hilton but humane treatement does include at least minimal comfort. My main concern is how people's tempers flare in the hot weather, and that has to pose a threat to security as well as the welfare of both our L/O's and the guards.
 
Ricksma

I agree - inhumane!!! One would think tempers flaring with heat as well as heat related illnesses would be taken into consideration - but then again, IDOC loves to place our LO's on lock down - its like the slightest reason at some facilities.

[Ricks Ma]

I just got a call that Hill went on lockdown tonight.
Has anyone else heard this? How would I find out if this is true?

 

[jcocroft]

You can call and ask, but I was there untill 8 pm last night and also got a phone call at 9pm and they were not on lockdown!

[Ricks Ma]

I just talked to my son and they did a lock down last night but it was just for the night. Went into effect about 9:10PM last night. He said it cut into some of his yard time. Some sort of a training exercise he thinks. He is in heaven tonight because he got to do his commissary finally today.. Now if it just stays cool until he gets his fan!
Ricksma

[jlnjy]

I just talked to my son and they did a lock down last night but it was just for the night. Went into effect about 9:10PM last night. He said it cut into some of his yard time. Some sort of a training exercise he thinks. He is in heaven tonight because he got to do his commissary finally today.. Now if it just stays cool until he gets his fan!
Ricksma

Glad he got his commissary - makes a difference.

Did you get to visit him also earlier this week?

[Ricks Ma]

Yes we went to visit on Monday and we fed him a pizza and bar-b-qued chicken wings and chips and candy and a juice and a pop! I'm surprised he didn't blow up! He put salt and pepper on the pizza and the wings. He said it tasted so good just to get salt and pepper. We could have saved a fortune if we had bought a cheap pack of crackers and just covered them with the s&p. hehe!
We had a great visit, and he was in good spirits so that helped. The time just flew by. Only glitch in the day was when we got there they said his wife's top was too low cut. Mind you, nothing showed, but I think the guy at the front desk was having a bad day. It ended up she turned her top around, and then he was satisfied. Actually it looked OK that way too but she was kinda paranoid that someone would think she didn't know how to dress. She said next time she'll wear a turtle neck!
Now that he has been to commissary we won't worry so much about his eating, and have to spend our time going to the vending machines and back again to tell him what choices he has. Since they can't go look for themselves, they should at least offer a menu... Can ya tell I always find something to complain about?? <grin>
Ricksma

[Ricks Ma]

I know I've seen the answer somewhere on here but now I can't find it.
My son's daughter just delivered his first grand child and wants to take him in to meet grandpa. What restrictions are there for bringing in infants (bottles, diapers, blankets carrier?)
Will they allow him to hold the baby at all?
Thanks,
New great grandma,
Ricksma

[jlnjy]

I know I've seen the answer somewhere on here but now I can't find it.
My son's daughter just delivered his first grand child and wants to take him in to meet grandpa. What restrictions are there for bringing in infants (bottles, diapers, blankets carrier?)
Will they allow him to hold the baby at all?
Thanks,
New great grandma,
Ricksma

Each facility will differ but at the very minimum you can bring in a blanket and bottle. Unfortunately the carrier will not likely be allowed - I actually seen one once in all the years I've been visiting and that was last year but not at Hill.

I've been to 2 different facilities in the last month with a baby - neither one was Hill. One allowed pacifier, bottle, and blanket. The other allowed pacifier, blanket, snacks (in a see through container), diapers, wipes, bottle, and formula (in a see through container - it connects and detaches from the bottle) So there is definite diversity.

As far as holding the baby - I think it really depends on the facility - some may be more strict than others. I know when my daughter and I brought her baby in (not at Hill) the new Grandfather (our LO) held the baby 95% of the time.

At one facility they asked my daughter if she had the birth certificate for the baby and since she didn't they said to bring it next time - but at the other place she wasn't asked that, however the CO's have seen us more at the other place.

At one facility I had to sign in the baby, at the other facility I didn't.

Most of all Congratulations on the new arrival.

[Ricks Ma]

That helps a little.We'll travel light and hope for the best.
Thank You
Ricksma

[jlnjy]

You're welcome. If you think about it, will you post after your visit and let us know what you were allowed / not allowed to bring in? IDOC can change on a dime so after you visit, it could change but at least it would give some information or general guidance to what is/isn't acceptable at Hill in regard to bringing a baby to visit.

[sitinonplatnium]

at hill you CAN bring a carrier in for the baby.  2 bottles, 4 diapers, a blanket and you can take a few wipes out of teh pack nd bring them in.  they have you put all of those things in a clear plastic bag they give you.  The inmate can hold the baby only on top of the table not near the lap area.  I take my son to see his father there.  He is one but when he was younger we were able to bring the carrier in.

[Ricks Ma]

sittin:
 Thanks so very much.
I was concerned about the diapers and wipes. As young as he is we could probably fill one 8 oz bottle and it'd easily last through the whole visit.
We probably won't NEED a carrier cuz since Grandpa can hold him, we will probably have to pry him from his arms
  I wish I could take in a camera to record this meeting, but I know better. It's gonna be a memorable time for all.
Thank God for this site. Everyone has been so helpful.
Ricksma

[Ricks Ma]

Jinjy, Gladly will post, but unless it's changed since her last visit, sittinonplatinum pretty well covered it.

[Forevermah]

I know I've seen the answer somewhere on here but now I can't find it.
My son's daughter just delivered his first grand child and wants to take him in to meet grandpa. What restrictions are there for bringing in infants (bottles, diapers, blankets carrier?)
Will they allow him to hold the baby at all?
Thanks,
New great grandma,
Ricksma

Each prison is different as to what they allow.. Your best bet is to call prior to your visit and ask them! 

When we visited with a baby, we were allowed a diaper, bottle and blanket.  We had to fill the bottle fresh in the waiting room, change the babies diaper before we went in and they had to watch when/if the diaper was changed again in the visiting room bathroom.

Please call and then you'll know exactly what Hill allows or doesn't.

Mah

[sitinonplatnium]

I was there last weekend.  They dont make you fill the bottle fresh in the waiting area.  however when they search you they do check the babies diaper, but they were pretty nice.  I never have any issues at hill.  The staff is pretty respe3ctful from what I have noticed.

[Ricks Ma]

I was kind of concerned over filling the bottle fresh since she is nursing. 
She will pump for the trip, to have a bottle because I doubt they'd approve of her nursing in the visit area. 

I've been up there twice and they have always been really nice, especially compared to some of the staff in Iowa.
I appreciate all the info, and will let the group know if there was any problem after we return Monday evening.
Ricksma

[KSwife]

Ricks Ma~Have a safe trip and enjoy your visit!

[scoobygrl23]

What is Hills 3a unit?  Does anyone know.  I wish i knew which unit my man was in.  Now i am going to ask.   

[sitinonplatnium]

3A is 3 house A wing.

[scoobygrl23]

3A is 3 house A wing.

Do you know if it is the unit the workers are in or one in school or the ones that have neither?

[Jennifer030]

Can anyone tell me the routine for visiting Hill?  Is the visitor seated in the visiting room prior to the inmates arrival?  Or is the inmate usually there first? 

At what point am I supposed to purchase my vending machine card?  How much can I put on it? 

Can I wear my coat to visiting or will I have to put it into a locker?

I applied for extended visits but have gotten no reply.  Do they tell the inmate or me if it's been approved?

Thanks everyone, I appreciate your help!

Jennifer

[HisGirl]

Hi Jennifer:

You must be sure that you are on the visiting list. Visits are four hours if you live within the state of Illinois with the exception of early (meaning before shift change at approximately 2:30) on weekends. If you go after 3:30 on weekends, you will usually be able to stay until 8:00 PM.

If you live out of state, the Inmate must request the extended visit, and it is the Inmate who will be notified by the warden when the visit is approved. They will usually let immediate family visit for the first time without being on the visiting list for a one time visit, but I would not recommend depending on this if it can be avoided--especially if you are traveling a long distance. It is a terrible thing to be turned away after driving so far. It is best to have the Inmate get a confirmation from their counselor before making the trip if you are unsure.

You will need a dollar to purchase the commisary card, and you can use bigger bills to put up to, but not more than $40 on the card.

It can happen either way, but most of the time I went my guy was already seated when I came in, but it can happen where you have to wait. The chairs are very uncomfortable, and even more so for the Inmate, who must remain seated for the whole visit.

You can bring in your coat and reading glasses.

Hope this answers your questions. You cannot bring a cell phone into the visiting center at all, and you do not need to pay for the locker. Do not bring more than you can  fit into the small locker. I saw this cause a really big problem with someone who was visiting the same day I was once.

[Ricks Ma]

Today my son's wife went to visit and at the end of the visit the officer took away his wedding band. Something about it not being recorded or something. He has his slip from Stateville saying he could have it but when he went to Hill he only had a Bible and his ring so he went right from the bus to the chow hall to his cell. He tried to show the officer the ring indent and even the slight tan line that showed the ring had been on a while, but the officer wouldn't hear it. Now he is worried he will get a ticket or lose his job. The officer implied that his wife had brought the ring in so he's also concerned that this wil affect their visits. She has visited almost every week since he got there in May and he's had it all this time without a problem until today.
Does someone know if there is there some way this can be straightened out. Should we try to contact internal affairs or someone, Who? Any advice appreciated. Thanks.

[HisGirl]

That is so bogus it makes me sick. Why do some of these people have to be such haters? Why are they so against marriage and families? Dont' they know that statistics show that those Inmates with strong family connections have the best morale. It would make one think that they don't care.

I would try to find the paper work and start with trying to talk to IA and or the warden. But that warden at Hill probably won't have much sympathy. They will tell you that the Inmate must file a grievance. In many cases the Inmate has to file a lawsuit for his property. In fact, I know of one such case going on right now.

I pray that that ring is returned. And I am sorry that is so messed up. Ugh!

[Ricks Ma]

Was today considered a holiday for visits. They told us at our visit at Hill today it would count as a holiday. I thought Monday would be the holiday??

[mamacita1]

I am wondering if any 3 day weekend is considered a "holiday" for state employees?  As you know, this Monday is considered "Presidents" day, a day off for most state employees. 

[Ricks Ma]

You can have 2 week end or holiday visit's a month, so I know any visit on Saturday Sunday or Monday this week would count toward the 2 day limit.

[malcolms wife]

Hello, my fiance was just transferred to Hill today from Stateville, do you know how long before they can make calls or get to buy things?

[mamacita1]

Hopefully, you have already subscribed with Consolidated.  He will be processed at Hill which can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks before he is placed in general population.  At that time, he will be able to make phone calls and buy things.

You may want to send him money as soon as you can.  Commissary is twice a month, and he may be lucky enough so that his timing into general population would also coincide with commissary.

[LStoney]

mamacita,
2 to six weeks seems awful long for receiving at a parent institution.  Any idea why so long?  My man was at vandalia last year and he called me within 3 days.  I am aware of the "one visit" to immediate family members, before they go into general population.  I am not immediate family so I am sure I would be shut down.  My lo is awaiting a parole hearing on 4-6 at hill, I would imagine they would keep him in receiving until that date, do you agree?

[mamacita1]

It's hard to say why the parent institution may hold them that long in receiving.  Sometimes it's to match a better "roomate" - don't really know.

I would assume the same thing you are assuming - that he will be held at Hill's receiving until his parole hearing - but then again, if the parole hearing is held at Hill....who knows, this is IDOC.

[ajtaosanchez]

does anyone know anything about my husband said that he can have a necklace with a cross sent to him but it can only be like a weight of so much. i tryed to call and ask but the guy didn't know! so does anyone know anything about that? i seen someone ask kinda the same thing but she just said it cant be a value over $50 or "say it is" so how do i do that does anyone have anymore info on that or done it?

[ajtaosanchez]

also if anyone knowes how i can or what magazine subcriptions they can have, and do i just have them sent there every month n how does that work sorry i am new at all of this! thank you

[Marks_guy]

This is just a general rule, so you'll want to call Hill and speak to someone in clinical services for that facility's rules. A chain and religious pendant (a cross, star of David, or medallion) are allowed as long as his ID states he is of that religion. The chain can be no lpnger than 22 inches, and thin enough that it will break it yanked. The pendant must be smaller than 2 inches in diameter. It must cost less than $50. No stones are allowed on either.

They are allowed almost every magazine. You may set up a subscription for them, or you can mail every issue yourself.

[HisGirl]

From what I have been told, Hill makes it very clear that they are a disciplinary facility. This point is made particularly clear to inmates transferring from Stateville. They don't want trouble, and make that clear in receiving. But then, aren't they all supposed to be disciplinary institutions. LOL I don't know if this could be the reason for a longer hold time in receiving or not. Also, with the overcrowding, they may have to wait for someone else to move or leave.

[Ricks Ma]

  When sending a chain and medal, be very careful of your packaging. No boxes and no padded envelopes. I ended up wrapping mine in a paper towel and sending it in a regular envelope. Good Luck

[Ricks Ma]

My son wll be transferring from Hill to East Moline,  and both his wife and I have commissary cards with money left on them  . Does anyone know if there is a way to get refunds or who to contact that might know . We were surprised at how quickly his transfer request was carried out or we would have used them up. East Moline uses a different card system

[Forevermah]

My son wll be transferring from Hill to East Moline,   and both his wife and I have commissary cards with money left on them  . Does anyone know if there is a way to get refunds or who to contact that might know . We were surprised at how quickly his transfer request was carried out or we would have used them up. East Moline uses a different card system

Don't think they offer refunds, but you can always offer them to another Hill family going to visits here on IPT.  It's always a good idea to only put on the cards what you think you will use that day.

[Ricks Ma]

I found out today that if you have a problem with the vend cards, or like me, your LO moves to another facility you can get a refund from Canteen.
If there is a problem with the canteen service you can call: 800-659-3971
To get a refund all you need to do is write a note describing the problem, your LO's DOC number (to prevent just anyone from claiming a refund) with your phone number, name, and address to:
Canteen
Attn: Debbie
3612 N Main
East Peoria Il 61611
They seem to be very nice about it too.

[ajtaosanchez]

i have a left over vending card with like $20.00 on it if anyone wants it just let me know and ill mail it to you now he is in Vienna, so i have no use for that! so if you want it is free.... just let me know.....

[mrzthomas1]

In regards to magazines please talk to the front gate before you start sending magazines. I bring up to 5 magazines with me at each visit and there are alot of magazines that is not allowed. Also you can bring newspapers with you to their visits but only up to 5 magazines and crossword puzzles. As far as a necklace and a cross don't send it because it is a waste of time. I sent my husband a gold wedding band and it got lost in their receiving area. My husband stated it was a hole in the envelope when he received it but I was not angry because it was cheap. Things get lost or they will not receive it for weeks. Hill is a ok facility but the guards there have very poor attitudes and make you feel more of a inmate than the inmates there. I suggest if your LO is not going to be there long then you need to wait on sending necklaces. Magazines you can bring with you to the visit is better then shipping them.

[love sb]

My L/O has just been moved out of stateville r&c he wnt in to r&c on 7/1/10 and today is 7/15/10 that i got a reply from vain...how is that jail? when will his list be given so he can call and i can visit??? pleasae I need everyone help i'm new to this...

[mztironjr]

Hi my boyfriend has just been transfered to Hill Correctional Center from Stateville Reception and I wanted to know when an inmate is there permanetly how long does it take for him to get his visting list approved and when can he make his first phone call. Or any phone call for that matters.

Thankyou

I heard that Hill prison is much better compared to stateville. And I wanted to know if anyone knew any bus or transportation ppl I could contact and how much. Its like a 3 1/2 hour drive from Chicago. So I'm hoping its at a fair price.

[HisGirl]

Do You mean Vandalia or Vienna (Shawnee)? Vandalia is about 5 hrs from Chicago. It should take between 1-2 weeks if he files his paperwork right away. I visited someone there once in a about a week after he was moved. I am talking about Vandalia. Nothing is written in stone, but it should not take too long.

[HisGirl]

Since this is posted under Hill Correction, which I over looked when replying. Long Day, actually long week LOL; Do you mean Hill? Hill is also about 4-5 hours from Chicago. And they let Inmates who come there know that it is a disciplinary joint. At least that's what I have been told.

[love sb]

so what does that mean??? is he on lock down all day??? how long is the visits? when will he be able to call? or even write? i sent money to him while he was in r&c i used jpay.....

[Shari]

You should have waited till the day after he was transferred to his home prison instead of sending money while in R&C.  It will take a while to catch up with him.

Hill is a level 2 facility.  Strange that he only has a bit over a year to do and ended up at Hill.  Must be a bed space thing.

[HisGirl]

If You go to prison profiles on the home page here on the site, you can read about Hill. Hill is better than stateville. They get to come out of there cells, but have certain lock up times Not lockdown, but they do go on lockdown sometimes. You just have to call before going there or watch the website.

Yes, he can have mail, make calls, and recieve money when his paper work is completed and approved.

[HisGirl]

My Inmate was transferred to Hill from another Institution where he was a resident so we had Consolidated account set up, which he was able to use as soon as he coulod get to a phone. It generally takes about a week to get the phone list approved. Unless you are immediate family, I wouldn't drive all the way there until he tells you his visiting list has been approved. They allow immediate family one visit without approval. There is a bus service on the site somewhere. Look on the home page.

Also, it might be beneficial to take a train and cab if there is not a service going to Hill. Sometimes you can arrange a ride with someone. People looking to share a ride sometimes post here on IPT.

[ltruitt]

Does anyone have a commissary list for Hill. I could really use it, trying to give my husband some recipe ideas lol...thank

[CanadianCutie]

 Hi,  My LO is at Hil and I have finally figured out the mailroom procedures.  You see I was getting a lot of things returned (at his expense) because I kissed the last page or sprayed a little too much perfume, my bad!  I have sent magazines, photos and cards without problem.  It is his birthday next month and I would like to send books and maybe music, as he says they are listening to music.  Does anyone know if this is allowed and the proper procedure to sent them to guarantee he gets them.  It's his birthday and there isn't much I can do to make it special as well as the fact I live in Canada and cannot get there to see him often.  I can't even set up a phone account.   Thanks to everyone and I sure hope all you LO's are okay, especially after the lockdown this past week!  Also if anyone has information about a petition I can participate in regarding this brunch situation please let me know.  Breakfast is, well was, I'd favourite meal.  We are looking at a lot of time here, I just want to make him a little happy.  Thanks M.R. From Canada

[lurios2]

CanadianCutie, you can send him books, I'm not positive, but I believe you can send up to 5. As far as music, J told me he has to order it through the company Pack Central. This is the only company they can get tapes from. You can't send any music in. You have to mail Pack Central $2 and the address you want them to send a catalog to. They do not have a website or online catalog, it's all through the mail. You can search for a previous post about them here on IPT and I'm sure their mailing address will come up. Good luck!