Out-of-State Transfer of Inmates FAQ

Updated 06/25/2010

(Click questions to see or hide answers)

1. Why is the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) transferring more inmates out-of-state?

   
   
   In an effort to relieve the critical shortage of beds, the legislature appropriated funds for the Department to lease beds in other states on an interim basis and transfer certain inmates to out-of-state facilities.  Inmates may be transferred to the Great Plains Correctional Facility in Hinton, Oklahoma.

   
   
   
   

2. Is there anything I can do to prevent an inmate from being transferred?

   
   
   No. These transfers are necessary to relieve the critical shortage of beds and overcrowded conditions in Arizona's prison facilities.
   
   
   

3. Why has my family member been identified as a potential transfer when he is doing well here?

   
   
   All general population minimum and medium security inmates are being screened and any eligible inmate is subject to transfer.
   
   
   

4. What are the criteria for selection of eligible inmates?

   
   
   Selection criteria for eligible inmates include:
   

   • Date of earliest release is more than 6 months away

   • Not serving a life sentence

   • Mental health score of 3 or less

   • Cleared by ADC medical staff

   • Volunteers meeting the above criteria will be given priority consideration for this opportunity

   
   

5. Where is Hinton, Oklahoma?

   
   
   Approximately 59 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
   
   
   

6. Will inmates receive the same medical treatment at the out-of-state facility as they receive here in Arizona?

   
   
   Yes, all facilities provide comparable health services including medical, optometry, dental, pharmacy, and mental health services in accordance with community standards of care and ADC policies. Medical prescriptions and devices will be transferred with the inmate. For additional information about inmate health delivery, please call the ADC Regional Health Administrator at 520-770-0023, ext. 223.
   
   
   

7. Will the inmate have access to legal papers and legal services?

   
   
   Yes, the same legal research materials and paralegal support are available in accordance with ADC policies.
   
   
   

8. Will an inmate's education programs be interrupted?

   
   
   All facilities offer religious, educational, and substance abuse treatment programs; some vocational programs are available at several locations. They all provide indoor and outdoor recreational areas.
   
   
   

9. How can I visit an inmate?

   
   
   Visitation is available at all out-of-state facilities as per ADC Department Order #911.
   
   
   

10. What is a video visit?

    
    
    Video visitation is offered in accordance with Arizona Department of Corrections Policy # 911, Inmate Visitation. It is a low cost and convenient way for families and friends to visit.
    
    Family and friends can participate in video visits from two in-state locations to the Great Plains Correctional Facility, OK:

    1) ASPC-Perryville, (directions) located west of Phoenix. Visits are conducted in the South Lobby at 2014 North Citrus Road, Goodyear, Arizona 85338.

    2) ASPC-Tucson (directions) Building 47, Main Prison Complex at 10,000 South Wilmot Road, Tucson, Arizona 85734.
    
    Video visitation calls are limited to 30 minutes per session. In the event a connection is lost due to technical difficulties, the visit may be extended an equal amount of time for which the connection was interrupted. Calls for all out-of-state locations must be scheduled in advance of the video visitation date by calling (520) 574-7330, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Friday through Monday, excluding holidays. Visits occur on Saturday, Sunday and designated holidays between the hours of 8:00 am. and 4:00 p.m. to accommodate the different time zones.
     

    In accordance with Arizona Department of Corrections Visitation Policy #911, only visitors on an inmate's approved visitation list may participate in video visitation. A maximum of four visitors including children may visit at one time. All Department policies regarding dress code, property, conduct, and suspension of privileges for cause will remain in effect at all times.
    
    
    

11. Is there transportation available to out-of-state facilities?

     

    Charter bus service for the Great Plains Correctional Facility in Hinton, OK, is not available at this time.

    
    

12. How much do long-distance phone calls cost?

    
    
    Telephone communication from the Great Plains Correctional Facility in Hinton include collect calls or phone calling cards which the inmates may purchase through the inmate store.

    
    

13. How do I send mail to an inmate?

    In accordance with ADC Department Order #909, address correspondence accordingly:
    
    

    Great Plains Correctional Facility

    Inmate's full legal name & ADC #

    P.O. Box 1018

    Hinton, OK  73047
    
    

     

14. Will my family member get back to Arizona before his release date?

    
    
    All inmates will be returned to Arizona prior to release.
    
    
    

15. Will inmates be returned to the same facility they were transferred from?

    
    
    No, not necessarily.
    
    
    

16. Who can I contact when I have a concern or question?

    
    
    You may contact:
    

     

    Great Plains Correctional Facility: 405-542-3711

    Family Assistance Coordinator, extension 75003, or you may speak with an ADC on-site monitor, extension 75018.
    
    

    ADC Inmate Family& Friends Liaison: 602-364-3945
    In-State Toll Free: 866-333-2039