Media and Public Relations

The Media and Public Relations Department strives to provide current, accurate and timely information to the public and the press.

Department Policy:

ADC Department Order 201 - Information Release

 ADC Department Order 202 - Public Access

ADC Department Order 207 - Media Relations


MEDIA INTERVIEWS OF INMATES

No face-to-face interviews shall be conducted between media representatives and inmates incarcerated within the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC).

Telephonic interviews with inmates are allowed, should the inmate agree. All interview requests are to be set up through the Office of Media Relations: (602)542-3133.

Information required for telephonic interview requests:

Upon interview request approval by the inmate, the time and date of the interview will be established. Interviews will only occur Monday - Friday, during regular business hours.

Telephonic interviews will be limited to 15 minutes.

Collect calls will be made to a pre-determined business phone number and will be placed by prison staff. The inmate will not have access to the phone number.

Third-party calls are not authorized.

Inmates will not be allowed to participate in any live broadcast format for either radio or television.

Media representatives are not authorized to be placed on an inmate's visitation list in an attempt to circumvent the Department's policy regarding face-to-face interviews.

Interview requests will be processed on a timely basis, same day request will not be honored. Inmate detention status may result in an inmate not being available for an interview. Inmates under investigation will not be available for interviews until the investigation is closed.

Death row inmates on the 14-day pre-execution watch will not be available for interviews.

Media representatives may write directly to inmates. Information required: ADC number, prison complex and unit address.

MEDIA VISITS TO ARIZONA STATE PRISONS

Film crews and still photographers interested in shooting background footage at any Arizona Department of Corrections facility must first gain permission by contacting the Media Relations Administrator at (602)542-3133.

Clearance must be obtained for any individual wishing to visit a prison. The Department retains the right to refuse access to any individual it considers a risk to the safe and secure operation of its institutions.

The following information is required for clearance purposes:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Social security number
  • Drivers license and issuing state

Facial photography of an inmate is at the discretion of the inmate. Any inmate that is identified by name must sign a waiver. Requests can be made by contacting the Media Relations Administrator at 602-542-3133.

Photography or filming of any security device is prohibited.

Strict adherence to security procedures will be required when entering any facility.

Individuals will not be allowed admittance if they are wearing blue denim pants or chambray shirts. Orange clothing is also not allowed.

Current photo identification will be required for admittance to any secure area.

Individuals will not be allowed to carry more than 20 US Dollars into any unit.

No weapons or narcotics of any sort will be allowed.