The Allan B. Polunsky Unit, also known as the Polunsky Unit, is a maximum-security prison located in Livingston, Texas. The facility houses male death row inmates and is operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). The prison is named after Allan B. Polunsky, a former chairman of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.
The Polunsky Unit is known for its strict security measures and is one of the most heavily guarded prisons in the United States. The prison has a capacity of over 2,900 inmates and is surrounded by multiple security fences, razor wire, and watchtowers. The facility also has an on-site medical unit, educational programs, and vocational training to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. However, due to the nature of the inmates housed at Polunsky, the prison is closed to the public and only authorized personnel are allowed inside.
| Security | Maximum |
| Capacity | 2,984 |
| Physical Address | 3872 FM 350 South Livingston, TX 77351 |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 660400 Dallas, TX 75266-0400 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (936) 967-8082 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History and Establishment
The Allan B. Polunsky Unit, located in Livingston, Texas, is a maximum-security prison that houses male inmates on death row. The unit is named after Allan B. Polunsky, who served as the chairman of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice from 1992 to 1995. The Polunsky Unit was established in November 1993 and began housing death row inmates in 1999.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice oversees the Polunsky Unit, which is located in Polk County. The unit is situated on a 387-acre plot of land and has a capacity of 2,984 inmates. The Polunsky Unit is accredited by the American Correctional Association and has been so since January 2003.
Before the Polunsky Unit became the primary location for housing death row inmates, they were housed at the Ellis Unit in Huntsville, Texas. The move to the Polunsky Unit was made to provide a more secure location for death row inmates. The Polunsky Unit houses death row inmates in single-person cells with windows. Inmates are also allowed to recreate individually.
Overall, the Polunsky Unit has a reputation for being one of the most secure prisons in Texas. The TDCJ has installed over 1,000 cameras throughout the facility to monitor inmates and ensure their safety. Despite its reputation, the Polunsky Unit has faced criticism for its treatment of inmates and the conditions in which they are housed.
Visitation and Contact Information
Visiting an inmate at the Allan B. Polunsky Unit is a possibility, but visitors must follow strict rules and regulations. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has established a set of guidelines to ensure the safety and security of the inmates, visitors, and staff.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours vary depending on the inmate’s housing assignment and custody level. Visitors should check the TDCJ website or contact the Polunsky Unit directly to confirm visiting hours. Contact, Regular, Restricted, and Video/Tablet visitation hours are on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitation hours for inmates on Deathrow are Tuesday and Thursday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., and Saturday 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Physical Address
The Allan B. Polunsky Unit is located at 3872 FM 350 South, Livingston, TX 77351. Visitors should be aware that the Polunsky Unit is a remote location and plan their travel accordingly.
JPay
JPay is a company that provides electronic messaging, money transfer, and video visitation services to inmates. Visitors can use JPay to communicate with inmates without having to visit the Polunsky Unit in person.
Telephone
Visitors can contact the Polunsky Unit at (936) 967-8082 (**054). The TDCJ Visitation Hotline is also available to answer questions about visitation policies, inmate locations, and more. The hotline is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be reached toll-free at (844) 476-1289.
Radio Station
The Polunsky Unit has a radio station that broadcasts educational and informational programming for inmates. Visitors can tune in to 88.5 FM to listen to the station.
Programming
The Polunsky Unit offers a variety of programming for inmates, including educational and vocational courses, substance abuse treatment, and religious services. Visitors can contact the Polunsky Unit to learn more about the programming available to inmates.
Warden Daniel Dickerson
Daniel Dickerson is the Regional Director of Region I and the Senior Warden of the Allan B. Polunsky Unit. Visitors can contact his office to address concerns or questions about the Polunsky Unit.
Lockdown
Lockdowns occur when there is a threat to the safety and security of the inmates, visitors, and staff. During a lockdown, all visitation is suspended until further notice. Visitors should check the TDCJ website or contact the Polunsky Unit directly for information on lockdowns.
DJ
The Polunsky Unit has a Disciplinary Judge (DJ) who presides over disciplinary hearings for inmates who have violated TDCJ policies and procedures. Visitors should be aware that disciplinary hearings are closed to the public.
Inmate Population and Segregation
The Polunsky Unit is a maximum security prison that houses male inmates in Texas. As of December 2020, the prison had a total population of 3,743 inmates, including 2,977 general population inmates, 722 inmates in administrative segregation, and 44 inmates on death row.
Administrative segregation is used to separate inmates from the general population for various reasons, including disciplinary issues, gang-related activity, or safety concerns. Inmates in administrative segregation are typically housed in single cells for 23 hours a day and have limited access to programs and activities. According to a 2021 report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the use of administrative segregation in U.S. prisons has decreased in recent years, but it is still a common practice.
The Polunsky Unit also has a separate area for inmates on death row, who are housed in single cells and have limited contact with other inmates. Death row inmates are typically held in isolation for 22 to 24 hours a day and have limited access to programs and activities. The use of the death penalty and the conditions on death row are controversial topics in the United States.
Solitary confinement is another form of segregation that is used in some prisons, including Polunsky. Inmates in solitary confinement are typically housed in single cells for 22 to 24 hours a day and have limited contact with other inmates. Solitary confinement is often used as a form of punishment, but it has been criticized for its negative effects on mental health and the potential for abuse.
Overall, the Polunsky Unit has a large population of inmates in segregation, including those in administrative segregation and on death row. The use of segregation in prisons is a controversial topic, and there are ongoing debates about its effectiveness and ethical implications.
Programs and Activities
The Allan B. Polunsky Unit offers a variety of programs and activities to help inmates improve their skills and prepare for a successful reentry into society. These programs include GED and Adult Basic Education classes, Life Skills courses, and Substance Abuse Education.
Inmates can also participate in a variety of activities, such as recreational sports, music programs, and hobby clubs. These activities provide a positive outlet for inmates to express themselves and develop new skills.
The Polunsky Unit also offers support groups for inmates struggling with mental health issues or addiction. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for inmates to share their experiences and receive guidance from trained professionals.
Reentry planning and employment/job skills training are also available to help inmates prepare for life after release. Inmates can receive assistance with job applications, resume writing, and interview skills. Parent training and mentoring programs are also available to help inmates strengthen their relationships with their families and children.
Overall, the programs and activities offered at the Polunsky Unit aim to provide inmates with the tools and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society and lead productive lives.
Vocational Training
The Polunsky Unit offers a variety of vocational training programs to inmates to help them develop job skills and increase their chances of finding employment after their release. The vocational training programs are designed to provide inmates with marketable skills that they can use to secure employment in various industries.
Some of the vocational training programs offered at the Polunsky Unit include Refrigeration, Automotive Specialization, Transmission Repair, Electrical Trades, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Mill and Cabinetmaking, and Adult Education Program. Inmates who participate in these programs gain hands-on experience and receive instruction from qualified trainers.
The Refrigeration program focuses on teaching inmates how to install, maintain, and repair refrigeration systems. Inmates learn about refrigeration principles, refrigerants, compressors, and other components of refrigeration systems. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
The Automotive Specialization program teaches inmates about vehicle systems, including brakes, steering, suspension, and electrical systems. Inmates learn how to diagnose and repair problems with these systems. The program also covers basic automotive maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations.
The Transmission Repair program teaches inmates how to diagnose and repair problems with automatic and manual transmissions. Inmates learn about transmission components, including clutches, gears, and torque converters. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
The Electrical Trades program teaches inmates about electrical systems, including wiring, circuits, and electrical components. Inmates learn how to read electrical schematics and diagnose and repair problems with electrical systems. The program includes both classroom learning and practical training.
The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning program teaches inmates how to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems. Inmates learn about HVAC principles, refrigerants, compressors, and other components of HVAC systems. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
The Mill and Cabinetmaking program teaches inmates how to use woodworking tools and equipment to build cabinets, furniture, and other wood products. Inmates learn about wood properties, joinery, and finishing techniques. The program includes both classroom learning and practical training.
The Adult Education Program provides inmates with the opportunity to earn a high school diploma or GED. Inmates who complete the program can improve their job prospects and increase their chances of success after their release.
The Polunsky Unit also offers a Peer Education program, where inmates who have completed vocational training programs can share their knowledge and skills with other inmates. The Peer Education program helps to reinforce the skills and knowledge learned in vocational training programs and provides inmates with additional opportunities to develop their leadership and communication skills.
Agricultural and Environmental Projects
The Allan B. Polunsky Unit is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship through various agricultural and environmental projects. The unit has implemented several initiatives to support these goals, including a tree farm, box factory, unit garden, unit food bank garden program, and agricultural operations.
The tree farm, located just beyond the back gate of the Polunsky Unit, is a joint project between the unit and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Agribusiness, Land & Minerals Department. The one-acre farm produces healthy tree varieties that will benefit prison units. Since 1995, the farm has nurtured tree seedlings that are later transplanted to other locations.
The box factory is another project that supports the unit’s environmental goals. The factory produces wooden boxes and pallets that are used to transport goods and materials throughout the state. The factory also provides vocational training to inmates, giving them valuable skills that they can use upon release.
The unit garden is a program that allows inmates to grow their vegetables and herbs in a designated area. This program provides inmates with an opportunity to learn about sustainable gardening practices, as well as the benefits of healthy eating. The produce grown in the unit garden is used in the unit’s kitchen, and any excess is donated to local food banks.
The unit food bank garden program is another initiative that supports the unit’s commitment to sustainability. This program allows inmates to grow crops specifically for donation to local food banks. The program not only provides fresh produce to those in need, but it also gives inmates a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Finally, the unit’s agricultural operations include a variety of farming and ranching activities. Inmates are involved in all aspects of agricultural operations, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for livestock. The unit’s agricultural operations provide valuable vocational training to inmates, as well as a source of fresh produce and meat for the unit’s kitchen.
Overall, the Allan B. Polunsky Unit’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is evident in its various agricultural and environmental projects. These initiatives not only benefit the unit and its inmates but also the wider community.
Execution and Death Penalty
The Polunsky Unit is home to Texas’ death row, where inmates convicted of capital offenses are held until their execution. Death row inmates are housed separately in single-person cells, with each cell having a window. The unit also houses inmates in security detention and mental health custody levels, as well as those in general custody levels G1-G5.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Correctional Institutions Division is responsible for confining death row inmates and carrying out their punishment once an execution date is set by the sentencing court. Male inmates convicted of capital offenses are transported from the county of conviction to the TDCJ CID.
The death penalty remains a controversial issue in Texas and the United States. Proponents argue that it serves as a deterrent to violent crime and provides justice for victims and their families. Opponents argue that it is cruel and inhumane and that innocent people may be sentenced to death.
The Huntsville Unit, located in Huntsville, Texas, was the site of Texas’ executions until 1999 when the TDCJ moved death row to the Polunsky Unit. Since then, all executions in Texas have taken place at the Huntsville Unit’s execution chamber. The TDCJ provides information on upcoming executions, as well as the history of executions in Texas, on their website.
As of July 2023, there are 213 inmates on death row at the Polunsky Unit. The majority of these inmates are male, with only 2 women currently on death row in Texas. The average age of death row inmates is 39 years old, with the oldest inmate being 75 years old and the youngest being 21 years old.
In Texas, lethal injection is the primary method of execution. The state also allows for the use of the electric chair for inmates who were sentenced to death before September 1, 1999. Inmates may choose to be executed by either method. The state also allows for the use of nitrogen hypoxia as a backup method of execution.
Overall, the death penalty remains a contentious issue in Texas and the United States, with ongoing debates about its effectiveness, morality, and constitutionality.
Controversies and Criticisms
The Polunsky Unit has been the center of numerous controversies and criticisms since its establishment. One of the most significant criticisms is the high rate of suicide among its inmates. According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the Polunsky Unit has one of the highest suicide rates in the state of Texas. Critics argue that the lack of mental health services and the harsh conditions of solitary confinement contribute to the high suicide rate.
Another major criticism of the Polunsky Unit is the use of solitary confinement, which is considered one of the harshest forms of punishment. Inmates on death row at Polunsky are kept in isolation for 23 hours a day, with limited access to human interaction or recreational activities. Critics argue that this form of punishment is inhumane and violates basic human rights. In 2018, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture called for a global ban on solitary confinement exceeding 15 days, citing the psychological harm it causes.
The Polunsky Unit has also been listed as one of the worst prisons in the United States. In his book, “Texas Tough: The Rise of America’s Prison Empire,” Robert Perkinson describes the Polunsky Unit as a “concrete tomb.” The prison has been featured on numerous lists of the ten worst prisons in the US, including a 2013 report by Mother Jones magazine.
In 2015, the Polunsky Unit was the subject of Congressional testimony by Anthony Graves, a former death row inmate who was exonerated after 18 years in prison. Graves described the conditions on death row at Polunsky as “torture,” citing the lack of access to legal resources and the harsh conditions of solitary confinement.
Overall, the Polunsky Unit has been the subject of numerous controversies and criticisms, particularly regarding its use of solitary confinement and the high suicide rate among its inmates. While some argue that these harsh conditions are necessary to maintain order and safety, others argue that they violate basic human rights and contribute to a cycle of violence and trauma.
Notable Inmates
The Polunsky Unit is known for housing some of the most notorious criminals in Texas. Here are some of the most notable inmates who have been housed in the facility:
- Anthony Charles Graves: Graves was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent 18 years on death row before being exonerated in 2010. He was released from prison and has since become an advocate for criminal justice reform.
- Gary Graham: Graham was executed in 2000 for the murder of a man during a robbery in 1981. His case garnered national attention due to claims of his innocence and the controversial circumstances surrounding his trial.
- Karla Faye Tucker: Tucker was executed in 1998 for the murder of two people with a pickaxe. Her case also received national attention due to her gender and claims of her rehabilitation while on death row.
- Henry Lee Lucas: Lucas was a notorious serial killer who was convicted of 11 murders and confessed to over 100 more. He died in prison in 2001.
- David Lee Powell: Powell was executed in 2010 for the murder of an Austin police officer in 1978. His case was controversial due to claims of inadequate legal representation and the use of a hypnotized witness.
- John William King: King was executed in 2019 for the dragging death of James Byrd Jr. in 1998. His case was widely publicized due to the racial motivations behind the crime.
- Edgar Tamayo Arias: Arias was executed in 2014 for the murder of a Houston police officer in 1994. His case received international attention due to his status as a Mexican national and claims of violations of international law.
- Kimberly McCarthy: McCarthy was executed in 2013 for the murder of an elderly woman in 1997. She was the 500th person executed in Texas since the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976.
- Larry Ray Swearingen: Swearingen was executed in 2019 for the murder of a college student in 1998. His case was controversial due to claims of inadequate legal representation and the use of questionable forensic evidence.
Overall, the Polunsky Unit has housed a number of high-profile and controversial inmates over the years. While some have been executed for their crimes, others have been exonerated or continue to maintain their innocence.