Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson is a correctional facility located in Tucson, Arizona. It is one of the largest prison complexes in the state, with a bed capacity of 5,403 and 1,608 authorized staff. The complex is comprised of eight separate prison units and supervises 31 work crews with over 400 inmates working both on and offsite.
Inmate rehabilitation is a priority at Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson. The facility offers various programs to help inmates prepare for their release, such as work crews, education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Inmates may also participate in work programs with organizations such as the Humane Society, Habitat for Humanity, and food factories.
While the primary goal of Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson is to provide a secure and safe environment for inmates, staff, and the public, the facility has faced challenges in the past. In 2015, an inmate escaped from the prison and was on the run for three weeks before being captured. The incident led to an investigation into the facility’s security measures and prompted changes to be made to prevent future escapes.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 5,403 |
| Physical Address | 10000 S. Wilmot Rd. Tucson, AZ 85734 United States |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 24400 Tucson, AZ 85734-4400 United States |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Depends on the Unit |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (520) 574-0024 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
The Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson, formerly known as the Arizona Correctional Training Facility, has a rich history dating back to the late 1970s. The facility was constructed to address the rising need for prison facilities in Arizona due to the increasing crime rate.
Construction
The first phase of the facility opened in January 1978, and it was fully operational by August 1979. The prison initially housed 384 non-violent male first-time offenders, aged 18-25. The facility was designed to provide vocational training to inmates to help them acquire skills that would make them employable upon release.
Expansion
Over the years, the Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson has undergone several expansions to accommodate the growing number of inmates. Today, it is one of the largest correctional facilities in Arizona, housing over 5,000 inmates. The prison complex is spread across 1,200 acres and includes several units, including the Whetstone Unit, which houses inmates with behavioral health needs.
In 2014, the facility underwent a major renovation to upgrade its infrastructure and improve the living conditions of the inmates. The renovation included the construction of a new housing unit, medical clinic, and administration building. The facility also upgraded its security systems to improve safety for both staff and inmates.
The Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson has played a critical role in the state’s criminal justice system, providing a secure environment for inmates while also offering them opportunities for rehabilitation and reentry into society.
Facilities
The Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson, also known as ASPC Tucson, is a correctional facility located in Tucson, Arizona. The complex is spread across 640 acres and consists of eight separate prison units. The facility has a bed capacity of 5,403 and employs 1,608 authorized staff.
Housing Units
ASPC Tucson has seven housing units, including Cimarron, Catalina, Manzanita, Minors, Santa Rita, Whetstone, and Winchester. These units provide housing for inmates at different security levels, including minimum, medium, and maximum security.
Security Levels
The security levels at ASPC Tucson range from level 2 to level 5, with level 5 being the highest. The Rincon Unit is a high-security unit that houses inmates in protective custody or on death row. The Catalina Unit is a minimum-security unit that houses inmates who are eligible for work release programs. The Arizona Correctional Training Facility, which is part of the Tucson Complex, is a minimum-security unit that provides vocational training to inmates.
Commissary
The commissary at ASPC Tucson provides inmates with a variety of goods, including food, personal hygiene items, and clothing. Inmates can purchase these items using funds from their trust accounts. The commissary also sells electronics, such as televisions and radios, which inmates can purchase using funds from their trust accounts.
Overall, the facilities at ASPC Tucson are designed to provide safe and secure housing for inmates at different security levels. The complex provides vocational training programs to help inmates acquire skills that can help them find employment after their release. The commissary provides inmates with access to essential goods and services that can make their stay at the facility more comfortable.
Education and Treatment
The Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson offers a variety of educational and treatment programs to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society. These programs are designed to provide inmates with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead productive lives upon release.
Education
The prison offers a range of educational programs, including Pima Community College classes, literacy programs, and creative writing courses. These programs are designed to help inmates develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce and in life.
Substance Abuse Treatment
Drug and substance abuse treatment is a critical component of the prison’s reentry program. Inmates can participate in programs that help them develop life skills, learn about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, and develop strategies for staying sober.
Cognitive Restructuring
The prison also offers cognitive restructuring programs that help inmates develop new ways of thinking and behaving. These programs are designed to help inmates overcome negative thought patterns and develop more positive attitudes and behaviors.
Literacy
The prison offers a range of literacy programs to help inmates improve their reading and writing skills. These programs are designed to help inmates develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce and in life.
Creative Writing
Creative writing courses are also available to inmates. These courses provide inmates with an opportunity to explore their creativity and express themselves through writing.
Cultural Diversity
The prison offers programs that promote cultural diversity and understanding. These programs are designed to help inmates develop a greater appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Inmates can participate in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) programs to help them overcome alcohol addiction. These programs provide a supportive environment where inmates can share their experiences and receive support from others who have overcome addiction.
Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) programs are also available to inmates. These programs provide support and guidance to inmates struggling with drug addiction.
Overall, the Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson offers a range of educational and treatment programs to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society. These programs are designed to provide inmates with the skills and knowledge they need to lead productive lives upon release.
Staff and Custody
Staff
Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson employs a variety of staff members, including correctional officers, medical professionals, administrative personnel, and maintenance workers. These staff members are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and staff within the facility.
Correctional officers are the backbone of any prison system, and Tucson is no exception. They are responsible for maintaining order and discipline within the prison, as well as ensuring that all inmates are following the rules and regulations set forth by the facility. They also conduct regular searches of cells and common areas to ensure that no contraband is being smuggled into or out of the prison.
Medical professionals are also an important part of the staff at Tucson. They are responsible for providing medical care to inmates who require it, as well as conducting regular check-ups to ensure that all inmates are healthy and well-cared for. They also work closely with correctional officers to identify any potential health risks within the prison population.
Administrative personnel are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the prison. They handle everything from scheduling staff to processing paperwork and maintaining records. They are also responsible for ensuring that the prison is in compliance with all state and federal regulations.
Custody
The custody level at Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson varies depending on the inmate’s individual needs and circumstances. Custody levels range from minimum to maximum security, with inmates being assigned to the appropriate level based on factors such as their criminal history, behavior within the prison, and potential risk to themselves or others.
Minimum security inmates are typically housed in dormitory-style housing units and have more freedom of movement within the prison. They are also allowed to participate in work programs and other activities outside of their housing unit.
Medium security inmates are housed in cell blocks and have more restrictive movement within the prison. They are also subject to more frequent searches and other security measures.
Maximum security inmates are housed in single cells and have the most restrictive movement within the prison. They are closely monitored by correctional officers and are subject to the most stringent security measures.
Overall, the staff and custody levels at Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson are designed to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and staff, while also providing inmates with the resources and support they need to successfully reintegrate into society upon their release.
Visitation and Contact
Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson allows visitation by appointment for approved visitors. Criminal background checks are conducted on all persons applying for visitation or phone call privileges. All adult visitors applying for in-person/phone, and video visits must pay a one-time, non-refundable, $25 background check fee in accordance with Department Order 911. Those persons wishing to accept phone calls only from inmates are not required to pay the fee.
Schedule a Visit
To schedule a visit, visitors must first be approved and added to the inmate’s approved visitor list. This can be done by the inmate submitting a Visitor Request List (ADC-132 form) to the unit visitation office. Once approved, visitors can schedule a visit by calling the visitation office or using the online scheduling system.
Send Money
Family and friends can send money to inmates through JPay, a third-party service provider. Money can be sent online, over the phone, or through a money order. Inmates can use the money to purchase items from the commissary or to pay for other approved expenses.
Visitation Hours
Visitation hours vary by unit and can change without notice. It is recommended that visitors check the current visiting hours before making plans to visit. Visitation hours can be found here or by calling the unit visitation office.
Search for an Inmate
To search for an inmate, visit the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry website and use the inmate search tool. This tool allows users to search for inmates by name, ADC number, or other identifying information.
Overall, Arizona State Prison Complex – Tucson has specific rules and regulations for visitation and contact with inmates. Visitors should be aware of these rules and follow them to ensure a successful visit.