Attica Correctional Facility is a maximum-security prison located in Attica, New York. The facility has a long and controversial history, including a violent uprising that took place in 1971. The prison is currently home to over 2,000 inmates, many of whom are serving long sentences for violent crimes.
Attica Correctional Facility was built in the 1930s and has since become one of the most well-known prisons in the United States. The prison has been the subject of numerous studies and investigations and has been criticized for its harsh living conditions and high rates of violence. Despite these criticisms, the prison continues to operate and is an important part of the New York State correctional system.
Overall, Attica Correctional Facility is a complex and controversial institution that raises many important questions about the criminal justice system in the United States. While some argue that prison is necessary to protect society from dangerous criminals, others argue that the harsh conditions and high rates of violence are inhumane and ineffective. Regardless of one’s opinion, it is clear that Attica Correctional Facility will continue to be an important part of the American justice system for years to come.
| Security | Maximum |
| Capacity | 2,143 |
| Physical Address | 639 Exchange St Attica, NY 14011-0149 |
| Mailing Address | 639 Exchange St Attica, NY 14011-0149 |
| Can you send gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Daily: 8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (585) 591-2000 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Current Status and Operations
Inmate Population
As of July 2023, Attica Correctional Facility has a population of approximately 2,100 inmates, according to the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) website. This includes inmates in general population, as well as those in special housing units and reception and treatment centers. The facility houses male inmates who have been convicted of various crimes and sentenced to a term of imprisonment.
Facility and Staff
Attica Correctional Facility is a maximum-security prison located in Attica, New York. The facility is staffed by approximately 1,100 employees, including correctional officers, administrative staff, and medical personnel. The facility covers over 2,000 acres and includes 39 housing units, a medical unit, a chapel, and a visiting area.
Programs and Services
DOCCS offers a variety of programs and services to inmates at Attica Correctional Facility to assist them in their rehabilitation and reentry into society. These programs include educational and vocational training, counseling services, library and law library services, and religious services. The facility also offers substance abuse treatment and mental health services to inmates who require them.
In addition to these programs, the facility also offers a number of vocational and educational programs, including classes in computer technology, culinary arts, and horticulture. These programs are designed to help inmates develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce upon their release.
Attica Correctional Facility also has a reception and treatment center, which provides intake processing and medical screening for all new inmates. Inmates who require medical attention or treatment for mental health issues are referred to the appropriate medical professionals.
Visitors to Attica Correctional Facility are subject to strict rules and regulations, including dress codes and restrictions on the items they can bring into the facility. DOCCS provides information on its website regarding visiting hours and procedures, as well as the rules and regulations governing inmate visits.
Despite efforts to improve conditions at Attica Correctional Facility, the facility has faced criticism and controversy in recent years. In 2019, the Associated Press reported that inmates at the facility were being subjected to prolonged periods of solitary confinement, which can have serious psychological effects. The New York Daily News also reported on allegations of mistreatment of inmates by correctional staff, including the use of excessive force. Despite these challenges, DOCCS continues to work to improve conditions at the facility and provide inmates with the programs and services they need to succeed.
Visiting Attica Correctional Facility
Attica Correctional Facility allows visits from family and friends of incarcerated individuals, subject to certain guidelines and restrictions. Visitors must comply with all rules and regulations, and failure to do so may result in denial of visitation privileges.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Attica Correctional Facility are from 8:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the latest arrival time being 2:00 p.m. Visitors should plan to arrive early to allow time for processing and security screening. Note that incarcerated individuals in SHU custody are allowed one non-legal visit within a seven-day period during the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with the latest arrival time being 1:30 p.m. Each week begins on a Monday and ends on a Sunday.
Visitor Guidelines
Visitors must comply with all rules and regulations when visiting Attica Correctional Facility. Some of the guidelines include:
- Visitors must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and must be on the incarcerated individual’s approved visitation list.
- Visitors must dress appropriately and modestly. Clothing that is revealing, provocative, or resembles inmate clothing is not allowed.
- Visitors may not bring any items into the facility, with the exception of a small clear plastic bag containing essential items such as identification and money.
- Visitors must pass through metal detectors and submit to a search of their person and belongings.
- Visitors may not engage in any physical contact with incarcerated individuals, except for a brief hug and kiss at the beginning and end of the visit.
- Visitors may not bring any food or drink into the facility, and may not share food or drink with incarcerated individuals.
- Visitors may not use cell phones, cameras, or other electronic devices during the visit.
Civilian employees of Attica Correctional Facility may also be subject to certain guidelines and restrictions when visiting the facility. It is important to review all guidelines and regulations prior to visiting Attica Correctional Facility to ensure compliance and avoid any issues or delays.