Blackwater River Correctional Facility (BRCF) is a state prison located in Florida, operated by the private prison company Geo Group. The facility houses male inmates who have been convicted of various crimes and sentenced to serve time in the prison system. The facility has been the subject of scrutiny in recent years due to concerns about the quality of care provided to inmates.
In 2016, the Correctional Medical Authority conducted a physical and mental health survey of Blackwater River Correctional Facility. The survey report raised concerns about the facility’s ability to provide adequate medical and mental health care to inmates. In response, the facility submitted a corrective action plan to address the issues identified in the report. Since then, the facility has undergone several additional surveys and assessments to ensure that it is providing appropriate care to inmates.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 2,000 |
| Physical Address | 5914 Jeff Ates Road Milton, Florida 32583-0000 |
| Mailing Address | PO Box 23608 Tampa, FL 33623 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturdays and Sundays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (850) 983-4100 |
| Jurisdiction | Geo Group |
Location and Contact Information
Physical Address
Blackwater River Correctional Facility is located at 5914 Jeff Ates Road, Milton, FL. The facility is situated in a rural area, surrounded by forests and farmland. The location provides a secure and secluded environment for the inmates.
Phone
In case of any queries or concerns, individuals can contact the facility by phone. The phone number for Blackwater River Correctional Facility is (850) 983-4100. The facility can also be reached by fax at (850) 983-4291.
It is important to note that the facility has strict rules regarding phone usage. Inmates are only allowed to make collect calls, and calls can only be made during designated hours. Additionally, all calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Visitors to the facility are required to follow specific guidelines and procedures. Visitors must be approved in advance and must provide valid identification upon arrival. Visitors are also subject to a search before entering the facility.
Overall, Blackwater River Correctional Facility is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff. The facility’s location and contact information can be found on their website or by contacting them directly.
Facility Details
Blackwater River Correctional Facility is a privately-operated prison located in Milton, Florida. The facility is operated by The GEO Group, Inc., a company that specializes in the management and operation of correctional facilities. BRCF is designed as a mixed-security prison for male offenders. The Warden of the facility is Gary English.
Capacity
According to the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability, BRCF has a capacity of 2,000 inmates. As of 2019, the facility housed 1,951 inmates. BRCF is one of five privately-operated correctional facilities in Florida that are overseen by the Florida Department of Management Services.
BRCF offers a range of programs and services to its inmates, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. The facility also has a faith-based program and offers recreational activities such as sports and music.
The physical and mental health of inmates is also a priority at BRCF. The facility has on-site medical and dental clinics, as well as a pharmacy that provides prescription medications to inmates. The Correctional Medical Authority conducts regular surveys of the facility to ensure that it is meeting the healthcare needs of its inmates.
Overall, BRCF is a mixed-security prison that provides a range of programs and services to its inmates. Its capacity is 2,000 inmates and it is operated by The GEO Group, Inc.
Inmate Information
Inmates at Blackwater River Correctional Facility have access to a variety of resources and services to help them during their incarceration. This section provides information on inmate mailing addresses and procedures for sending and receiving mail.
Inmate Mailing Address
Inmates at Blackwater River Correctional Facility can receive mail at the following address:
Inmate Name, DC Number
Blackwater River Correctional Facility
PO Box 23608
Tampa, FL 33623All incoming mail must include the inmate’s full name and DC number. Any mail that does not include this information may be returned to the sender.
Inmate Mail
Inmates at Blackwater River Correctional Facility can send and receive mail, subject to certain restrictions. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and may be read by facility staff.
Inmates are allowed to receive letters, cards, and photographs. However, they are not allowed to receive packages or other items, except for legal mail. Legal mail must be clearly marked as such and will be opened in the presence of the inmate.
Inmates are also allowed to send letters and cards. However, they are not allowed to send any items or packages, except for legal mail. Inmates may purchase stamps and envelopes from the facility commissary.
It is important to note that any mail that violates facility rules or contains prohibited items may be returned to the sender or confiscated. Inmates and their correspondents are encouraged to review the facility’s mail policy before sending or receiving mail.
Overall, the mail system at Blackwater River Correctional Facility is designed to provide inmates with a way to stay in touch with their loved ones and the outside world, while also ensuring the safety and security of the facility.
Visitation Guidelines
Visitation is an important way to maintain family and community ties for inmates at Blackwater River Correctional Facility. However, visitors must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Blackwater River Correctional Facility are on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they have enough time to go through the security process. Visitors who arrive after 2:00 p.m. will not be allowed to enter the facility.
Allowed Items
Visitors are not allowed to bring any personal items into the facility. However, there are a few exceptions for visitors with infants. Diapers, baby bottles, sipper cups, baby pacifiers, and baby food are allowed. Visitors may also bring in a non-quilted baby blanket, infant baby carrier, and infant clothing. Baby wipes are available for purchase in the vending machines located in the visitation area.
Visitors may bring money to purchase items from the vending machines. The vending machines accept coins, $1, $5, $10, and $20 bills. Visitors are not allowed to bring in any other items, including keyless entry devices.
Overall, visitors are expected to follow the rules and guidelines set forth by Blackwater River Correctional Facility to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Programs and Services
Blackwater River Correctional Facility offers a range of programs and services to help inmates develop skills and improve their chances of success upon release. The facility provides vocational programs, academic programs, chaplaincy services, substance abuse programs, and institutional betterment programs.
Vocational Programs
Vocational programs at Blackwater River Correctional Facility provide inmates with the opportunity to learn valuable skills that can be used in the workforce. The facility offers vocational training in a variety of fields, including desktop publishing, carpentry, electrical work, and more. Inmates who complete vocational programs may receive certifications that can help them find employment upon release.
Academic Programs
Academic programs at Blackwater River Correctional Facility help inmates improve their literacy and numeracy skills and earn high school diplomas or GEDs. The facility offers classes in basic education, adult basic education, and English as a second language. Inmates who complete academic programs may be better prepared for employment and further education upon release.
Chaplaincy Services
Chaplaincy services at Blackwater River Correctional Facility provide inmates with spiritual guidance and support. The facility has chaplains who offer religious services, counseling, and other forms of support to inmates of all faiths.
Substance Abuse Programs
Substance abuse programs at Blackwater River Correctional Facility help inmates address issues related to addiction. The facility offers a range of programs, including substance abuse education, counseling, and support groups. Inmates who complete substance abuse programs may be better equipped to overcome addiction and avoid relapse upon release.
Institutional Betterment Programs
Institutional betterment programs at Blackwater River Correctional Facility aim to improve the overall quality of life for inmates. The facility offers programs focused on anger management, parenting, and life skills. Inmates who participate in institutional betterment programs may be better prepared to reintegrate into society upon release.
Overall, Blackwater River Correctional Facility provides a range of programs and services to help inmates develop skills, address issues related to addiction, and improve their chances of success upon release. The Florida Department of Corrections oversees the facility and works to ensure that all programs and services are delivered in a safe and effective manner.