Holmes Correctional Institution is a state prison located in Bonifay, Florida. It opened in 1988 and is operated by the Florida Department of Corrections. The facility houses adult male inmates and has a capacity of 1,456.
The institution has been the subject of scrutiny over the years due to various issues, including allegations of inmate abuse and inadequate medical care. In 2015 and 2018, the Correctional Medical Authority conducted on-site surveys of the facility and issued corrective action plans to address deficiencies in physical and mental health care. Despite these efforts, concerns about the conditions at Holmes Correctional Institution persist.
As one of Florida’s many correctional facilities, Holmes Correctional Institution plays a vital role in the state’s criminal justice system. However, its history and ongoing challenges raise important questions about the effectiveness of the state’s approach to incarceration and rehabilitation.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 1,456 |
| Physical Address | 3142 Thomas Drive Bonifay, Florida 32425-0190 |
| 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) 547-8600 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Location and Contact Information
Holmes Correctional Institution is located in Bonifay, Florida, which is in Holmes County. The physical address of the facility is 3142 Thomas Drive, Bonifay, Florida 32425.
For those who wish to contact the facility, the telephone number is (850) 547-8600. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to confirm visiting hours and other regulations.
The institution is operated by the Florida Department of Corrections and houses adult male inmates. The facility has a capacity of 1,456 beds and is classified as a mixed custody-level institution.
In case of an emergency, visitors should contact the facility directly or call 911. It is important to note that any attempt to bring contraband into the facility is illegal and visitors are subject to search.
Overall, the location and contact information for Holmes Correctional Institution is readily available for those who need it. Visitors are encouraged to follow all rules and regulations to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Facility Overview
Holmes Correctional Institution is a state prison located in Bonifay, Florida, that houses adult male offenders. The facility is divided into two units, the East Unit and the West Unit. The West Unit is a Level IV facility with a custody level of close, high, and maximum, while the East Unit is a Level III facility with a custody level of minimum, medium, and close.
The West Unit is a maximum-security facility that houses inmates who require a higher level of security due to their criminal history or behavior. The security level is achieved through the use of secure perimeters, armed correctional officers, and electronic surveillance. Inmates at the West Unit have limited privileges and are subject to strict rules and regulations.
The East Unit is designed to house inmates who require less security and are closer to returning to society. The unit offers educational and vocational programs to help inmates gain skills and knowledge that will assist them in finding employment upon release. Inmates at the East Unit have more privileges than those at the West Unit, but they are still subject to strict rules and regulations.
Overall, the Holmes Correctional Institution has a capacity of 1,456 beds and is designed to provide a safe and secure environment for inmates while also offering programs and services to help them successfully reintegrate into society upon release. The facility operates under the Florida Department of Corrections and is staffed by trained correctional officers who are dedicated to maintaining order and safety within the facility.
Communication with Inmates
Holmes Correctional Institution understands the importance of maintaining communication between inmates and their loved ones. The facility provides several ways for inmates to communicate with their families and friends, including mail, phone calls, and packages.
Inmates can send and receive mail while incarcerated at Holmes Correctional Institution. The facility provides mail depositories within the institution for inmates to place outgoing correspondence. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and may be delayed for security reasons. Inmates are advised to address their mail correctly to ensure timely delivery. Friends and family members can send letters to inmates at the following address:
Inmate Name, ID Number
Holmes Correctional Institution
PO Box 23608
Tampa, FL 33623Phone Calls
Inmates are allowed to make phone calls to their approved friends and family members. The facility provides access to telephones in common areas and housing units. Calls can be made using a pre-paid account or collect calls. Friends and family members can set up an account to receive calls from an inmate by contacting the facility’s contracted phone service provider. It is important to note that all calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Packages
Friends and family members can send packages to inmates through approved vendors. The facility has a list of approved vendors that sell items such as clothing, food, and personal care items. Inmates are not allowed to receive packages directly from friends and family members. All packages are subject to inspection and may be delayed for security reasons.
Inmate Search
Friends and family members can search for an inmate’s location and status using the Florida Department of Corrections inmate search tool. The tool provides information on an inmate’s current location, release date, and other important details.
Inmate Roster
Holmes Correctional Institution provides an inmate roster on its website. The roster contains information on all inmates currently housed at the facility, including their full name, ID number, and housing unit.
Approved Call Lists
To make phone calls, inmates must have an approved call list. Friends and family members can add or remove themselves from an inmate’s call list by contacting the facility’s contracted phone service provider.
Overall, Holmes Correctional Institution strives to provide inmates with access to communication with their loved ones while maintaining a safe and secure environment.
Financial Transactions
Holmes Correctional Institution offers several options for financial transactions for inmates. These transactions include money deposits, JPay, money orders, and telephone accounts.
Inmates can receive money from their family and friends via money deposits. The institution accepts money deposits through different methods such as online, phone, mail, or in-person. Inmates can use this money to buy items from the commissary, pay for phone calls, or send money to others.
JPay is a service that allows inmates to send and receive money electronically. This service is available for inmates who have a JPay account. Inmates can use this service to purchase music, send emails, and make video calls.
Money orders are another option for inmates to receive money. Family and friends can send money orders through the mail. The money orders should be addressed to the inmate and include the inmate’s name and ID number.
Telephone accounts allow inmates to make phone calls to their family and friends. Inmates can use the money in their telephone accounts to make phone calls. Family and friends can add money to an inmate’s telephone account through money deposits or JPay.
Holmes Correctional Institution has strict rules and regulations regarding financial transactions. Inmates and their families should follow these rules to avoid any issues. It is recommended to read the institution’s policies and procedures regarding financial transactions before making any deposits or sending money orders.
Overall, Holmes Correctional Institution provides several options for financial transactions for inmates. Family and friends should choose the most convenient and suitable option for them and follow the institution’s policies and procedures to ensure a hassle-free transaction.
Visitation Information
Visiting an inmate at Holmes Correctional Institution is an important way to maintain family and community ties. Visitors are required to follow specific guidelines and procedures to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Holmes Correctional Institution are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the end of the visiting hours to ensure they have enough time to go through the registration process.
Registration
All visitors must be approved and added to the inmate’s approved visiting list before they can visit. Visitors must complete a Visitor Request Form and submit it to the facility at least 30 days before the intended visit. The form can be obtained from the inmate or downloaded from the Florida Department of Corrections website. Once the form is received, visitors will undergo a background check, and if approved, will be added to the inmate’s approved visiting list.
Metal Detector
Visitors are required to pass through a metal detector before entering the facility. Any visitor who refuses to pass through the metal detector will not be allowed to enter the facility. Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the facility, including cell phones, purses, or bags. Lockers are available to store personal belongings while visiting.
Overall, visiting an inmate at Holmes Correctional Institution requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines and procedures. Visitors are encouraged to review the Florida Department of Corrections website for more information and to contact the facility directly with any questions or concerns.
Education and Vocational Training
Holmes Correctional Institution offers a variety of educational and vocational training programs for inmates to help them acquire skills and knowledge that can help them succeed upon release.
Academic Programs
The institution offers academic programs that include courses in English, math, science, and social studies. These courses are designed to help inmates earn a high school diploma or prepare for college-level courses. Inmates can also participate in college courses through partnerships with local community colleges.
Vocational Programs
Holmes Correctional Institution offers vocational programs that provide inmates with the skills and knowledge needed to work in various industries. These programs include welding, computer repair, automotive collision repair and repainting, and more. Inmates can earn certifications in these programs, which can increase their chances of finding employment upon release.
Adult Basic Education
The institution offers Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs that help inmates improve their literacy skills. These programs include courses in reading, writing, and math. Inmates can also participate in GED courses to earn a high school equivalency diploma.
Educational Programs
Holmes Correctional Institution offers various educational programs that help inmates develop new skills and knowledge. These programs include parenting classes, life skills courses, and more. Inmates can also participate in vocational skills training programs to learn new job skills.
Overall, Holmes Correctional Institution provides a range of educational and vocational training programs that can help inmates prepare for successful reentry into society. By acquiring new skills and knowledge, inmates can increase their chances of finding employment and leading productive lives after release.
Inmate Betterment Programs
Holmes Correctional Institution offers a variety of inmate betterment programs to help individuals improve their lives and prepare for re-entry into society. These programs are designed to help inmates develop new skills, gain knowledge, and improve their overall well-being. Some of the programs offered at Holmes Correctional Institution include:
- Chaplaincy Services: The Chaplaincy Services at Holmes Correctional Institution provide spiritual guidance and support to inmates of all faiths. Chaplains offer one-on-one counseling, group therapy, and worship services to help inmates find inner peace and strength.
- Re-Entry Classes: Re-entry classes at Holmes Correctional Institution are designed to help inmates prepare for life outside of prison. These classes cover topics such as job searching, financial planning, and parenting skills.
- Institutional Betterment Programs: The Institutional Betterment Programs at Holmes Correctional Institution provide opportunities for inmates to improve their physical and mental health. These programs include yoga, meditation, and other wellness activities.
- Chaplain’s Office: The Chaplain’s Office at Holmes Correctional Institution is a resource for inmates seeking spiritual guidance and support. The office offers religious studies, worship services, and other programs to help inmates connect with their faith.
- Parenting Classes: Parenting classes at Holmes Correctional Institution help inmates learn how to be better parents. These classes cover topics such as child development, discipline, and communication.
- Financial Planning: Financial planning classes at Holmes Correctional Institution help inmates learn how to manage their money and prepare for life after prison. These classes cover topics such as budgeting, saving, and investing.
- Job Interviews: Job interview training at Holmes Correctional Institution helps inmates develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in job interviews. Inmates learn how to present themselves professionally, answer common interview questions, and negotiate salary and benefits.
Overall, the inmate betterment programs at Holmes Correctional Institution are designed to help individuals develop new skills, gain knowledge, and improve their overall well-being. These programs can help prepare inmates for successful re-entry into society and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.
Language and Cultural Services
Holmes Correctional Institution provides language and cultural services to its diverse population of inmates. Inmates who speak Spanish can access Spanish-language materials and interpretation services. This ensures that all inmates can understand the rules and regulations of the institution and communicate effectively with staff.
The institution also recognizes the importance of cultural services in promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Inmates can participate in music programs that celebrate cultural diversity and promote self-expression. These programs have been shown to have a positive impact on inmate behavior and mental health.
In addition to these services, Holmes Correctional Institution also offers language classes to inmates who wish to improve their English skills. This can help inmates better communicate with staff and other inmates, as well as prepare them for reentry into society.
Overall, the language and cultural services provided by Holmes Correctional Institution demonstrate a commitment to meeting the needs of its diverse population of inmates. By providing access to interpretation services, cultural programs, and language classes, the institution is working to promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism among its inmates.
Inmate Information
Holmes Correctional Institution provides a variety of resources for locating information about inmates in their custody. Families and friends of inmates can use these resources to stay informed about the status of their loved ones.
One of the most useful resources is the Florida Department of Corrections Offender Lookup tool, which allows users to search for inmates by name, DC number, or other identifying information. This tool provides information such as the inmate’s current location, release date, and sentence information.
Mugshots of inmates are also available on the Florida Department of Corrections website, which can be helpful for identifying inmates and verifying their location.
Information about an inmate’s release date can be obtained through the Florida Department of Corrections, but it is important to note that release dates are subject to change and can be affected by a variety of factors.
Booking information, including arrest and booking dates, bond information, and liens and judgments, can be obtained through the county sheriff’s office where the inmate was arrested.
Holmes Correctional Institution also provides information about who is currently in their custody, which can be helpful for families and friends of inmates who are trying to stay informed about their loved one’s location.
Sentence information, including the length of the sentence and any special conditions, can be obtained through the Florida Department of Corrections.
It is important to note that information about inmates is subject to change, and it is important to verify any information obtained through these resources. Additionally, some information may be restricted due to privacy concerns or other factors.