The North Idaho Correctional Institution (NICI) is a program-specific prison located in Cottonwood, northern Idaho. This facility was originally a military radar station before it was converted into a prison in 1985. The institution has an operating capacity of 426 male residents and primarily houses inmates sentenced under a retained jurisdiction sentence.
NICI is responsible for the housing, care, and rehabilitation of adult male offenders. The facility operates 24/7 and is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals, including corrections officers, medical personnel, and support staff.
Inmates at NICI have access to various programs and services, including education, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. The institution also provides opportunities for religious services, recreation, and work assignments.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 426 |
| Physical Address | 236 Radar Rd Cottonwood, ID 83522 |
| Mailing Address | 236 Radar Rd Cottonwood, ID 83522 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for all units, except for Unit 2 downstairs |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 208-962-3276 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
North Idaho Correctional Institution is a program-specific prison located north of Cottonwood, Idaho. The facility was originally built in the early 1980s as a medium-security facility for adult male offenders. Over the years, the institution has undergone significant expansion and modernization, including the addition of new buildings and facilities.
The site of the North Idaho Correctional Institution was originally a radar station built by the U.S. Air Force in 1954. The station closed in 1964, and the Job Corps then used the site for several years. In 1977, the Idaho Legislature authorized the construction of a new prison on the site, which became the North Idaho Correctional Institution.
NICI primarily houses residents sentenced under a retained jurisdiction sentence. These inmates are typically nonviolent offenders who have been given a suspended sentence and are placed in a program that includes counseling, education, and work experience. If they successfully complete the program, their sentence may be reduced or suspended altogether.
Today, the North Idaho Correctional Institution has the capacity to house 426 individuals. The facility is operated by the Idaho Department of Correction, which is responsible for the custody and care of over 8,000 inmates in the state of Idaho.
Facility Information
North Idaho Correctional Institution is a program-specific prison. The facility is a former military radar station that was converted into a correctional institution with an operating capacity of 426 male residents.
Location and Physical Address
NICI is situated north of the small town of Cottonwood, Idaho, and is located at 236 Radar Road, Cottonwood, ID, 83522. The facility is approximately 2.5 hours south of Spokane, Washington, and 3.5 hours north of Boise, Idaho. The prison is located in a rural area, surrounded by farmland and forests.
Capacity
NICI has an operating capacity of 426 male residents. The facility houses inmates who are serving sentences for a variety of offenses, including drug-related crimes, property crimes, and violent crimes. The prison is designed to provide programs and services that promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.
NICI offers a range of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their release and re-entry into society. These programs include substance abuse treatment, education and vocational training, mental health services, and religious services. The facility also offers a range of recreational activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and music programs.
Overall, North Idaho Correctional Institution is a well-maintained facility that provides a safe and secure environment for its residents. The prison staff is committed to providing quality programs and services that promote rehabilitation and help inmates successfully transition back into society.
Visitation
North Idaho Correctional Institution allows for visitation for inmates as a way to maintain family connections and provide support to inmates. However, visitors must follow the prison’s visiting rules and regulations.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at NICI are on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for all units, except for Unit 2 downstairs. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they have enough time to complete the check-in process.
Visiting Rules
NICI has strict rules and regulations for visitors to follow. Visitors must follow the dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing, shorts, skirts above the knee, and sleeveless shirts. Visitors must also bring a valid government-issued photo ID and must not bring any unauthorized items into the facility.
Visiting Application Process
To visit an inmate at NICI, visitors must complete a visiting application. The application is available on the Idaho Department of Correction’s website and must be completed and submitted at least two weeks before the intended visit. Visitors must also provide a valid government-issued photo ID and a certified copy of the inmate’s birth certificate.
Visitation List
Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list. The inmate is responsible for submitting the visitor’s name and information to the prison staff. Visitors who are not on the approved visitation list will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
State Recognized Holidays
NICI recognizes state-recognized holidays for visitation. Visitors are encouraged to check the prison’s website for a list of recognized holidays and visiting hours.
Visiting an Inmate
Visitors must arrive at the prison at least 30 minutes before the start of the visitation period to complete the check-in process. The check-in process includes a search of the visitor’s person and belongings. Visitors must also adhere to the prison’s rules and regulations during the visit, including no physical contact with the inmate.
In conclusion, NICI has specific rules and regulations for visitors to follow. Visitors must complete the visiting application process, be on the inmate’s approved visitation list, and follow the prison’s dress code and rules during the visit.
Programs and Services
North Idaho Correctional Institution offers a variety of programs and services to help inmates successfully transition back into society. These programs and services are designed to address the unique needs of each individual.
Education
NICI provides educational programs to help inmates earn their GED or high school diplomas. Inmates can also take college courses through partnerships with local colleges. These programs help inmates gain the skills and knowledge they need to find employment upon release.
Treatment
NICI offers cognitive and behavioral treatment programs to help inmates address the underlying issues that led to their incarceration. These programs help inmates develop the skills they need to make positive changes in their lives and avoid future criminal behavior.
Vocational Training
NICI provides vocational training programs to help inmates learn valuable job skills. Inmates can receive training in fields such as welding, carpentry, and auto repair. These programs help inmates gain the skills they need to find employment upon release.
Substance Abuse Treatment
NICI offers substance abuse treatment programs to help inmates overcome addiction. These programs include counseling, peer support, and education. Inmates learn about the effects of drug and alcohol abuse and develop the skills they need to maintain sobriety.
Mental Health Services
NICI provides mental health services to inmates who need them. These services include counseling, medication management, and group therapy. Inmates with mental health issues receive the support they need to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
Recreational Activities
NICI offers recreational activities to help inmates stay active and engaged. Inmates can participate in sports, art classes, and other activities. These programs help inmates build social connections and develop healthy habits.
Overall, NICI’s programs and services are designed to help inmates successfully re-enter society and avoid future criminal behavior. By addressing the unique needs of each individual, NICI helps inmates develop the skills and knowledge they need to build a better future for themselves and their families.
Inmate Information
Inmate Search
The Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC) provides an online database where individuals can search for information about inmates. The database includes information about individuals on court probation or currently under IDOC jurisdiction, including those incarcerated, on probation, or on parole. To access the database, visit the IDOC website.
JPay
JPay is a private company that provides services to inmates in Idaho and other states. Inmates can use JPay to send and receive emails, purchase music and other media, and make phone calls. Inmates can also use JPay to send and receive money from friends and family members. To learn more about JPay and the services it provides, visit the JPay website.
Offenders
The North Idaho Correctional Institution is a program-specific prison with an operating capacity of 426 male residents. NICI houses offenders who have been convicted of various crimes, including drug offenses, property crimes, and violent crimes.
Inmate Mailing Address
To send mail to an inmate at NICI, use the following address:
Inmate's First and Last Name
236 Radar Rd.
Cottonwood, ID 83522Be sure to include the inmate’s ID number on the envelope.
Send Money to an Inmate
Friends and family members can send money to an inmate at NICI using JPay. To send money, visit the JPay website and follow the instructions. Inmates can also receive money orders through the mail. Money orders should be made payable to the inmate and sent to the following address:
Inmate's First and Last Name
236 Radar Rd.
Cottonwood, ID 83522Do not send cash through the mail.
Inmates at NICI are not allowed to have cell phones or other contraband. Jail records, arrest records, and mugshots are public records and can be obtained through the Idaho Department of Correction. Inmate records are also public records and can be obtained through the IDOC website. NICI offers therapy and other programs to help inmates prepare for re-entry into society.