The Bell Unit is a correctional facility located in Cleveland, Texas. The unit was accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA) in January 2005, and it has since maintained its accreditation. The Bell Unit has a capacity of 529 male offenders and houses minimum and medium-security inmates.
The Bell Unit is named after Oliver J. Bell, a former TDCJ executive director who served from 1987 to 1989. Inmates at the Bell Unit participate in various programs, including education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and faith-based initiatives. The unit also has a number of industries, such as a garment factory, a metal fabrication plant, and a print shop, which provide job opportunities for offenders.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 529 |
| Physical Address | 901 E 5th St, Cleveland, TX 77327 |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 660400 Dallas, TX 75266-0400 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (281) 592-9559 |
| Jurisdiction | MTC |
Location and Management
The Oliver J. Bell Unit, also known as the Bell Unit, is located in Cleveland, Texas, a city in Liberty County. The unit is situated at 901 East Fifth Street, approximately a quarter mile north of downtown Cleveland.
The Bell Unit is managed by the Management and Training Corporation (MTC), a private company that operates correctional facilities across the United States. The MTC has been managing the Bell Unit since 2005, and the unit has been accredited by the American Correctional Association since that time.
The MTC is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Bell Unit, including the management of staff, security, and inmate programs. The company has a strong focus on providing education and vocational training to inmates, with the goal of reducing recidivism rates and preparing individuals for successful reentry into society.
Overall, the Bell Unit is known for its strict security measures and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. The MTC’s management of the facility has been praised for its commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates.
Inmate Profile
The Bell Unit in Texas is home to a diverse group of inmates, including both male and female individuals. The majority of the inmates are aged between 18 and 50 years old, with a small percentage of older inmates.
All inmates at Bell are in custody and are serving time for various crimes. Some of the inmates are serving time for minor offenses, while others are incarcerated for serious crimes such as murder, assault, and drug-related offenses.
The prison has two general population levels, G1 and G2. Inmates in G1 are considered lower risk and have fewer restrictions, while those in G2 are considered higher risk and have more restrictions. Inmates in G2 are often housed in single cells and have limited access to other inmates and prison facilities.
While incarcerated, inmates at the Bell Unit have access to a range of programs and services, including education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. These programs are designed to help inmates prepare for their eventual release and re-entry into society.
Overall, the inmates at Bell are a diverse group of individuals who are working to serve their time and make positive changes in their lives.
Visitation Rules
Visitation at the Bell Unit is a privilege for both the inmate and the visitor. As such, there are specific rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved. Visitors are expected to comply with these rules at all times to avoid any disruptions or issues during their visit.
Visitor Eligibility
Before visiting an inmate at the Bell Unit, visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. The inmate is responsible for submitting the names of potential visitors to the unit’s Visitation Office. The Visitation Office will then conduct a background check on each visitor to determine their eligibility.
Visitation Schedule
Visitation at Bell is conducted on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitors are advised to arrive early to allow time for processing and security checks. It is also recommended that visitors check the unit’s Visitation Schedule to verify the visiting hours and any restrictions that may be in place.
Visitation Rules
Visitors are required to follow all rules and regulations during their visit to the Bell Unit. Failure to do so may result in the visitor being denied future visits. Some of the most important rules include:
- Visitors must present a valid photo ID at check-in.
- Visitors must be appropriately dressed, with no revealing or provocative clothing allowed.
- Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visitation area, including cell phones, purses, or bags.
- Visitors are not allowed to bring any gifts or money for the inmate.
- Visitors are not allowed to touch the inmate or pass any items directly to them.
Support for Visitors
The Bell Unit understands that visitation can be a stressful and emotional experience for both the inmate and the visitor. As such, the unit provides support services to visitors, including:
- Counseling services for visitors who may be experiencing emotional distress.
- Informational materials and resources to help visitors prepare for their visit.
- Assistance with transportation and lodging for out-of-town visitors.
Overall, the Bell Unit strives to provide a safe and secure environment for both inmates and visitors during visitation. Visitors are encouraged to review the rules and regulations before their visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Educational Programs
The Bell Unit offers a variety of educational programs to help inmates develop skills that will be useful upon release. These programs include Adult Basic Education, Pre-GED, GED, Lee College Vocational, and Micro-Computer Applications. In addition, the prison offers Peer Education programs that allow inmates to teach and learn from each other.
The Adult Basic Education program is designed for inmates who need to improve their reading, writing, and math skills. The Pre-GED program prepares inmates for the GED test, which is an important credential for finding employment after release. The GED program is a comprehensive program that covers all the subjects tested on the GED test.
The Lee College Vocational program offers vocational training in a variety of fields, including automotive technology, welding, and HVAC. This training gives inmates the skills they need to find employment in these fields upon release. The Micro-Computer Applications program teaches inmates how to use common computer software programs, which is a valuable skill in today’s job market.
The Peer Education program at the Bell Unit allows inmates to teach and learn from each other. Inmates who have completed certain educational programs can become Peer Educators and help teach other inmates. This program helps to create a positive learning environment and encourages inmates to take responsibility for their own education.
Overall, the educational programs at Bell are designed to help inmates develop the skills they need to succeed upon release. These programs give inmates the opportunity to improve their education, gain valuable vocational skills, and learn from their peers.
Life Skills and Pre-Release Programs
The Bell Unit offers a range of programs aimed at helping inmates develop the skills they need to lead successful lives after their release. These programs include life skills classes, pre-release classes, counseling, and a pre-employment curriculum.
Life skills classes are designed to teach inmates practical skills that they can use to improve their lives both inside and outside of prison. These classes cover a range of topics, including money management, communication skills, and conflict resolution. Inmates who complete these classes are better equipped to handle the challenges of daily life and are more likely to succeed once they are released.
Pre-release classes are designed to prepare inmates for life outside of prison. These classes cover topics such as finding housing, securing employment, and accessing social services. Inmates who complete these classes are better prepared for the challenges of re-entry and are more likely to succeed once they are released.
Counseling is also available to inmates at the Bell Unit. This counseling may be provided on an individual basis or in a group setting. Counseling can help inmates address issues such as substance abuse, anger management, and mental health concerns. Inmates who receive counseling are better equipped to handle the challenges of prison life and are more likely to succeed once they are released.
Finally, a pre-employment curriculum is available to help inmates prepare for the job market. This curriculum covers topics such as resume writing, job interview skills, and workplace etiquette. Inmates who complete this curriculum are better prepared to find and keep employment once they are released.
Overall, the Bell Unit’s life skills and pre-release programs are designed to help inmates succeed both inside and outside of prison. By providing inmates with the skills and support they need, these programs help reduce recidivism and improve public safety.
Entrepreneurship Program
The Oliver J. Bell Unit offers a unique program that aims to equip inmates with valuable entrepreneurial skills to help them successfully reintegrate into society. The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) is a privately funded program that has been in operation since 2004. The program is designed to help inmates develop a business mindset and acquire the necessary skills to start and run a successful business.
PEP is a comprehensive program that includes both in-prison and post-release components. During the in-prison program, participants complete a financial literacy course, an employment workshop, a business etiquette course, and a Toastmasters class. These classes are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to start and run a business successfully. Participants also receive mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and business leaders who volunteer their time to the program.
After release, PEP participants are paired with a volunteer executive mentor who provides ongoing support and guidance. The post-release program includes job placement assistance, access to capital, and continued mentorship. The goal of the program is to provide participants with the tools and resources they need to succeed as entrepreneurs and productive members of society.
PEP has been successful in reducing recidivism rates among its participants. According to the program’s website, PEP graduates have a recidivism rate of less than 7%, compared to the national average of 50%. The program has also been recognized for its success by the Texas legislature and the White House.
Overall, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program at the Oliver J. Bell Unit is an innovative program that provides inmates with the skills and resources they need to start and run a successful business. The program has been successful in reducing recidivism rates and helping participants successfully reintegrate into society.
Communication and Support
The Bell Unit provides multiple ways for inmates to communicate with their loved ones and access support services. These services include email and bond services.
The unit offers an email system that allows inmates to communicate with their friends and family members. The email system is managed by JPay, and the inmates must purchase JPay stamps to send emails. The cost of each stamp varies depending on the state of the sender and the recipient. The email system is a useful tool for inmates to stay connected with their loved ones outside the prison walls.
Bond
The Bell Unit also provides bond services to inmates. The bond process allows inmates to be released from jail while awaiting trial or sentencing. The bond amount is set by the court, and it can be paid by the inmate or their family members. The bond process can be complicated, and the Bell Unit staff can assist the inmates and their families in navigating the process.
The Bell Unit understands the importance of communication and support for inmates and their families. The unit provides multiple ways for inmates to stay connected with their loved ones and access support services. The email and bond services are just a few examples of the unit’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for inmates.