The Ouachita River Unit is a facility operated by the Arkansas Department of Correction located in Malvern, Arkansas. Established in 2003, the unit serves as an intake and classification facility for male inmates in the state of Arkansas.
With a capacity of 1782 inmates at the minimum- and medium-security levels, most inmates in the state initially start here and stay for a few days to a few weeks to be classified and then moved on to their more permanent facility.
The Ouachita River Unit is situated 2.3 miles south of downtown Malvern, off Highway 67 South. The facility is accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA) and employs 448 staff members.
The unit is equipped with a variety of programs and services, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, religious services, and mental health care. The facility also offers visitation hours for family and friends of inmates, which can be scheduled through the Arkansas Department of Correction website.
While the Ouachita River Unit is primarily an intake and classification facility, it plays a crucial role in the Arkansas Department of Correction’s mission to provide public safety by carrying out the mandates of the courts and providing a safe and humane environment for staff and inmates.
The facility’s programs and services aim to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society upon release, reducing recidivism rates and promoting public safety.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 1782 |
| Physical Address | 100 Walco Lane, Malvern, AR 72104 |
| Mailing Address | 100 Walco Lane, Malvern, AR 72104 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturday and Sunday: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 501-467-3400 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Location and Overview
The Ouachita River Unit is a correctional facility located in Malvern, Arkansas, approximately 2.3 miles south of downtown Malvern off Highway 67 South. The facility is operated by the Arkansas Department of Corrections and was established in 2003.
Physical Address
The physical address of the Ouachita River Unit is 100 Walco Lane, Malvern, AR 72104.
Capacity
The unit has a capacity of 1782 inmates.
Classification Facility
The Ouachita River Unit is a classification facility, which means that it is responsible for evaluating and classifying inmates according to their custody level, medical needs, and other factors. The facility also provides educational, vocational, and substance abuse treatment programs to help prepare inmates for reentry into society.
Permanent Facility
The Ouachita River Unit is a permanent facility and is accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA). The facility is staffed by a team of trained professionals who are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates.
Visitation and Communication
Intake
When a prisoner arrives at the Ouachita River Unit, they will go through an intake process where they will be searched and processed. During this time, they will be given the opportunity to provide a list of approved visitors and their contact information.
Visiting Hours
Visitation at the Ouachita River Unit is by appointment only and is limited to one hour in length. Visitors will be prohibited from using the restroom, except for an emergency. All visitors must remain in their vehicles outside the facility until 15 minutes prior to their scheduled visitation. Visitors will wear a face mask once they leave their vehicle. Visiting hours for the Ouachita River Unit are as follows:
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Inmate Mailing Address
Inmates at the Ouachita River Unit can receive mail at the following address:
100 Walco Lane, Malvern, AR 72104
Phone
Inmates at the Ouachita River Unit are allowed to make phone calls, but they must be collect calls. The phone number for the Ouachita River Unit is (501) 467-3400.
Email communication is not available for inmates at the Ouachita River Unit.
Review
If a visitor has a complaint or concern about their visitation experience at the Ouachita River Unit, they can contact the facility’s Warden at (501) 467-3400.
Money Orders
Inmates at the Ouachita River Unit can receive money orders through the mail. Money orders should be made payable to the inmate and include their ID number.
Special Units and Programs
The Ouachita River Unit offers a variety of special units and programs to its inmates to help them improve their lives and prepare them for reentry into society. These programs are designed to address the unique needs of each inmate and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.
Special Needs Unit
The Special Needs Unit at the Ouachita River Unit provides care for inmates with chronic medical conditions or disabilities. The unit includes a 72-bed hospital and a 40-bed special services area, which includes barracks for elderly, chronically ill, and acute-illness inmates.
Paws in Prison Program
The Paws in Prison Program allows inmates to work with animals, including dogs, in a supervised environment. The program provides training for the dogs, which can then be adopted by families in the community. The program not only helps the dogs find homes but also provides a therapeutic benefit for the inmates.
Reduction of Sexual Victimization Program
The Reduction of Sexual Victimization Program (RSVP) is designed to help prevent sexual assault and harassment in prison. The program provides education and training for both inmates and staff on how to recognize and prevent sexual violence.
Faith-Based Principles and Applications for Life (PAL) Program
The Faith-Based Principles and Applications for Life (PAL) Program is a faith-based program that helps inmates develop their spiritual lives. The program includes Bible studies, worship services, and counseling.
GED Program
The Ouachita River Unit offers a GED program to help inmates earn their high school equivalency diploma. The program includes classes and testing, and inmates who complete the program are better prepared for reentry into society.
Hobby Craft
The Hobby Craft program allows inmates to develop their artistic skills and create handmade items. The program includes instruction in various crafts, such as woodworking, painting, and knitting.
Inmate Council
The Inmate Council is a group of elected inmates who represent the inmate population and provide feedback to the prison administration. The council also helps to organize events and programs for the inmates.
Hospital Services
The Ouachita River Unit provides hospital services to its inmates, including medical and dental care. The prison has a medical unit with a full-time physician and nursing staff.
The Ouachita River Unit also offers other programs, such as the Sheltered Living program, the Think Legacy Program, the Reentry Program, the Workforce Alliance for Growth in the Economy (WAGE) Program, and Substance Abuse Education. These programs are designed to help inmates develop the skills they need to succeed and prepare for reentry into society.