Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center (PWCC) is a mixed custody facility located in Pocatello, Idaho, that houses female offenders of all custody levels. The facility, which opened its doors in April 1994, has an operating capacity of 331 female residents. PWCC is the Idaho Department of Correction’s first facility designed specifically to meet the unique program needs of female inmates.
The facility provides a variety of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release, including vocational work projects, programming, and a pre-release program. Inmates can also participate in substance abuse treatment and mental health services to help them address underlying issues that may have contributed to their criminal behavior. PWCC also offers a work-release program to help inmates transition back into society and find employment after their release.
Visiting rules and regulations at PWCC are strictly enforced to ensure the safety and security of inmates, staff, and visitors. Visitors must go through a background check and complete a visiting application process before being allowed to visit an inmate. Visiting schedules and hours vary depending on the unit, and visitors are expected to follow all rules and regulations while on the facility’s campus.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 331 |
| Physical Address | 1451 Fore Road Pocatello, ID 83204 |
| Mailing Address | 1451 Fore Road Pocatello, ID 83204 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Depends on the Unit |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 208-236-6360 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The facility was officially opened in April 1994, becoming the Idaho Department of Correction’s first facility designed specifically to meet the unique program needs of female residents. It has an operating capacity of 331 female residents and houses all custody levels.
The roots of corrections in Idaho can be traced back to Idaho City and Lewiston, where the territorial legislature designated the two cities’ jails as territorial prisons in 1864. In 1887, the Idaho Territorial Legislature authorized the construction of a new prison in Boise to replace the territorial prison in Idaho City. The prison was completed in 1890 and was known as the Idaho State Penitentiary.
The Women’s Ward at the Idaho State Penitentiary was established in 1905, and it housed female inmates until 1968 when it officially closed. Four prisoners topped out their time at women’s prisons in Oregon and Nevada. Another generation would pass before Idaho reclaimed its own at the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center, which opened in 1994.
Since its establishment, PWCC has undergone significant changes and improvements. In 2005, the facility underwent a $15 million expansion project, which added 200 beds to the facility’s capacity. The expansion included a new housing unit, an expanded visitation area, and a new medical and mental health unit.
Today, PWCC provides a range of vocational work projects, educational programs, and correctional programs to help female residents successfully transition back into society. The facility operates the reception and diagnostic center for women and offers various programs such as substance abuse treatment, parenting classes, and anger management classes.
In conclusion, the history of Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center is intertwined with the history of corrections in Idaho. From its roots in Idaho City and Lewiston to the establishment of the Women’s Ward at the Idaho State Penitentiary, PWCC has a long and storied history of providing correctional services to female residents. Today, the facility continues to evolve and adapt to meet the unique needs of its residents, providing them with the tools and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society.
Programs and Services
Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center offers a variety of programs and services to help inmates improve their lives and prepare for their eventual release. These programs include education and training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and religious services.
Programming
PWCC offers a variety of programming options for inmates, including educational classes, life skills training, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The educational classes cover a range of topics, including basic literacy, GED preparation, and vocational training. The life skills training focuses on practical skills such as budgeting, parenting, and communication. The cognitive-behavioral therapy program helps inmates identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Vocational Work Projects
PWCC offers a variety of vocational work projects to inmates, including manufacturing, printing, and data entry. These projects provide inmates with valuable work experience and help them develop job skills that can be used upon release.
Correctional Industries Program
The Correctional Industries Program at PWCC provides inmates with the opportunity to work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and construction. This program provides valuable job training and experience, as well as a source of income for inmates.
Substance Abuse Treatment
PWCC offers a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program for inmates struggling with addiction. The program includes individual and group counseling, as well as education and support groups. Inmates are also provided with aftercare services to help them maintain sobriety upon release.
Overall, PWCC’s programs and services are designed to help inmates develop the skills and knowledge they need to successfully reintegrate into society upon release.
Visiting Rules and Application
Visiting Rules
Visiting rules for the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center are designed to ensure the safety and security of both visitors and residents. Visitors are expected to follow all rules and regulations while on the premises. Some of the rules include:
- Visitors must be on the approved list of visitors for the resident they wish to visit.
- Visitors must provide valid identification.
- Visitors must wear appropriate attire.
- Visitors must not bring any weapons, drugs, or contraband into the facility.
- Visitors must pass through a metal detector and be subject to a search.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours for PWCC are subject to change based on emergency situations. Visitors are advised to check the visiting schedule to ensure they have the most up-to-date information. Visiting hours for PWCC are as follows:
- Unit 1: Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- Unit 2: Saturday: 9:00 am – 11:45 am, 1:00 pm – 3:45 pm
- Unit 3: Monday: 9:00 am – 11:45 am, 1:00 pm – 3:45 pm
- Unit 4: Friday: 9:00 am – 11:45 am
- Unit 5: Sunday: 9:00 am – 11:45 am, 1:00 pm – 3:45 pm
Visiting Application
All visitors must first fill out a visiting application and have it approved before they can visit, a process which takes 2-4 weeks. The visiting application is available on the official website of the Idaho Department of Correction or can be obtained by contacting the facility.
Visiting Application Process
The visiting application process requires visitors to provide personal information including their name, address, and contact information. Visitors must also provide information about the resident they wish to visit, including their name and ID number. Visitors must also disclose any criminal history or pending charges.
Visiting Schedules
Visiting schedules are subject to change based on emergency situations. Visitors are advised to check the visiting schedule to ensure they have the most up-to-date information. Visiting schedules for PWCC are available on the official website of the Idaho Department of Correction or can be obtained by contacting the facility.
Overall, visitors to PWCC are expected to follow all rules and regulations while on the premises. Failure to do so may result in denial of visitation privileges.
Safety and Security
The Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center places a high priority on the safety and security of both inmates and staff. The facility uses a variety of measures to ensure that everyone within the prison is safe and secure.
Security Measures
PWCC has a heavily fortified perimeter, with multiple layers of security to prevent escapes and unauthorized entry. The facility is surrounded by razor-wire fencing and motion detectors, and armed guards patrol the perimeter at all times. In addition, the facility has a variety of security cameras and other surveillance equipment to monitor inmate activity.
Inside the facility, inmates are subject to strict rules and regulations designed to maintain order and prevent violence. Inmates are searched regularly, and all mail and packages are screened for contraband. Additionally, the facility has a comprehensive classification system to ensure that inmates are housed in appropriate units based on their security level and behavior.
Overcrowding
Like many correctional facilities across the country, PWCC has struggled with overcrowding in recent years. The facility has an operating capacity of 331 female residents, but as of May 2023, it houses more than 400 inmates. This overcrowding can create safety and security concerns, as well as make it more difficult for staff to manage the inmate population.
To address this issue, PWCC has implemented a variety of programs and initiatives designed to reduce recidivism and keep the inmate population under control. These include educational and vocational programs, as well as mental health and substance abuse treatment. By providing inmates with the tools they need to succeed upon release, the facility aims to reduce the number of repeat offenders and make the community safer for everyone.
Overall, PWCC is committed to ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and staff. Through a variety of security measures and programs, the facility aims to create a safe and stable environment for everyone within its walls.
Rehabilitation and Support
The Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center provides a range of rehabilitation and support services to help inmates prepare for re-entry into society. These services include education, mental health services, and religious services.
Education
PWCC offers a variety of educational programs to help inmates improve their skills and knowledge. These programs include Adult Basic Education (ABE), General Education Development (GED), and vocational training. Inmates can also participate in college courses through Idaho State University. These programs help inmates gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workforce after their release.
Mental Health Services
PWCC provides mental health services to inmates who require them. These services include counseling, medication management, and crisis intervention. Inmates can also participate in group therapy and support groups. These services help inmates address their mental health needs and develop coping skills to manage their symptoms.
Religious Services
PWCC offers religious services to inmates of various faiths. These services include religious classes, worship services, and spiritual counseling. Inmates can also participate in Bible studies and prayer groups. These services help inmates connect with their faith and find support within their religious community.
Overall, PWCC provides a range of rehabilitation and support services to help inmates prepare for re-entry into society. These services help inmates develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workforce, address their mental health needs, and connect with their faith community.