Sussex I State Prison is a correctional facility located in Waverly, Virginia. It is one of the largest prisons in Virginia and houses male inmates who have been convicted of serious crimes. The prison has a capacity of 1,167 inmates and is known for its strict security measures.
Recently, Sussex I State Prison made headlines when a sergeant was seriously injured by an inmate. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of correctional officers and the need for increased security measures in prisons. Despite this incident, Sussex I State Prison remains committed to its mission of maintaining a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff.
The Virginia Department of Corrections has announced plans to replace all cell doors at Sussex I and Sussex II state prisons. This construction project will start in approximately 60 days and is estimated to take three years at a cost of $13.6 million. The existing cell doors are being secured with keyed locks. This initiative is part of the department’s efforts to improve safety and security in its facilities.
| Security | Supermax |
| Capacity | 1,167 |
| Physical Address | 24414 Musselwhite Drive Waverly, VA 23891 |
| Mailing Address | 24414 Musselwhite Drive Waverly, VA 23891 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (804) 834-9967 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Location and Capacity
Sussex I State Prison is located in Sussex County, Virginia, at 24414 Musselwhite Drive, Waverly, VA 23891. The facility is situated in a rural area and covers approximately 1,200 acres of land. The prison is surrounded by a double fence with razor wire, and there are 42 towers equipped with armed guards.
The facility has a capacity of 1,167 inmates, with a mix of maximum, medium, and minimum-security prisoners. Sussex I State Prison is a level 5 security prison.
The prison has a physical address of 24414 Musselwhite Drive, Waverly, VA 23891. Visitors can contact the facility by phone at (804) 834-9967.
Overall, Sussex I State Prison is a secure facility that houses a significant number of inmates. The prison has a reputation for being well-run and for providing inmates with access to educational and vocational programs to help them prepare for life after incarceration.
Visitation
Visitation is an important part of an inmate’s life at Sussex I State Prison. It allows them to maintain connections with their loved ones and friends outside of the prison walls. However, there are rules and regulations that visitors must follow in order to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Visiting Hours and Rules
Visiting hours at Sussex I State Prison vary depending on the housing unit of the inmate. Visitors should check with the prison for specific visiting hours. Visitors are also required to follow certain rules and regulations during their visit. This includes submitting to electronic scanning and pat-down frisk searches and presenting a valid photo ID.
Visitors are not allowed to bring in any contraband, including cell phones, weapons, and drugs. The use of contraband detection canines is also in place to ensure that no illegal items are brought into the prison. For more information about visitation, check the VADOC website.
Visitation Application and Approval
In order to visit an inmate at Sussex I State Prison, visitors must first fill out a visitation application and have it approved by the prison. The application can be obtained from the Virginia Department of Corrections website or from the prison itself. Visitors must provide their full name, address, and date of birth, as well as the name and inmate number of the person they wish to visit. The application must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the visit.
Visitor’s Pass and Dress Code
Upon arrival at Sussex I State Prison, visitors must present a valid photo ID and fill out a visitor’s pass. Visitors are required to dress appropriately and follow the dress code. This includes no revealing clothing, no shorts or skirts above the knee, and no clothing with offensive language or graphics. Visitors are also not allowed to bring in any items, including food or drinks, with the exception of infant feeding items. Greeting cards and postcards are allowed, but visitors should check with the prison for specific guidelines on appropriate photos and photocopies.
Overall, visiting an inmate at Sussex I State Prison requires careful planning and adherence to strict rules and regulations. However, with proper preparation and compliance, visitors can maintain important connections with their loved ones who are incarcerated.
Education and Treatment Programs
Sussex I State Prison offers a variety of education and treatment programs to help inmates prepare for their eventual release and reintegration into society. These programs are designed to address a range of issues that inmates may face, from substance abuse to cognitive and behavioral problems.
Skill Development
One of the primary focuses of education programs at Sussex I State Prison is skill development. Inmates have the opportunity to participate in vocational training programs that teach them skills that they can use to find employment upon their release. These programs include training in fields such as auto mechanics, welding, and culinary arts.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a common problem among inmates, and Sussex I State Prison offers a range of treatment programs to help inmates overcome their addictions. These programs include individual and group counseling, as well as access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction.
Background Check
Before inmates can participate in certain programs, they must undergo a background check to ensure that they do not pose a threat to the safety and security of the facility. This check includes a review of the inmate’s criminal history, as well as a check for any gang affiliations.
Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abusers
Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abusers (CBI-SA) is a program that is specifically designed to help inmates overcome substance abuse problems. This program uses a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing techniques to help inmates change their behavior and develop the skills they need to stay sober.
Custodial Maintenance and Sanitation
Inmates at Sussex I State Prison are also required to participate in custodial maintenance and sanitation programs. These programs teach inmates how to maintain a clean and sanitary living environment, and they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining their living areas.
Building Opportunities of Knowledge
Building Opportunities of Knowledge (BOOK) is a program that provides inmates with access to educational materials, including books and other resources. This program is designed to help inmates improve their literacy skills and increase their knowledge in a variety of subjects.
Overall, the education and treatment programs at Sussex I State Prison are designed to help inmates address a range of issues and prepare for their eventual release and reintegration into society. These programs are an important part of the rehabilitation process and can help inmates make positive changes in their lives.
Life Sentences and Death Row
Sussex I State Prison is home to many inmates serving life sentences or awaiting execution on death row. Inmates who receive a life sentence are typically not eligible for parole and will spend the rest of their lives in prison.
Death row is a term that refers to the area of a prison where inmates under sentence of death are housed. Despite the fact that many states do not maintain a separate unit or facility for prisoners under sentence of death, the term “death row” continues to be used.
Inmates on death row at Sussex I State Prison are housed in a maximum-security unit and are under close supervision. The appeals process for death row inmates can take many years, and during that time, they remain in their cells for the majority of the day.
Inmates who receive multiple life sentences may also be housed in the same unit as death row inmates. These inmates are often considered to be some of the most dangerous and violent offenders and are kept under strict supervision.
Overall, life sentences and death row are serious matters that are taken very seriously at Sussex I State Prison. The prison staff works hard to ensure the safety and security of all inmates, regardless of their sentence length or status on death row.
Inmate Services
Sussex I State Prison offers a variety of inmate services to ensure that the inmates are taken care of and have access to essential resources during their time in the facility. These services include sending money to an inmate, recovery programs, care packages, and maintaining contact with friends.
Send Money to an Inmate
Inmates at Sussex I State Prison can receive money from friends and family to purchase items from the commissary. Deposits can be made online, over the phone, or in person at the facility. The Virginia Department of Corrections has partnered with JPay to provide a secure and convenient way to send money to an inmate. Friends and family can also send money through the mail in the form of a money order.
Recovery
Sussex I State Prison offers several recovery programs to help inmates overcome addiction and other issues. These programs include substance abuse counseling, anger management, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Inmates can also participate in vocational training programs to prepare them for reentry into society.
Friends
Inmates at Sussex I State Prison can maintain contact with friends through mail and visitation. Friends can send letters and cards to inmates, and inmates can respond. Visitation is available on certain days and times, and visitors must be approved by the facility. Inmates can also make phone calls to approved numbers.
Overall, Sussex I State Prison provides a range of inmate services to ensure the well-being and rehabilitation of inmates. These services help to create a safer and more productive environment for both inmates and staff.
Security
Security is of utmost importance at Sussex I State Prison. The facility is equipped with various measures to ensure the safety of staff and inmates.
Armed Guard Towers
One of the most visible security measures at Sussex I State Prison is the presence of armed guard towers. These towers are strategically placed around the perimeter of the facility, providing guards with a clear view of the surrounding area. This allows them to quickly respond to any potential threats, such as attempted escapes or unauthorized individuals attempting to enter the facility.
Rotating Schedule
Another important security measure at Sussex I State Prison is the use of a rotating schedule for guards. This means that guards are not assigned to the same area of the prison for extended periods of time. Instead, they are regularly moved around the facility, which helps prevent them from becoming too familiar with any one area. This reduces the risk of complacency and helps ensure that guards remain vigilant at all times.
In addition to these measures, Sussex I State Prison also has a comprehensive security system in place that includes cameras, alarms, and other technologies. All staff are trained in security procedures and are regularly reminded of the importance of remaining alert and vigilant.
Overall, the security measures in place at Sussex I State Prison are designed to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. While no system is foolproof, the facility’s commitment to security is evident in the measures it has put in place.