Taconic Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison located in Bedford Hills, Westchester County, New York. The facility is designed for female inmates and has a capacity of 387. Taconic Correctional Facility has various programs in place to help incarcerated individuals, including educational and vocational training programs.
The facility is situated on 250 Harris Road and is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of modern and traditional styles. Taconic Correctional Facility has been in operation since 1901 and has undergone several renovations to improve the living conditions of its inmates. The facility is managed by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS).
Taconic Correctional Facility has been the subject of controversy in the past, with reports of abuse and mistreatment of inmates. However, the facility has also been praised for its efforts to provide educational and vocational training to its inmates, with many graduates going on to secure employment after their release. Overall, Taconic Correctional Facility plays an important role in the criminal justice system in New York State, providing a secure and rehabilitative environment for female inmates.
| Security | Medium |
| Capacity | 387 |
| Physical Address | 250 Harris Road Bedford Hills, NY 10507-2497 |
| Mailing Address | 250 Harris Road Bedford Hills, NY 10507-2497 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Weekends and Holidays: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (914) 241-3010 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
Taconic Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison located in Bedford Hills, New York. The facility was established in 1901 as the New York State Reformatory for Women, which was the first state reformatory for women in the United States. The facility was designed to provide a more humane approach to the incarceration of women and to offer them an opportunity for rehabilitation.
Over the years, the facility has undergone several changes and expansions. In 1976, it was renamed the Taconic Correctional Facility and became a maximum-security prison. In 1997, it was converted back to a medium-security prison. Today, Taconic houses approximately 380 female inmates.
Throughout its history, Taconic has been at the forefront of innovative programs and policies aimed at improving the lives of incarcerated women. In the 1970s, the facility established a nursery program that allowed incarcerated mothers to keep their babies with them in prison. The program was later expanded to include a daycare center and a preschool.
In recent years, Taconic has been recognized for its efforts to reduce recidivism among its inmates. The facility offers a range of educational and vocational programs, including GED classes, college courses, and vocational training. In addition, Taconic has implemented a number of programs aimed at addressing the mental health needs of its inmates, including a mental health unit and a suicide prevention program.
Overall, Taconic Correctional Facility has a rich history of innovation and progress in the field of corrections. Its commitment to providing a safe and humane environment for incarcerated women, as well as its focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, has made it a model for other correctional facilities across the country.
Facility Description
Taconic Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison located in the Town of Bedford Hills in Westchester County, New York. The facility is operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. It was opened in 1901 as a women’s prison and is still used for the general confinement of females 18 years and older.
The facility has a capacity of 387 inmates and provides a variety of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. These programs include vocational training, educational programs, substance abuse treatment, and counseling services.
Taconic Correctional Facility is classified as a medium-security prison, which means that it houses inmates who have committed less serious crimes or who have demonstrated good behavior while serving time at a maximum-security prison. The facility has a staff of approximately 350 correctional officers and support staff.
The facility is designed to provide a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates. It is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, including surveillance cameras, electronic door locks, and metal detectors. The facility also has a perimeter fence and a 24-hour security patrol to prevent escapes and unauthorized access.
In conclusion, Taconic Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison that provides a variety of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. It is operated by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision and has a staff of approximately 350 correctional officers and support staff. The facility is designed to provide a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates and is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems.
Inmate Information
Inmate Search
To find an inmate at Taconic Correctional Facility, one can use the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision inmate lookup tool. This tool allows individuals to search for inmates by name or Department Identification Number (DIN). Inmates can be searched for at any time, and the tool will provide information such as the inmate’s name, DIN, facility location, and release date.
Inmate Mail
Inmates at Taconic Correctional Facility can receive mail from friends and family. All incoming mail must include the inmate’s full name, DIN, and facility address. Mail that does not meet these requirements will be returned to the sender. Inmates are allowed to receive letters, cards, and photographs. However, they are not allowed to receive packages or any items that are not approved by the facility.
Release Date
An inmate’s release date is determined by several factors, including the length of their sentence, the nature of their offense, and their behavior while incarcerated. Inmates may be eligible for parole or conditional release, which can result in an earlier release date. However, release dates are subject to change based on a variety of factors, and inmates should not rely on a specific release date.
Overall, Taconic Correctional Facility provides inmates with access to resources and services to help them prepare for their eventual release. Inmates can participate in educational and vocational programs, as well as counseling and substance abuse treatment. While incarcerated, inmates are encouraged to maintain positive relationships with family and friends through regular communication via mail and visitation.
Visiting Information
Taconic Correctional Facility allows visits from family and friends to incarcerated individuals, which can be a positive influence during their time in prison and after their release. Research shows that incarcerated individuals who receive regular visits adjust much better once they are released from prison.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Taconic Correctional Facility are between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on weekends and designated holidays. Visitor processing begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. All inmate movement to and from the visiting room will stop during the master count. Visitors should plan to arrive early to ensure they have enough time for processing and to avoid being turned away.
Visitation Schedule
The visitation schedule at Taconic Correctional Facility is subject to change, so it is recommended that visitors check the official schedule before planning a visit. Effective 7/16/22, visitation is open to all incarcerated individuals regardless of last name.
Maximum Number of Visitors Per Visit
The maximum number of visitors allowed per visit is four, including children. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Visitors must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and are subject to search before entering the facility.
Visitors are not allowed to bring in any hazardous items, including weapons, drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products. Any visitor found in possession of hazardous items will be denied entry and may be subject to legal action. Visitors are also not allowed to bring in any food or drinks, except for baby formula or medication.
If a visitor is unable to provide valid photo identification, they may be allowed to enter with a notarized statement from a government agency or official, such as a consulate or embassy. However, this is subject to approval by the facility and should not be relied upon as a guaranteed method of entry.
Overall, Taconic Correctional Facility strives to provide a safe and secure environment for both inmates and visitors. Visitors are encouraged to follow all rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Contact Information
Physical Address
Taconic Correctional Facility is located at 250 Harris Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507. The facility is situated in Westchester County, New York, and covers an area of approximately 700 acres. The facility is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and visitors can use the driving directions provided on the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision website to plan their trip.
Mailing Address
Friends and family members of inmates can send mail to the Taconic Correctional Facility at the following mailing address:
Inmate Name, DIN
Taconic Correctional Facility
250 Harris Road
Bedford Hills, NY 10507It is important to include the inmate’s name and DIN on all correspondence to ensure timely delivery.
Telephone
The Taconic Correctional Facility can be reached by telephone at (914) 241-3010. The facility’s phone lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and callers can speak to a member of the facility’s staff to get information about visitation, inmate programs, and other services.
The Taconic Correctional Facility does not have a public email address for general inquiries. However, friends and family members of inmates can use the Secure Vendor Program to send electronic messages to their loved ones. The program allows users to send messages, photos, and e-cards to inmates for a fee.
In conclusion, the Taconic Correctional Facility provides several ways for individuals to contact the facility and its staff. Visitors can use the physical address to plan their trip, while friends and family members can use the mailing address to send letters and packages to inmates. The facility can be reached by telephone at (914) 241-3010, and the Secure Vendor Program allows users to send electronic messages to inmates.
Educational and Vocational Programs
Taconic Correctional Facility offers a range of educational and vocational programs to help incarcerated individuals acquire new skills and knowledge that can help them succeed after they are released. These programs are designed to help individuals build self-esteem, improve their employability, and increase their chances of success in the community.
Adult Basic Education
The Adult Basic Education program at Taconic Correctional Facility provides instruction in reading, writing, and math to help individuals improve their basic skills. This program is designed for individuals who did not finish high school or who have limited literacy skills. The program is offered at different levels, from basic to advanced, and is tailored to meet the needs of each individual.
GED
The General Educational Development (GED) program at Taconic Correctional Facility provides instruction to help individuals prepare for the GED exam. The GED is a high school equivalency exam that is recognized by employers and colleges across the country. The program covers four subjects: math, science, social studies, and language arts. Individuals who pass the GED exam earn a high school equivalency diploma.
Vocational Training
Taconic Correctional Facility offers a range of vocational training programs to help individuals acquire skills that can help them find employment after they are released. These programs include:
- Cosmetology
- Business
- Painting
- Decorating
The vocational training programs are designed to provide hands-on experience and practical skills that can help individuals succeed in the workforce. The programs are taught by experienced instructors and are tailored to meet the needs of each individual.
English as a Second Language
The English as a Second Language (ESL) program at Taconic Correctional Facility provides instruction in English language skills to help individuals improve their communication skills. The program is designed for individuals who do not speak English as their first language. The program covers basic English language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
In conclusion, Taconic Correctional Facility offers a range of educational and vocational programs to help individuals acquire new skills and knowledge that can help them succeed after they are released. These programs are designed to help individuals build self-esteem, improve their employability, and increase their chances of success in the community.
Treatment and Counseling Services
Taconic Correctional Facility offers various treatment and counseling services to its female inmates to help them overcome their problems and reintegrate back into society. These services include substance abuse treatment, counseling services, and more.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse treatment is a critical aspect of Taconic Correctional Facility’s rehabilitation program. The facility offers Addiction Treatment Services to offenders identified as needing intervention. The screening process is based on self-report and a review of the available corresponding data. Offenders are ranked according to need, time left to serve, and risk for recidivism. The program includes education, group therapy, and individual counseling to help inmates address their addiction issues and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.
Counseling Services
Taconic Correctional Facility offers a wide range of counseling services to its inmates. These services include guidance and counseling, trauma programs, and aggression replacement training. The facility also offers Relapse Prevention Services to help inmates avoid relapse after they leave the facility. The counseling services aim to help inmates develop a positive attitude, build self-esteem, and improve their social skills.
In addition to traditional counseling services, the facility also offers specialized counseling services to inmates with specific needs. For example, the facility offers sex offender treatment programs to inmates who require it. The program aims to help inmates understand the impact of their behavior on others and develop strategies to manage their behavior in the future.
Overall, Taconic Correctional Facility’s treatment and counseling services provide inmates with the tools they need to overcome their problems and reintegrate back into society. The facility’s rehabilitation program is designed to help inmates develop the skills they need to lead productive, law-abiding lives after their release.
Special Programs
Taconic Correctional Facility offers a variety of special programs to help incarcerated individuals maintain connections with their families, develop skills, and prepare for life after release. These programs are designed to support the well-being of incarcerated individuals and their families and to help individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities upon release.
Family Reunion Program
Taconic Correctional Facility’s Family Reunion Program allows incarcerated individuals to spend a weekend with their family members in a private, non-contact setting. The program is open to immediate family members, including spouses, parents, children, and siblings. Family members must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued photo ID. The program is intended to help maintain family connections and reduce the negative impact of separation on both the incarcerated individual and their family.
Foster Care
Taconic Correctional Facility’s foster care program allows incarcerated individuals to participate in a training program to become licensed foster parents. The program is designed to help incarcerated parents maintain relationships with their children and prepare for reunification after release. The program includes training on parenting skills, child development, and the foster care system, as well as ongoing support for participants after they are released.
Volunteer Services
Taconic Correctional Facility’s volunteer services program allows community members to volunteer at the facility and provide support to incarcerated individuals. Volunteers can participate in a variety of activities, including tutoring, mentoring, and teaching classes. The program is intended to help incarcerated individuals develop skills and prepare for life after release, as well as to provide a positive influence and support system.
Religious Services
Taconic Correctional Facility offers a variety of religious services and programs for incarcerated individuals. These programs include religious services, Bible study groups, and faith-based counseling. The facility also has chaplains on staff to provide spiritual guidance and support to incarcerated individuals of all faiths.
Hudson Link
Taconic Correctional Facility partners with Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison, a nonprofit organization that provides college education programs to incarcerated individuals. The program offers college courses and degree programs, as well as support services for students. The program is intended to help incarcerated individuals develop skills and prepare for successful reentry into their communities.
Marymount Manhattan College
Taconic Correctional Facility has a partnership with Marymount Manhattan College to offer college courses to incarcerated individuals. The program is designed to help individuals earn college credits and develop skills that will be useful after release. The program is open to all incarcerated individuals who meet the college’s admission requirements.
In conclusion, Taconic Correctional Facility offers a variety of special programs to support the well-being of incarcerated individuals and their families and to help individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities upon release. These programs provide opportunities for education, skill development, and family connections, and are an important part of the facility’s mission to promote rehabilitation and successful reentry.