Wallens Ridge State Prison is a supermax-security correctional facility located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. The prison was opened in 1999 and is operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections. It is designed to house the most dangerous and violent offenders in the state, including those who have committed murder, rape, and other serious crimes.
The facility has a capacity of 1,016 inmates and is staffed by over 500 correctional officers, medical personnel, and administrative staff. The prison is divided into six housing units, each of which is designed to house different types of offenders based on their security level and behavioral history. The prison also has a Special Management Unit, which is used to house the most dangerous and disruptive inmates.
In recent years, Wallens Ridge State Prison has been the subject of controversy due to reports of violence, overcrowding, and poor living conditions. In 2022, an inmate died following an attack by another inmate, prompting an investigation by the Virginia Department of Corrections. Despite these challenges, the prison remains an important part of Virginia’s correctional system, providing a secure and controlled environment for some of the state’s most dangerous offenders.
| Security | Supermax |
| Capacity | 1,016 |
| Physical Address | 272 Dogwood Drive Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 |
| Mailing Address | 272 Dogwood Drive Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (276) 523-3310 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Overview
Wallens Ridge State Prison is a supermax-security facility located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and is managed by the Virginia Department of Corrections. The facility is designed to house male inmates, and its security level is classified as supermax. The prison has a capacity of 1,016 inmates.
Location
Wallens Ridge State Prison is located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, which is in the southwestern part of the state. The facility is situated on 1,000 acres of land and is surrounded by mountains. The prison is approximately 300 miles from Richmond, the capital of Virginia.
Facility Information
The Wallens Ridge State Prison has a variety of housing units that are designed to accommodate different types of inmates. The facility has a maximum-security unit, a segregation unit, a special management unit, and a mental health unit. The prison also has a medical unit that provides healthcare services to the inmates.
The facility provides various programs and services to help inmates in their rehabilitation process. These programs include educational, vocational, and substance abuse treatment programs. The prison also has a library, a law library, and a chapel.
Security Level
Wallens Ridge State Prison is classified as a supermax facility, which means that it is designed to house the most dangerous and violent inmates in the state. The prison has a high level of security, and it is equipped with the latest technology to ensure the safety of the staff and inmates. The facility has a 24-hour surveillance system, and all inmates are closely monitored.
In conclusion, Wallens Ridge State Prison is a high-security facility that is designed to house the most dangerous and violent inmates in Virginia. The prison provides various programs and services to help inmates in their rehabilitation process. The facility has a high level of security and is equipped with the latest technology to ensure the safety of the staff and inmates.
Visitation
Visitation is an essential part of maintaining family connections and supporting inmates at Wallens Ridge State Prison. Visitors are encouraged to come and spend time with their loved ones, and the prison administration has established specific guidelines to ensure the safety and security of all visitors, inmates, and staff.
Visits
Inmates at Wallens Ridge State Prison are allowed to have visits from family members and friends. Visits are an opportunity for inmates to maintain relationships with loved ones and receive emotional support during their incarceration. Visitors are encouraged to bring positive energy and engage in meaningful conversations with inmates. For information about visitation hours check this link.
Visitation Application
All visitors must complete a visitation application and be approved before visiting an inmate. The application can be obtained from the Virginia Department of Corrections website or at the prison. The application must be submitted at least two weeks before the intended visit. Visitors who are not approved will not be allowed to visit.
Dress Code
Visitors are expected to dress appropriately for their visit. Clothing that is revealing or provocative is not allowed. Visitors should not wear clothing that promotes violence, drugs, or alcohol. Visitors who do not follow the dress code will not be allowed to visit.
Inmates at Wallens Ridge State Prison can also receive letters and use the JPay system to communicate with family and friends. However, visits are an essential part of maintaining relationships and providing emotional support to inmates. The prison administration encourages visitors to come and spend time with their loved ones.
Contact Information
If you need to contact Wallens Ridge State Prison, there are several ways to do so. This section will provide you with the physical and mailing addresses, as well as the telephone number.
Physical Address
Wallens Ridge State Prison is located at 272 Dogwood Drive, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219. If you are planning to visit the prison, you should use this address for GPS purposes.
Mailing Address
If you need to send mail to an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison, you should use the following mailing address:
Inmate Name, ID Number
Wallens Ridge State Prison
272 Dogwood Drive
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219Make sure to include the inmate’s ID number, which can be found on the Virginia Department of Corrections website.
Telephone
To contact Wallens Ridge State Prison by telephone, you can call (276) 523-3310. This number can be used for general inquiries, as well as for scheduling a visit with an inmate.
It is important to note that all calls to and from the prison are recorded and monitored. Inmates are not allowed to receive incoming calls, but they can make outgoing calls during certain hours of the day. If you need to speak with an inmate, you should send a letter or schedule a visit.