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How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

For the most up-to-date communication and visitation details, call the facility directly. It's the fastest way to confirm schedules, visit types, and whether you need an appointment.

• 3 min read Based on general AZ policies
How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

For questions about contacting or visiting someone at the Dakota Unit, call Dakota Visitation at (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926. This is also the best number to use to confirm any schedule details before you make plans.

General population visitation runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and posted holidays. Each visitation day is split into two time blocks: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. General population inmates can receive visits both days, so when you call, ask which block applies. Non-contact visits are held on Tuesdays and are by appointment only. Availability can be limited, so call well in advance to secure a time.

Heads up: Visit length depends on the inmate's phase level. Special visits outside the regular schedule may be approved by the Dakota Unit Deputy Warden, but the inmate must submit a written request at least 30 days in advance.

Steps to Follow

  • ✓ Call (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926 to confirm the current rules and the visiting schedule.
  • ✓ Ask whether the inmate is on the general population visitation schedule (Saturdays, Sundays, and posted holidays).
  • ✓ Confirm which visitation block applies on visitation days: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., or 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • ✓ If you need a non-contact visit, ask about Tuesday appointments, availability, and how far ahead you should schedule.
  1. Have the inmate write a request - Special visits are considered based on a written request from the inmate.
  2. Submit it at least 30 days ahead - The request must be made at least 30 days in advance to be considered by the Dakota Unit Deputy Warden.
  3. Follow up by phone - Call (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926 to confirm whether the special visit was approved and what the next steps are.

Before you visit, ask about the allowed visit length for your loved one. At the Dakota Unit, visit length is based on the inmate's phase level, so the time you get can vary from person to person.

How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

What to Verify

  • ✓ Confirm the Dakota Visitation phone number and extension: (928) 627-8871 ext. 16926.
  • ✓ Verify that general population visitation is still held Saturdays, Sundays, and posted holidays.
  • ✓ Verify the current time blocks on visitation days: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • ✓ Confirm that non-contact visits are still held on Tuesdays.
  • ✓ Confirm that non-contact visits are appointment-only and subject to availability.
  • ✓ Ask how far in advance you should call to schedule a Tuesday appointment.
  • ✓ Ask what phase level the inmate is currently in, and what that means for visit length.
  • ✓ If you need a special visit, confirm the written-request process and that the request still needs to be submitted at least 30 days in advance to the Dakota Unit Deputy Warden.

Reminder: Details like appointment booking instructions, required identification, and other visitation restrictions aren't covered here. Call the facility to confirm what you need before you go.

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