What to Expect During the Search Process at Branchville Correctional Facility
Security screening is part of every visit at Branchville Correctional Facility. Knowing what to expect—and what happens if you refuse—helps you plan ahead and avoid problems.
Expect a frisk search when you arrive at Branchville Correctional Facility. This is a hands-on pat-down that includes the breast and groin areas. With your consent, staff of either gender may conduct the search - knowing this ahead of time helps you prepare mentally.
Beyond the frisk, you'll go through equipment screening - metal detectors and ion scanners that check for prohibited items and residues. Budget a few extra minutes and follow staff instructions during this part of the process.
You may also encounter K-9 units. Search dogs can screen visitors before entry and sometimes patrol the visiting room during visits. If a dog approaches you, don't worry - it's routine, not a sign you've done anything wrong.
Refuse any part of the search and you won't get in. If you're already visiting, refusal ends your visit immediately. The easiest way to avoid a wasted trip? Go in expecting to complete every step of the screening.
If staff find contraband on you or in your belongings, your visit ends. Prohibited items include firearms, weapons, knives, and ammunition; narcotics and controlled substances; most medications (unless life-saving or life-sustaining); electronics like cell phones and cameras; and tobacco products. Visiting with a baby? You're limited to one clear plastic baby bottle and/or pacifier plus one diaper.
Indiana DOC takes trafficking seriously. If you're caught possessing or transferring controlled substances, tobacco, electronics, or weapons, evidence goes to the Indiana State Police with a recommendation for prosecution. You can also be permanently banned from visiting any offender at any Department of Correction facility.
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- ✓ Bring as little as possible so screening goes faster, and leave extras locked away before you enter.
- ✓ Don’t bring prohibited items into the visiting area: firearms/weapons/knives/ammunition; narcotics or controlled substances; tobacco products; electronic devices (including cell phones and cameras).
- ✓ If you must bring life-saving or life-sustaining medication, let staff at the visiting desk know you’re carrying it.
- ✓ If you’re bringing baby supplies, keep it to what’s allowed: one clear plastic baby bottle and/or pacifier and one diaper.
- ✓ Dress to meet Branchville’s standards: undergarments and shoes required; no tight-fitting pants like leggings; skirts/shorts no shorter than two inches above the knee and without deep slits; shirts must have sleeves; jewelry is limited to a wedding band or set.
- ✓ Expect to be screened with a metal detector and/or ion scanning equipment before entering the visiting area.
Reminder: Refusing a search means getting turned away or having your visit cut short. Bringing contraband ends your visit - and trafficking can result in a permanent visiting ban plus referral to the Indiana State Police.
- Stay calm and ask what happened - If you’re denied entry or your visit is ended, ask staff what rule caused it (refusal to be searched, or prohibited/contraband items found).
- Write down the details right away - Note the date/time and what was said or found, especially if the issue involved a prohibited item (like a phone, tobacco, or medication).
- Plan for the consequences before you try again - Refusing a search can mean you’re not allowed in, and trafficking allegations can be referred to the Indiana State Police and can lead to a permanent ban from visiting any offender.
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