What You Can't Bring to Evans: The Complete Contraband Checklist
Show up with the wrong items and you'll lose time at the entrance—or get turned away entirely. Use this checklist to avoid common contraband problems at Evans.
Your visit to Evans Correctional Institution goes a lot smoother when you know what will get stopped at the door. Use the checklist below to avoid delays, extra screening, or getting turned away for bringing prohibited items onto SCDC property.
Since February 1, 2016, all personal devices that communicate wirelessly have been banned from SCDC institutions. If it can transmit or connect wirelessly, assume it cannot go inside with you.
Tip: This goes beyond phones. Smartwatches and fitness or activity trackers are specifically included in the wireless-device ban.
SCDC has been tobacco-free since January 1, 2008. Tobacco and tobacco-related products aren't allowed in any agency buildings or on any agency property. Leave them at home before heading to Evans.
Reminder: The tobacco ban includes paraphernalia and lighting devices. Leave anything tobacco-related at home or secured off SCDC property.
If you're 18 or older and entering a Level II or Level III institution, you'll need to submit to a pat/frisk search. This is on top of existing search procedures, so build a little extra time into your arrival.
Female visitors will be searched by female employees only. If you have concerns about the process, speak up before the search begins. Staff can walk you through what to expect.
Note: Pat/frisk searches are required for adult visitors at Level II and Level III facilities. Having prohibited items on you can end a visit fast, so arrive prepared and keep what you carry to a minimum.
As of July 1, 2024, visitation vending machines at Evans accept only debit and credit cards. PayKeys are no longer accepted. Only one debit or credit card may be brought in per visiting group or employee, so plan around that before you leave home.
- ✓ Use an accepted card brand: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express
- ✓ Do not bring a prepaid debit card. Prepaid debit cards are not accepted and may not be brought into the institution
- ✓ Make sure the card has your name printed on it, and that the name matches your photo ID
Warning: Prepaid cards may not be allowed inside. If the name on the card doesn't match your ID, you may not be able to use it in visitation.
Common Items
- ✓ Wireless devices of any kind (including smartwatches and fitness or activity trackers)
- ✓ Tobacco, tobacco-related products, paraphernalia, and lighting devices
- ✓ Prepaid debit cards (they are not accepted and may not be brought into the institution)
Not sure about a specific item? Keep it simple and leave it in your vehicle or at home. For vending and payment questions, check the most current SCDC family and visitation guidance before your trip so nothing catches you off guard at the entrance.
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