What Inmates in Disciplinary Segregation Can and Cannot Do During Visits

Inmates in disciplinary segregation can only receive visits from attorneys and clergy. Friends and family social visits are off the table while the person remains in that status. Keep in mind that all visits are treated as a privilege under RIDOC rules, not a right. RIDOC administration can approve, deny, suspend, or revoke a visit, whether it's in person or by video.

Disciplinary segregation is designed to tighten control and reduce risk inside the facility. RIDOC keeps discretion over visitation in that setting so it can pause, limit, or remove visits as needed to maintain safety and order. Because visits are considered a privilege, the facility has broad authority to manage them. That includes changing what's allowed or stopping visits altogether when it determines it's necessary.

For families, the bottom line is simple: if the inmate is in disciplinary segregation, don't expect regular social visits until their status changes. The only visits authorized in that status are with attorneys and clergy.

1. Confirm the inmate’s current status with the facility. Before you make plans, verify whether they are still in disciplinary segregation, since that status controls who can visit.
2. Check whether you have been cleared to visit. RIDOC does not allow visits for people who have not cleared background investigations (both BCI and NCIC checks) unless the Assistant Director of Institutions and Operations (ADIO) or a designee specifically approves it.
3. Escalate a treatment or visitation complaint through the chain. Ask to speak with a superior officer first. If it still is not resolved, contact the warden of the facility where you were visiting.