What to Bring (and What to Leave in Your Car) When Visiting James W. Allred Unit
A smooth visit starts with packing light. Here's what to bring to James W. Allred Unit, and what to leave locked in your car so you don't get turned away at the gate.
If you're 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Staff check IDs at entry, and at least one of your documents must show your current physical address. Expired IDs or ones with an old address won't cut it.
Before you drive out, make sure you're approved and actually on the inmate's official Visitors List. Each inmate can have up to 10 people on that list. If you're not listed (or were recently added), confirm first. Finding out after you arrive is a wasted trip.
Allowed Inside Perimeter
- ✓ Your government-issued photo ID
- ✓ A small wallet
- ✓ A clear plastic bag (Ziploc-type) or a small change purse
- ✓ Coins only for vending (up to $35)
Bringing an infant or small child? You can carry a small set of baby care items: diapers, wipes, and bottles (or a sippy cup for toddlers). Keep it minimal and pack everything in a clear plastic bag so you're ready for screening.
Prohibited Items Leave in Car
- ✓ Cell phones
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Laptop computers
- ✓ Cameras
- ✓ Digital recorders
- ✓ Any other electronic or wireless devices
- ✓ Purses
- ✓ Diaper bags
- ✓ Briefcases
- ✓ Food items
- ✓ Paper money (bring coins only)
Allred has specific limits on baby items. You can bring no more than three diapers, a supply of baby wipes, and up to two baby bottles (a sippy cup for toddlers is fine). Pack those in a clear plastic bag and leave everything else, including larger bags, in the car.
Expect security screening when you arrive. Visitors and vehicles can be searched, and property rules are enforced at the secure perimeter. If you want money for vending, bring coins only, up to $35. Leave paper cash and extra belongings locked in your vehicle.
Printable Previsit Checklist
- ✓ Bring a current, official government-issued photo ID (one ID must show your current physical address)
- ✓ Confirm you are on the inmate’s official Visitors List (max 10 people per inmate)
- ✓ If bringing a baby, pack only: up to three diapers, baby wipes, and up to two baby bottles (or a sippy cup), in a clear plastic bag
- ✓ Leave all electronics in your car (phones, cameras, recorders, laptops, and any other electronic or wireless devices)
- ✓ Bring coins only for vending (up to $35). Leave paper money and extra bags in the car
Quick reminder: Do a car check before you walk up, especially for phones and other electronics. Visiting with an infant? Put the allowed items in a clear plastic bag and stick to the stated limits.
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