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How to contact an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to connect with an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution. Follow the steps below to find an inmate and send letters and photos:
- Search for the inmate using our search tool below
- Create your account or log in to Penmate
- Write your message (up to 6,000 characters)
- Send instantly - inmates receive printed copies daily
Find an Inmate
Search for an inmate to start communicating today
Tip: You can search by first name, last name, or inmate ID number
To contact a person at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution start by searching for the person on the official facility website. Perform a search by following these steps:
- Step 1: Enter their first name and last name into the search form and click "Search"
- Step 2: Locate their inmate record
- Step 3: Write down their Inmate ID and any housing information provided
Important! Be sure to enter the person's full name. Nicknames should not be used.
How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution.
Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.
Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution.
Frequently asked questions about MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution
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How long does it take to deliver a message?
If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution.
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How much does it cost to send a message to MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.
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What services can I use to contact an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
Penmate
You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.
Securus messaging
Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.
JPay
Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.
Smart Jail Mail
You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.
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What is the mailing address of MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
Mailing address:
MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution
1153 East Street S
Suffield, CT 06078
Phone: (860) 627-2100Business hours:
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
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What are the visiting hours at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
Visiting hours at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (860) 627-2100 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.
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What items are prohibited when sending mail to MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.
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How do I send money to an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
You can send money to an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.
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Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.
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What identification do I need to visit an inmate at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution?
All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.
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How can I find out an inmate's release date?
To find an inmate's release date at MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.
Facility Overview
Contact Information
MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution1153 East Street S
Suffield, CT 06078
Phone: (860) 627-2100
Official Website

About MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution
Serving as a level 4/5 high and maximum security multi-mission facility for adult males, MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution operates as the largest correctional facility in New England based on its offender population. The institution emerged from the consolidation of two existing facilities—the Walker Reception and Special Management Unit and the MacDougall Correctional Institution—on May 15, 2001, creating a comprehensive correctional complex that spans 140 acres in South Suffield, Connecticut.
Based in South Suffield at 1153 East Street, the facility accommodates its substantial population across two distinct buildings: the MacDougall Building and the Walker Building, each maintaining separate contact numbers and operational schedules. The institution's multi-mission design allows it to serve various correctional functions while maintaining the high security protocols required for its classification level. Located in Hartford County, the facility serves the broader Connecticut correctional system's needs for maximum security housing and specialized programming.
The institution typically offers both in-person and video visiting options for approved visitors, with scheduling coordinated through the Connecticut Department of Correction's centralized visiting system. As an accredited facility within the state correctional system, MacDougall-Walker likely provides essential services including medical care, educational programming, and reentry preparation, though specific program details may vary based on security requirements and individual inmate classifications.
Programs & Services
As a Level 4/5 maximum security facility serving adult males, MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution operates as a multi-mission complex that typically provides a range of rehabilitative services designed to address the diverse needs of its population. Given its status as New England's largest correctional facility, the institution likely offers comprehensive programming that may include educational opportunities such as GED preparation, adult basic education, and potentially vocational training programs. Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are commonly available at facilities of this security level, along with religious services and library access to support personal development and rehabilitation efforts.
The facility's dual-building structure, consisting of the MacDougall and Walker buildings, may allow for specialized programming tailored to different custody levels and individual needs. Inmates often have access to medical and dental care, recreational activities, and work assignments that can provide valuable skills and structure. The institution likely maintains programs focused on anger management, life skills development, and pre-release preparation to help individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities. Social services staff typically assist with maintaining family connections and planning for post-release housing and employment, while the facility's visiting program, which includes both in-person and video options, helps preserve important relationships during incarceration.
Daily Life & Visitation

At MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution, the state's largest correctional facility housing adult males, residents navigate structured routines within a high-security environment that spans 140 acres in South Suffield. The facility operates as a multi-mission institution, combining the functions of both the former Walker Reception and Special Management Unit and MacDougall Correctional Institution since their consolidation in 2001. Given its Level 4/5 security designation, daily activities typically follow strict schedules that may include work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods, all carefully supervised to maintain the safety and security required for this maximum-security population.
Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with both in-person and video visiting options available through scheduled appointments. Visitors must maintain active approval status and complete visit request forms, with confirmation required before any video visit is finalized. The facility operates separate visiting schedules for its MacDougall and Walker buildings, with recent updates to visiting times taking effect in late 2024 and early 2025. Residents are responsible for notifying their visitors when housing location changes occur, as these moves may require visit rescheduling.
The institution's role as New England's largest correctional facility means it typically offers various programs and services common to major correctional institutions, which may include educational opportunities, vocational training, and healthcare services. As a multi-mission facility, MacDougall-Walker often serves different custody levels and special populations, requiring diverse programming to meet varying needs. The structured environment emphasizes security protocols while working to provide opportunities for personal development and maintaining family relationships through the visiting program and other communication methods approved by the Connecticut Department of Correction.
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