Preparing for a visit: ID, dress code, and minors
Review the dress code before you arrive. RIDOC requires facilities to post the Visits policy, Visitor Dress Code, and facility-specific procedures in both English and Spanish in visiting waiting rooms. You can double-check expectations on site if you are unsure.
Bringing a child? Make the adult plan clear before you go. RIDOC policy requires minors to show consent from a parent or guardian, and minors must be accompanied by adults during the visit.
Common Questions
Q
Can someone with a criminal record visit an inmate?
In Rhode Island DOC, if you are not an immediate family member and you have certain criminal-justice involvement (including a felony record, pending charge, misdemeanor drug-related record, a nolo contendere plea, or probation), RIDOC states you cannot visit unless approved by the ADIO or the facility Warden. If this applies to you, your next step is to ask about the approval process for that specific facility.
Q
Where and when can I make an in-person deposit?
RIDOC lists the Inmate Accounts office at 51 West Road, Cranston, RI 02920 (John O. Pastore Government Center, adjacent to the John Moran Facility). Window hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (closed state holidays).
Q
How do I report staff or inmate misconduct?
RIDOC lists collect-call reporting lines and addresses for misconduct reports. Staff misconduct goes to the Office of Inspection (collect call 401-462-2551), and inmate misconduct goes to the Special Investigations Unit (collect call 401-462-2282). RIDOC also lists a collect-call number for Rhode Island State Police Detectives (401-462-2650) to report criminal activity.
Q
Are visits guaranteed once approved?
No. RIDOC states visits (in person or video) are a privilege and can be approved, denied, suspended, or revoked by RIDOC administration.
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