Facility rules you should know before you visit or send things
Warning: Introducing illegal drugs, alcohol, or weapons into a WV facility or onto state property is a felony. Attempts can lead to arrest and prosecution. No tobacco or tobacco-like products may be brought into any WVDCR institution.
Rules also differ for federal facilities. The Federal Bureau of Prisons does not permit conjugal visits.
If your loved one is in the federal system, the Bureau's FIRST STEP ACT Approved Programs Guide describes standardized reentry programs designed to help sentenced inmates build skills for release. First Step Time Credits apply only to people convicted in Federal District Court. For more information, contact BOP-RSD-NRB-FSA@BOP.GOV. Separately, WV DCR publishes a jails billing information document listing county inmate-day totals and base/pro rata day figures.
Common Questions
Q
Can I send packages or books directly from home?
In the federal (BOP) system, BOP states inmates are not allowed to receive packages from home without prior written approval, with limited exceptions like release clothing and authorized medical devices. Mail is also handled under general versus special mail rules, with special incoming mail opened only in the inmate’s presence when properly marked. If your loved one is in WV DOC, follow WV DOC’s mailing instructions for the correct routing address and required identifiers on the envelope.
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