Understanding Indian Creek Correctional Facility: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Located in Chesapeake, Virginia, Indian Creek Correctional Facility is a medium-security prison that houses approximately 1,400 inmates. This guide aims to provide a thorough overview of the facility, covering its history, operations, and various aspects of life for inmates.

A Historical Perspective

Indian Creek Correctional Facility opened its doors in 1995. It was originally designed to hold approximately 900 inmates. However, due to overcrowding in Virginia's prison system, the facility's population has steadily increased over the years.

Operational Structure and Security

The facility is operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VDOC). It is divided into four housing units that accommodate different classifications of inmates. The facility employs over 300 staff members, including correctional officers, administrators, and medical personnel.

Security measures at Indian Creek are stringent. The facility is surrounded by two perimeter fences, each topped with razor wire. Visitors are subject to thorough screening and must present government-issued identification.

Inmate Life

Life within the walls of Indian Creek Correctional Facility can be challenging. Inmates are housed in cells that are approximately 6 feet by 10 feet. They have access to basic amenities such as bunk beds, a toilet, and a sink.

Inmates are provided with three meals a day. The menu consists of basic food items such as oatmeal, sandwiches, and pasta. Inmates can also purchase additional items from the commissary, which sells a range of snacks and personal hygiene products.

The facility offers a variety of educational and rehabilitative programs to inmates. These include literacy classes, GED preparation, and vocational training. Inmates also have access to a law library and a small recreation yard.

Challenges and Controversies

Overcrowding is a major challenge facing Indian Creek Correctional Facility. The facility has consistently exceeded its design capacity, leading to cramped and unsanitary conditions for inmates.

In recent years, the facility has also been the subject of controversy. In 2018, a report by the Virginia Inspector General found that Indian Creek had been understaffed and that inmates were not receiving adequate medical care.

Transitioning Back to Society

Upon their release from Indian Creek Correctional Facility, inmates face numerous challenges in reintegrating into society. They may have difficulty finding employment, housing, and transportation. To assist with the transition process, the facility offers a variety of reentry programs, including job training, housing assistance, and mental health counseling.

Indian Creek Correctional Facility in Numbers

• Population: Approximately 1,400 inmates
• Security Level: Medium
• Staff: Over 300 employees
• Percentage of Inmates with a High School Diploma or Equivalent: 43%
• Percentage of Inmates with a College Degree or Higher: 11%
• Average Sentence Length: 10 years

Programs and Services

Indian Creek Correctional Facility offers a range of programs and services to inmates, including:

• Educational Programs: GED preparation, literacy classes, vocational training
• Rehabilitative Programs: Substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, anger management classes
• Recreational Programs: Recreation yard, law library
• Religious Services: Bible study groups, chaplaincy services

Notable Inmates

Throughout its history, Indian Creek Correctional Facility has housed several notable inmates, including:

• Steven Fry: A serial killer who was convicted of murdering four women in Virginia.
• John Allen Muhammad: A sniper who, along with Lee Boyd Malvo, terrorized the Washington, D.C. area in 2002.
• Warren Jeffs: A polygamist leader who was convicted of sexually assaulting underage girls.

Pros and Cons of Indian Creek Correctional Facility

Pros:

• Offers a variety of educational and rehabilitative programs
• Provides reentry programs to assist inmates with transitioning back to society
• Employs a large staff, which helps to maintain order and safety

Cons:

• Overcrowding is a major problem, leading to cramped and unsanitary conditions
• Understaffing has been an issue in the past
• Some inmates have complained about inadequate medical care

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I visit an inmate at Indian Creek Correctional Facility?

A: Visitors must submit a request for approval at least 48 hours in advance of the visit. Visitors must present government-issued identification and are subject to thorough screening.

Q: Can I send packages to inmates at Indian Creek Correctional Facility?

A: Yes, inmates can receive packages containing certain items, such as books, magazines, and snacks. All packages are subject to inspection.

Q: What is the average cost of a phone call from Indian Creek Correctional Facility?

A: The cost of a phone call from Indian Creek Correctional Facility is approximately 25 cents per minute. Inmates can purchase phone cards to make calls.

Conclusion

Indian Creek Correctional Facility is a complex and challenging institution that plays a vital role in the Virginia prison system. Despite facing some challenges, the facility provides a range of programs and services to inmates, with the ultimate goal of helping them rehabilitate and successfully reintegrate into society.