Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit: A Comprehensive Guide

About Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit

Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit, also known as the Wallace Pack Unit, is a medium-security prison operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Situated in Wharton County, Texas, the facility houses inmates who require close supervision.

History

The prison was established in 1985 and named after Wallace Pack, a former TDCJ director. It initially served as a minimum-security unit but was later designated as a medium-security facility.

Capacity and Population

The Beto Unit has a maximum capacity of 1,384 inmates. As of March 2023, the prison houses approximately 1,200 inmates.

Security Level

As a medium-security prison, the Beto Unit employs various security measures, including:

• Tower guards
• Double fencing
• Electronic surveillance
• Armed patrols
• Random searches

Inmate Programs and Services

The Beto Unit offers a range of programs and services to rehabilitate inmates and prepare them for reentry into society, including:

Educational Programs

• GED classes
• Vocational training in fields such as automotive repair, welding, and cosmetology
• College courses through partnerships with local educational institutions

Substance Abuse Treatment

• Residential and outpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs
• Counseling and therapy sessions
• Medication-assisted treatment

Mental Health Services

• Individual and group counseling
• Crisis intervention
• Psychiatric care

Work Programs

Inmates are assigned to work details within the prison or in community-based work programs that provide job training and experience.

Visiting Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit

Family and friends of inmates can visit them at the Beto Unit. Visits are scheduled in advance and subject to the following regulations:

Visiting Hours

• Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Visiting Procedures

• Visitors must present a valid photo ID and undergo a security screening.
• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
• No tobacco products, cell phones, or weapons are permitted in the visiting area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a successful visit to the Beto Unit, it's important to avoid common mistakes, such as:

• Not making an appointment in advance.
• Arriving late for a visit.
• Bringing prohibited items into the visiting area.
• Engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behavior.

Step-by-Step Approach to Visiting Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit

1. Schedule a Visit:

• Call the Beto Unit at (979) 282-3880 to schedule a visit.
• Provide the inmate's name and TDCJ number.
• Choose a date and time that is convenient for both parties.

2. Arrive on Time:

• Arrive at the visitation entrance at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit time.
• Allow ample time for parking and security screening.

3. Follow Visitation Procedures:

• Present a valid photo ID at the gate.
• Undergo a security screening.
• Follow the instructions of the correctional officers.

4. Be Respectful:

• Be respectful of the correctional officers and other visitors.
• Refrain from engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behavior.

5. Enjoy Your Visit:

• Use the allotted time to visit with the inmate in a safe and supportive environment.
• Share updates on family and friends, and offer encouragement.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

Inmate Name: John Doe

Crime: Non-violent drug offense

Sentence: 5 years

Lesson Learned: John realized the importance of taking responsibility for his actions and seeking help for his addiction. Through the substance abuse treatment program at the Beto Unit, he gained the tools and support to turn his life around.

Story 2:

Inmate Name: Jane Smith

Crime: Property crime

Sentence: 2 years

Lesson Learned: Jane recognized the value of education and job training. She enrolled in GED classes and vocational programs at the Beto Unit, which provided her with the skills and qualifications to secure employment upon her release.

Story 3:

Inmate Name: Michael Jones

Crime: Violent offense

Sentence: 10 years

Lesson Learned: Michael understood the need for rehabilitation and positive relationships. He participated in counseling and therapy sessions, which helped him address his underlying issues and build healthy coping mechanisms. Through the connections he made with staff and inmates, he gained a renewed sense of hope and support.

Key Statistics

Table 1: Inmate Population and Security Level

Table 2: Educational and Work Programs

Table 3: Recidivism Rates

Note: Recidivism rates represent the percentage of inmates who are rearrested or re-incarcerated within three years of their release.

Conclusion

Tennessee Colony Prison Beto Unit is a medium-security prison that provides inmates with a range of programs and services to facilitate rehabilitation and reentry. By adhering to visitation procedures, avoiding common mistakes, and following a step-by-step approach, family and friends can successfully visit inmates at the Beto Unit and support their journey towards a more positive future.