FDC-DeSoto Annex

You can support your loved ones at DeSoto Annex on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 863-494-3727.

Located at 13617 SE Hwy 70 in Arcadia, FL, DeSoto Annex carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. DeSoto Annex offers diverse educational and vocational programs aimed at equipping offenders for successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism. Through these initiatives, inmates gain skills and confidence, fostering personal growth and resilience.

When someone you care about ends up in a state prison, it can be tough to navigate the ins and outs of the system. From figuring out how to stay in touch to understanding what you can do to make their time easier, it can feel overwhelming. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get the lowdown on FDC-DeSoto Annex so you can stay connected and support your loved one during their time inside.

Communication is important, the prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

DeSoto Annex is a level V facility in Florida that serves as home to 1,453 adult male inmates sentenced in Florida State Courts. The custody levels at this institution range from minimum to medium and closed-custody inmates. Recognizing the importance of education in rehabilitation, the facility offers various educational programs, including mandatory literacy for all inmates, adult basic education courses, and opportunities for inmates to earn their GED. Participation in academic programs is encouraged as it may enhance inmates' prospects of securing employment upon release.

In addition to academic offerings, DeSoto Annex provides vocational programs such as carpentry, masonry, and welding, along with computer training courses, victim awareness programs, journaling, yoga sessions, and a variety of religious studies to cater to the diverse needs of the inmate population.

The facility also offers comprehensive re-entry programs aimed at facilitating successful reintegration into society, including Compass 180, career scope assessment, vocational training through FLHires Masonry Program and Florida Ready to Work, life skills workshops like Thinking for a Change, re-entry dormitories, career resource programs, financial planning courses, and re-entry seminars.

Institutional betterment programs at DeSoto Annex focus on personal growth and development and include activities such as active and passive sports, art therapy, children of inmates programs, correspondence courses, cultivating hope initiatives, parenting workshops, success coaching, veterans dorm programs, victim impact classes, volunteer literacy programs, weight training sessions, wellness education, and Why Try programs.

Moreover, the facility continues to offer academic programs like adult basic education, GED preparation, special education services, Title I services, and mandatory literacy classes. Vocational programs offered include welding technology and building construction technology. Substance abuse programs like Alcoholics Anonymous and intensive outpatient programs are also available to address addiction issues among inmates, promoting overall rehabilitation and well-being.

The state prison is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. 

Connect with your inmate

The prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.