George W. Hill Correctional Facility

County Jail

Last Updated: February 16, 2025
Address
500 Cheyney Rd, Thornton, PA 19373
Beds
1883
County
Delaware
Phone
610-361-3200
Fax
610-361-9689
Mailing Address
PO Box 247, Phoenix, MD 21131

George Hill Correctional is for County Jail offenders sentenced up to twenty four months.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is AccessCorrections There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of George W. Hill Correctional Facility

You can support your loved ones at George Hill Correctional on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 610-361-3200.

When someone you care about gets locked up, it's tough to figure out all the ins and outs of jail life. From sending mail to visiting, there are a lot of things to sort out. And getting info about the arrest? Not always easy. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get a handle on how things work here so that you can stay connected and support your loved one behind bars.

The George Hill Correctional is a detention center located at 500 Cheyney Rd Thornton, PA which is operated locally by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and holds inmates awaiting trial or sentencing or both. Most of the sentenced inmates are here for less than two years. Delaware County accepts inmates from surrounding towns, Thornton Police Department, and the US Marshal's Service.

New detainees arrive at the jail regularly, with some being released on bail, placed under pretrial services caseloads, supervised by probation agencies, or released on recognizance with a court appearance agreement. Those who are not released await their court appearances at the jail, receiving accommodations including bedding and meals.

You can see all the arrest records for Pennsylvania here.

The George W. Hill Correctional Facility (GHCF), located on approximately 140 acres in Delaware County, serves as both a jail and prison, housing individuals who are either awaiting trial or serving county or state sentences. Specifically, it accommodates those serving sentences of up to two years less one day for county offenses or five years less one day for state offenses. Additionally, GHCF provides Work Release Programs to eligible inmates, promoting rehabilitation through supervised employment opportunities.

The facility’s core mission is to enhance public safety within Delaware County by maintaining high standards of care, custody, and control for incarcerated individuals. GHCF is dedicated to implementing correctional practices that exceed established standards, ensuring the security of the community, staff, and inmates. In support of this mission, GHCF prioritizes the professional development of its staff, offering education and training that enhances their expertise and service delivery capabilities.

Following the intake process, which includes property inventory, medical screening, and booking, inmates are assigned to the general population. Housing assignments are based on the classification of their charges, whether felony or misdemeanor, to ensure proper management and safety within the facility.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The jail 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. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.

The jail 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.

GHCF operates as a vital link between health services and criminal justice partners, working collaboratively to manage the inmate population effectively. Its approach focuses on reducing recidivism through a range of programs, educational services, and workforce training opportunities designed to address the specific needs of the inmate population. These initiatives aim to mitigate criminal behaviors and encourage law-abiding lifestyles post-incarceration. By striving for excellence in correctional practices, GHCF aspires to be a leader in the field, driving improvements within the broader criminal justice system.

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.

Inmate Locator

To utilize the Inmate Search page on InmateAid, begin by selecting the relevant prison facility in Pennsylvania. This allows you to view the current list of inmates housed at George W. Hill Correctional Facility.

The second section features the InmateAid Inmate Search tool, providing a user-generated database of inmates. You can access this resource to utilize any of InmateAid's services. If you require assistance in creating an inmate profile to maintain communication, please contact us at aid@inmateaid.com, and we'll gladly help you locate your loved one.

As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason, they charge to access it.

Visitation Information

The George W. Hill Correctional Facility offers both in-person and virtual visitation for inmates, with visits scheduled based on housing assignments. In-person visits are available Monday through Friday from 8:45 AM to 10:00 PM, while virtual visitation is offered during the same days from 9:00 AM to 9:55 PM. Each inmate is allowed one visit per week, which can either be an in-person or a video visit.

In-Person Visitation:

Before scheduling a visit, the incarcerated individual must submit a visitor’s list to their Case Manager for approval. Once approved, the visitor will need to begin the online registration process by visiting https://delawarecountypa.gtlvisitme.com/app, where they can create a username, provide visitor information, and await confirmation via email. Upon receiving approval, visitors can log back into the website to select an available time slot for their visit.

  • Driver Requirements: All visitors driving onto the facility grounds must have a valid driver’s license and updated vehicle insurance. Ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are not permitted on the property.
  • Visitor Limits: Each inmate may receive up to three visitors per visit, including minors. Visitors under the age of 18 are not required to register but must be accompanied by an adult, and minors count as one of the three visitors.
  • ID and Registration: Visitors must provide one of several forms of valid identification, such as a driver’s license, military ID, passport, or a government-issued photo ID. If there are any unusual ID situations, they must be referred to the Shift Commander for resolution.

Dress Code:

All visitors must adhere to the facility’s strict dress code, which is available online at Visitation Dress Code PDF. The dress code includes prohibitions on see-through clothing, mini-skirts, sleeveless shirts, and other inappropriate attire. Visitors wearing religious veils or other clothing that obstructs the view of their face will follow a specific process for identification. This process includes removing the face-covering in a private area, conducted by a female correctional officer, to verify identity, and then restoring the face-covering before proceeding.

Visitor Processing:

All visitors must identify themselves and register upon entry into the facility. Processing includes security screenings, and any attempts to introduce contraband, such as cell phones or narcotics, will result in restrictions, including an indefinite ban from the facility. Physical contact between visitors and inmates is strictly prohibited, and any contact will result in the termination of the visit.

Visitors are expected to behave appropriately during visits. Disruptive behavior or violations of the facility’s rules can result in removal from the premises and the possibility of future visitation being restricted. Visitors are not allowed to switch seats or visit multiple inmates during the same visit without proper authorization.

Virtual Visitation:

For those who prefer remote visits, virtual video visitation is available and follows a similar approval process as in-person visitation. Visitors must register and schedule video visits via the same online platform: https://delawarecountypa.gtlvisitme.com/app. Virtual visits are available Monday through Friday, based on housing assignments.

Both in-person and virtual visits must be scheduled in advance, and inmates are responsible for informing their visitors about the facility's rules and the process for scheduling a visit. All visits, whether in-person or virtual, are monitored to ensure compliance with facility regulations.

Please click to view the video visitation schedule (blue column): George W. Hill Correctional Facility Visitation Schedule

Please note the following

Please click on the link for Visitor Dress Code: Visitation Dress Code for Visitors

The George W. Hill Correctional Facility also offers video visitation, with scheduling required at least 2 days in advance but no more than 7 days before the visit. Visitors must conduct these visits from a remote location and must be on the inmate's authorized visiting list. The dress code for video visits is the same as for in-person visits, and all visits are recorded. Any inappropriate behavior or dress during the video visit will result in the immediate termination of the session, with the possibility of future visits being suspended. Each inmate is permitted one visit per week, whether via video or in person. For further details on the dress code, visitors can refer to the provided Visitation Dress Code PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions

George W. Hill Correctional Facility - 25 FAQs

  1. How can I find out if someone is in jail at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    To determine if someone is currently incarcerated at George W. Hill Correctional Facility, start by checking the facility’s online inmate search database, which is typically updated with recent booking information. If your search does not yield results, try using VINELink, a nationwide inmate locator that provides custody status for individuals in participating correctional facilities. If online searches are unsuccessful, calling George W. Hill Correctional Facility directly and providing the individual’s full name and date of birth is another reliable way to confirm their custody status. If all else fails, you can use the Arrest Record Finder for a small fee, which can provide broader search results across multiple jurisdictions. 

  2. What are the visitation hours at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Visitation schedules vary by facility and housing unit. Some jails offer in-person visits on specific days, while others have transitioned to video visitation. Always check with the jail in advance, as visits may require scheduling and approval.

  3. How do I send money to an inmate at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Inmates can receive funds through various methods, including online deposits via jail-approved services, kiosks at the facility, or by mailing a money order. Some jails require funds to be added by specific family members or approved contacts.

  4. Can I call an inmate at George Hill Correctional?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they may initiate collect calls or use a prepaid account provided by the jail’s phone service provider. Calls are generally recorded and monitored, and inmates must adhere to time limits. Communication gets costly, you might qualify for discounts on inmate calls if your inmate is calling you a lot.

  5. What items can I send to an inmate at George Hill Correctional?
    Approved items typically include letters, legal documents, and photographs. Some jails also permit care packages from authorized third-party vendors. Items such as greeting cards with glitter, stickers, or Polaroid photos may be prohibited.

  6. Are books and magazines allowed at George Hill Correctional?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from approved vendors such as Amazon or InmateAid. Hardcover books and explicit content are typically prohibited to maintain facility security. Some jails also have restrictions on the number of reading materials an inmate can possess at one time.

  7. What is the mailing address for inmates here?
    Each facility has a designated mailing address for inmate correspondence. It is important to include the inmate's full name, booking number (if applicable), and facility-approved format to ensure proper delivery. Mail containing contraband, including staples or stickers, may be rejected.

  8. What is the process for bonding someone out of George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Bail or bond amounts can be paid at the facility’s designated payment location, online, or through a licensed bail bondsman. Some jails accept cash, cashier’s checks, or credit card payments, while others require payments to be made at a county clerk’s office.

  9. How do I deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account at George Hill Correctional?
    Commissary funds allow inmates to purchase personal hygiene products, snacks, and other approved items. Deposits can be made online, at facility kiosks, or through phone services. Some facilities limit the amount that can be added per week.

  10. What clothing and personal items can an inmate have at George Hill Correctional?
    Inmates are generally issued standard jail clothing. Personal items are often restricted, and necessary hygiene products must be purchased through commissary unless the inmate is deemed indigent. Some jails allow inmates to have religious items, such as prayer beads or a Bible.

  11. How long do inmates stay at George W. Hill Correctional Facility before being transferred?
    The length of stay varies based on the nature of their charges, sentencing, and case status. Some inmates serve their full sentences in county jail, while others may be transferred to a state or federal facility after sentencing.

  12. Can an inmate at George Hill Correctional receive visits from children?
    Most jails allow minors to visit inmates but require them to be accompanied by a legal guardian. Some facilities impose restrictions based on the nature of the inmate's charges or have specific visitation hours for families with children.

  13. How can I schedule a visit with an inmate at George Hill Correctional?
    Many jails require visitation to be scheduled in advance through an online portal or by phone. Some facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others enforce strict scheduling rules and background checks for visitors.

  14. What happens if an inmate gets sick or needs medical care at George Hill Correctional?
    Jails provide basic medical care, and inmates can request medical attention as needed. Emergency cases are treated immediately, while routine care is provided through medical staff. Some jails charge small medical co-pays deducted from an inmate’s commissary funds.

  15. Can inmates work while incarcerated here?
    Some inmates qualify for work programs within the facility, such as kitchen duty, janitorial work, or laundry services. In some counties, low-risk inmates may participate in work-release programs that allow them to work in the community and return to jail afterward.

  16. How can I find court dates and case information for an inmate at George Hill Correctional?
    Court dates and case details can usually be found through the county court website, public records, or by contacting the court clerk. Inmates are typically transported to court on scheduled hearing dates.

  17. What are the rules for inmate phone calls at George Hill Correctional?
    Inmate phone calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes. Calls must be made through facility-approved phone services, and any attempt to arrange three-way calls or circumvent restrictions may result in loss of phone privileges.

  18. Can an inmate be released early from George Hill Correctional?
    Early release may be granted through good behavior, completion of rehabilitative programs, or at the discretion of the court. In some cases, inmates may qualify for electronic monitoring or house arrest programs.

  19. What types of rehabilitation programs are available at here?
    Many county jails offer educational programs, GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society after release.

  20. What are the consequences of bringing contraband into the jail?
    Introducing contraband, such as drugs, weapons, or cell phones, is a criminal offense and can lead to legal charges, visitation bans, or enhanced security measures within the jail.

  21. Are there special accommodations for disabled inmates at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Yes, jails are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and medical care.

  22. How do I report an issue or concern about an inmate at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Family members and advocates can report concerns to jail administration, a prisoner rights organization, or a legal representative. Some jails have grievance procedures inmates can follow if they experience mistreatment.

  23. Can an inmate at George Hill Correctional receive religious services or counseling?
    Yes, most jails provide chaplain services, religious counseling, and access to faith-based programs. Some facilities have multi-denominational services or allow clergy members to visit inmates upon request.

  24. What are the disciplinary procedures at George Hill Correctional?
    Inmates who violate jail rules may face disciplinary actions such as loss of privileges, placement in solitary confinement, or additional charges. Disciplinary hearings are typically conducted before penalties are imposed.

  25. How do I obtain an inmate’s release records from George W. Hill Correctional Facility?
    Release records may be available through the facility’s records department, the sheriff’s office, or the county clerk. Requests may require an application and a processing fee.

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