NYSDOC - Elmira Correctional Facility

You can support your loved ones at Elmira CF on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 607-734-3901.

Located at 1879 Davis St in Elmira, NY, Elmira CF carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. Elmira CF 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 NYSDOC - Elmira Correctional Facility 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.

Elmira Correctional Facility, also known as "The Hill," is a maximum security state prison situated in Chemung County under the jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. It serves both as a reception center for inmate intake/classification and as a high-security prison, accommodating approximately 1800 inmates. Inmates at Elmira CF have access to substance abuse and alcohol addiction treatment, sex offender counseling, and mental health services. Vocational courses provided include building maintenance, carpentry, electrical work, masonry, plumbing, printing, welding, business, and machining. The facility also participates in Correctional Industries, offering work opportunities in various fields.

Originally established as the Elmira Reformatory in 1970, the complex underwent several changes over the years, including the introduction of programs in ethics, religion, and vocational training. Inmates were classified into three grades based on behavior, with privileges and sentences affected accordingly. However, tension arose due to indeterminate sentencing and disciplinary measures, leading to questions about the reformatory system.

Despite challenges, the Elmira system influenced prison reform, emphasizing the differentiation between juvenile and adult offenders and the potential for prisoner rehabilitation. The complex grading system and education programs introduced were replicated in numerous reformatories across several states. Following administrative changes, the facility transitioned into the Elmira Correctional and Reception Center, focusing on standard custody and treatment methods.

In the late 1970s to late 1980s, Elmira collaborated with Corning Community College to offer inmates the opportunity to earn associate degrees. However, budget cuts during the early 1990s led to the termination of the program amid public outcry over taxpayer spending on inmate education. Attempts to revive the program were unsuccessful, resulting in its permanent termination.

Elmira CF gained notoriety when convicted murderers Timothy Vail and Timothy Morgan escaped in 2003 by digging through the roof of their cell. Their escape, featured in a National Geographic documentary, resulted in their capture and placement in solitary confinement. The facility has housed notable inmates such as rapper Trevell Gerald Coleman, serial killer Patrick Baxter, and cult leader Dwight York.

Overall, Elmira Correctional Facility plays a significant role in the New York state prison system, offering various programs and services aimed at inmate rehabilitation and reintegration into society while maintaining security and order within its walls.