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Western Mass Women's Correctional Visitation Center

Regional Facility

Last Updated: November 04,2024


Visitation Hours

Visiting hours for Western Mass Women's Correctional are subject to change, so it's crucial to confirm them by contacting the facility directly by phone. Please reach out to 413-730-6800, on visitation procedures, applications, or directions to the facility in Chicopee. Please note that visitors will undergo a thorough search before entering the premises, and personal belongings, including cell phones, are strictly prohibited. Individuals under probation, parole, or community corrections supervision must obtain approval from their supervising officer and the superintendent before visiting, although such visits are not typically approved.

General Visitation Information

The Western Massachusetts Regional Women’s Correctional Center (WCC) enforces strict visitation guidelines to maintain safety, security, and order within the facility. All in-person visits are non-contact, and any physical contact will result in disciplinary action for the inmate and the visitor's suspension. Visitors must be pre-approved and can be on only one inmate's visiting list. Visitors aged 18 or older are required to complete a registration form and a Request to Visit Form, either online or in person, and provide truthful information, as any falsifications result in denial and possible suspension of privileges.

Visitation Requirements and Restrictions: Visitors must pass through a metal detector or, if necessary, undergo a pat search by an officer of the same gender. Bringing tobacco products, animals (except for service animals pre-authorized by the Assistant Superintendent), and contraband is strictly prohibited. In addition, visitation privileges may be denied if a visitor has recent criminal convictions, open cases or warrants, a restraining order against the inmate, or appears under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Dress Code and Conduct: WCC enforces a strict dress code. Prohibited attire includes revealing or tight clothing, shorts or skirts above the knee, tank tops, hooded garments, sandals, or clothing associated with gangs, drugs, or alcohol. Visitors must conduct themselves respectfully and supervise any children in their care. Restroom access during visits is limited to the Lobby restroom only, and obscene language or gestures are not tolerated.

Special Rules for Minors: Minors (ages 17 and under) may visit with a parent, legal guardian, or authorized adult. Required documentation includes the original birth certificate or guardianship papers. Minors aged 15-17 must present identification, and those wishing to visit an incarcerated parent without adult supervision must receive approval through a collaborative process with facility staff and family services.

Visit Scheduling and Duration: Each inmate is allowed two one-hour visits per week, with up to three visitors per session, including children. Special requests for additional visitors or extended visits must be submitted by the inmate one week in advance. Inmates may not escort visitors to the exit, and visitors must remain in their assigned booth or seat during non-contact visits.

Visitor Identification and Approval: All visitors aged 18 and over must present valid identification, including a driver's license, state-issued ID, passport, or military ID. Minors aged 15-17 are also required to bring an ID. Visitors are advised to confirm their approval status with WCC by calling (413) 730-6800.

Prohibited Items and Vehicle Requirements: Personal items, including electronics, jewelry (except wedding bands), and other belongings, must be stored in coin-operated lockers or in the visitor’s vehicle, which must remain locked while on state property. Visitors attempting to introduce contraband are subject to arrest and prosecution, as delivering unauthorized items to inmates is a felony.

WCC reserves the right to deny or terminate visits at any time for security concerns, and approved visitors are not guaranteed entry. Visit times vary by housing unit, so visitors should contact the facility for the latest schedule.

Visiting Inmates at Western Massachusetts Regional Women's Correctional Center (WCC)

All Visitors are subject to search once inside the facility.

The public may visit no more than one time per week, Monday through Saturday at this Chicopee MA location. Visitors must sign inat least 15 minutes before their scheduled visits. If you schedule a visit and don't show up or show up late, you will not be allowed to visit the rest of that week, including Saturday. If a visit on Saturday is scheduled, and the visitor does not show up or shows up late, they will not be allowed to visit until the following Saturday. Repeated late arrival or no-show violations may result in longer suspension of visiting privileges. Inmates are allowed no more than one (1) visit per day. Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian, unless they are visiting a parent. Unaccompanied minors (under age 18) visiting a parent must present a copy of their birth certificate. Children must remain with the parent at all times during the visit. All visitors must have acceptable identification. This includes a drivers license with picture identification, military ID, or other verifiable picture ID. Three (3) pieces of non-picture ID may substitute for picture ID.

No mail or messages for inmates will be accepted. Mail must go through the U.S. Mail. Visitors may only visit the inmate they have signed up to visit. Any visitor who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to visit. Inappropriate behavior, including the use of profanity, will not be permitted. No weapons will be permitted. All other items listed in the jail lobby are prohibited. There is a maximum of four (4) visitors per booth, including children, and the door must remain closed.

All visitors must wear appropriate clothing, including shoes and shirts. Restrictions on attire or appearance include: No miniskirts or similar attire; no low-cut or revealing necklines; no attire with obscene or offensive language; and no persons with a bare midriff will be permitted to visit. Visitors cannot bring items into the visiting area including weapons of any kind, purses, handbags, backpacks, diaper bags, food, drink, gum, baby bottles, pictures, books, toys, writing utensils, strollers or carriers, cell phones, cameras, or any other electronic devices.

Violation of the above restrictions may cause the visit to be cancelled or terminated, and visiting privileges may be suspended by the Hampden Sheriffs Department. The on-duty supervisor may cancel visits without notice due to circumstances within the jail.

Visitation Rules

County - Rules by type

The Western Massachusetts Regional Women's Correctional Center (WCC), located in Chicopee, MA, plays a crucial role in facilitating successful offender reintegration into the community, a cornerstone of effective crime control strategies. With a focus on rehabilitation and community engagement, the center aims to support individuals as they transition from incarceration back into society. However, this process is governed by a multitude of rules and regulations that visitors must adhere to, ensuring the safety and security of all involved parties.

Visitors to the prison must navigate a complex set of guidelines regarding identification, conduct, and the items they can bring during visits. These rules are in place to maintain order within the facility and to protect both visitors and inmates. For example, visitors are required to present proper forms of identification upon arrival, such as a driver's license or government-issued ID card. This helps to verify their identity and ensure that they are authorized to visit the inmate.

Furthermore, visitors must adhere to strict rules regarding their conduct while inside the facility. Disruptive behavior, the use of loud or obscene language, or engaging in any form of sexual behavior can result in the termination of the visit and may lead to further consequences. Additionally, visitors are prohibited from bringing certain items into the visiting room, including cell phones, cameras, and weapons. These restrictions help to maintain the safety and security of the facility and prevent any unauthorized items from entering the prison.

In addition to these general rules, there are specific guidelines that visitors must follow depending on their circumstances. For example, visitors with children must ensure that they are supervised at all times and that they do not engage in any inappropriate behavior while inside the facility. Likewise, visitors who require medication during their visit must inform the visiting room officer upon arrival and follow the appropriate procedures to ensure that their medication is properly stored and administered.

Another important aspect of visiting a prison is understanding the limitations and restrictions that may apply to certain individuals. For example, individuals who have previously been incarcerated, are currently under probation or parole supervision, or are victims of the inmate are typically not permitted to visit. Likewise, individuals who have had their visiting privileges suspended or who have an active protection from abuse (PFA) order against them are also prohibited from visiting the inmate.

Despite these restrictions, there are procedures in place for individuals who wish to visit an inmate but are not permitted under normal circumstances. Inmates can initiate a request to have a prohibited visitor added to their visiting list, and a recommendation from the inmate's unit team may allow the visitor to be approved by the facility manager or designee. However, reinstatement of visiting privileges is not guaranteed, and individuals whose visiting privileges have been suspended must write to the appropriate facility manager seeking reinstatement.

Upon arrival at the prison, visitors are subject to a thorough screening process to ensure that they do not bring any contraband into the facility. This includes a search of their person, their belongings, and their vehicle. Visitors must also pass through a metal detector and may be subject to additional screening measures, such as drug screenings conducted by dogs or special devices. Failure to pass these screenings can result in the denial of the visit and may lead to further consequences.

Once inside the visiting room, visitors must continue to adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the prison. This includes refraining from conversing with other inmates or their guests, as well as following any specific instructions given by the visiting room officers. Visitors are also responsible for keeping control of their children and ensuring that they do not engage in any disruptive behavior.

In addition to these general guidelines, there are specific rules that visitors must follow depending on their circumstances. For example, visitors with infants must adhere to guidelines regarding the types and amounts of baby items they can bring into the visiting room. Likewise, visitors who require medication during their visit must inform the visiting room officer upon arrival and follow the appropriate procedures to ensure that their medication is properly stored and administered.

Overall, visiting a prison requires careful adherence to a complex set of rules and regulations designed to maintain order and security within the facility. By understanding and following these guidelines, visitors can help to ensure a safe and positive experience for themselves, the inmates, and the staff.