Overview of Bedford Hills State Prison

Bedford Hills State Prison is the only maximum-security prison for women in New York State, located in Bedford Hills, Westchester County. With a capacity of approximately 753 inmates but holding close to 800 women as of 2023, this facility houses inmates convicted of serious offenses, including violent crimes, drug-related charges, and murder. In addition to its maximum-security status, Bedford Hills also provides a wide range of rehabilitation programs such as educational courses, vocational training, and trauma counseling, which are designed to help inmates prepare for reintegration into society. A notable aspect of the prison is its family-centered services, including a prison nursery where incarcerated mothers can bond with their infants

Bedford Hills State Prison, maximum-security women’s prison in New York.

Contact Information for Bedford Hills State Prison

  • Address: 247 Harris Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507
  • Phone Number: (914) 241-3100
  • Superintendent: Eileen Russell​

Visiting Information for Bedford Hills State Prison

Visitation at Bedford Hills State Prison is available every day, including weekends and holidays, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Visitors must arrive no later than 3:00 PM for entry. Special visitation arrangements exist for those in solitary confinement (Special Housing Unit), who are allowed one non-legal visit per week. Visitors must be pre-approved and are required to present a valid photo ID upon arrival. Each inmate is permitted up to three visitors at a time, with an additional child under the age of five allowed to sit on an adult’s lap. It’s recommended that visitors familiarize themselves with the prison’s visiting policies, as overcrowding may lead to visit termination based on a first-in, first-out system​

How to Book a Visit at Bedford Hills State Prison

To schedule a visit, you must be listed on the inmate’s approved visitors list and follow the guidelines posted on the Department of Corrections website. Booking a visit involves contacting the facility directly, or you can use the JPay system to manage visitation and other services. When visiting, make sure to bring government-issued identification and adhere to the dress code to avoid complications during the check-in process​(

 

Directions and Parking for Bedford Hills State Prison

The prison is located at 247 Harris Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507. It is easily accessible by car from nearby highways, and parking is available for visitors on-site. Directions can be found via popular map services, and it’s advisable to arrive early to allow time for security checks​(

 

Life Inside Bedford Hills State Prison

Life at Bedford Hills involves a mix of challenges and opportunities. The facility has faced criticism for inadequate healthcare, particularly regarding mental health services, and there have been instances of inmate deaths that raised concerns. However, Bedford Hills is recognized for its extensive rehabilitative programs, including education and vocational training, which help inmates gain skills and prepare for life post-incarceration. It also offers unique programs like the prison nursery and trauma counseling​

Famous Prisoners at Bedford Hills State Prison

Bedford Hills has housed numerous infamous inmates over the years, including:

  • Pamela Smart: Convicted of conspiracy to murder her husband, Smart has been a high-profile case transferred from New Hampshire​
  • Lacey Spears: Serving time for the murder of her son​
  • Remy Ma (Reminisce Mackie): A well-known rapper, imprisoned for attempted murder
  • Barbara Kogan: Convicted for orchestrating the murder of her estranged husband​

These cases have drawn media attention and shaped public perceptions of the facility

FAQs about Bedford Hills State Prison

  • What is Bedford Hills State Prison? Bedford Hills is New York’s only maximum-security prison for women, housing inmates convicted of serious offenses.

  • How can I contact Bedford Hills State Prison? The prison is located at 247 Harris Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507, and can be reached at (914) 241-3100.

  • How do I book a visit at Bedford Hills State Prison? Visits can be scheduled by getting pre-approved on the inmate’s visitor list and adhering to the facility’s visiting schedule.

  • What are the visiting hours at Bedford Hills State Prison? Visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily, including weekends and holidays.

  • What programs are offered at Bedford Hills State Prison? The prison offers educational, vocational, and trauma treatment programs to help with rehabilitation.

  • Can mothers keep their children with them at Bedford Hills? Yes, the facility offers a nursery where incarcerated mothers can care for their infants.

  • What is life like inside Bedford Hills State Prison? Life at Bedford Hills includes participation in programs, but the prison has faced criticism for its healthcare services.

  • Who are some famous prisoners held at Bedford Hills? Notable inmates have included Pamela Smart, Lacey Spears, and rapper Remy Ma.

  • How many people are housed at Bedford Hills State Prison? The facility holds approximately 800 inmates, though its official capacity is 753.

  • Does Bedford Hills provide medical and mental health services? While there are medical services, the facility has faced criticism for inadequate mental health care

Conclusion

Bedford Hills State Prison plays a crucial role in New York’s correctional system as the only maximum-security facility for women. Despite challenges like overcrowding and healthcare issues, the prison offers a range of programs aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration. The presence of high-profile inmates has drawn attention to the facility, which continues to adapt to meet the needs of its population.

For more information, you can visit the official Department of Corrections and Community Supervision site.

Sources Used:

  1. Wikipedia – Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women
  2. New York Department of Corrections
  3. Prison Locator and Inside Prison Sites

Visit Bedford Hills Correctional Facility