Overview of Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

The Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility, located in Safford, Arizona, is a key institution in the state’s correctional system. It is managed by the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry and serves as a medium-security facility that houses male inmates classified at security levels 2 and 3. The prison primarily focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates through various educational and vocational programs. With a capacity to house over 1,700 inmates, this facility has been operational since the early 1970s, initially established as a minimum-security work camp under the name Safford Conservation Center. Over time, it has expanded to become a significant hub for inmate rehabilitation, focusing on community service work and inmate vocational training.

 

Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility in Safford

Contact Information: Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

  • Address: 896 S. Cook Road, Safford, AZ 85546
  • Phone Number: (928) 428-4698
  • Email: dwalker1@azadc.gov (Warden Daniel Walker)

Visiting Information for Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

Visitors to the Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and guests. To visit an inmate, all visitors must complete an Application to Visit and pass a background check, which includes a non-refundable fee. Visiting hours typically fall on weekends, though it is advised to check the most up-to-date visitation schedules directly on the Arizona Department of Corrections website or by calling the facility.

What to bring to a prison visit:

  • A valid government-issued ID is mandatory (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
  • Dress modestly as per prison regulations; clothing guidelines will be provided when the visit is scheduled.
  • Only necessary items (e.g., car keys, ID) are allowed inside the visiting area.

Visit length: Visits generally last several hours but may vary depending on the day and the inmate’s status.

How to Book a Visit at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

To book a visit, you need to fill out an Application to Visit through the Arizona Department of Corrections website, ensuring that all fields are completed accurately. Once approved, visitors can schedule visits either online or by calling the facility. Ensure that background checks and all relevant paperwork are submitted within 30 days of application to avoid delays.

 

Directions and Parking Information for Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

Location: The prison is located at 896 S. Cook Road in Safford, approximately 173 miles southeast of Phoenix. For visitors traveling from Phoenix, it is a straightforward drive along US-60 E and US-70 E. The facility offers on-site parking for visitors, and it’s advisable to arrive early as parking can fill up quickly on weekends when visitation is at its peak.

 

Life Inside Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

Life at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility emphasizes rehabilitation and personal growth. Inmates participate in various programs, including Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and vocational training in collaboration with Eastern Arizona College. The prison also offers treatment programs focusing on substance abuse recovery and behavior modification. Many inmates are involved in community work through intergovernmental agreements, providing them with valuable skills for reintegration.

Recent updates indicate that the facility continues to enhance its rehabilitation programs, with a focus on reducing recidivism and preparing inmates for successful reentry into society.

Famous Inmates at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

One notable inmate housed at this facility is Samuel John Dieteman, a convicted accomplice in the Phoenix serial shooter case of 2005-2006. Dieteman, along with his co-conspirator Dale Hausner, was involved in a series of murders and violent crimes that terrorized the Phoenix area, leading to his life sentence without the possibility of parole.

 

FAQs: Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility

  • Where is Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility located?
    The facility is located in Safford, Arizona, at 896 S. Cook Road, about 173 miles southeast of Phoenix.

  • How do I book a visit to Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Visit requests are processed online through the Arizona Department of Corrections website. Be sure to complete the required background check and submit your application in full within 30 days.

  • What security level is Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    The facility holds inmates at security levels 2 and 3, which cater to medium-security male offenders.

  • What programs are available for inmates at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Inmates have access to educational programs like Adult Basic Education and vocational training, as well as treatment programs focusing on substance abuse and behavioral modification.

  • What are the visiting hours at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Visiting hours are generally on weekends. However, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the facility’s website or by contacting the prison directly.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Inmates can only make outbound calls using the prison’s phone system. Friends and family can send letters but must adhere to strict regulations regarding content and materials.

  • What are the directions to Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    The facility is easily accessible via US-60 E and US-70 E from Phoenix. Parking is available on-site.

  • Can I send books to an inmate at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Yes, but books must be ordered directly from a publisher such as Amazon, ensuring they comply with prison regulations.

  • What is the capacity of Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    The facility can house up to 1,717 male inmates, making it one of the larger correctional institutions in Arizona.

  • Are there rehabilitation programs available at Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility?
    Yes, the facility offers a range of programs aimed at education, substance abuse recovery, and vocational skills training to support inmate rehabilitation and reentry into society.

Conclusion

The Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility plays a pivotal role in Arizona’s correctional system by focusing on the rehabilitation and reentry of inmates. With its wide range of educational and treatment programs, the facility offers offenders opportunities for growth and change. Visitation is an essential part of maintaining inmate connections to the outside world, and it’s easy for families to stay involved in the lives of their loved ones through scheduled visits and communication programs.

For more information on Eastern Arizona Correctional Facility, you can visit the official Arizona Department of Corrections website.

Sources:

  • Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry
  • Wikipedia

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