Hays State Prison Overview
Hays State Prison is a close-security correctional facility located in Trion, Georgia, designed to house some of the state’s most challenging male offenders. Opened in 1990, it has a capacity of approximately 1,100 inmates, and includes a range of programs focused on rehabilitation and reentry into society. The prison operates as a Tier I and II facility with specialized dormitories, including those for inmates with mental health needs and a faith-based dormitory.
Inmates at Hays State Prison are provided with various educational and vocational opportunities aimed at reducing recidivism. These include General Education Diploma (GED) programs, vocational training in fields like food service and building maintenance, and counseling programs that address behavioral issues such as anger management and family violence. The facility also offers a Residential Substance Abuse Treatment program to support inmates battling addiction.
Hays State Prison Contact Information
- Address:
777 Underwood Drive,
P.O. Box 668,
Trion, GA 30753 - Phone: (706) 857-0400
- Fax: (706) 857-0624
- Website: Visit the Georgia Department of Corrections website for more details.
Visiting Information for Hays State Prison
Visiting loved ones at Hays State Prison requires following specific guidelines. In-person visitation is typically allowed on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and on state holidays. Visits are subject to prior approval, and visitors must adhere to the prison’s dress code and conduct rules.
To book a visit, you must contact the prison at least a week in advance, ensuring the inmate’s name and ID number are included. Visits are limited to a certain number of people depending on the inmate’s classification, usually up to five visitors. When attending, visitors are allowed to bring a government-issued ID and any necessary medications in clear packaging. All other personal belongings must be left outside the visitation area.
How to Book a Visit to Hays State Prison
To book a visit at Hays State Prison, follow these steps:
- Contact the prison at (706) 857-0400 to schedule a visit.
- Provide the inmate’s full name and ID number.
- Make sure to schedule your visit by Wednesday at 5:00 PM for a weekend visit.
- Ensure all visitors have valid photo IDs and comply with the dress code.
Visits typically last between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the prison’s schedule and the inmate’s behavior. For more details on visitation, call the prison directly.
Directions and Parking for Hays State Prison
Hays State Prison is located in Trion, Georgia, accessible via I-75 North. Take Exit 306 (Adairsville/Summerville), and follow Hwy 140 West for approximately 19 miles. Turn right onto Hwy 27 North and drive for 14 miles until you reach the Summerville city limits. Continue for another five miles, and the entrance to the prison will be on your right.
There is visitor parking available on-site. Ensure you arrive early, as visitor screening can take time.
Life Inside Hays State Prison and Recent News
Life inside Hays State Prison is known for its strict security measures due to its classification as a close-security facility. Inmates are subject to limited movement, especially after a series of violent incidents in the early 2010s, which led to a crackdown on gang activity and improved security systems. Though conditions have improved since then, the prison still faces challenges such as staff shortages and occasional incidents of violence.
Notably, the prison has been home to several high-profile inmates, including Travis McMichael, convicted in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, and Guy Heinze Jr., sentenced for the Glynn County mass murder in 2009. These cases have brought national attention to Hays State Prison.
Famous Prisoners at Hays State Prison
Hays State Prison has housed a number of infamous prisoners, including:
- Travis McMichael – One of the men convicted in the 2020 murder of Ahmaud Arbery.
- Guy Heinze Jr. – Convicted of murdering eight members of his family in the Glynn County mass murder case.
FAQs about Hays State Prison
What is the security level at Hays State Prison?
Hays State Prison is a close-security facility, housing some of the most dangerous male offenders in Georgia.How do I contact an inmate at Hays State Prison?
You can send mail to inmates using the following address:
Inmate Name, ID Number,
777 Underwood Road,
P.O. Box 668, Trion, GA 30753.What are the visitation hours at Hays State Prison?
Visitation is allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.What programs are available for inmates at Hays State Prison?
Inmates have access to educational programs, vocational training, counseling services, and substance abuse treatment.How can I book a visit to Hays State Prison?
Contact the prison at (706) 857-0400 by Wednesday at 5:00 PM to book a visit for the upcoming weekend.Are there any famous inmates at Hays State Prison?
Yes, notable inmates include Travis McMichael and Guy Heinze Jr.What is life like inside Hays State Prison?
Life inside the prison is highly controlled, with limited movement for inmates, particularly following incidents of violence in recent years.How do I send money to an inmate at Hays State Prison?
You can deposit money into an inmate’s account via mail, online, or during visitations.What can visitors bring to Hays State Prison?
Visitors may bring a government-issued ID and essential medical items in clear packaging.How do I reach Hays State Prison?
Hays State Prison is located in Trion, GA, and is accessible via I-75 North and Hwy 27.
Conclusion
Hays State Prison plays a significant role in Georgia’s correctional system, housing high-risk offenders and offering programs aimed at reducing recidivism. While it faces challenges, it remains a key institution for rehabilitation. For more information on Hays State Prison, visit the Georgia Department of Corrections’ official site.