Hays State Prison Overview

Hays State Prison, located in Trion, Georgia, is a maximum-security facility designed to house some of the state’s most dangerous and high-risk male offenders. Operating since 1990, the prison plays a critical role in managing challenging inmates, many of whom are classified as close-security risks due to violent histories or mental health needs. The facility also runs structured programs to promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism, with offerings such as vocational training, religious services, and substance abuse recovery.

Hays State Prison has had a troubled history, particularly in regard to inmate violence and gang activity, which have made headlines. Despite these challenges, the prison remains an essential component of the Georgia Department of Corrections.

Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia

Contact Information for Hays State Prison

Hays State Prison
777 Underwood Drive,
P.O. Box 668,
Trion, GA 30753

Phone: (706) 857-0400
Fax: (706) 857-0624
Website: Georgia Department of Corrections

Visiting Hays State Prison

Visiting inmates at Hays State Prison is a structured process with specific guidelines. The prison offers visitation on weekends and certain holidays, providing family members with opportunities to maintain connections with incarcerated loved ones.

  • Visiting Days: Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays
  • Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Appointments for Tier I/II Inmates: Wednesdays and Fridays, by appointment only

What to Bring to a Visit

Visitors should bring a valid government-issued ID. Dress codes are enforced, so visitors must wear appropriate clothing. Prohibited items include cell phones, wallets, and large bags. All items brought into the facility are subject to search.

How to Book a Visit

To book a visit at Hays State Prison, visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list. Call the facility at (706) 857-0400 to schedule an appointment for Tier I/II offenders. Visitors can bring up to three people, including children, for each visit.

Directions and Parking at Hays State Prison

Hays State Prison is located about 90 minutes north of Atlanta in Chattooga County, Georgia.

  • Directions: From Atlanta, take I-75 North to Exit 306 (Adairsville/Summerville). Turn left onto GA-140 West and follow for about 19 miles. Turn right onto Highway 27 North and drive 14 miles through Summerville. The prison entrance is five miles past Summerville on the right.
  • Parking: Visitor parking is available on-site.

Life Inside Hays State Prison

Life inside Hays State Prison can be difficult due to the presence of violent offenders and gang-related activities. Numerous reports have highlighted issues such as violence, poor conditions, and understaffing. The facility houses a mixture of high-security inmates, including those with mental health issues, further adding to the challenges within the prison. Gang influence is a significant problem, and many inmates fear for their safety. However, the prison does offer programs like educational classes and vocational training, helping inmates prepare for reintegration into society upon release.

 

Notable Inmates at Hays State Prison

Hays State Prison has housed some of Georgia’s most notorious criminals:

  • Travis McMichael: Serving a life sentence for his involvement in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, a case that drew national attention.
  • Guy Heinze Jr.: Convicted of killing eight family members in a 2009 mass murder known as the Glynn County mobile home massacre

FAQs About Hays State Prison

1. What type of inmates does Hays State Prison hold?
Hays State Prison holds high-security male offenders, many of whom have violent criminal backgrounds.

2. How can I contact Hays State Prison?
You can contact Hays State Prison by calling (706) 857-0400 or sending mail to P.O. Box 668, Trion, GA 30753.

3. When are visiting hours at Hays State Prison?
Visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays.

4. How do I book a visit to Hays State Prison?
You can book a visit by calling the prison directly at (706) 857-0400. Ensure that you are on the inmate’s approved visitor list before scheduling.

5. What should I bring to a visit at Hays State Prison?
Bring a valid ID and avoid bringing prohibited items like cell phones and wallets. Follow the dress code.

6. Are there notorious inmates at Hays State Prison?
Yes, notable inmates include Travis McMichael, convicted in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, and Guy Heinze Jr., convicted in the Glynn County mass murder.

7. How do I send mail to an inmate at Hays State Prison?
Address mail to the inmate’s name and ID number, P.O. Box 668, Trion, GA 30753.

8. What is life like for inmates at Hays State Prison?
Life inside is challenging due to violence and gang influence, but there are programs for education and rehabilitation.

9. Is there parking at Hays State Prison?
Yes, there is visitor parking available at the facility.

10. What programs are available to inmates at Hays State Prison?
Inmates can participate in educational programs, vocational training, and substance abuse recovery initiatives

Conclusion

Hays State Prison is a maximum-security facility with a long-standing reputation for housing some of Georgia’s most dangerous male inmates. While the facility struggles with violence and gang activity, it provides essential programs aimed at rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. With a history of notorious inmates and a commitment to managing difficult offenders, Hays State Prison remains an integral part of Georgia’s correctional system.

To learn more about Hays State Prison, visit the Georgia Department of Corrections website.

Sources:

  • Wikipedia on Hays State Prison
  • Georgia Department of Corrections Official Website
  • Prison Legal News

Visit Hays Correctional Facility