General Overview of Metro West Detention Center

Metro West Detention Center is one of the largest facilities in the Miami-Dade County Corrections system, located in Doral, Florida. Opened in 1991, this center holds a mix of maximum, medium, and minimum-security male inmates. It has a capacity of 3,098 beds, although it typically houses around 1,900 prisoners at any given time. The prison serves individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or serving short-term sentences (usually under two years). Metro West Detention Center is known for strict security protocols and has faced scrutiny over the years for incidents involving the use of force.

 

Metro West Detention Center

Contact Information for Metro West Detention Center

Visiting Information at Metro West Detention Center

Visitation at Metro West Detention Center is divided into specific time slots based on the inmate’s housing unit. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list and adhere to the facility’s guidelines. The visiting schedule allows for two visits per week, with visiting hours running from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., depending on the day. Visitation slots are divided between general population inmates, as well as specialized units.

  • What to bring: A valid photo ID is required, and visitors must dress appropriately (no revealing clothing). You are not allowed to bring personal items like cell phones or bags into the visitation area.
  • Duration: Visits are typically 30 to 60 minutes long, conducted in a secure, under-glass format.

How to Book a Visit at Metro West Detention Center

To schedule a visit, visitors need to register and create an account with Global Tel*Link (GTL) on their visitation platform. Before booking, ensure that the inmate has added you to their approved visitation list. After registration, you can book your visit online or call the visitation desk for assistance.

  • What you need: Inmate’s full name and booking number, along with valid personal identification.
  • Group size: Up to two visitors are allowed per visit, including minors.
  • Booking Process: After registering with GTL, schedule your visit at least 24 hours in advance. Availability depends on inmate housing assignments and facility policies.

Directions and Parking Information for Metro West Detention Center

Metro West Detention Center is located at 13850 NW 41st Street, Miami, FL, in the Doral area. The facility is accessible via several major highways, including the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836) and Florida’s Turnpike.

  • Parking: On-site parking is available for visitors, with plenty of spaces. However, visitors are encouraged to arrive early as the parking lot can fill up quickly during busy visitation hours.

What is Life Like Inside Metro West Detention Center?

Life inside Metro West Detention Center is strict and highly regulated. The facility has faced criticism in recent years for a rise in incidents of force by corrections officers. Inmates are housed based on their security level, and their daily life consists of standard prison routines such as meal times, recreational activities, and limited communication with the outside world. Rehabilitation programs are available, though they may be limited depending on the inmate’s classification. Prison conditions have been under increased scrutiny due to complaints from inmates and investigations into the treatment of prisoners.

 

Famous Prisoners at Metro West Detention Center

Metro West Detention Center has housed several notable inmates over the years, including individuals awaiting high-profile trials or serving sentences for significant crimes in the Miami area. Most of these inmates are linked to drug trafficking, fraud, or violent crimes, given Miami’s history with organized crime and international smuggling.

 

FAQs About Metro West Detention Center

  • What is the Metro West Detention Center address?
    Metro West Detention Center is located at 13850 NW 41st Street, Miami, FL 33178.

  • How do I contact Metro West Detention Center?
    You can reach the facility by phone at 786-263-5110 or via email at mdcrinfo@miamidade.gov.

  • How can I visit an inmate at Metro West Detention Center?
    To visit an inmate, you need to register with Global Tel*Link (GTL) and schedule a visit in advance. The inmate must place you on their approved visitation list.

  • What is the inmate capacity at Metro West Detention Center?
    The facility can house up to 3,098 inmates, though it typically holds around 1,900 prisoners.

  • Does Metro West Detention Center allow video visitation?
    Yes, the facility offers remote video visitation through Global Tel*Link. Both friends and family can use this service.

  • What security levels does Metro West Detention Center have?
    Metro West Detention Center houses inmates across maximum, medium, and minimum security levels.

  • Are there parking facilities at Metro West Detention Center?
    Yes, there is ample parking available on-site for visitors.

  • How long are visits at Metro West Detention Center?
    Visits generally last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the inmate’s housing unit and the day of the visit.

  • Can I send mail to an inmate at Metro West Detention Center?
    Yes, mail is allowed. However, it must follow specific guidelines regarding paper type and content.

  • What are the visiting days for Metro West Detention Center?
    Visiting days are divided between weekdays and weekends, with time slots in the morning and evening based on inmate housing units.

Conclusion

Metro West Detention Center plays a crucial role in Miami-Dade County’s corrections system, providing secure housing for inmates awaiting trial or serving short sentences. While the facility offers several visitation options for inmates to stay connected with loved ones, life inside the jail is heavily controlled and, at times, challenging. If you need more information, you can visit the official Miami-Dade corrections website or reach out to the detention center directly.

External Source: Miami-Dade County Corrections Website

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