New Jersey State Prison Overview

[New Jersey State Prison] is a maximum-security facility located in Trenton, New Jersey. The prison houses male inmates of varying security levels, including those serving life sentences or on death row before New Jersey abolished the death penalty. With a long and storied history dating back to 1836, New Jersey State Prison is one of the oldest operational prisons in the United States. The prison primarily holds inmates convicted of violent crimes and those requiring high-security measures. The facility is known for its strict management, ensuring the containment of dangerous offenders while providing rehabilitation programs for those eligible.

New Jersey State Prison

New Jersey State Prison Contact Information, Address, Email, and Telephone Number

New Jersey State Prison
Address: 31 Petticoat Lane, Trenton, NJ 08625
Telephone: (609) 292-9700
Fax: (609) 943-4500
Email: njspinfo@doc.nj.gov

For general inquiries or visiting information, it’s best to contact the prison directly through the telephone number or email provided.

Visiting Information for New Jersey State Prison

Visiting an inmate at New Jersey State Prison is a regulated process, designed to ensure both safety and the opportunity for family members to maintain contact with their incarcerated loved ones. Visiting hours typically occur on weekends and holidays, with both morning and afternoon slots available.

  • Visiting Days: Saturday and Sunday
  • Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Duration of Visits: Typically 2 hours per visit, though this may vary depending on the inmate’s security level or special circumstances.

What to Take to a Prison Visit

When visiting New Jersey State Prison, you will need to bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. Personal items like bags, cell phones, and wallets are generally not permitted inside and must be left in your car or a designated locker.

 

What Are Prison Visits Like?

Visiting a loved one in New Jersey State Prison takes place in a designated visitation room. Depending on the security classification of the inmate, you may experience contact visits or non-contact visits, where you are separated by glass and must speak through a telephone. The environment is secure but respectful, ensuring safety while allowing family bonding time.

 

How to Book a Prison Visit at New Jersey State Prison

To book a visit at New Jersey State Prison, you must first be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. Once approved, it is necessary to schedule the visit in advance, usually by phone or online, depending on the specific regulations of the prison.

 

What You Will Need to Book a Visit

  • Inmate’s full name and prisoner number.
  • Your personal information, including name, relationship to the inmate, and contact details.
  • Valid ID for verification at the time of the visit.

You can book up to two adults and two children for each visit. Only a set number of visitors are allowed at one time, so it’s important to confirm the rules with the prison directly before planning your trip.

Directions and Parking Information for New Jersey State Prison
How to Get to New Jersey State Prison

New Jersey State Prison is located in the capital city of Trenton, easily accessible by car and public transportation.

  • By Car: If driving from I-95, take exit 60A towards Trenton. From here, follow signs for Route 129 and then Route 206. The prison is located at the end of Petticoat Lane.
  • By Public Transit: Trenton Transit Center is nearby, offering train services via NJ Transit and Amtrak. From the transit center, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the prison.

Parking Information

Visitor parking is available in designated lots outside the prison. Parking is free, but spaces can fill up quickly during visiting hours, so arriving early is advised. There are accessible parking spots for those with disabilities close to the entrance.

What is New Jersey State Prison Like for a Prisoner and Latest News

Life inside New Jersey State Prison is strict, with high-security measures in place to maintain order. The prison offers limited rehabilitation programs, such as educational and vocational training, aimed at helping inmates reintegrate into society, though these are more limited for maximum-security inmates. Cells are small, typically shared, and the overall environment is heavily controlled. Inmates experience structured routines, with little time outside of their cells unless engaged in work assignments or programs.

Recent news surrounding New Jersey State Prison highlights concerns over overcrowding and mental health services. Efforts have been made to address these issues through reforms, but challenges remain due to the high number of dangerous and long-term inmates housed within the facility.

Famous Prisoners at New Jersey State Prison

Over its long history, New Jersey State Prison has housed several notorious inmates, including:

  1. Richard Kuklinski (The Iceman) – A convicted contract killer linked to over 100 murders.
  2. Jesse Timmendequas – Convicted for the murder of Megan Kanka, which led to the creation of “Megan’s Law,” a federal requirement for sex offender registries.
  3. Gerard John Schaefer – A former law enforcement officer turned serial killer, infamous for his crimes against young women.

These prisoners have left a mark on the history of the prison and the state of New Jersey, contributing to the notoriety of New Jersey State Prison as a place for housing high-profile offenders.

FAQs about New Jersey State Prison

1. Where is New Jersey State Prison located?
New Jersey State Prison is located in Trenton, New Jersey, at 31 Petticoat Lane, Trenton, NJ 08625.

2. What type of prisoners does New Jersey State Prison hold?
New Jersey State Prison primarily houses male inmates serving long-term sentences for violent crimes. It is a maximum-security facility.

3. How do I book a visit at New Jersey State Prison?
To book a visit, you must be on the approved visitor list and schedule the visit ahead of time. You can call the prison to arrange your visit.

4. What are visiting hours at New Jersey State Prison?
Visiting hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and holidays.

5. Are there parking facilities at New Jersey State Prison?
Yes, there is free visitor parking available at the prison, including accessible parking for those with disabilities.

6. Who are some famous prisoners who served time at New Jersey State Prison?
Notable inmates include Richard Kuklinski, Jesse Timmendequas, and Gerard John Schaefer.

7. What should I bring to a prison visit at New Jersey State Prison?
You should bring a valid ID, but avoid bringing personal items like cell phones, bags, or wallets, as these will not be allowed inside.

8. What are the security levels at New Jersey State Prison?
New Jersey State Prison is a maximum-security facility but houses inmates of all security levels.

9. What is life like inside New Jersey State Prison for inmates?
Life is highly regulated, with limited freedom and controlled environments. Inmates spend a significant amount of time in their cells, with restricted opportunities for recreation or socialization.

10. Can I send mail to inmates at New Jersey State Prison?
Yes, you can send letters and approved packages to inmates. All mail is screened by prison staff.

Summary and Conclusion

New Jersey State Prison stands as one of the oldest and most secure prisons in the United States. It holds male prisoners convicted of violent and dangerous crimes, with strict routines and security measures in place to ensure public safety. Whether you’re looking to visit an inmate or learn more about the prison’s storied history, New Jersey State Prison remains a notable institution in the corrections system. For more details, it is always best to contact the prison directly or consult the New Jersey Department of Corrections for the latest updates.


External Sources:

  1. https://www.state.nj.us/corrections/pages/contact_njsp.html
  2. https://www.trentonian.com

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