French Robertson Unit: Overview
The French Robertson Unit, located in Abilene, Texas, is a maximum-security prison housing over 2,900 male inmates. Opened in 1992, the facility serves as a significant part of Texas’s correctional system. Operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), the unit holds inmates ranging from medium- to maximum-security classifications, including violent offenders. The prison also serves as a regional release site for inmates nearing the end of their sentences.
Inmates at French Robertson Unit participate in various rehabilitation and educational programs, including vocational training and adult education. The prison’s design ensures tight security while also accommodating some prisoners in general population settings, providing contact visits for those who qualify.
Contact Information for French Robertson Unit
Address:
French Robertson Unit
12071 FM 3522
Abilene, TX 79601
Phone Number:
(325) 548-9035
Email:
For general inquiries, it’s recommended to contact the unit directly by phone as email addresses are not publicly listed for this facility.
Visiting Information for French Robertson Unit
Visitation at French Robertson Unit is typically allowed on Saturdays and Sundays between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list, which can include up to 10 people. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, though split visits are allowed to accommodate more family members. All visitors must adhere to a strict dress code, and visitors should always call ahead to confirm visit eligibility and hours as they may change.
Visitors can bring a clear plastic bag with up to $25 in quarters for purchasing items from vending machines during visits. Visits typically last around two hours but may be shorter or longer depending on the number of visitors and the space available on the day.
How to Book a Visit at French Robertson Unit
To book a visit, you must be listed on the inmate’s approved visitor list. Call the prison at least 24 hours before your planned visit to confirm. You’ll need the inmate’s ID number and your information for verification. Each inmate is allowed up to two adult visitors per visit, with children allowed based on space and management capability. Be prepared to provide identification, and visitors should arrive early for check-in.
Directions and Parking at French Robertson Unit
Located 10 miles northeast of downtown Abilene, Texas, the prison can be accessed via FM 3522. Visitors traveling by car will find parking available at the facility, though it is recommended to arrive early, as spaces may fill up during busy visiting days.
Directions from Abilene:
- Take I-20 East
- Exit onto FM 3522 and drive northeast until you reach the facility.
Life Inside French Robertson Unit
Life at French Robertson Unit is highly regimented, with inmates housed based on their security classification. As a maximum-security prison, Robertson Unit holds a significant number of violent offenders, including those serving long sentences for serious crimes. Inmates have access to educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation, but they also face a strict disciplinary environment. Incidents of violence between inmates have been reported, though these are generally managed quickly by the prison staff.
Recent news includes incidents involving inmate altercations, as well as a 2016 murder of a corrections officer, which led to increased security measures across the facility. Despite such challenges, the unit works to provide inmates with resources to prepare them for eventual reintegration into society.
Notable Inmates at French Robertson Unit
Several notorious inmates have been housed at French Robertson Unit, including:
- Colton Aaron Pitonyak, convicted of the 2005 murder of Jennifer Cave in Austin, Texas. Pitonyak is serving a 55-year sentence and is not eligible for parole until 2060.
- James Richard “Ricky” Thompson, serving a life sentence for the 2009 murders of John Goosey and Stacy Barnett in Houston. Thompson is eligible for parole in 2039
FAQs About French Robertson Unit
Where is French Robertson Unit located?
French Robertson Unit is located at 12071 FM 3522, Abilene, Texas, about 10 miles northeast of downtown.What is the capacity of French Robertson Unit?
The facility houses over 2,900 male inmates, including those in maximum-security and restricted housing units.How do I schedule a visit at French Robertson Unit?
Visits must be scheduled in advance by contacting the unit at least one day before your intended visit. You must also be on the inmate’s approved visitor list.Can I send mail to an inmate at French Robertson Unit?
Yes, you can send mail to inmates. Ensure that you include the inmate’s name and ID number on the envelope. All mail is inspected by prison staff.Are there rehabilitation programs at French Robertson Unit?
Yes, inmates can participate in educational programs, vocational training, and other rehabilitation services aimed at reintegration into society.Is parking available at French Robertson Unit?
Yes, parking is available for visitors at the facility, but spaces may fill up quickly, so it is advised to arrive early.What are the visiting hours at French Robertson Unit?
Visiting hours are typically Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but you should call ahead to confirm.What items can I bring for an inmate visit?
Visitors are allowed to bring up to $25 in quarters for vending machines, carried in a clear plastic bag. Other items, such as food or electronics, are prohibited.Who can visit inmates at French Robertson Unit?
Only individuals on the inmate’s approved visitor list can visit, and this list can include up to 10 people. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.Has there been violence at French Robertson Unit?
Yes, there have been reports of inmate altercations and an officer’s murder in 2016. The prison has since increased its security measures.
For more information about French Robertson Unit, you can visit the Texas Department of Criminal Justice website
Visit Riverside Regional Jail