General Overview of Sussex II State Prison

Sussex II State Prison, located in Waverly, Virginia, is a high-security correctional facility that houses male inmates with serious offenses, including violent crimes. This prison, opened in 1999, holds approximately 1,352 inmates and is classified as a Level 4 security facility, meaning it is designed to handle the highest-risk offenders. The prison offers various vocational, educational, and re-entry programs aimed at preparing inmates for life post-incarceration. However, due to its population of dangerous criminals, daily life in Sussex II is highly regimented, with strict rules to maintain security.

In December 2023, the Virginia Department of Corrections announced that Sussex II, along with several other facilities, is scheduled to permanently close by July 2024 due to safety and staffing concerns, leaving inmates to be transferred to other state institutions.

Sussex II State Prison

Contact Information for Sussex II State Prison

  • Address: 24427 Musselwhite Drive, Waverly, VA 23891
  • Phone Number: (804) 834-2678
  • Website: Virginia DOC

 

Visiting Information for Sussex II State Prison

Visitation at Sussex II State Prison typically takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, with times varying based on the inmate’s classification and housing unit. Visitors must be on an approved list, and appointments are required. Visits usually last up to two hours, though duration can be affected by the prison’s capacity and scheduling. To visit, make sure to bring a valid government-issued ID and follow strict dress codes and guidelines to ensure a smooth visit.

 

How to Book a Visit to Sussex II State Prison

To schedule a visit to Sussex II State Prison, you must first submit a visitation application, which can be downloaded from the Virginia Department of Corrections website or requested from the facility. Approval may take several weeks, so plan ahead. Visitors are allowed to bring small personal items like keys and identification but must leave larger items such as phones and purses in their vehicles. A maximum of two visitors can see an inmate at one time, with children being counted towards the limit.

How to Get to Sussex II State Prison

Sussex II State Prison is located just off US Route 460 in Sussex County. From Richmond, take I-95 South, then exit onto Route 460 East. The prison is adjacent to Sussex I State Prison, and parking is available on-site for visitors. Make sure to arrive early, as visitor parking can fill up, especially on weekends when most visits occur.

Life Inside Sussex II State Prison

Life inside Sussex II is highly controlled, with inmates confined to cells for most of the day. Sussex II is known for its strict security due to the violent nature of many of its inmates. Inmates live in double-occupancy cells and are subject to a regimented routine that includes limited recreation, meals, and rehabilitative programs. The prison has been noted for occasional incidents, including an attempted escape in 2004. In 2020, the Virginia DOC undertook a large-scale project to replace cell doors after it was found that inmates had been jamming doors to escape from their cells.

 

Famous Prisoners at Sussex II State Prison

While Sussex II has housed numerous dangerous criminals, the facility does not have a high-profile roster of well-known inmates compared to other prisons. However, its sister facility, Sussex I, is noted for holding notorious inmates, including D.C. sniper John Allen Muhammad before his execution.

 

FAQs About Sussex II State Prison

  • What is Sussex II State Prison? Sussex II is a high-security, Level 4 prison in Virginia that houses male inmates convicted of serious and violent crimes.

  • How can I visit an inmate at Sussex II State Prison? To visit, you must first be on the inmate’s approved visitation list and schedule your visit in advance.

  • When will Sussex II State Prison close? Sussex II is set to close permanently by July 2024 due to staffing and safety concerns.

  • What security level is Sussex II State Prison? Sussex II is classified as a Level 4 facility, handling some of Virginia’s most dangerous inmates.

  • Are there educational programs for inmates at Sussex II? Yes, inmates have access to educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation.

  • What should I bring to a visit at Sussex II State Prison? Visitors should bring a valid ID and follow the prison’s strict guidelines on dress code and permitted items.

  • How do I contact Sussex II State Prison? You can contact the prison by phone at (804) 834-2678 or by mail at 24427 Musselwhite Drive, Waverly, VA 23891.

  • Can I send money to inmates at Sussex II State Prison? Yes, funds can be sent through the prison’s commissary system via online services or postal money orders.

  • What is life like for an inmate at Sussex II State Prison? Inmates at Sussex II experience a highly regulated life, with strict schedules and limited freedoms due to the high-security nature of the facility.

  • How do I get to Sussex II State Prison? The prison is located off Route 460 in Waverly, Virginia, and is easily accessible from I-95.

Summary and Conclusion

Sussex II State Prison, a high-security facility in Virginia, is home to over 1,300 male inmates convicted of serious crimes. The prison operates with strict security measures, offering rehabilitation programs and structured daily routines for inmates. However, due to staffing challenges and safety concerns, the prison is set to close in July 2024. Visitation is highly regulated, and visitors must adhere to specific rules to visit inmates. While life inside is restrictive, Sussex II plays a critical role in Virginia’s correctional system until its closure.

For more details, visit the Virginia DOC website or call the prison directly at (804) 834-2678.

Visit Sussex I State Prison