Overview of Utah State Prison
The Utah State Prison, originally located in Draper, was the primary correctional facility for the state until 2022. This prison housed a wide range of inmates, including some of the most notorious criminals in U.S. history. It had separate units for male and female prisoners and accommodated inmates ranging from minimum security to maximum security levels, including death row.
In July 2022, all inmates were relocated to the Utah State Correctional Facility, a state-of-the-art prison located near Salt Lake City. This new facility, spanning 1.35 million square feet, was built to replace the aging infrastructure of the Draper location. Today, the Utah State Correctional Facility houses over 3,600 male and female inmates, with upgraded security systems and rehabilitative programs designed to improve inmate outcomes.
Utah State Prison Contact Information
For those seeking information regarding inmates previously held at Utah State Prison or currently at the Utah State Correctional Facility:
- Address: 1480 North 8000 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116
- Phone: (801) 545-5500
- Email: corrections@utah.gov
- Website: Utah Department of Corrections
Visiting Information for Utah State Prison
To visit an inmate at the Utah State Correctional Facility, you must first schedule a visit in advance:
- Visiting Times: Visitation schedules vary depending on the inmate’s housing unit and security level. Typically, visits are offered on weekends, but it’s important to confirm specific times via the Department of Corrections website or by calling the facility.
- What to Bring: A valid government-issued ID is required. Visitors must follow a dress code that prohibits revealing clothing and any accessories that could compromise security.
- Visit Duration: Visits generally last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the inmate’s privileges.
How to Book a Visit at Utah State Prison
Booking a visit at Utah State Correctional Facility is straightforward but requires some preparation:
- What You Need: You will need the inmate’s full name, ID number, and unit location.
- How to Book: You can schedule visits online via the Utah Department of Corrections’ visitation portal or call the facility directly. Be prepared to undergo a background check if this is your first visit.
- Limits: Inmates are allowed up to four visitors at one time. Each visitor, including children, must be pre-registered.
Directions and Parking at Utah State Prison
Located near Salt Lake City, the new Utah State Correctional Facility is easily accessible:
- Driving Directions: From I-80, take the 7200 West exit, then head north to 1480 North 8000 West.
- Parking: Visitor parking is available near the entrance, but expect a short walk to the visitor center. Be sure to arrive early to allow time for security checks.
What is Utah State Prison Like for Inmates?
Life inside the Utah State Correctional Facility is a blend of routine and rehabilitation. The prison offers programs in vocational training, education, and addiction recovery. While daily life follows a strict schedule, the new facility is designed to improve the overall well-being of inmates through access to healthcare, mental health services, and opportunities for personal growth. Despite these efforts, staffing shortages have been a significant challenge, and safety concerns remain under scrutiny.
Famous Prisoners at Utah State Prison
Throughout its history, Utah State Prison has housed several infamous inmates:
- Gary Gilmore: The first person executed in the U.S. after the reinstatement of the death penalty in 1977, Gilmore was known for requesting execution by firing squad.
- Ronnie Lee Gardner: Another inmate executed by firing squad, Gardner was convicted of multiple murders.
- Warren Jeffs: The leader of the FLDS Church, Jeffs was convicted of multiple sex crimes and served time here before being transferred to Texas.
- Mark Hofmann: A forger and murderer known for his involvement in high-profile document forgery scandals.
FAQs About Utah State Prison
1. Where is Utah State Prison located now?
Utah State Prison has been replaced by the Utah State Correctional Facility, located at 1480 North 8000 West, Salt Lake City, UT.
2. How do I contact Utah State Prison?
You can reach the new facility via phone at (801) 545-5500 or email at corrections@utah.gov.
3. How do I schedule a visit to Utah State Prison?
Visits can be scheduled online through the Utah Department of Corrections website. You’ll need to provide the inmate’s information and undergo a background check.
4. What are the visiting hours at Utah State Prison?
Visiting hours depend on the inmate’s unit and security level but generally occur on weekends.
5. Who was the most famous prisoner at Utah State Prison?
Gary Gilmore, executed by firing squad in 1977, remains one of the most notorious inmates from Utah State Prison.
6. What should I bring to a visit at Utah State Prison?
Bring a government-issued ID and wear appropriate clothing. Be mindful of security regulations that limit what you can take inside.
7. Are there parking facilities at Utah State Correctional Facility?
Yes, visitor parking is available, but security checks may take time, so plan accordingly.
8. How do I find an inmate at Utah State Correctional Facility?
You can search for inmates on the Utah Department of Corrections website using their inmate ID or name.
9. What security levels are in place at Utah State Correctional Facility?
The facility accommodates all security levels, from minimum to maximum security, including death row.
10. Who manages Utah State Correctional Facility?
The facility is managed by the Utah Department of Corrections, responsible for overseeing inmate care and security.
Conclusion
The transition from Utah State Prison to the Utah State Correctional Facility marks a new era in the state’s correctional system, with a focus on modernizing the infrastructure and improving inmate rehabilitation. With a rich history that includes housing notorious criminals like Gary Gilmore and Warren Jeffs, the facility remains central to Utah’s criminal justice system.
For more information, visit the Utah Department of Corrections website.
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