High Desert State Prison: A Comprehensive Guide

High Desert State Prison, situated in Indian Springs, Nevada, stands as the pinnacle of technological advancements within the Nevada Department of Corrections. As the largest correctional facility in the state, it serves as the reception center for all inmates in Southern Nevada. With a current capacity of 4,176 inmates and ongoing expansion plans, High Desert State Prison is the leading establishment within the Southern Nevada Prison Complex.

A Technologically Advanced Facility

High Desert State Prison operates as a medium to maximum custody prison, employing rigorous security measures. To ensure the safety of the surrounding community, the prison is equipped with a lethal electric fence, seven armed guard towers, an armed perimeter patrol, and various electronic detection systems. These precautions guarantee a high level of security and prevent any unauthorized access or escape attempts.

Modernized Housing Units

The inmates at High Desert State Prison are housed in 12 distinct housing units, each comprising smaller pods. This division allows for effective management and supervision of the incarcerated population. Within this environment, offenders have the opportunity to enhance their education and acquire valuable skills.

Educational and Vocational Programs

High Desert State Prison recognizes the importance of education in rehabilitation. Inmates have the chance to earn their General Education Development (GED) credential while incarcerated, opening doors to further educational pursuits. Furthermore, the facility offers college courses, providing individuals with a chance to expand their knowledge and improve their prospects for successful reintegration into society.

In addition to academic pursuits, vocational training programs are available to inmates. These programs encompass a range of valuable skills, including Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), carpentry, and automotive repair. By equipping inmates with practical expertise, High Desert State Prison empowers them to develop marketable skills for future employment opportunities.

Visitation Schedule and Guidelines

Visitation at High Desert State Prison follows a predetermined schedule based on the unit where an inmate is housed. To ensure a smooth visitation experience, visitors must have an approved application on file beforehand. The following is an overview of the visitation schedule for each unit:

Unit Visitation Schedule:

• Units 1, 2, 3 C/D, and 4 A/B: Tuesdays from 8:30 am to 2:45 pm.
• Units 3 A/B, 4 C/D, 7, and 8: Thursdays from 8:30 am to 2:45 pm.
• Unit 6: Wednesdays from 8:30 am to 2:45 pm.
• Unit 9: Fridays from 11:45 am to 2:45 pm and Saturdays from 8:30 am to 11:30 am.
• Unit 10: Mondays from 11:45 am to 2:45 pm and Sundays from 8:30 am to 11:30 am.
• Unit 11: Fridays from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and Saturdays from 11:45 am to 2:45 pm.
• Unit 12: Mondays from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and Sundays from 11:45 am to 2:45 pm.

Attorney visits should be arranged through the Warden’s office. Inmates in the infirmary are eligible for non-contact behind glass visitation on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, provided they are medically able. Disciplinary Segregation inmates are allowed a single monthly non-contact visit with immediate family members only.

Contact Information and Mailing Address

For any inquiries or correspondence, please refer to the following contact information:

Physical Address: High Desert State Prison 22010 Cold Creek Road Indian Springs, Nevada 89070

Telephone: (702) 879-6789

Inmate Mailing Address: Inmate Name, ID Number High Desert State Prison P.O. Box 650 Indian Springs, Nevada 89070-0650

Location and History of High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison is located in Indian Springs, Nevada. It was established in 2000 as a maximum-security prison to relieve overcrowding in other state-run correctional facilities. The prison has a capacity of over 2,000 inmates and is one of the largest prisons in Nevada.

The Purpose of High Desert State Prison

The purpose of High Desert State Prison is to provide safe and secure housing for maximum-security prisoners while also offering programs and services to help them reintegrate into society. The prison offers education, job training, and rehabilitation programs to help inmates prepare for their eventual release.

The Capacity and Population of High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison has a capacity of over 2,000 inmates. The prison population is made up of a diverse group of individuals, including those serving long-term sentences for serious offenses and those awaiting trial.

The Security Level of High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison is classified as a maximum-security prison, meaning it has the highest level of security and the strictest control measures in place. The prison is equipped with multiple security systems, including surveillance cameras, perimeter fencing, and armed guards.

The Programs and Services Offered at High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison offers a wide range of programs and services to its inmates, including education, job training, and rehabilitation programs. The prison also offers medical and mental health services to inmates, as well as religious and recreational programs.

The Living Conditions at High Desert State Prison

The living conditions at High Desert State Prison are generally considered to be adequate, though there have been criticisms of the quality of food and medical care provided to inmates. Inmates are housed in shared cells, with two to three individuals per cell.

The Visitation Policy at High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison has a strict visitation policy, which includes background checks and identification verification for all visitors. Visitation hours are limited and may be restricted based on security concerns.

The Medical and Mental Health Services at High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison provides medical and mental health services to inmates, including regular check-ups and emergency care. The prison has a full-time staff of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, to provide care to inmates.

The Education and Job Training Programs at High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison offers education and job training programs to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. These programs include basic education classes, such as reading, writing, and math, as well as vocational training in fields such as carpentry, electrical work, and computer programming. The goal of these programs is to give inmates the skills and knowledge they need to find employment upon their release.

The Rehabilitation Programs at High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison offers a variety of rehabilitation programs to help inmates address the underlying issues that led to their incarceration. These programs include substance abuse treatment, anger management classes, and therapy sessions. The goal of these programs is to help inmates overcome their challenges and become productive members of society.

The Controversies and Criticisms of High Desert State Prison

Despite its efforts to provide safe and secure housing, quality programs and services, and rehabilitation opportunities, High Desert State Prison has faced its share of controversies and criticisms. Some of these include allegations of mistreatment of inmates, inadequate medical care, and a lack of resources for rehabilitation programs.

The Future of High Desert State Prison

The future of High Desert State Prison remains uncertain. The prison has faced ongoing criticism and controversy, and some have called for it to be closed or reformed. Despite this, the prison continues to serve its purpose as a maximum-security facility, offering programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release.

Conclusion on High Desert State Prison

High Desert State Prison is a maximum-security prison located in Indian Springs, Nevada. It was established in 2000 to relieve overcrowding in other state-run correctional facilities and has since served as a secure housing facility for maximum-security prisoners. The prison offers a wide range of programs and services, including education, job training, and rehabilitation programs, to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. Despite its efforts, the prison has faced criticism and controversy, and its future remains uncertain.

Frequently Asked Questions about High Desert State Prison

1. What is High Desert State Prison? High Desert State Prison is a maximum-security prison located in Indian Springs, Nevada. It was established in 2000 to relieve overcrowding in other state-run correctional facilities.
2. What is the purpose of High Desert State Prison? The purpose of High Desert State Prison is to provide safe and secure housing for maximum-security prisoners while also offering programs and services to help them reintegrate into society.
3. What is the security level of High Desert State Prison? High Desert State Prison is classified as a maximum-security prison, meaning it has the highest level of security and the strictest control measures in place.
4. What programs and services are offered at High Desert State Prison? High Desert State Prison offers a wide range of programs and services to its inmates, including education, job training, rehabilitation programs, medical and mental health services, and religious and recreational programs.
5. What is the future of High Desert State Prison? The future of High Desert State Prison remains uncertain. Despite its efforts to provide quality programs and services, the prison has faced ongoing criticism and controversy, and its future remains uncertain.