The Prince George’s County Correctional Facility, managed by the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections (PGDOC), serves as the primary adult detention center for the jurisdiction. Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, this facility handles pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short-term local sentences. Navigating the logistics of this institution requires an understanding of specific administrative protocols, varying schedules, and strict security regulations.

For those requiring immediate contact information, the main facility is situated at 13400 Dille Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. The primary administrative phone number is 301-952-7164. If the objective is to locate an individual currently in custody, the dedicated Inmate Records line is 301-952-7102. It is important to note that Prince George’s County does not maintain a public, real-time online inmate roster for direct searching; inquiries must be conducted via phone with the individual's full legal name and date of birth.

Structural Overview and Operational Philosophy

The Prince George’s County Correctional Facility is designed with a specific focus on safety, security, and efficient supervision. Unlike older "linear" jail designs where officers patrolled hallways and looked into cells, this facility utilizes a contemporary architectural approach that integrates correctional officers directly into the housing areas.

This design philosophy allows for continuous interaction between staff and the inmate population, which is intended to improve communication and reduce incidents of violence or non-compliance. By remaining inside the housing units, officers can more effectively monitor the environment and address issues before they escalate. This state-of-the-art space utilization also streamlines the delivery of services, such as medical check-ups and educational programs, directly to the units where individuals reside.

The facility has a capacity of approximately 1,300 beds. It primarily houses individuals classified under low to medium security levels. While the majority of the population consists of those awaiting trial or serving sentences of two years or less, the facility also acts as a temporary holding site for federal detainees managed by the U.S. Marshals or individuals transferred from municipal jurisdictions.

Methods for Locating an Individual in Custody

As previously mentioned, the lack of a centralized online search portal for Prince George’s County necessitates a more manual approach to locating detainees. This policy is often maintained to balance public information needs with administrative security and privacy concerns.

Direct Telephonic Inquiry

The most reliable method is calling the Inmate Records/Locator line at 301-952-7102. When calling, be prepared for potential wait times as the staff manages high volumes of inquiries. Providing the following information will expedite the process:

  • The individual's full legal name (correct spelling is essential).
  • Date of birth.
  • Social Security Number (if known, though not always required).

State-Level and Automated Alternatives

If an individual is not found within the county system, they may have been transferred to a state-run facility under the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS). In such cases, the Maryland Incarcerated Individual Locator, a statewide database, can be utilized for those in state custody.

Furthermore, the Maryland VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) system allows interested parties to register for automated alerts. This system provides notifications regarding changes in an individual's custody status, such as transfers, releases, or escapes.

Visitation Protocols and Scheduling

Visitation at the Prince George’s County Correctional Facility is a highly regulated process. Currently, the facility emphasizes virtual visitation to maintain security and health standards, though policies regarding on-site visits are subject to change based on departmental directives.

Registration and General Rules

All visitors must register and schedule their sessions in advance. Whether the visit is conducted on-site or via a remote video platform, several universal rules apply:

  • Identification: All adult visitors must present a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, military ID, or passport).
  • Minors: Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If a minor is visiting a parent without the other parent present, a birth certificate may be required to verify the relationship.
  • Frequency: Detainees are typically allowed one visit per day and a maximum of two visits per week.
  • Security Screening: On-site visitors must pass through metal detectors. Any items containing metal should be left in a vehicle or a locker if available.

Housing Unit Visitation Schedule

Visitation is organized by specific housing units. It is critical to confirm which unit an individual is assigned to before scheduling. The following is a general representation of the weekly schedule:

  • Monday: Housing units H-12, H-4A, H-17, H-2, and H-1.
  • Tuesday: Housing units H-12, H-4A, H-15, H-14, H-4B, H-3, and the Medical Unit.
  • Wednesday: Housing units H-12, H-4A, H-17, H-16, H-7, H-6, and H-5.
  • Thursday: Housing units H-12, H-4A, H-11A, H-11B, H-10, H-9, H-8, H-4B, and H-3.
  • Friday: Housing units H-12, H-4A, H-10, and H-9.
  • Weekend (Saturday/Sunday): Weekends often involve a rotating or broader selection of units, including H-12, H-4A, H-5, H-6, H-14, H-16, H-17, H-4B, H-3, and others.

Morning registration typically occurs between 8:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for morning sessions, while evening registration takes place between 3:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Dress Code and Conduct

The facility enforces a strict dress code to maintain a professional and secure environment. Prohibited attire includes:

  • Miniskirts or extremely short dresses.
  • Low-cut or revealing necklines.
  • Clothing featuring offensive language or graphics.
  • Attire that exposes the midriff.
  • See-through or excessively tight garments.

Failure to adhere to these standards will result in the immediate cancellation of the visit and potential suspension of future visitation privileges.

Communication Standards: Mail and Telephone

Maintaining contact with the outside world is recognized as a vital component of successful reintegration, yet the methods for doing so are strictly controlled to prevent the entry of contraband.

The Postcard Policy

The Prince George’s County Correctional Facility employs a "postcard-only" policy for general correspondence.

  • Specifications: Mail must be in the form of a standard, commercially produced postcard.
  • Ink and Content: Only blue or black ink should be used. The content must be legible and free of any references to violence, weapons, or illegal activities.
  • Prohibitions: Envelopes, stamps, stickers, glitter, or any form of "extra" material attached to the postcard are strictly forbidden.
  • Legal Mail: Correspondence with legal counsel is an exception to the postcard rule. These items must be clearly marked as "Legal Mail" and are subject to inspection for contraband in the presence of the inmate, though the contents remain privileged.

Telephone Accounts and GTL

Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls. Instead, they must place outgoing calls during designated hours. These calls are typically handled through a third-party provider, such as GTL (Global Tel Link).

  • Collect Calls: The recipient of the call bears the cost.
  • Prepaid Accounts: Family members can set up a prepaid account to manage costs and ensure the inmate has the funds necessary to reach out.
  • Monitoring: Be aware that all calls, except those to verified legal counsel, are subject to recording and monitoring by facility staff.

Financial Support and Commissary Services

Inmates have access to a commissary where they can purchase supplemental food, personal hygiene items, and stationary. To facilitate this, funds must be deposited into their inmate trust account.

Money Orders

The most common method for depositing funds is via a money order. Cash should never be sent through the mail.

  • Recipient Details: The money order must be made out to the inmate’s full legal name and include their specific inmate ID number.
  • Mailing Address: Money orders should be sent to 13400 Dille Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.
  • On-site Deposits: The facility lobby often features a kiosk where cash or credit card deposits can be made directly into an inmate’s account.

Community Release and Alternative Programs

For individuals who do not require high-level security or are nearing the end of their sentence, the Department of Corrections operates the Community Release Center located at 4605 Brown Station Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.

Work-Release Programs

Eligible participants may be permitted to leave the facility during the day to maintain employment or attend vocational training. This program is designed to bridge the gap between incarceration and full community re-entry, helping individuals maintain financial stability and family ties.

Alternative to Incarceration

The county also utilizes electronic monitoring (home detention) and intensive pretrial supervision as alternatives to physical confinement. These programs are managed through the Community Corrections Complex, which is currently undergoing expansion and renovation to house case management services and drug laboratory testing facilities.

Rehabilitative Services and Facility Improvements

The Prince George’s County Department of Corrections is not merely a site of detention but also a center for rehabilitative programming.

Educational and Vocational Training

Inmates are encouraged to participate in General Education Development (GED) programs to earn their high school equivalency diplomas. Additionally, vocational workshops in areas such as culinary arts, custodial maintenance, and basic computer skills are offered to improve post-release employability.

Health and Wellness

A significant renovation of the facility’s medical unit was recently completed to expand the capacity for on-site healthcare. This includes psychiatric services, substance abuse counseling (including detoxification support), and chronic disease management. By providing robust medical care within the facility, the department reduces the need for costly and high-risk transports to outside hospitals.

Infrastructure Projects

Several major capital improvement projects are currently in various stages of planning or completion:

  1. Housing Unit Renovations: Systematic upgrades to roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems in older housing wings (specifically Units 5 and 6) to ensure they meet modern safety codes.
  2. Central Control Expansion: An 8,000-square-foot expansion to the administrative wing to modernize the facility’s "brain"—the central control center that manages all doors, cameras, and emergency systems.
  3. Community Corrections Complex: A new facility designed to consolidate all alternative-to-incarceration programs into a single, efficient hub.

Safety Regulations and Public Access

The facility lobby is the primary point of contact for the public. When visiting for any reason, it is important to be aware of the environment:

  • Parking: The visitor parking lot at 13400 Dille Drive is a paid facility. Payment is accepted via credit card only; cash is not an option.
  • Prohibited Items: Purses, backpacks, cell phones, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the secure perimeter. It is highly recommended to leave these items in your vehicle.
  • Professional Conduct: Visitors are expected to remain orderly. Any use of profanity or disruptive behavior will lead to removal from the premises.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the inmate ID number?

The inmate ID number is assigned during the booking process. You can obtain this number by calling the Records line at 301-952-7102 or by asking the individual directly if they have made contact with you.

Can I bring a care package to the jail?

No. The facility does not allow the public to drop off "care packages" (food, clothing, or personal items). All such items must be purchased by the inmate through the commissary using funds deposited into their account. Books and magazines may be allowed if sent directly from the publisher (e.g., Amazon or a bookstore), but this should be confirmed with the mailroom first.

What should I do if a visit is cancelled?

Visits can be cancelled without prior notice due to facility lockdowns, emergency maintenance, or security incidents. If your visit is cancelled, you will typically need to reschedule for the next available slot assigned to that specific housing unit.

Is there a fee for video visitation?

Yes, remote video visits conducted from a home computer or smartphone usually incur a fee, often calculated on a per-minute basis (e.g., $0.25 per minute). On-site video visits, when available, may be free of charge but require advance booking.

How are medical emergencies handled?

The facility has 24/7 medical staff on-site. If an inmate experiences a medical crisis, they are treated in the medical unit or transported to a local hospital under guard if the condition exceeds the facility's capabilities. Family members are generally only notified in the event of life-threatening situations or hospitalizations.

Summary of Key Contact Points

To ensure efficient communication with the Prince George’s County Correctional Facility, keep the following directory accessible:

  • Main Reception: 301-952-7164
  • Inmate Records/Locator: 301-952-7102
  • Main Address: 13400 Dille Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
  • Community Release Center: 4605 Brown Station Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
  • Official Online Resource: Search for the Prince George's County Department of Corrections via the official county government portal for the most recent updates on visitation status and policy changes.

Effective navigation of this facility requires patience and strict adherence to the rules. By understanding the specific requirements for inmate searches, the limitations on mail, and the precise schedules for visitation, family and legal representatives can maintain essential connections while supporting the safety and security of the institution.