240 R.I. Code R. 240-RICR-20-00-1.16

Current through December 26, 2024

Section 240-RICR-20-00-1.16 - Facility-Specific Visiting Rules and Procedures

A. The general philosophy, policy and procedures contained herein apply to all facilities comprising RIDOC.

B. Each Warden, subject to the review and approval of the ADIO, develops written visiting rules and procedures, tailored to his/her facility, which are consistent with the Departmental standards contained in this policy.

1. The Warden also ensures a 1-page "visitor information" sheet is prepared and available to visitors at the Reception Desk along with copies of the Visitors Dress Code, § 1.17 of this Part.

C. Facility-specific visiting rules shall be submitted to the ADIO within sixty (60) days of receipt of this policy.

D. At a minimum, facility-specific rules and procedures are consistent with Departmental policy for visitation and address the following:

1. Specific hours of the day and days of the week when visiting is permitted;

a. The visiting schedule is regulated by each facility's scheduling, space and personnel constraints to ensure normal and orderly operations.

2. Limitations on the number of weekly visits an inmate may have;

3. Limitations on the duration of a single visit;

4. Limitations on the number of persons allowed visiting an inmate at any one time;

5. When an inmate is unavailable for a visit, the Reception Desk Officer informs the visitor of the reason(s) for the inmate's unavailability and when he/she is likely to be able to resume visits.

a. Example #1: Inmate John Doe is currently in disciplinary confinement and, therefore, cannot visit. However, he is scheduled to be released from disciplinary confinement in ten (10) days. He should be able to resume visits on Month/Day/Year.

b. Example #2: Inmate Jane Doe is out at a clinic appointment and, therefore, unavailable to visit. She should be able to visit on her next scheduled visiting day - Month/Day/Year.

6. Procedure for checking personal effects before entering the visiting area;

7. Procedure for conveying parcels and funds to inmates;

8. List of articles which visitors may carry into or out of the facility;

a. Visitors are prohibited from bringing tobacco products and/or accessories, e-cigarettes and their components into any facility.

b. Jewelry (other than wedding bands, engagement rings, and/or medical alert items) is prohibited in all facilities.

c. Money should be specifically addressed.

9. Consequences of conveying contraband: (weapons, alcohol, controlled substances, etc.) possible loss of visiting privileges and criminal prosecution, and if convicted, legal penalty -- may be imposed.

a. Such a statement will be included in the facility's rules and procedures and shall also be posted conspicuously in the entrance or lobby (English and Spanish).

10. Approval of visitors and development of visiting lists for inmates in Awaiting Trial status.

E. Separate Housing Units: Where appropriate, facility-specific visiting rules and procedures shall address separate categories of housing units under the Warden's jurisdiction. At a minimum, separate housing unit visiting rules address:

1. Designated visiting area;

2. Devices precluding physical contact which may be necessitated by security requirements;

3. Time, length, and frequency of visits;

4. Special visits from attorneys and clergy;

5. Special visiting provisions, including advanced scheduling, where necessary.

240 R.I. Code R. 240-RICR-20-00-1.16