What Are the Visitation Rules for Rikers Island Jail in New York?

What Are the Visitation Rules for Rikers Island Jail in New York?

Overview of Visitation at Rikers Island

Rikers Island jail allows both contact and non-contact visits depending on the facility and security status of the inmate. Contact visits allow limited physical contact between the inmate and visitor, while non-contact visits involve speaking by phone across glass.

All visits must be scheduled in advance through the online scheduling system or by phone. Walk-in visits are not allowed. Visitors must be approved and added to the inmate’s visitation list ahead of time as well.

Each facility at Rikers has its own visitation hours and policies. The number of visits allowed per week and visit length also depends on the inmate’s security status.

Who Can Visit Inmates at Rikers Island

Inmates at Rikers can receive visits from immediate family members including:

• Spouses
• Children
• Parents
• Legal guardians

Other relatives may be allowed at the discretion of the facility. Minors under 18 years must be accompanied by an approved adult guardian.

Friends and other associates must go through an approval process to be added to the visitation list. However, individuals with criminal records are generally not allowed.

Attorneys and legal representatives can also schedule confidential visits with clients as needed.

Scheduling Visits at Rikers Island

All visits must be scheduled in advance through the online scheduling system or by phone at 718-546-1500. Visitors need to create an account to use the online system.

When scheduling, you will need to provide:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• Inmate’s ID number
• Desired date and time of visit

Visits can be scheduled up to 7 days in advance. Be sure to schedule within the visitation hours for that facility.

You will receive a confirmation with the date, time, housing facility, and other visit details. This confirmation must be printed out and brought to the visit.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

If you need to cancel or reschedule a scheduled visit, you must do so at least 24 hours in advance. Too many last-minute cancellations may result in visitation privileges being revoked.

You can cancel or reschedule visits through the online system or by phone using the confirmation number. Explain the reason for cancellation/rescheduling when notified.

Arriving for Visits at Rikers Island

All visitors to Rikers Island must adhere to strict security screening procedures in order to gain entry:

• Photo ID: A valid, government-issued photo ID is required for all visitors over 16 years old. Make sure your ID matches the information provided during scheduling.
• Security Check: Visitors and their belongings will go through an x-ray machine and metal detector search before entering the facility. Any banned items will be confiscated.
• Dress Code: Revealing clothing, torn garments, gang colors/logos, and inappropriate images are prohibited. Refer to posted guidelines.
• Check-In: Provide your printed confirmation receipt during check-in to verify your scheduled visit. Arrive 15-30 minutes early to allow time for security processing.

Visitors must follow all instructions from security staff during screening and check-in. Failure to comply will result in denied entry or canceled visits.

Visitation Rules and Expected Behavior

Rikers Island jail has strict rules in place to maintain safety and order during visits:

• Supervision: All visits are closely monitored by corrections officers. Inappropriate behavior may result in immediate termination of the visit.
• Physical Contact: The level of allowed physical contact depends on the visitation type and inmate status level. Visitors must keep their hands visible at all times.
• Contraband: Bringing contraband items like weapons, drugs, or other illegal substances will lead to arrest and prosecution.
• Dress Code: Revealing or inappropriate clothing is prohibited. Refer to posted guidelines regarding allowed colors and styles.
• Gifts/Packages: Visitors cannot give any items directly to inmates, including food, letters, etc. Books and magazines must go through approved channels.

Visitors should maintain appropriate, respectful behavior at all times when visiting an inmate. Failure to follow visitation rules may result in denied entry, canceled visits, or even arrest.

Resources for Families and Friends of Rikers Inmates

Having a loved one incarcerated at Rikers Island can be extremely difficult. Fortunately, there are resources available to help families cope:

Department of Correction Visitor Resources – Official NYC DOC site with additional visitor information and assistance.

Prison Families Anonymous – Support groups for families of incarcerated individuals.

Osborne Association – Programs and advocacy for families affected by the criminal justice system.

Coping with a loved one’s incarceration often means adapting to strict visitation rules and schedules. We hope this overview of the visitation process for Rikers Island helps you know what to expect. Reach out for support when needed during this challenging period.