Virginia Jails & Prisons
Virginia operates 189 correctional facilities, including 77 state prisons and 86 county jails.
Virginia operates 189 correctional facilities through the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), including 77 state prisons and 86 regional and local jails. The state system houses approximately 28,000 inmates. Lawrenceville Correctional Center (1,536 beds, privately operated by GEO Group) is among the largest, alongside Pocahontas State Correctional Center, Wallens Ridge State Prison, and Red Onion State Prison — Virginia's two supermax facilities in Wise County.
Virginia's local jails are operated by cities and counties. Because Virginia has independent cities, many operate their own jail facilities. Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and Virginia Beach Correctional Center are among the largest local facilities.
Virginia Inmate Search
To locate a state inmate in Virginia, use the VADOC Offender Locator. For local jail inmates, contact the city or county jail directly — most Virginia localities publish online inmate rosters.
Visitation & Phone Calls
Visitation at Virginia state prisons requires pre-approval and is subject to facility-specific schedules. Local jails operate independently — contact the specific facility for visitation rules and phone services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I find an inmate in a Virginia prison?
- Use the VADOC Offender Locator at vadoc.virginia.gov. For local jail inmates, contact the city or county jail directly — Virginia localities typically post inmate rosters online.
- Does Virginia have supermax prisons?
- Yes. Red Onion State Prison and Wallens Ridge State Prison, both in Wise County, are Virginia's highest-security facilities housing the most dangerous and disruptive inmates.
- How do I send money to a Virginia inmate?
- Virginia VADOC inmates receive funds via JPay. Local jail inmates may use different providers — contact the specific facility for instructions.