Now I am asking this because I was unable to find some information on the NJ Department of Corrections website, now because I was unable to find what I wanted I thought that I would send them an email and see if they could send me the link to the information. (Becuase I may have missed it).
I asked them about the specific mail requirements, i.e. what could/not be sent etc etc. And this is the response I got,
"Your inquiry regarding the New Jersey Department of Corrections'Offender Web site has been received. Please be advised that you maywrite to the offender by using the address provided for his currentfacility, as listed on this Web site. Kindly address yourcorrespondence to the offender by including his full name, SBI # and thefacility address. Thank you very much."
Now this is information that I already know considering I have been writing to my PP for some time, and this has absolutly nothing to do with what I asked.
Now I know that there are general rules on what can/not be sent, but I wanted specifics, because I may have wanted to know what I could get through the mailroom for Valentines Day (If I managed to find something nice to send).
And they were totally unhelpful, so the question stands,
How help is a states D.O.C website?
And in this case, NJ D.O.C website is a halfbaked excuse for a website that is supposed to provide helpful information. I know that some people will go out of their way to help but this I felt was a total brush off, but thats just my take on things. What do you guys think?
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In my experience, it really depends on the state. Some states allow you to search information about an offender and provide you specific rules about mailing and visitation. Others provide no search engine and no specific rules at all. Seemingly NJ is one without much information about the rules, though rest assured there are many. The best source of information is likely your penpal who is kept aware of the rules on things they may or may not receive - you can ask general questions so as not to give away what you might like to send. Unfortunately all my contact with the DOC staff has been negative, uninformative, and unhelpful to say the least. Lastly, many people here on WAP are aware of the rules, so we may be able to help.
Good luck!
I sent an email over a week ago to ask the same types of questions regarding what can and cannot be sent....no response yet.
im sorry your having a problem with them usually the d.o.c websites have info on them i know PA has something called a handbook for friends and family that tells what is allowed and whats not it also has all the programs and stuff outlined but your best bet is to call the prison yourself and ask for a handbook if they have them or to ask if your gift would be allowed that would proubly the easiest way to find out good luck !!!
Hi Juxter,
I would encourage you to call your pal's facility directly. Rules should be the same across the board in each state; however, this is rarely the case. They can vary prison to prison within any given state.
And while it would be nice for the DOCs to take the time to respond to every request, you never know who you're dealing with that day. A new person, a busy person, etc. I have met some very compassionate people working in the prison system. I have also sent four page letters to certain DOC leaders only to receive a two sentence reply telling me "too bad". I would definitely recommend a phone call. Good luck in any case!