SOP_NUMBER: 227.05
TITLE: Visitation of Offenders
REFERENCE_CODE: IIB01-0005
DIVISION: Facilities Division
TOPIC_AREA: 227 Policy-Facilities Conditions of Confinement
EFFECTIVE_DATE: 2018-02-21
WORD_COUNT: 9042
POWERDMS_URL: https://public.powerdms.com/GADOC/documents/105725
URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05/

SUMMARY:
This policy establishes the Georgia Department of Corrections' procedures for managing offender visitation programs. It outlines visitation as a privilege rather than a right, details who is eligible to visit (immediate family, extended family, and significant relationships), describes visitor approval processes, and sets forth rules for conduct during visits. The policy applies to all offenders in GDC custody and covers topics including visitor dress codes, identification requirements, contraband prevention, and special visitation circumstances.

KEY_TOPICS: offender visitation, family visits, visitor approval, immediate family, extended family, significant relationship visitors, visitation rules, visitor identification, contraband, visitation privileges, inmate visitation, facility visiting hours, visitor conduct, family contact

ATTACHMENTS:
  1. Offender Visitation Register
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-1/
  2. Application for Visitation Privilege
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-2/
  3. Offender Visitation Room Log
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-3/
  4. GCIC/NCIC Consent Form for Visitors of GDC Facilities
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-4/
  5. Facility/Center Visitation List
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-5/
  6. GDC Attorney Visitation Request Form
     URL: https://gps.press/sop-data/227.05-att-6/

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|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **1 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



**I.** **Introduction and Summary:**


It is the policy of the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC or Department) to
provide visitation programs for offenders that are conducive to the establishment and
maintenance of positive relationships with family and significant others. This policy
and procedure governs offender visitation. Visitation is a privilege for offenders and
should not be considered a right. Visits are to be scheduled and supervised, in strict
accordance with the following procedures, which are designed to contribute to good
public relations and provide a comfortable and secure visitation environment.


**II.** **Authority:**


A. O.C.G.A.§§ 31-21-7 and 42-5-56;


B. GDC Rules: 125-3-2-.02, 125-3-2-.04(f)(6), 125-3-4, and 125-4-7-.03.


C. GDC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): 204.03, Computer Equipment

Justification, Movement and Receiving Procedures; 205.06, Administrative Duty
Officer; 205.07, Post Orders; 208.03, Death of an Offender; 208.06 PREA-Sexually
Abusive Behavior Prevention and Intervention Program 227.03, Access to Courts;
222.10, Security Procedures for Transport of Inmates; 226.01, Searches, Security
Inspections & Use of Permanent Logs; 211.01, Inmate Construction Housing Units;
209.03, Disciplinary Isolation; 209.06, Administrative Segregation; 209.07,
Segregation-Tier I; 209.08, Administrative Segregation-Tier II; 209.09, Special
Management Unit-Tier III; 210.03, Probation Boot Camp-Screening/Sentencing and
Assignment; 210.04, Inmate/Probation Boot Camp Rights & Standards; 211.04,
Intensive Therapeutic Program; 211.05, Procedures for Housing Juveniles Sentenced
to GDC Custody by Superior Courts (SB440 Juvenile); 220.05, Diagnostic
Reception, Orientation, and Processing; 220.06, Diagnostics: Validation of Common
Law Marriage for Visitation Purposes; and 508.03, Death Notifications and
Investigations; and


D. ACA Standards: 2-CO-3C-01, 2-CO-5D-01, 4-4156, 4-4267, 4-4275, 4-4498, 4
4499, 4-4499-1, 4-4500, 4-4503, and 4-4504.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **2 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|


**III.** **Definitions:**







A. **Immediate Family** - For purposes of this SOP, a member of an offender’s family

that falls into one of the following relationships - parents, siblings, spouse,
grandparents, grandchildren, children or other persons with the discretion of the
Warden.


B. **Extended Family** - For purposes of this SOP, a person related to an offender

beyond an immediate family member. An extended family member would be a
step-parent, step-sibling, step-child, brother-in-law or sister-in-law, uncle, aunt,
cousin, half-brother or half-sister, nephew, or niece.


C. **Significant Relationship Visitor** - A person having a meaningful relationship with

the offender to provide support and encouragement in a rehabilitative capacity.
This would include friends, employers, pastors, and other relationships that have
the potential for rehabilitative support. An offender visitation list shall be limited
to only two (2) visitors in this category at any given time. The term Significant
Relationship does NOT imply automatic approval for visitation because of romantic
involvement. Rehabilitative potential must still be established.

D. **Next of Kin** - For purposes of this SOP, the person designated by the offender to

receive their remains or the person designated to make emergency medical
decisions in the event the offender is unable to make medical decisions. In the event
the offender fails to designate a person, the Department will take reasonable steps
to identify a person in accordance with O.C.G.A. 31-21-7.


E. **Designated Beneficiary** - The person designated, by the offender, to receive the

offender’s personal property and funds which are left under the custody and control
of the Department in the event of the offender’s death.


F. **Sexual Offense** - As used in the Code section, the term sexual offense means a

violation of Code Section 16-6-1, relating to the offense of rape; Code Section 166-2, relating to the offenses of sodomy and aggravated sodomy; Code Section 16-65.1, relating to the offense of sexual assault against a person in custody; Code
Section 16-6-22, relating to the offense of incest; or Code Section 16-6-22.2,
relating to the offense of aggravated sexual battery, when the victim was under 18
years of age at the time of the commission of any such offense; or violation of Code


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **3 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



Section 16-6-3, relating to the offense of statutory rape; Code Section 16-6-4,
relating to the offense of child molestation and aggravated child molestation; or
Code section 16-6-5, relating to the offense of enticing a child for indecent
purposes, when the victim was under 16 years of age at the time of the commission
of any such offense.


G. **Offender**    - For purposes of this SOP, the word offender is meant as a generic term

to encompass all offenders and probationers in the custody of GDC.


H. **Contraband**    - For purposes of this SOP, any item or article that poses serious

threat to the security of the facility. Examples of contraband include guns, knives,
tools, chemicals, controlled substances, narcotics, alcohol, tobacco, and cellular
telephones. This is not an all-inclusive list and other items may be deemed
contraband.


**IV.** **Statement of Policy and Applicable Procedures:**


A. The information within this policy shall be made available, in writing, to the

offender within 24-hours after arrival at the facility. The Offender Handbook will
suffice, and the information will include, but not be limited to, the following:


1. Facility address/phone number, directions to facility and information about

local transportation;


2. Days and hours of visitation;


3. Approved dress code and identification requirements for visitors;


4. Items authorized in the visitation room;


5. Special rules for children;


6. Authorized items that visitors may bring to give to offender, **if any** (for

example, funds, pictures, etc.); and


7. Special visits (for example, for family emergencies).


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
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|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **4 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



B. Diagnostic Offenders Visitation:


1. Offenders shall not be allowed visitation during the diagnostic process. They

shall provide next of kin emergency contact information only, in case of serious
illness, serious injury, or death. If the diagnostic process is not complete after
sixty (60) days, a list of the offender’s immediate family shall be completed and
reviewed for visitation approval. This list shall be used for visitation at the
diagnostic facility until the offender is placed in a permanent assignment.


2. The initial approved visitation list shall be obtained, verified and approved at

the first permanent placement facility consistent with the method provided for
in this policy. This task shall not be a part of the diagnostic process.


C. Visitation Area:


The facility shall maintain a visitation area of sufficient space where offenders may
have contact visits and informal communication with their authorized visitors. Only
when necessary, non-contact visitation is used in instances of substantiated
security risks. Restroom facilities shall be provided for visitors in or adjacent to
the visitation area. Each facility shall designate an area to allow mothers to breastfeed children.


Video recording of the visitation area is permitted as an added measure to ensure
the safety, security and integrity of security operations during visitation periods.
The video recordings for visitation should be reviewed by the Deputy Warden of
Security or Assistant Superintendent or Chief of Security by the end of the first
business day following the visitation period. The Warden or Superintendent shall
be notified immediately if anything unusual or outside the parameters of this
standard operating procedure or any other applicable standard operating procedure
has occurred. If an investigation results from violations observed on the video
recordings, then the video recording shall not be reused until complete resolution
of the investigation. Any videotapes that have been reviewed and do not reveal any
unusual circumstances or security value may be reused after a period of sixty (60)
days.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
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|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **5 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



D. Public Transportation to the Facility:


The facility shall provide information to visitors about public transportation to the
institution (bus, cab, transit, etc.). This information shall be provided in
memorandum format, on the Department’s public website, or in a brochure.


E. Visitation Schedule:


A minimum of six (6) hours shall be allotted each day for visitation periods on
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.


1. State facilities shall observe days proclaimed by the Governor of Georgia as

legal state holidays.


2. County institutions shall observe legal holidays that are recognized by their local

governing authority.


3. Private Prisons shall observe days proclaimed by the Governor of Georgia as

legal state holidays.


F. A Warden or Superintendent may request that the Regional Director or their

designee authorize modifications of the visitation days or hours for their facility if
justified by special circumstances (i.e. small offender population, low or high usage
of privileges, personnel constraints, infirm offenders, or other substantial reasons to
justify such limitations). If an exception is approved in writing, the Warden or
Superintendent shall make sure that all offenders are informed and that the
offenders advise their potential visitors.


G. Normally, there shall be no restrictions placed on the length of visits during the

facility's established visitation periods. However:


1. In order to have the offender in the visitation area during the mid-day count,

visitors must arrive at the facility one (1) hour prior to the time that is
designated by the Warden or Superintendent as the mid-day count. The
mid-day count time shall be posted in all living areas and in the visitation area.
All offenders shall be advised of this condition in writing as well as advised
when the facility orientation is conducted for new offenders.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **6 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



2. The shift supervisor has the authority to adjust the length of visitation times

allotted to individual offenders, or to terminate visits, during times of
overcrowding.


3. The shift supervisor may also terminate individual visits because of improper

conduct or failure to abide by procedures. An Incident Report shall be
completed documenting the reason(s) for the termination of the visit.


4. If an offender has more than one (1) visitor on a given day, individual

visitors may be limited to a time of less than four (4) hours.


5. If overcrowding requires the termination of visits, offenders who began their

visits first shall normally be the first to have their visits terminated. However,
such factors as relationships, frequency of visits, distance traveled, etc. shall
be taken into consideration.


H. Each offender may receive the same visitor(s) during all visitation periods,

providing there is sufficient time and space. However, if time and space do not
allow adequate visitation for all offenders, individual visitors may be restricted to
only one (1) visitation period per weekend or weekend and holiday combination.


I. Visitation of offenders under medical care shall be governed by good medical

practices and procedures.


J. Protective Custody, Administrative Segregation, and Tier-I offenders shall, in

general, have the same rights to visitation as general population offenders
unless this is not feasible. Non-feasibility must be documented. An example
would include offenders with documented assaultive and destructive behavior.


K. Offenders who have documented Protective Custody needs may be required to

visit at times when other potentially threatening offenders are not in the visitation
area. The Warden or Superintendent may take into consideration the offender’s
institutional conduct when making the decision to approve or disapprove that visit.


L. Offenders in Disciplinary Isolation shall receive no visitation in accordance with

SOP 209.03, Disciplinary Isolation.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **7 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



M. Offenders in Tier-II or Tier-III shall receive visitation on in accordance with

appropriate SOPs.

N. Authorized Visitors:


**Note: In order to help ensure the safe and secure operation of all Departmental**
**facilities, the Appointing Authority shall require a prospective visitor to sign**
**Attachment 4, GCIC/NCIC Consent form for Visitors of GDC Facilities,**
**authorizing the release of driver and criminal history information to the**
**Georgia Department of Corrections. This information may be obtained**
**annually thereafter. This information may serve to assist in determining the**
**approval or disapproval of a prospective visitor to a Department facility.**
**Additionally, prospective visitors shall have to complete Attachment 2,**
**Application for Visitation Privilege. Any change in information provided on**
**this form MUST be updated as it occurs. Failure to sign Attachment 4, and**
**update changes as they occur may result in the denial or revocation of**
**visitation privilege.**


O. All visitors must complete and submit Attachment 2, Application for Visitation

Privilege. Facility staff shall review and approve or disapprove these applications.
In addition, current GDC employees, contractors, and volunteers must have on file
an approved Personal Association with Inmate, Active Probationer/Parolee form
per GDC Rule 125-2-1.07(d), see SOP 205.02, Contact or Business Dealings with
Inmates/Probationers.


P. If a visitation request is disapproved by the Warden or Superintendent or their

designee, then the disapproval reason must be written on the Application for
Visitation Privilege and documented in the “Contacts”, and “Case Notes”
sections of the Department’s Offender Data Management System (SCRIBE).
Any disapproval can be appealed to the Regional Director or Asst. Regional
Director. Disapproved visitor(s) have 30 days to appeal in writing to the Regional
Director. If disapproved visitor(s) feel they have been discriminated against on the
basis of a disability or medical condition, an appeal may be filed. Disapproved
visitor(s) must file their complaint within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory
act. Failure to do so may result in dismissal of the complaint.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **8 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



Q. Each visitor shall update any change in their personal information as soon as the

change occurs. Failure to update information may result in revocation of
visitation privileges. If visitation privileges are revoked, the reason and length of
the revocation must be clearly written on the visitation list and shall also be entered
as a note under the “Contacts”, and “Case Notes” sections in SCRIBE. Any
revocation can be appealed to the Regional Director or Asst. Regional Director.
Visitor(s) have 30 days to appeal in writing to the Regional Director.


R. Individuals will be denied visitation for the reasons below:


1. Lying or omission on the application for visitation;


2. Any offender with a current or prior conviction for any sexual offense as

defined in the Definitions Section of this SOP, shall not be allowed visitation
with any person under the age of 18 years old, unless such person is an
immediate family member (parents, siblings, spouse, child, grandparent,
grandchild) of the offender and such person is not the victim of a sexual offense
for which the offender was convicted. If visitation with a minor is restricted by
court order, permission for special visitation with the minor may be granted
only by the court issuing such order;


3. Former GDC employees or contractors who have been terminated from

GDC for misconduct;


4. Current GDC employees or contractors who do not have on file an approved

Personal Association with Inmate, Active Probationer/Parolee form;


5. Individuals that are under investigation or pending prosecution for bringing

contraband across the guard line or was the subject of a substantiated
investigation; and


6. Court order that prohibits visitation for any other reasons than those stated

above.


S. The Warden or Superintendent may deny a visitation application for the following

reasons:

1. Threat to the safety and security of the facility (written or telephonic);


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **9 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



2. The person is on another offender’s visitation list;


3. Former offenders (probationers and parolees, and those who served the

maximum sentence) require the approval of the Warden or Superintendent
prior to being placed on the approved visitation list. Prior offenders must have
clear GCIC and NCIC reports for one (1) year since release from prison or
since being placed on probation or parole. If an individual is disapproved,
then the reason must be clearly written on the visitation list and shall also be
entered as a note under the “Contacts”, and “Case Notes” sections in SCRIBE;


4. Victims or witnesses associated with the offender’s criminal history; or


5. Creating a disturbance or failing to follow institutional rules.


T. Each visitor may be subject to ongoing Rapid ID scans, prior to entry at each

visitation.


U. Each visitor may be subject to annual Background Checks or Criminal History

Checks.


V. Visitor Searches and Contact Photograph:


1. Each visitor may be subject to search and SOP 226.02, Entry Security

Procedures specifies the circumstances under which they may be searched **.**
There shall be adequate space to permit screening and searching of visitors.


2. Each visitor shall be subject to having their photo made and maintained in the

“Contacts” section of SCRIBE.


W. Offender Visitation Lists:


1. Each offender shall complete an Attachment 5, Facility/Center Visitation List.

The number of visitors on an offender's approved visitation list is limited to
twelve (12). Five (5) of the visitors listed shall also be selected for financials by
the offender. The offender can send funds to and receive funds from those
selected for financials. Visitors selected for financials shall be approved
following the guidelines in SOP 406.19, Offender Financial Transactions and
Business Activities. The appropriate Departmental staff member shall enter


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **10 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



all necessary information into the “Contacts” section of SCRIBE. All data
fields **MUST** be completed, and when a visitor is approved for visitation, the
appropriate box in the “Contacts” section must be checked. When an offender is
transferred to another facility, his previously approved visitation list shall be
honored unless extenuating circumstances come to light that would threaten the
security and orderly operation of the receiving facility.


2. An offender may request to add or delete a name on their visitation list by

contacting their counselor and providing the necessary information. If the
offender is requesting to add a visitor(s), the visitor(s) must complete all
necessary paperwork prior to approval. The counselor shall forward this request
from the offender, and applicable paperwork from the visitor(s) being added, to
the Warden or Superintendent or their designee who shall be the authorizing
agent for such changes. Visitation lists may only be changed when the offender
arrives at their first permanent facility or during the months of May and
November. The selection for financials section may be changed at the same
time. An offender may not change their visitation list or the financials selection
in less than six (6) months’ time. The results of these requested revisions shall
be completed and forwarded back to the offender within fourteen (14) working
days from the date of the request. Address and personal information changes
for visitors shall not be subject to the six (6) month review criteria and shall be
done when the visitor supplies that information.


3. During the six (6) month review, the Counselor shall verify that the Designated

Beneficiary and Next of Kin are listed in the comments field of the “Contacts”
section in SCRIBE. The Counselor shall also make any necessary changes to the
Designated Beneficiary and Next of Kin. The words Beneficiary and Next of Kin
shall be completely spelled out in the comments field and shall not be
abbreviated. The offender may request to change these designations at any time.
Once all approvals and signatures have been obtained, the handwritten visitation
list that is submitted by the offender shall be forwarded to the facility file room and
maintained in the offender’s institutional facility file. There is no need for
computer generated visitation list copies to be placed in the file.


4. If the determination is made to remove a visitor from the visitation list, the

Warden or Superintendent or their designee shall immediately contact the
visitor and notify them of the decision and the reason for their removal from the


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
|---|---|---|
|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **11 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



offender’s approved visitation list. The disapproval reason shall be clearly
documented on the offender’s visitation request form; as well as in the
“Contacts”, and “Case Notes” sections of SCRIBE. Offenders having large
families shall be considered on an individual basis. Persons who are not
immediate family members and yet would like to be on the approved visitation
list should make this known to the offender, who may make the request to the
Warden or Superintendent. All visitors are subject to approval or disapproval
by the Warden or Superintendent of the facility or their designee.


5. All visitors, regardless of age, shall be approved and listed on the offender's

visitation list. The only exception shall be if a special visit is approved in
advance by the Warden or Superintendent or their designee.


6. Categories of visitors may include the following:


a. Members of an offender's Immediate Family and members of an

offender’s Extended Family upon request and after verification, may be
placed on the offender's approved visitation list.


b. Significant Relationship Visitors may also be included on the approved

visitation list. These visitors may be defined as:


i. Pre-incarceration relationships, which formed prior to the offender being

incarcerated;


ii. Post-incarceration relationships, which formed after incarceration began.


**Note: These relationships may include friends and employers or other**
**relationships which have the potential for rehabilitative capabilities.**
**The term Significant Relationship does NOT imply automatic approval**
**for visitation because of romantic involvement. Rehabilitative potential**
**must still be established.**


7. After a person's name has been placed on the approved visitation list, prior

approval is not necessary on regular visitation days. Visitors under the age of
sixteen (16) must be accompanied by an adult also on the visitation list.


8. An offender's visitors shall not be allowed to visit with another offender or the


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
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|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **12 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|



visitors of another offender.


9. Counselors shall review all offender institutional files to ensure compliance

with special visitation requirements and make necessary corrections to the
identified offender(s) visitation list(s). The review shall be documented in the
“Case Notes” section in SCRIBE.


X. Notification of Loss of Visitation Privilege:


1. The loss of visitation privileges shall be entered in the Comment field of the

“Contacts” section and as a Case Note in the offender’s electronic file using
SCRIBE.


2. The Warden, Superintendent or their designee shall be responsible for

notifying the visitor, in writing, of their removal from the authorized visitation
list. The notification shall include the reason for and length of the removal.


3. A copy of the visitor notification shall be:


a. Forwarded to the offender; and


b. Placed in the offender's facility institutional file.


4. When an offender has lost visitation privileges for any reason, a person on their

authorized visitation list may be notified by the offender on a form letter
provided by the facility so that potential visitors may avoid the inconvenience
and frustrations associated with an unproductive trip.


a. Such form letters shall be provided to the offender at the conclusion of the

disciplinary hearing.


b. Postage on this form letter shall be provided by the offender, unless he or

she is indigent.


c. If the United States Mail would not reach the family in time to prevent an

unnecessary trip, the offender may request that notification occur by collect
call. Postal notice shall also be given.


|GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS<br>Standard Operating Procedures|Col2|Col3|
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|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|**Policy Name:**Visitation of Offenders|
|**Policy Number:**227.05|**Effective Date:**2/21/2018|**Page Number: **13 of 28|
|**Authority:** <br>Commissioner|**Originating Division:** <br>Facilities Division|**Access Listing:** <br>Level II: Required Offender<br>Access|


Y. Visitor Identification:







1. Visitors are required to present positive and valid identification prior to their

admission for visiting. Valid photographic identification shall be required of all
visitors age sixteen (16) and over. Visitors will not be allowed to visit if their
identity cannot be confirmed, they chose to not provide proper identification or
they decline to cooperate with the verification of identity process.


2. The physical appearance on the identification must also match the physical

appearance of the person visiting in order to comply with the identity
verification process. Each visitor shall update any change in appearance on the
identification as required by law or as soon as the change occurs.


3. The name on the identification must be the same as that used to apply for

visitation privileges. If there is a change due to marriage or divorce decree,
adoption, gender change, or name change, the identification must be updated
and the facility must be notified within 60 days of the change. Failure to update
information may result in revocation of visitation privileges.


4. Acceptable Forms of Identification:


a. Driver’s licenses o r other state photo identity cards issued by Department

of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent).


b. U.S. passport;


c. U.S. passport card;


d. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) trusted traveler cards (Global

Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST);


e. U.S. Military ID or Department of Defense (active duty or retired

military and their dependents, and DOD civilians);


f. Permanent resident card;


g. Border crossing card;


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h. DHS-designated enhanced driver's license;


i. Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security

plan);


j. Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID;


k. HSPD-12 PIV card;


l. Foreign government-issued passport;


m. Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs

Canada card;


n. Transportation worker identification credential; or


o. Immigration and Naturalization Service Employment Authorization Card

(I-766).


5. Unacceptable Forms of Identification:


a. Weapons Permit;


b. Temporary Driver's License.


6. Visitor’s identification shall be maintained in a secure area outside the actual

visitation area and shall be returned to the visitor at the conclusion of the visit.


Z. Attorneys:


1. For the purpose of visitation, the term attorney includes an offender's attorney

of record or any other attorney licensed to practice in State or United States
Courts, Court of Appeals, or the Supreme Courts with whom the offender has
or is attempting to establish an attorney-client relationship.


2. Attorney’s requesting visits shall be required to submit the Attorney Visitation

Request form, Attachment 6, along with a copy of their State Bar Card and a
copy of an acceptable photograph identification card.


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a. Attorneys shall be permitted to visit their clients at the facility during

prescribed visiting periods with prior approval.


b. In addition, reasonable flexibility shall be exercised in permitting attorneys,

by prior appointment, to visit with their clients during normal business
hours.


c. Offenders shall be instructed to advise their attorneys that appointments are

required to visit except in bona fide emergencies.


d. Appointments must be made through the Warden's or Superintendent's

Office twenty-four (24) hours in advance.


e. Surveillance and general supervision during the visit shall be maintained by

correctional staff. The correctional staff member shall be positioned so as
to permit the attorney and client to converse privately (uncensored) and
maintain the privileged nature of their relationship.


f. No special provisions shall be made for attorneys during normal visiting

hours.


3. By prior arrangements with the Warden or Superintendent or their designee, the

offender may be visited by a paralegal, investigator, law assistant or other
person employed by the attorney to represent the offender. This visit will be
supervised in the same manner as described above.


a. Before allowing such a visit, the Warden or Superintendent or their designee

shall require the attorney to contact the Warden or Superintendent or their
designee and identify the person desired to be sent in the attorney's stead.


b. At each visit the Warden or Superintendent, or their designee, shall require

the presentation of a letter, dated no later than one (1) week prior to
presentation, signed by the attorney, and identifying the holder and the
offender to be visited. This letter should be placed in the offender's
institutional file.


c. The Warden or Superintendent or their designee may refuse permission for

these visits for cause. Cause may include misrepresentation made by the


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attorney, paralegal, investigator, law assistant or other persons employed
by the attorney concerning the visits, as well as, the existence of facts,
which give the Warden or Superintendent or their designee reason to
believe the visit would pose a threat to facility security.


AA. Other Visitors and Facility Tours:


1. The Warden or Superintendent or designee, at their discretion and in

consideration of the purpose and the effects of the visit on the facility, may
authorize individuals or groups such as representatives of civic groups, church
committees, students or rehabilitative groups to visit the facility. Prior to any
such visit, the Warden or Superintendent or their designee shall establish
procedures necessary to govern the visit, safeguard the visitors, and provide for
security of the facility. Tour group members must be at least twelve (12) years
of age unless prior approval has been obtained from the Regional Director or
higher authority.


2. At the Commissioner’s or designee’s discretion, and in consideration of the

purpose and effects on the facility, media may be authorized to visit the facility.
Prior to any such visit the Warden or Superintendent or designee shall establish
the procedures necessary to govern the visit, safeguard the visitors, and provide
for security of the facility.


BB. Special Visitation Procedures:


1. Special visits may be approved on an individual basis by the Warden or

Superintendent or their designee. Under normal circumstances special visits
require a minimum of forty-eight (48) hours advance notice, but the Warden or
Superintendent may deviate from this requirement due to the urgency or time
sensitive nature of the special visit request.


2. Other considerations for special visits may include, but are not limited to, when

a family member lives far away, family members in the military on personal
leave, a person who brings a family member because the family member is
unable to drive, significant other, child advocacy groups bringing children,
clergy, change in family that relatives want to inform the offender of, i.e. death,
birth, marriage, extreme illness.


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3. Special visits may be utilized for an offender’s immediate family that has

recently been discharged from prison or is on probation or parole.


4. Special visits shall be limited to no more than two (2) visitors at any one time.

Special visits shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Warden or
Superintendent or their designee. If the special visit is disapproved, a detailed
explanation must be written on the request form stating the reason for
disapproval and shall be clearly documented in the “Contacts”, and “Case
Notes” sections of SCRIBE.


5. Special Visits for Sleepers at Catchment Site Hospitals shall be considered and

scheduled on a case-by-case basis by the W arden or their designee at the
Catchment Site. This visit is to be for Immediate and Extended Family members
indicated on the visitation list and only after the attending physician has
determined that the offender is in the last hours or days of life and recommends
that the offender receive the visit. Family members will communicate with the
Catchment Facility Warden or designee to finalize a plan and schedule for the
visit. The Warden or their designee can make exceptions regarding the
participants of the visit.


CC. Reporting for Visits:


1. Offenders:


a. Offenders are required to wear their full Department issued uniform (with

clogs and with socks, where available). The uniform is to be neat and
clean in appearance in accordance with Department procedures. T-shirts
may be worn under the dress shirt, but t-shirts may not be worn in the
visitation area without the dress shirt. Offenders shall keep on all items of
clothing including shirts and shoes during the visitation period. Offenders
shall be permitted to wear soft shoes, provided that they have a valid soft
shoe profile.


b. Offenders must have their Department issued I.D. card in their possession

and report to the Visitation Room Officer after their visit has been
announced. Offenders shall be positively identified and are subject to a
personal search of their body and personal effects when entering and leaving


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the visitation area per SOP 226.01, Searches, Security Inspections and
Use of Permanent Logs. There shall be adequate space to permit screening
and searching of offenders. The Visitation Room Officer shall make an
entry on Attachment 3, Offender Visitation Room Log, when the offender
enters. The Visitation Room Officer shall take the offender's I.D. card
upon entry into the visitation area, and return it upon the offender's
departure from the visitation area. Offenders shall be logged out as they
depart the visitation area.


c. Offenders shall be clean and neat in appearance and have their hair neatly

styled or trimmed according to Department policy.


d. Offenders shall be allowed to wear a religious medal on a necklace and a

ring in the visitation area. Necklaces with no religious pendant are
contraband per SOP 206.01, Offender Property Standards. **No watches**
**shall be permitted to enter or leave the visitation area on the person of**
**an offender.**


f. Offenders may not take or wear their coat or jacket into the visitation area.


g. Offenders shall remain properly dressed in their Department issued uniform

throughout visitation.


h. The officer admitting the offenders into the visitation area shall make the

appropriate notation on Attachment 3, Offender Visitation Room Log, as to
what the offenders have on when they arrive and shall check to ensure
that the offenders are not taking anything out of the visitation area when
they leave.


2. Visitors:


a. Visitors will be allowed to enter the facility parking lot at 8:00 a.m.

The processing of visitors will begin at 8:30 a.m. All visitors shall be
required to sign in and out on an Offender Visitation Register, Attachment
1. Any small child incapable of signing in shall be signed in by the adult
visitor who is responsible for the child. The Offender Visitation Register
shall be dated and countersigned by the correctional officer in charge and


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subsequently shall be maintained on file at the facility.


Each page of the Offender Visitation Register shall reflect the statement
contained in GDC Rule 125-3-4-.06-(3), **“It shall be unlawful for any**
**person to obtain or procure for or give a convict a gun, pistol, or any**
**other** **weapon,** **or** **intoxicating** **liquor** **or** **amphetamines,** **or**
**biphetamines, or any other hallucinogenic drugs, or other drugs,**
**regardless of the amount, or any other article or item, without the**
**knowledge and consent of the Warden or his Deputy Warden in charge.**
**Any person who knowingly violates the provisions of this Section shall**
**be guilty of a felony and upon conviction thereof, shall be imprisoned**
**for not less than one, not more than five years.”** In addition, the
statement contained in this rule shall be posted on a sign in a visible area at
the entrance of the facility for all visitors to read.


The Offender Visitation Register shall also reflect the following
statement: “ **I understand the Department of Corrections has a zero**
**tolerance policy prohibiting visitors from having sexual contact with**
**offenders, other than that permitted by this agency (i.e. minimal**
**personal contact such as hand shaking, embracing or kissing is**
**permitted only at the beginning and conclusion of the visit). I**
**understand that my authorization to enter a correctional institution is**
**conditional on my agreement not to engage in sexual activity with any**
**offender and to report such contact to a correctional employee when I**
**learn of it. I also understand that if I violate this agreement I may be**
**permanently banned from entering all Georgia Department of**
**Corrections correctional institutions and that the Department of**
**Corrections may pursue criminal prosecution.”** This statement meets the
requirements for the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).


After completing the Offender Visitation Register, Attachment 1, in order
to accommodate the visitors, they will be allowed to enter the visitation
area during count to await the clearing of count.


b. Visitors can only bring the following items into any facility:


i. An appropriate form of picture identification;


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ii. A maximum of forty dollars ($40.00) in coins to be used for the vending

machines or a debit or credit card (they may not bring both);


iii. A set of car keys; and


iv. A coat.


c. No food or drink shall be brought into the facility from the outside.


d. Funds for offenders from visitors shall be accepted only through the

Consolidated Banking Unit, and may not be brought into a facility.


DD. Visitor Clothing:


1. Visitors are required to wear appropriate attire. Shoes are required of all

visitors, including children, at all times. Male visitors shall be required to wear
shirts and full-length trousers. If a visitor is wearing clothing not considered
appropriate by the Front Entry or Visitation Room staff, they shall immediately
notify the Shift Supervisor (O.I.C.), Assistant Shift Supervisor, or Portal
Sergeant. The Shift Supervisor, Assistant Shift Supervisor, or Portal Sergeant
shall have the authority to do the following:


a. Require the prospective visitor to change into appropriate attire;


b. Ask the visitor to wear a cover-up such as a sweater, jacket, or other type of

concealing garment during the visit; or


c. Terminate the visit entirely, especially if the visitor refuses to cooperate with

staff in this matter. In the event the visit is terminated, the Shift Supervisor
or Assistant Shift Supervisor shall notify the Institutional Duty Officer.
Notation of such behavior by a visitor(s) shall be noted in the “Comments”
field in the “Contacts” section and in “Case Notes” section of SCRIBE.


2. Inappropriate clothing shall include, but is not limited to:


a. Dresses with thin straps which expose shoulders or chest area in any


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manner;


b. Tops, such as tank tops or any other top which exposes shoulders or chest

area in any manner;


c. Tube tops or halter tops of any type;


d. Any type of clothing which reveals the stomach or midriff area;


e. Any type of clothing that is made of sheer, net, mesh or transparent (see

through) material;


f. Shorts of any kind or any kind of slacks that are above the knee (children

twelve (12) years old and under may wear shorts);


g. Leggings, jeggings, or any other skin-tight pants;


h. Females are required to wear foundation type garments such as bras, panties,

and slips; and


i. Any other type of clothing that is suggestive or revealing in any way shall

be prohibited.


3. Officers may not allow any visitor to wear any of the offender's clothing at any

time. Offenders may not wear any of the visitor’s clothing while in the visitation
area or any of the visitor’s jewelry or have in their possession anything owned
by the visitor(s).


4. Authorized clothing shall include, but is not limited to:


a. Capri Pants that are below the knee; and


b. Camouflage clothing worn by males and females.


5. This procedure shall be strictly adhered to and shall be enforced by the

Visitation Room staff. Particular attention should be given to visitor clothing,
but in the same sense if the clothing is close fitting but meets all the other
requirements, the Portal Sergeant, Shift Supervisor or Asst. Shift


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Supervisor will be more considerate in deciding whether or not to allow
visitation.


EE. Supervision of Visitation:


1. Visitation Room Officers shall supervise visits to make sure strict compliance

with all applicable procedures are followed. Supervision shall include
monitoring with a camcorder, closed circuit television system or other video
monitoring system.


2. Specific areas of the facility are designated for visitation. Offenders and their

visitors are required to remain in the area which they are assigned. Any
violation of these parameters may result in the immediate termination of the
visit.


3. During visitation, the Visitation Room Officer shall maintain an accurate

accountability of all offenders and visitors present. Offenders shall be
accounted for and searched in accordance with SOP 226.01, Searches,
Security Inspections & Use of Permanent Logs, prior to their visitor's
departure from the visitation area.


FF. Conduct and Responsibility of Offenders and Visitors:


1. Visitation is a privilege for offenders and should not be considered a right.

Offenders or visitors that provide misleading information to the facility or act
out in any way are subject to suspension and/or removal of visitation privileges.


2. Offenders may greet their visitor(s) after identification and clearance has been

made by the Visitation Room Officer. Offenders and their visitor(s) shall take
a seat and shall remain seated except to go to the restroom. Visitors may get up
to get something from the vending machines or to speak to the officers. No
visiting from table to table or corner to corner shall be permitted. Once the visit
begins, visitors or offenders may not leave the visitation area unless they desire
to terminate the visit. Once the visit has been terminated, the visitor(s) shall
remain in the visitation area until their offender has been searched in accordance
with SOP 226.01, Searches, Security Inspections & Use of Permanent Logs.


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3. Personal contact such as hand shaking, embracing or kissing is permitted only

at the beginning and conclusion of the visit. Excessive, frequent or prolonged
embracing, hand holding, kissing or other inappropriate behavior is strictly
prohibited. If these behaviors are exhibited by an offender or visitor and, if after
being warned, the offender or visitor(s) refuses to comply with the procedure,
the visit shall automatically be terminated and the offender shall receive a
Disciplinary Report commensurate with the offense. Incidents that result in such
actions shall be documented in SCRIBE. The information pertaining to the
offender and visitor’s actions shall be written in a Case Note. Additionally, the
actions of the visitor shall be entered in the “Comments” field in the
“Contact” sections. Repeated offenses may result in the visitor's name being
removed from the offender's approved visitation list.


4. All visitors shall sit in an upright position with their shoes on. There shall be no

lying down across chairs, no leaning or lying across offenders or visitors, no
sitting between one another's legs, nor placing one's feet in the lap of another
individual. Also, any other behavior that can be considered to be intimate
physical contact shall be prohibited.


5. No jackets, coats, etc. shall be permitted to be draped across the laps of

offenders or visitors. Such items must be worn in a normal manner or folded
neatly and put away during the visit. Handbags and other personal items not
allowed into the visiting area shall remain secured in the visitor’s vehicle.


6. Visitors shall be responsible for keeping children under their control and within

the bounds of the visitation area. All minors shall be kept under the immediate
control and supervision of the adult who brought them to the facility.


7. Conspicuous inebriation or drinking of alcoholic beverages prior to visitation

shall not be permitted nor shall the introduction of alcoholic beverages be
allowed within the facility's guard lines. Detection of any use of alcoholic
beverages shall result in disapproval of the visit or termination of any visit in
progress without warning. Notation of such behavior by a visitor(s) shall be
noted in the “Comments” field in the “Contacts” and “Case Notes” sections of
SCRIBE.


8. The use of narcotics or possession of same is strictly prohibited. Detection of


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narcotics, or the use of narcotics, shall result in disapproval of the visit or
termination of any visit in progress without warning. Notation of such behavior


by a visitor(s) shall be noted in the “Comments” field in the “Contacts”, and
“Case Notes” sections SCRIBE.


9. The introduction, or attempted introduction, of any form of contraband into the

visitation area or within the facility's guard line shall result in appropriate action
being taken by the Front Entry Officer, Visitation Room Officer or
administrative staff.


10. Any violation of these procedures may result in immediate termination of the

visit. Offenders are responsible for advising visitors of all current visitation
policies. Notation of such behavior by a visitor(s) shall be noted in the
“Comments” field in the “Contacts” and in “Case Notes” sections of
SCRIBE.


GG. Parenting Program:


Children brought into the facility by a caretaker or guardian to visit an offender
(parent) as part of a parenting program (if available), shall remain with the caretaker
or guardian until the offender (parent) arrives in the visitation room. At this point
the offender (parent) shall assume responsibility for his or her children.


HH. Vehicles:


1. All visitors' vehicles shall be parked in the facility's designated visitor parking

lot. All windows must be closed and doors locked. Visitors shall not park in any
of the restricted areas, which have been marked.


2. No persons, including those who may have given the visitor a ride or those who

may have been denied visitation, shall be allowed to wait in vehicles parked in
the parking lot or on State property for any reason.


3. No animals shall be left in vehicles parked in the parking lot or on State property

for any reason.


II. Disturbances:


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Visitors may be barred from the facility during facility disturbances or emergency
situations.


JJ. Denial of Visit:


The Front Entry and Visitation Room Officer(s) possess authority to deny visits.
When in doubt, the officer should request guidance from the Shift Supervisor or
Duty Officer. Denial of a visit may be the result of a visitor not being on the approved
visitation list, inappropriate dress, detection of or the appearance of the use of
alcohol or narcotics, or other situations that the Warden or Superintendent or their
designee feel may endanger the security of the facility. Any visit that is denied
must be documented on Attachment 1, Offender Visitation Register. Use at least
two (2) lines on the log: one (1) for the offender and one (1) for each visitor denied.
State the name of the offender to be visited, the visitor's name, action taken and the
reason for denial of visit. Also, document questionable visits allowed by the
Shift Supervisor. Forward a copy of the log to the Deputy Warden of Security
whenever visits have been denied. In addition, notation of such behavior by a
visitor(s) shall be noted in the “Comments” field in the “Contacts”, and “Case
Notes” sections of SCRIBE.


KK. Rights of Georgia Department of Corrections:


Under the rules of the Board of Corrections, visitation is a privilege and not a right.
Georgia Department of Corrections has the right to refuse visitation to anyone who
is suspected of, is caught on the premises with contraband, attempts to or introduces
contraband onto the premises of or into Georgia Department of Corrections
facilities, or who has been repeatedly warned about a particular action. Moreover,
the Department may suspend or revoke an offender's visitation privileges as a
disciplinary sanction for violations of any institutional rules or procedures that have
resulted in the offender receiving a Disciplinary Report. The Department also may
temporarily suspend visitation privileges to meet special security needs of the
facility.


LL. Display:


This SOP shall be posted prominently and permanently in the Visitation Area.


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MM. Video Visitation:







This is a non-contact visitation that shall be governed in the same manner as regular
visitation to include the following:


1. Visitors:


a. Any child under the age of 16 shall be supervised by an adult;


b. Visitors shall be properly dressed and follow the same requirements

as outlined in the Visitor Clothing section of this SOP.


c. Visitors shall not expose their genitals, buttocks, breast, chest area

or participate in any sexual acts;


d. Visitors shall not be under or appear to be under the influence of

drugs, alcohol, or any other illegally controlled substance nor possess or
display any paraphernalia; and


e. There shall be no acts of violence or display of weapons of any sort.


2. Offenders:


a. Offenders shall remain seated throughout the entire video visitation;


b. Offenders shall not allow other offenders to participate in their video

visitation; and


c. Offenders shall be fully dressed in their Department issued uniform as

outlined above.


NN. Reporting for Video Visits:


1. The State issued I.D. Card shall be worn and must be visible throughout the

entire video visit (this includes after hours and weekends);


2. Offenders convicted as Sex Offenders must follow rules as specified above and

any court ordered guidelines.


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3. Loss of Privilege for violations during video visitation: Failure to meet the above

guidelines will result in disciplinary action leading to loss of privilege and/or
termination. The offender shall be responsible for notifying their contacts when
privileges have been terminated.


4. Monitoring of non-contact video visitation: The Warden’s or Superintendent’s

designee(s) shall monitor video visitation to ensure strict compliance with all
applicable procedures.


**V.** **Attachments:**


Attachment 1: Offender Visitation Register


Attachment 2: Application for Visitation Privilege


Attachment 3: Offender Visitation Room Log


Attachment 4: GCIC/NCIC Consent Form for Visitors of GDC Facilities


Attachment 5: Facility/Center Visitation List


Attachment 6: Attorney Visit Request Form


**VI.** **Record Retention of Forms Relevant to this Policy:**


Upon completion, Attachments 1 and 3 shall be maintained locally for one (1) year and
then shall be destroyed. Upon completion, Attachments 2, 4, 5, and 6 shall be placed in
the offender’s institutional file and maintained according to the official retention
schedule for offender institutional files.