News & Press Releases
July 14, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is pleased to release its third episode of “All Rise with Director Dotson,” featuring VADOC Statewide Peer Recovery Specialist Coordinator Si’Andra Lewis. In this 30-minute conversation, Lewis shared her journey with ... Read More
July 07, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families and children impacted by the incarceration of a loved one, announced that the cost of video visitation within the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), previously... Read More
July 01, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Viriginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Pablo and Rebel will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Both vests were sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and will b... Read More
June 12, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Newly released recidivism data from the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) demonstrates that effective educational programming can provide a proven path home for inmates across the Commonwealth. New data from the VADOC shows: The 1,500 State Responsible... Read More
July 14, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is pleased to release its third episode of “All Rise with Director Dotson,” featuring VADOC Statewide Peer Recovery Special... Read More
July 07, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families and children impacted by the incarceration of a loved one, announced that... Read More
July 01, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Viriginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Pablo and Rebel will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Ve... Read More
June 12, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Newly released recidivism data from the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) demonstrates that effective educational programming can provide a proven path home for ... Read More
June 17, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its corrections team and more than 22,000 inmates. As the summer months... Read More
May 29, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson today announced that Virginia’s latest 17.6% recidivism rate is the lowest in the United States. Data fro... Read More
May 29, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Dzipo, Eda, Elly, Jarno, Ricki, and Thor will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from no... Read More
May 16, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Diego, Orco, Titus, and Tyson have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit o... Read More
May 14, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Anubis, Ben, Chako, Cyrus, Doc, Eros, Faro, Farron, Gus, Hector, Jeff, Max, Mickey, Rio, Speedy, Tango, Tommy, and Woodrow hav... Read More
May 08, 2025
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) joins the rest of the United States this week to recognize and celebrate our educators and their contributions to VADOC stu... Read More
May 06, 2025
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recognizes and celebrates National Nurses Week, which takes place between May 6 through May 12. The VADOC thanks all of the... Read More
May 05, 2025
This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recognizes those who ensure long-lasting public safety and serve on the front lines of Virginia’s prisons. Gove... Read More
April 22, 2025
A now-former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Corrections Officer was arrested and more than $150,000 worth of drugs intended to be smuggled into a VADOC facili... Read More
April 04, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Every April, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) commemorates crime victims using thoughtful and creative strategies to raise awareness about the impact of cri... Read More
March 31, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is celebrating National Second Chance Month throughout April, sharing resources and information to support second chances f... Read More
March 26, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9 McKenny will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Inte... Read More
March 24, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recently provided water, meals, fuel, heating devices, and more assistance to residents of Buchanan County impacted by floo... Read More
March 12, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Arless, Brix, Chief, Gunner, Marco, Owen, Stryker, Teunis, and Yellow will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to ... Read More
March 07, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is pleased to release its second episode of “All Rise with Director Dotson,” featuring Correctional Officer Barry Blowe. ... Read More
March 07, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Anette, Chulligan, Cody, Hondo, PI, Elvis, Vico, and Tosca have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitab... Read More
March 05, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — A Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate is facing two felony charges following a February attack on a Correctional Officer at Nottoway Correctional Center. H... Read More
March 05, 2025
RICHMOND — Three people were arrested and more than $300,000 in drugs were seized by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partner law enforcement agencies after a now ... Read More
February 28, 2025
Eight probation and parole absconders were taken into custody during two recent sweep operations conducted by the Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) and Chesterf... Read More
February 21, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Diego, Orco, Titus, and Tyson will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit or... Read More
February 13, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is the first corrections system in the world to pilot a powerful and state-of-the-art drug and contraband detection system ... Read More
February 13, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES) placed an inmate’s family member under arrest after she admitted to attempting to... Read More
February 12, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The fourth and final session of a first of its kind TEDx event held at Green Rock Correctional Center in Chatham last May is now available on the TEDx YouTube channel. T... Read More
February 11, 2025
CALLAWAY, VIRGINIA — Five inmates from Patrick Henry Correctional Unit responded to a large fire that burned approximately 500 acres in Callaway, Franklin County. The inmate crew, supervised... Read More
January 31, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), partner state and local law enforcement agencies, and first responder partners came together to complete a full-scale fiel... Read More
January 31, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The third session of a first of its kind TEDx event held at Green Rock Correctional Center in Chatham last May is now available on the TEDx YouTube channel. The TEDx eve... Read More
January 30, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections K9s Anubis, Ben, Cash, Farron, Micky, Rio, Speedy, and Tango will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donat... Read More
January 24, 2025
Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Chako, Cyrus, Doc, Eros, Faro, Gus, Hector, Jeff, Max, Tommy, and Woodrow will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks... Read More
January 22, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has arrested three suspects and recovered more than $80,000 worth of illegal drugs following an attempt to smuggle the drug... Read More
January 17, 2025
The second session of a first of its kind TEDx event held at Green Rock Correctional Center in Chatham last May is now available on the TEDx YouTube channel. The TEDx ev... Read More
January 16, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) responded to the City of Richmond’s recent water outage by providing drinking water to residents and supplying water to two... Read More
January 15, 2025
In 2024, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) achieved an excellent year with 596 incarcerated students earning their High School Equivalency (HSE, commonly ref... Read More
January 14, 2025
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has arrested three suspects, including a former Corrections Officer, and recovered more than $200,000 worth of illegal drug... Read More
January 10, 2025
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is sharing the following news release from Danville Community College, announcing the partnership between the two organizat... Read More
January 06, 2025
A new and powerful Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) video spotlights the importance of VADOC inmates taking advantage of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services w... Read More
January 02, 2025
Rate will drop to 15 cents-per-minute on January 1, 2025Rate will drop to 12 cents-per-minute on July 1, 2025 Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI), a non-profit organiza... Read More
December 30, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is pleased to debut a new and impactful video series “All Rise with Director Dotson,” featuring long-form interviews with V... Read More
December 23, 2024
Facilities, probation and parole districts, and units across the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) have given back to their communities this holiday season, demo... Read More
December 17, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) celebrated the tremendous acts of courage demonstrated by eight corrections team members Tuesday at the inaugural presentat... Read More
December 06, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections, VA, K9s Anette, Chulligan, Cody, Hondo, PI, Elvis, Vico, and Tosca will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitabl... Read More
December 05, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recently released spotlight videos detailing four featured career paths within the Department. The VADOC is highlighting f... Read More
December 04, 2024
Facilities and Probation and Parole Districts from across the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) gave back to their communities both before and after Thanksgiving... Read More
December 02, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate Naseem Isaiah Roulack has been sentenced to a total of three additional years of state custody for his 2023 escape. Ro... Read More
November 20, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson today announced that the agency is continuing its commitment to successful reentry through the creation of... Read More
November 12, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is celebrating its first successful hire from a state and federal program designed to help service members gain employment ... Read More
November 07, 2024
As the United States honors the men and women who have served in the armed forces on the 70th Veterans Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) extends its gra... Read More
November 06, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) filed for 11 probation violation warrants following Halloween night compliance checks on sex offenders under VADOC communit... Read More
October 29, 2024
Probation & Parole Officers across the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) are taking proactive steps to ensure Halloween night 2024 is safe for trick-or-treat... Read More
October 18, 2024
RICHMOND — Dozens of horse enthusiasts seized the opportunity to learn about a unique program that teaches female inmates how to care for horses Saturday, Oct. 12. at the Virginia ... Read More
October 15, 2024
RICHMOND — The first session of a first of its kind event in a Virginia prison is now available for all to see on YouTube. Session 1 of the TEDx event at Green Rock Correctional Ce... Read More
October 11, 2024
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) volunteers converged on Wise County’s Coeburn Middle School on Saturday, September 21 to make the 2024 Special Needs Fall Ball ... Read More
October 02, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is currently investigating the stabbing of two Corrections Officers by an inmate at Greensville Correctional Center. The a... Read More
September 30, 2024
RICHMOND — Corrections team members, inmates, and probationers from the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) are taking action to assist both Virginians in need and partner pu... Read More
September 26, 2024
RICHMOND — A trial date has been set for the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate who escaped state custody in 2023.Naseem Isaiah Roulack’s two-day jury trial is curren... Read More
September 24, 2024
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson announced today that for the 11th straight year, Virginia has achieved one of the lowest recidivism rates ... Read More
September 18, 2024
RICHMOND — UPDATE: Barter Bazaar will now take place on Saturday, October 5. The Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) District 37, Rocky Mount Probation & Parole, is par... Read More
September 11, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Initiative is currently serving as a mentor to the Colorado Department of Corrections and th... Read More
September 09, 2024
RICHMOND — Throughout the summer, Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facilities and probation and parole districts across the Commonwealth have participated in several back-... Read More
August 28, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to find innovative ways for inmates to connect with loved ones. The VADOC recently partnered with The Messages P... Read More
August 21, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is recognizing the week of August 19 through August 23 as Employee Health and Wellness Week to emphasize the importance of ... Read More
August 20, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Community Corrections Alternative Program (CCAP) has partnered with circuit court judges across the Commonwealth to addres... Read More
August 16, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to find innovative ways to ensure long-term public safety for those who live, work in, and visit the Commonwealth... Read More
August 15, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) today announced it is accepting online applications for several volunteer roles in conjunction with Governor Glenn Youngkin... Read More
August 13, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at both Lunenburg and Indian C... Read More
August 12, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to demonstrate its commitment to correctional education by providing inmates and probationers valuable programs f... Read More
August 12, 2024
RICHMOND — Through facility reorganizations, a zero-tolerance policy to drugs and contraband, enhanced community partnerships, and new leadership, the Virginia Department of Correct... Read More
August 07, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) celebrated National Night Out throughout early August with partner law enforcement agencies. A total of 40 of the VADOC’s 4... Read More
August 01, 2024
Today, Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson announced that the VADOC has officially assumed control of Lawrenceville Correctional Center, as th... Read More
July 31, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at Patrick Henry Correctional ... Read More
July 30, 2024
A hearing date has been set for the four inmates accused of brutally killing Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) K-9 Rivan and assaulting VADOC Corrections Officer... Read More
July 29, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at Greensville Correctional Ce... Read More
July 26, 2024
A woman is facing a felony charge related to the 2023 escape of a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate. Sasha Castillo of Washington, D.C., was indicted on ... Read More
July 23, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at Central Virginia Correction... Read More
July 22, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recognizes the men and women who promote long-lasting public safety in our communities by providing effective supervision f... Read More
July 18, 2024
A newly-released Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) video showcases how the VADOC and several partner state and local law enforcement agencies demonstrated excell... Read More
July 08, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to demonstrate its commitment to correctional education by providing inmates and probationers valuable programs f... Read More
July 03, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is proud to announce that two projects produced for the Department by Bookend Creative were honored with Emmy Awards at the... Read More
July 03, 2024
Safety and security improved at Lawrenceville Correctional Center on Friday, June 14, when Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) corrections team members completed a... Read More
July 02, 2024
A national organization dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers has recognized a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) K9 Officer and her K9 partner as its Of... Read More
July 01, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson announced today that four VADOC facilities have officially closed, as previously announced in December 202... Read More
June 28, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson released the following statement today following the announcement of the Sussex County grand jury indictme... Read More
June 26, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at State Farm Work Center. The... Read More
June 21, 2024
National public speaker Andre Norman visited several Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facilities in late May to share his lived experience and offer coaching an... Read More
June 18, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at State Farm Correctional Cen... Read More
June 17, 2024
A Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate is facing charges related to soliciting the murder of two VADOC corrections team members and violations of a protectiv... Read More
June 17, 2024
Probation and Parole districts across Virginia continue to provide professional development opportunities, reentry resources, and many additional means of support to supe... Read More
June 14, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its staff and more than 23,000 inmates. As the summer months begin, thi... Read More
June 12, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Community Mental Health Program has been selected as one of 10 inaugural sites that will serve as model examples for the na... Read More
June 07, 2024
As several Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) employees and partner agencies completed a full-scale emergency exercise at Bland Correctional Center, the VADOC’s F... Read More
June 03, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) took time this Memorial Day to honor those who paid the ultimate price serving in the United States military. Facilities ac... Read More
May 31, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) have expanded video visitation at Sussex I State Prison and C... Read More
May 29, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), several state and local law enforcement agencies, and first responder partners demonstrated excellent collaboration in the... Read More
May 22, 2024
The Agribusiness program at the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) flourished in the spotlight recently. A story about the program by Virginia Farm Bureau’s “Re... Read More
May 21, 2024
An inmate at Red Onion State Prison has been charged in the 2023 death of another inmate at the facility. Julian Leon Mitchell, 36, was charged with one count of aggrava... Read More
May 21, 2024
RICHMOND — Residents and motorists in Bland County and western Giles County should expect an increased Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), law enforcement, and first respond... Read More
May 17, 2024
RICHMOND — Throughout Correctional Officers Week, several Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facilities celebrated correctional officers with various activities and meals to... Read More
May 15, 2024
RICHMOND — A recent operation at a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facility demonstrates the importance of constant vigilance in fighting the flow of drugs and contraband... Read More
May 09, 2024
As the United States acknowledges Teacher Appreciation Week May 6 through May 10, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is taking the opportunity to celebrate th... Read More
May 08, 2024
More than two dozen speakers shared inspirational stories, music, and more at the TEDx GreenRockCorrectionalCenter on Tuesday, May 7 at Greek Rock Correctional Center in ... Read More
May 06, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) celebrates and recognizes May 6 through May 12 as National Nurses Week. The VADOC thanks all of the nurses on its correctio... Read More
May 03, 2024
This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recognizes the men and women who promote long-lasting public safety and serve on the front lines of Virginia’s... Read More
April 29, 2024
Expansion is VADOC’s third in April The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) are expanding video visi... Read More
April 26, 2024
RICHMOND — A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate has entered a guilty plea in a case concerning the felony assault of three corrections officers at State Farm C... Read More
April 24, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and James River Horse Foundation welcomed dozens of horse enthusiasts to another successful Open Barn event Saturday, April... Read More
April 12, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) wishes to thank the hundreds of in-person guests and thousands more who watched the memorial service online for VADOC K-9 R... Read More
April 10, 2024
On Tuesday, April 2, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) lost one of its K-9s, Rivan, who was killed in the line of duty while he protected his assigned Correc... Read More
April 10, 2024
Every April, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) commemorates crime victims using thoughtful and creative strategies to raise awareness about the impact of cri... Read More
April 05, 2024
On Tuesday, April 2, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) lost one of its K-9s, Rivan, who was killed in the line of duty while he protected his assigned Correc... Read More
April 03, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is mourning the line of duty death of Rivan, a K-9 killed while heroically protecting its assigned Corrections Officer, sta... Read More
April 02, 2024
Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Officer Randy Bogle and seven probationers from the Appalachian Men’s Community Corrections Alternative Program (CCAP) in Honak... Read More
April 01, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections is celebrating National Second Chance Month throughout the month of April, highlighting former inmates and supervisees who have mad... Read More
April 01, 2024
A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Officer in Training (OIT) has been arrested after she was caught attempting to smuggle a cell phone and its charger in... Read More
April 01, 2024
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners ViaPath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) are expanding access to video visitation at Deerfield Correct... Read More
March 26, 2024
A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) inmate has been charged with the felony assault of three corrections officers at State Farm Correctional Center. Inma... Read More
March 21, 2024
Throughout March, Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facilities and probation and parole districts across the Commonwealth have engaged with children in their res... Read More
March 13, 2024
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) students had a banner year in 2023, with 430 receiving their High School Equivalency (HSE, commonly referred to as a GED) in th... Read More
March 06, 2024
Nine inmates at Buckingham Correctional Center recently became the first individuals incarcerated in a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facility to receive cert... Read More
March 04, 2024
RICHMOND — National nonprofit Freedom Reads today opened 32 “Freedom Libraries” at the Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Dillwyn and Buckingham correctional centers. Eigh... Read More
February 28, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Greensville Correctional Center is hosting an innovative program intended to help inmates with Substance Use Disorder (SUD... Read More
February 21, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is continuing its efforts to halt the attempted stream of drugs and contraband into its facilities, by urging individuals t... Read More
February 07, 2024
RICHMOND — A former Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) employee pled guilty to smuggling a cell phone to an inmate inside Haynesville Correctional Center. Erica Shaie Morro... Read More
January 22, 2024
RICHMOND — Two inmates and one civilian visitor have been formally indicted by Southampton County Commonwealth’s Attorney Eric A. Cooke for separate, drug-related incidents in 2023 ... Read More
January 18, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recently welcomed a delegation from Morocco and shared its expertise on the corrections accreditation process. On Tuesday,... Read More
January 16, 2024
RICHMOND — National news outlet NBC News Now recently visited the Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Beaumont Correctional Center to cover a program benefiting both inmates... Read More
January 12, 2024
RICHMOND — Prison Road (Route 699) in Buckingham County, which provides access to Buckingham and Dillwyn Correctional centers, is currently closed due to recent inclement weather. ... Read More
January 12, 2024
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is investigating after a contracted staff member was found with contraband concealed on her person. The incident occurred ... Read More
January 09, 2024
RICHMOND — Two female visitors at a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facility were arrested after a vehicle search led to the recovery of a handgun, drugs, and other contr... Read More
December 26, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and its public safety partners continue to combat sexual abuse against children. District 29, Fairfax Probation and Parole... Read More
December 22, 2023
RICHMOND — Facilities, probation and parole districts, and units from across the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) have given back to their communities this holiday season,... Read More
December 21, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections continues to combat the attempted flow of drugs and other contraband into its facilities. On Tuesday, December 12, while inspectin... Read More
December 19, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) and partners Viapath and Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) are expanding virtual visitation at two Department facilities... Read More
December 18, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recently completed “Operation Jingle Bells,” conducted by District 12, Staunton Probation and Parole, which led to a total ... Read More
December 15, 2023
RICHMOND — Today, Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Chad Dotson announced several actions to enhance public safety and increase operational efficiency within the D... Read More
December 11, 2023
RICHMOND — In a strong showing of inter-agency cooperation, the Virginia Department of Corrections, Virginia State Police, Greensville County Sheriff’s Office and Greensville County... Read More
December 05, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) findings from Halloween night 2023 indicate that proactive steps taken by Virginia’s Probation and Parole Officers made for... Read More
November 17, 2023
RICHMOND — Suspected drugs, improvised weapons, and contraband including cell phones were recovered by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) at Greensville Correctional Cen... Read More
November 14, 2023
RICHMOND — Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Petersburg Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford are hosting the Petersburg Returning Citizens Job Fair Wednesday, November 15. The job... Read More
November 14, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Security Staff members at Red Onion State Prison used intelligence to seize suspected drugs from a female suspect during vi... Read More
November 09, 2023
RICHMOND — As the fires grew on a Buchanan County hillside November 1, the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) firefighters needed backup. They called the Virginia Department of ... Read More
November 08, 2023
RICHMOND — As America recognizes the men and women who have served this great country on the 69th Veterans Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) would like to remind o... Read More
November 03, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has placed Greensville Correctional Center on a lockdown status to ensure operational safety and security following the dea... Read More
November 02, 2023
RICHMOND — Two new videos produced by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) showcase the department’s commitment to hiring former inmates, including those who were either i... Read More
October 27, 2023
RICHMOND — Probation & Parole Officers across the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) are taking proactive steps to ensure Halloween night is safe for trick-or-treaters. ... Read More
October 26, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has been named a recipient of the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA) Funding to the Agencies of the Commonwealth. The Depar... Read More
October 25, 2023
RICHMOND — Formerly escaped inmate Naseem Roulack, 21, was captured at approximately 9 a.m. Wednesday, October 25 by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Fairfax County Police Departme... Read More
October 20, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to fight against the attempted flow of drugs and other contraband into facilities. One way the VADOC stops suspec... Read More
October 19, 2023
RICHMOND — A Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) employee has been arrested after a search of their personal vehicle resulted in the seizure of several contraband items. VAD... Read More
October 16, 2023
RICHMOND — Dozens of horse enthusiasts flocked to the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) State Farm Work Center in Goochland County Saturday, October 14 for the James River ... Read More
October 06, 2023
RICHMOND — The U.S. Marshals Service increased its cash reward for information leading to the apprehension of escaped inmate Naseem Isaiah Roulack, 21, from $5,000 to $10,000, bring... Read More
October 04, 2023
Thanks to a large contingent of volunteers from Wallens Ridge State Prison (WRSP), the 2023 Special Needs Fall Ball in Coeburn was a great success. The annual event c... Read More
October 03, 2023
From Norfolk to Norton, from Staunton to Suffolk, Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) employees donated bundles of back-to-school supplies to students, as VADOC st... Read More
October 03, 2023
RICHMOND — RICHMOND – Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Security Staff members and local authorities took a male suspect into custody after he was found with contraband on ... Read More
October 02, 2023
RICHMOND — UPDATE: The Montgomery County, Md. Department of Police is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest of suspects in this case. Anyone wi... Read More
September 20, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Voice Verification Biometrics Unit (VVBU) is the 2023 recipient of the prestigious State Transformation in Action Recognit... Read More
September 14, 2023
RICHMOND — Governor Glenn Youngkin has appointed Chadwick Dotson as the 10th Director of the Virginia Department of Corrections. As a retired judge who most recently served as Chai... Read More
September 12, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to search for escaped inmate Naseem Isaiah Roulack, 21, also known as Lil Nas. The VADOC is coordinating the sea... Read More
September 06, 2023
RICHMOND — After more than 49 years of public service in the field of correctional services and 33 years as a state’s top correctional official, Virginia Department of Corrections (... Read More
September 05, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) apprehended a female suspect attempting to supply drugs and a cellphone to an inmate at Bland Correctional Center. On Wedn... Read More
August 25, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is investigating the death of an inmate that occurred at Red Onion State Prison on August 24, 2023. At approximately 2:37 p.m., a... Read More
August 16, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is urging the general public to report any information related to escaped inmate Naseem Isaiah Roulack, 21, also known as Lil Nas, ... Read More
July 19, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Drug Task Force turned intelligence gathering into a suspected drug seizure at a facility. Investigators acted on intellig... Read More
July 17, 2023
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections will honor the men and women who work to make sure our communities are safer by giving support, guidance, and structure ... Read More
June 21, 2023
RICHMOND — Detailed investigation techniques and hours of surveillance by Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) staff members led to the interception of suspected drugs and con... Read More
June 20, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its staff and more than 24,000 inmates. As the summer months begin, this includ... Read More
May 08, 2023
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) recognizes the men and women who promote long-lasting public safety and serve on the front line of Virginia’s pr... Read More
April 05, 2023
RICHMOND — In recognition of National Second Chance Month, The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) launched a virtual four-part series. The first presentation of the series, ... Read More
March 21, 2023
RICHMOND — Every April, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) commemorates crime victims using thoughtful and creative strategies to raise awareness about the impact of cri... Read More
March 17, 2023
PETERSBURG — Inmates at the Nottoway Correctional Center recently provided significant improvements for the City of Petersburg, by clearing heavy vegetation at two public parks and cl... Read More
March 15, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is expanding its Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, in order to serve more inmates and probationers struggling wi... Read More
February 07, 2023
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has again achieved one of the lowest recidivism rates in the nation. The 20.6 percent recidivism rate for the FY2018 cohort of Sta... Read More
January 27, 2023
This page is no longer being updated. The last update was January 27, 2023. For current data about COVID-19 in Virginia, consult the Virginia Department of Health (VDH)... Read More
December 12, 2022
RICHMOND — The VADOC is investigating an inmate death at Wallens Ridge State Prison on Sunday afternoon following an apparent attack by another inmate. The inmate that was attacked ... Read More
November 10, 2022
RICHMOND — As America takes a moment on Veterans Day to honor the men and women who have served our great country, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) would like to remin... Read More
September 26, 2022
RICHMOND — Two suspects connected with separate inmate deaths inside Virginia Department of Corrections facilities have been indicted. Thirty-four year old Justin Crenshaw was indic... Read More
September 07, 2022
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is completing the transfer of over 200 inmates from Lawrenceville Correctional Center today. The inmates are being transfer... Read More
July 18, 2022
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is celebrating the hard work and dedication of its Probation and Parole Officers this week, honoring the dedicated staff wh... Read More
July 05, 2022
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) Victim Services Unit has debuted its new state-of-the-art notification program for crime victims. The Notification and As... Read More
July 01, 2022
Inmate Visiting Lists are submitted by the inmate to their counselor in January and July. Due to the large number of releases that will occur in July and August 2022, th... Read More
June 01, 2022
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its staff and more than 24,000 inmates. As the summer months begin, this includ... Read More
May 12, 2022
RICHMOND — Inmates who complete job training with Virginia Correctional Enterprises (VCE) have a staggeringly low recidivism rate and an amazing number are gainfully employed follow... Read More
May 02, 2022
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) commemorates the men and women who serve on the front line of Virginia’s prisons. Governor Glenn Youngkin has p... Read More
April 26, 2022
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is committed to facilitating our incarcerated population’s privileged access to legal correspondence by attorneys, courts a... Read More
April 08, 2022
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is pleased to announce a new update to its masking policy for staff, inmates, and probationers in correctional facilities. ... Read More
March 30, 2022
RICHMOND — The temporary locking arrangements at Sussex I and Sussex II State Prisons installed by the Virginia Department of Corrections passed a surprise inspection and were prove... Read More
February 16, 2022
RICHMOND — More than 11,000 employees of the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) work in some of the most demanding environments imaginable, supervising more than 24,000 conv... Read More
January 14, 2022
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has recently been awarded $1,076,623 in grant funds from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau... Read More
December 11, 2021
RICHMOND — The Supreme Court of Virginia denied an Emergency Motion to Stay and Petition for Review filed by the Virginia Department of Corrections’ (VADOC) outgoing medical service... Read More
December 10, 2021
The Virginia Department of Corrections is extending visitation over the holiday season. The Department has added additional visitation days to allow inmates to celebrate ... Read More
December 06, 2021
RICHMOND — For the last year, the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has used an innovative practice as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic: studying wastewater sa... Read More
November 20, 2021
RICHMOND — An inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison died this afternoon following anapparent attack by another inmate. The 47-year-old male victim was pronounced dead at 12:35 pm on... Read More
October 14, 2021
RICHMOND — As employers these days search for available workers, they often overlook an untapped labor source – qualified former inmates. The Virginia Department of Corrections wil... Read More
August 19, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has received two of the highest honors available to correctional agencies. The American Correctional Association (ACA) has ... Read More
August 11, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections began reopening its facilities to the public on July 15 and will enter another important phase of reopening on September 1, when fa... Read More
August 04, 2021
RICHMOND — An inmate at Lawrenceville Correctional Center died last night following an apparent attack by another inmate inside the victim’s cell. The 63-year old male victim was p... Read More
July 22, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has completed the removal of restrictive housing in Virginia’s prisons, continuing its role as a leader in the national reform effo... Read More
July 19, 2021
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections honors the Department’s probation and parole officers, who work to keep our communities safer by providing guidance, sup... Read More
July 16, 2021
Inmates may have recently received a survey in the mail that looks like it is from a news station. VADOC has not been able to confirm that it is from a news station. Anyt... Read More
July 08, 2021
RICHMOND — With vaccination rates rising and COVID-19 cases falling, the Department of Corrections will soon be able to allow external visitors back into its facilities. The Virgini... Read More
June 16, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections’ authority to release state inmates early due to the coronavirus pandemic will terminate at midnight on July 1. Thus far, 2,114 sta... Read More
June 07, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has been making its annual preparations to keep staff and inmates safe during the extreme temperatures that can occur during Virgin... Read More
May 28, 2021
RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Virginia continues to have one of the lowest recidivism rates in the country at 23.9 percent. This is the fifth year in a row ... Read More
May 06, 2021
Dr. Paul Targonski is the Medical Director at Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women and University of Virginia Health System faculty. As part of our "VADOC in Focus" vid... Read More
May 03, 2021
RICHMOND — Virginia’s corrections officers have adjusted to tremendous changes in the past year, demonstrating dedication, adaptability and resilience in the fight against COVID-19.... Read More
April 30, 2021
As one of the terms of the December 2020 settlement to a case in the United States District Court, Roanoke Division, the Virginia Department of Corrections has agreed to ... Read More
April 26, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is celebrating National Reentry Week, April 26-30, recognizing the vital work that DOC staff and inmates do to get inmates ready fo... Read More
April 14, 2021
RICHMOND — Inmates housed in Virginia’s state prisons and institutions stayed connected with friends and family through video visitation while the Virginia DOC, along with the Commo... Read More
April 05, 2021
Dr. Gregory Madden is the Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Virginia, specializing in Infectious Disease and Epidemiology. We recently spoke with Dr. ... Read More
March 30, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has initiated the use of Buprenorphine in select Community Corrections Alternative Programs (CCAPs) to expand the department’s Medi... Read More
March 18, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections announced today that the Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women in Troy, Virginia has been awarded a three-year term of accreditati... Read More
March 10, 2021
Dr. Trey Fuller is the Assistant Director of Health Services for the Virginia Department of Corrections. We recently spoke to Dr. Fuller as part of our "VADOC in Focus" v... Read More
February 18, 2021
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has administered a COVID-19 vaccine to more than 50 percent of its inmates, far outpacing the rate of COVID-19 vaccinations seen el... Read More
February 03, 2021
On Dec. 21, 2020, Congress moved to lift the ban on federal student aid – specifically, the Pell grant – for those who are incarcerated. Virginia Department of Correction... Read More
January 21, 2021
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections inmates who get their COVID-19 vaccine will receive free email stamps and telephone credits as well as a care package filled with commi... Read More
January 10, 2021
RICHMOND — Around 6:00 p.m. Saturday evening, a Sussex I State Prison inmate seriously injured a sergeant at the Waverly, Virginia facility. The male sergeant, who has more than 20 ... Read More
December 21, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has been recognized for its efforts to support employees who are new mothers. The Virginia Department of Health has named t... Read More
December 17, 2020
The inmate carried books of poetry, reading them whenever time allowed. Sometimes he sat thoughtfully, then scribbled notes furiously. Eventually, Treatment Officer Yasha... Read More
December 01, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has delivered more than 1-million units of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to its institutions and offices since March 2020, wh... Read More
November 16, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections continues to aggressively test inmates and staff for COVID-19 and has taken steps toward soon being able to acquire test results in... Read More
November 02, 2020
In early 2012, Ed Higgins suffered a devastating loss. Already incarcerated and frustrated with himself, he learned that his best friend had died. The loss forced him to... Read More
September 23, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has taken major steps to manage the COVID-19 outbreak at Deerfield Correctional Center and reduce the spread among a highly vulnera... Read More
September 18, 2020
RICHMOND — Offenders who get their influenza shots between October and December will receive a care package filled with commissary items, including snacks and other goodies. “This ... Read More
September 12, 2020
RICHMOND — Deerfield Correctional Center in Capron, Virginia has 407 offenders with COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. Two COVID-positive Deerfield offenders die... Read More
September 08, 2020
RICHMOND — In order to serve more of Virginia’s ex-offenders in need of long-term opioid use treatment and recovery, the Virginia Department of Corrections is expanding a reentry tr... Read More
July 20, 2020
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections honors the men and women who work to keep communities safer by providing guidance, support and structure to Virginia’s r... Read More
July 03, 2020
RICHMOND — An offender at Red Onion State Prison in Pound, Virginia died this evening following an apparent attack by his cellmate. The 47-year old male inmate was pronounced dead ... Read More
June 03, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has been making preparations to keep inmates and staff safe during the extreme temperatures that can occur during the summer months... Read More
May 27, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is leading the way in aggressively testing incarcerated offenders for COVID-19. While the nationwide struggle to adequately test fo... Read More
May 04, 2020
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections honors the men and women on its frontline who are protecting and promoting the safety of incarcerated Virginians as well... Read More
April 24, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia General Assembly on Wednesday approved a proposed budget amendment from Governor Ralph Northam giving the director of the Department of Corrections authority... Read More
April 20, 2020
RICHMOND — While the nationwide struggle to increase testing for the coronavirus continues, the Virginia DOC has worked with its partners at Virginia Commonwealth University, the Un... Read More
April 14, 2020
RICHMOND — This morning, an offender from the Virginia Correctional Center for Women in Goochland passed away at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center after battling C... Read More
April 03, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections today announced that the state corrections system has one new COVID-19 case in the incarcerated offender population. This offender ... Read More
March 31, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections late today received its first positive COVID-19 test results for incarcerated offenders. Three offenders at the Virginia Correction... Read More
March 23, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is now manufacturing sneeze/cough guard masks for use by Virginia DOC staff and offenders. These are not medical grade masks but th... Read More
March 18, 2020
RICHMOND — There are still no known cases of COVID-19 among offenders and staff in Virginia’s prisons. Visitation and volunteer activities remain cancelled until further notice. Th... Read More
March 16, 2020
RICHMOND — There are still no known cases of COVID-19 among offenders and staff in Virginia’s prisons. In an effort to keep the new coronavirus from reaching the state’s correctiona... Read More
March 11, 2020
RICHMOND — There are still no known cases of COVID-19 among offenders in Virginia’s prisons, and the Department of Corrections is doing everything it can to keep it that way. Beginn... Read More
March 05, 2020
The conversations are open, honest and real, and for many returning citizens, a first. About once a quarter, troopers with the Virginia State Police and returning citize... Read More
February 20, 2020
In January 2018, the Virginia Department of Corrections launched a comprehensive program to reduce the placement of offenders into restrictive housing and the cycling of ... Read More
February 19, 2020
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is replacing all cell doors at Sussex I and Sussex II state prisons. Existing doors are not closing properly due to inmates jamming... Read More
February 12, 2020
RICHMOND — At approximately 6:10 p.m. today, a Sussex II State Prison inmate was pronounced dead at Virginia Commonwealth University Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. The offender had... Read More
February 03, 2020
RICHMOND — For the fourth consecutive year, Virginia has the lowest recidivism rate in the country. The newly announced rate of 23.1 percent is down slightly from last year, when Vi... Read More
January 07, 2020
For Robert Yarborough, opportunity means a chance to return to Roanoke, Virginia with training and employable skills to help him become a journeyman electrician. For Wil... Read More
December 17, 2019
In the middle of the second day of Indian Creek Correctional Center’s (ICCC) three-day Job and Resource Fair, the local community college representative is talking about ... Read More
December 05, 2019
On the Saturday before Thanksgiving, hundreds lined up in front of the church at 2200 Fairfax Avenue in Richmond. They had come to the Redeemed Assembly of Jesus Christ C... Read More
November 26, 2019
The Motorcycle Repair course at Pocahontas State Correctional Center allows participants to engage in daily hands-on training inside a shop equipped with the tools to tac... Read More
November 22, 2019
As part of its continuing efforts to improve gender responsivity, the Virginia Department of Corrections recently hosted two nationally recognized experts on the developm... Read More
November 21, 2019
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections Director Harold Clarke is a 2019 recipient of the Clements Award, presented by the national Correctional Leaders Association (CLA). Cla... Read More
November 18, 2019
Haynesville Correctional Center held its annual graduation October 25, honoring 105 graduates including 17 who received Associate of Arts degrees from Rappahannock Commun... Read More
November 08, 2019
November 05, 2019
Instructor Robert “Ant” Fauntleroy has taught the Barbering Program at Haynesville Correctional Center since 1993. Under his tutelage, more than 600 men have earned state... Read More
October 11, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections today released a report on the state of restrictive housing for inmates in the Commonwealth’s correctional facilities. Virginia ha... Read More
October 09, 2019
RICHMOND — A Virginia Department of Corrections officer who intervened in a potentially fatal inmate attack on a fellow correctional officer has received the Governor’s Honor Award ... Read More
October 01, 2019
Virginia members of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice recently received three of seven major awards given annually by the organization. The NABCJ hel... Read More
September 30, 2019
The Virginia Department of Corrections prohibits offenders from wearing neckties during normal day-to-day operations. For special events such as graduations, however, exc... Read More
September 26, 2019
Virginia Correctional Enterprises (VCE) hosted the 2019 Southeastern Region National Correctional Industries Association (SECIA) Training Conference in mid-September, put... Read More
September 19, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections yesterday received a Governor’s Honor Award for diversifying its energy sources by planning and building a solar farm at Haynesvill... Read More
September 17, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is embarking on an ambitious new plan to make the state prison system more responsive to the needs of female offenders. From trauma... Read More
September 03, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections today announced plans to combat the introduction of contraband into the state’s prisons and enhance efforts to help offenders succe... Read More
August 23, 2019
A local employer attended a career resource seminar held last spring at Buckingham Correctional Center. So impressed by the offenders he met, Casey Carwile of Design Elec... Read More
August 21, 2019
RICHMOND — At 6:50 p.m., Sussex I State Prison offender Pakastan Algier Gary was pronounced dead at Southside Regional Medical Center. At approximately 10:33 this morning, the 45-y... Read More
August 21, 2019
RICHMOND — At approximately 10:33 this morning, a 45-year old Sussex I State Prison offender sustained life-threatening injuries in an apparent offender-on-offender fight. An in-ce... Read More
July 21, 2019
RICHMOND — With temperatures reaching triple digits in the Commonwealth this weekend, the Virginia Department of Corrections has protocols in place to protect offenders and staff in... Read More
July 21, 2019
RICHMOND — This week the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is celebrating the efforts of its probation and parole officers, men and women who foster the safety of all Virgi... Read More
June 26, 2019
RICHMOND — More than two dozen Virginia Department of Corrections employees will be among the volunteers this weekend offering support for the Remote Area Medical event in Wise. Or... Read More
June 21, 2019
HANOVER COUNTY — For two men who served time in prison, the road to reentry led them to White Oak Farm on Ash Cake Road in Hanover County. Watch the full story here: Richard Bartole a... Read More
June 19, 2019
RICHMOND — The Haynesville Correctional Center inmates who were sent to local hospitals Saturday evening as a result of suspected overdoses at the prison have all been released. On... Read More
June 16, 2019
RICHMOND — Six of the eight offenders at Haynesville Correctional Center suspected of having overdosed yesterday have been released from the hospital. Five of the offenders were se... Read More
June 15, 2019
RICHMOND — Eight offenders at Haynesville Correctional Center are suspected of having overdosed this evening. The overdoses were discovered around 7:15 p.m. One of the eight offend... Read More
May 07, 2019
RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam has proclaimed May 5–11, 2019 as Correctional Officers’ Week in Virginia, which honors and acknowledges the men and women who serve as correctional... Read More
May 07, 2019
RICHMOND — A male offender in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections who walked away from a work unit yesterday has been apprehended. Offender Jason Michael Day was ... Read More
May 06, 2019
RICHMOND — At approximately 10 a.m. this morning, a male offender in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections walked away from a greenhouse work unit at Nottoway Work C... Read More
April 10, 2019
RICHMOND — The Department of Corrections is thanking its volunteers this week as it celebrates National Volunteer Week. From helping offenders create art to offering tips on financi... Read More
April 08, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections’ Victim Services Unit is recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 7-13, emphasizing the theme, “Honoring the Past. Cr... Read More
February 21, 2019
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections will receive a 2019 Excellence in Government Award recognizing two public-private partnerships that have the same goal: training of... Read More
January 10, 2019
RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam announced during last night’s State of the Commonwealth address that for the third year in a row, Virginia’s re-incarceration rate is the lowest in... Read More
December 20, 2018
RICHMOND — As the Virginia Department of Corrections continues its groundbreaking reforms in the use of restrictive housing for the state’s inmates, a report released today by the V... Read More
December 02, 2018
RICHMOND — Just past 6:30 this morning, two officers at Red Onion State Prison were attacked by an inmate at the Pound, Virginia facility. One officer received puncture wounds to hi... Read More
November 19, 2018
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is launching a new project aimed at improving services for incarcerated parents and their minor children. The Building Family Bridg... Read More
November 06, 2018
October 29, 2018
RICHMOND — A United States Magistrate Judge has recommended that the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia find in favor of Red Onion State Prison employees in a ... Read More
October 25, 2018
RICHMOND — At approximately 3:55 p.m. yesterday, a Sussex I State Prison offender injured a Corrections Officer at the Waverly, Virginia facility. The 32-year old male officer sust... Read More
October 12, 2018
RICHMOND — The United States Department of Agriculture has awarded the Virginia Department of Corrections $88,700 in technical assistance grant funding through their waste managemen... Read More
July 27, 2018
RICHMOND — Doing its part to help tackle the opioid crisis, the Virginia Department of Corrections has launched a medically assisted drug treatment pilot program to help offenders a... Read More
July 23, 2018
RICHMOND — More than two dozen Virginia Department of Corrections employees from Wallens Ridge State Prison and Wise Correctional Unit volunteered this weekend at the 18th annual Re... Read More
July 15, 2018
RICHMOND — As the Virginia Department of Corrections acknowledges Pretrial, Probation and Parole Officers’ Week, July 15–21, it does so holding the lowest recidivism rate in the nat... Read More
May 18, 2018
RICHMOND — At approximately 2:45 p.m. today, a Wallens Ridge State Prison inmate was pronounced dead at Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. An inmate-on-inmate in-cel... Read More
May 10, 2018
RICHMOND — When it comes to state prisons, Virginia stands out for operating a corrections system without the use of solitary confinement. As states around the country grapple with ... Read More
May 06, 2018
RICHMOND — As the Virginia Department of Corrections celebrates Correctional Officers’ Week from May 6-12, it does so with the lowest recidivism rate in the nation for the second ye... Read More
April 08, 2018
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections Victim Services Unit will be conducting activities to recognize National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The Victim Service... Read More
December 19, 2017
RICHMOND — Harold W. Clarke, head of the Virginia Department of Corrections, has been re-appointed by Governor-elect Ralph Northam to lead the agency for a third term. Today at Fir... Read More
November 20, 2017
RICHMOND — For the second year in a row, the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council has recognized the Department of Corrections for its leadership in energy efficiency. During ceremon... Read More
November 09, 2017
RICHMOND — As America pauses Saturday to remember those who served our country in uniform, the Virginia Department of Corrections would like to remind our veterans that it offers em... Read More
July 17, 2017
RICHMOND — The annual celebration of Probation and Parole Officers’ Week, July 16-22, 2017, holds special meaning this year as the Virginia Department of Corrections commemorates th... Read More
May 07, 2017
RICHMOND — As the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) celebrates Correctional Officers’ Week May 7-13, it does so holding the nation’s lowest recidivism rate. “Our success i... Read More
May 01, 2017
RICHMOND — The National Governors Association (NGA) has selected Virginia and seven other states to participate in a learning lab designed to develop strategies to expand access to ... Read More
April 03, 2017
RICHMOND — This week, the Virginia Department of Corrections is recognizing Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The Victim Services Unit (VSU) of the Department of Corrections provides not... Read More
March 28, 2017
RICHMOND — Since January 2014, Virginia Department of Corrections offenders have amassed more than 1,500 course completions in an award-winning college credit initiative. Offenders... Read More
February 14, 2017
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections Director Harold Clarke and Ambassador Williams R. Brownfield, Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International Narcotics an... Read More
February 13, 2017
January 04, 2017
RICHMOND — Virginia is one of five states recently added to the list of participants in the Safe Alternatives to Segregation Initiative facilitated by the Vera Institute of Justice.... Read More
December 19, 2016
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections took top honors in the first ever Virginia Energy Efficiency Leadership Awards. The Virginia Energy Efficiency Council (VAEEC) hon... Read More
December 12, 2016
December 08, 2016
RICHMOND — The head of the Virginia Department of Corrections has been appointed to a prestigious national group of public and private sector fellows who make a lifetime commitment ... Read More
December 05, 2016
RICHMOND — At 2.8 percent, the percentage of offenders in restrictive housing in Virginia prisons is among the lowest in the United States. A report released on November 30 by the ... Read More
November 10, 2016
RICHMOND — As we celebrate Veterans Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections is proud to announce it has received two prestigious honors for leadership and commitment in hiring m... Read More
September 13, 2016
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has received a statewide technology award for developing a robust reporting application designed to improve the agency’s K-... Read More
August 09, 2016
RICHMOND — All 78 offenders from the Southampton Men’s Detention Center in Capron were moved on Friday to the Cold Springs Detention Center in Greenville after an engineer said the ... Read More
July 20, 2016
RICHMOND — Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Virginia has received national recognition for an educational effort that allows offenders in Virginia’s prisons to be eligi... Read More
July 18, 2016
RICHMOND — Probation and parole officers work quietly behind the scenes in our communities, playing a critical role every day in Virginia’s public safety efforts. The Virginia Dep... Read More
July 07, 2016
RICHMOND — St. Brides Correctional Center in Chesapeake, Virginia, is using solar energy to preheat ground water entering its buildings, thus significantly reducing the facility’s r... Read More
June 30, 2016
RICHMOND — Thirty-two probationers and parolees are realizing the consequences of their illegal drug use today as a result of an unannounced drug-testing effort - Operation Conseque... Read More
June 01, 2016
RICHMOND — Each year in Virginia, about 13,000 people are released from correctional institutions back into the community. A key component to successful offender reentry and a reduc... Read More
May 02, 2016
RICHMOND — The men and women who serve as correctional officers for the Virginia Department of Corrections play a vital role in the successful reentry of offenders into our communit... Read More
April 11, 2016
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections this week is holding events to recognize Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which runs April 10 through April 16. The Victim Services Unit... Read More
March 17, 2016
RICHMOND — Governor Terry McAuliffe has announced that offenders in Virginia’s prisons will now be eligible for college credit for five career and technical education courses recomm... Read More
March 03, 2016
RICHMOND — Virginia’s efforts to help inmates in the state’s highest security prisons move out of long term restrictive housing have been recognized by the U.S. Department of Justic... Read More
December 23, 2015
RICHMOND — Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that offenders in Virginia’s prisons can now stay in touch with loved ones by way of some of the lowest phone call rates in the c... Read More
November 09, 2015
RICHMOND — As America celebrates its veterans this week, the Virginia Department of Corrections wants those men and women who have served our country to know their skills are needed... Read More
October 23, 2015
RICHMOND — Communication between incarcerated offenders and their families and friends is an important step in the reentry process. To that end, the Virginia Department of Correctio... Read More
September 09, 2015
RICHMOND — Across the nation, from state houses to kitchen tables, a conversation is brewing about the number of people America incarcerates, how those people are treated once they’... Read More
July 12, 2015
RICHMOND — Virginia’s Probation and Parole officers play a critical role in keeping our communities safe. Their dedication will be honored this week, which is Probation & Parole... Read More
May 04, 2015
RICHMOND — Virginia’s correctional officers play a critical role in keeping correctional facilities safe and promoting offenders’ successful reentry into our communities after they’... Read More
April 22, 2015
RICHMOND — As Virginians around the Commonwealth celebrate Earth Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections continues to position itself as a statewide leader in recycling efforts.... Read More
April 20, 2015
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections this week is holding events to recognize Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which runs April 19 through April 25. This year, Virginia mark... Read More
April 06, 2015
RICHMOND — A wellness program initially targeted to older Virginians is helping offenders at five Virginia correctional facilities learn to manage their chronic diseases and improve... Read More
March 19, 2015
RICHMOND — Vocational students at Green Rock Correctional Center have found something they have in common with some of our nation’s Founding Fathers – an aptitude for surveying. S... Read More
February 19, 2015
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has undergone a major cultural shift in recent years, transforming into a research-based organization aggressively focused on offen... Read More
January 14, 2015
RICHMOND — Prison officials credit the Virginia Department of Corrections’ emphasis on reentry for the recent success of two former offenders who found jobs within days of their rel... Read More
October 30, 2014
RICHMOND — Virginia Department of Corrections Director Harold Clarke has announced this year’s plans to monitor sex offenders under probation and parole supervision throughout the C... Read More
September 18, 2014
RICHMOND — Looking to train incarcerated offenders in an area of need for many Commonwealth communities, a new Virginia Department of Corrections program allows offenders to get cer... Read More
August 18, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is leasing cutting-edge farm equipment from John Deere through an agreement that will greatly enhance the Department’s cost-saving ... Read More
July 14, 2014
RICHMOND — Probation and parole officers are in our communities every day working hard to make Virginia a safer place to live. Their dedication to public safety will be honored this... Read More
July 08, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections has completed an emergency procurement process to find a new, interim health care services provider for incarcerated offenders. The... Read More
June 27, 2014
RICHMOND — Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced that Virginia’s re-incarceration rate has dropped to 22.8 percent, the state’s lowest rate on record. “Long-term public safety i... Read More
June 09, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is the first state corrections department in the country to obtain full compliance of an adult prison facility under the Prison Rap... Read More
June 05, 2014
RICHMOND — This World Environment Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections joins those taking stock of their environmental impact. The Department of Corrections began composting ... Read More
June 03, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections received notice yesterday from Corizon Health, Inc. that the Brentwood, Tennessee-based correctional health care services provider ... Read More
May 07, 2014
RICHMOND — In any environment, nursing is a challenging profession. Being a nurse in a correctional setting requires a host of skills beyond those required in a hospital or other nu... Read More
May 06, 2014
RICHMOND — When we think of teachers, we usually picture schools teaming with children or ivory covered campuses, but teachers are also hard at work in the state’s prisons. Approxim... Read More
May 05, 2014
RICHMOND — Correctional officers in Virginia’s prison system work hard every day to make Virginia a safer place to live. Their dedication to public safety will be honored May 4–10, ... Read More
April 22, 2014
RICHMOND — This Earth Day, the Virginia Department of Corrections is celebrating the preservation of approximately 3,000 acres at four state prison facilities. Director Harold Clark... Read More
April 06, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections is holding events to recognize Crime Victims’ Rights Week April 6-12. The theme for the 2014 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, w... Read More
April 03, 2014
RICHMOND — Approximately 160 Virginia Department of Corrections offenders are training and working with Virginia Department of Forestry and U.S. Forest Service firefighters in the w... Read More
February 20, 2014
RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections announced today that the drug Midazolam will be added to its list of lethal injection drugs approved for use in conducting state ex... Read More
February 03, 2014
RICHMOND — While she was serving time in prison, a training program opened up a new world for Alexandria’s Deborah Adams. Today she’s helping open the world for others after learnin... Read More