Hawaii State Prisons

Summary

Hawaii’s state prison system, managed by the Hawaii Department of Public Safety (PSD), includes several correctional facilities distributed across the islands. The system aims to provide secure and humane incarceration while offering rehabilitative services to inmates.

Hawaii operates four main state prisons:

• Halawa Correctional Facility (HCF) – Medium to high-security facility.
• Waiawa Correctional Facility (WCF) – Minimum-security facility.
• Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) – Facility for female inmates.
• Kulani Correctional Facility (KCF) – Minimum-security facility focused on rehabilitation.

Management Structure

The Hawaii Department of Public Safety oversees the state’s prisons. The department is divided into various divisions, including the Corrections Division and the Law Enforcement Division. The Corrections Division is responsible for the management and operation of correctional facilities.

Incarceration Rate

According to recent data, Hawaii’s incarceration rate is approximately 300 per 100,000 residents, which is comparatively lower than the national average in the United States.

Locating a Prisoner

To locate an inmate in Hawaii’s prison system, you can use the (Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification) system or the Hawaii Department of Public Safety’s Online Inmate Search tool. These resources provide real-time updates on an inmate’s location and status.

Family Visitation Rules

Family visitation is permitted under specific guidelines:

• Visitation Schedule: Visitation days and hours vary by facility. Schedules are usually posted on the facility’s website.
• Approval Process: Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list.
• Identification: Visitors must present valid identification.
• Dress Code: Strict dress codes are enforced to maintain security and decency.
• Conduct: Visitors must adhere to the facility’s rules regarding behavior and items allowed during visits.

Classification of Prison Security Levels

Hawaii’s prisons are classified into different security levels:

• Minimum Security: Facilities like Waiawa and Kulani focus on inmates nearing the end of their sentences or those who pose a lower risk.
• Medium Security: Facilities like Halawa house inmates who require more supervision and control.
• High Security: Also part of Halawa, this level is for inmates who pose a significant risk or have long sentences.

Parole and Factors Considered in Parole Decisions

Parole decisions in Hawaii are made by the Hawaii Paroling based on the following:

• Inmate Behavior: Inmate’s behavior and conduct while incarcerated.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluations of the inmate’s risk to the community.
• Rehabilitation: Participation in and completion of rehabilitative programs.
• Victim Impact: Statements and considerations from victims or their families.
• Support System: Availability of a stable support system upon release.

Educational, Vocational & Rehabilitative Programs

Hawaii’s correctional facilities offer a variety of educational and vocational programs, including:

Educational Programs

• GED and Adult Basic Education:
• Financial Literacy
• Parental Education
• Life Skills

Vocational Training Programs:

• Construction Trade
• Culinary Arts
• Automotive Repair
• Computer Skills

Rehabilitative Programs

• Substance Abuse Treatment: Programs like the Substance Abuse Treatment Program (SATP).
• Mental Health Services: Counseling and psychiatric services for inmates with mental health needs.
• Reentry Programs: Services to assist inmates in transitioning back into the community.

Hawaii Prison News (Hawaii News Now)

Four Inmates Indicted In Brutal Beating Death of Hawaii Inmate:

Pros and Cons of the Hawaii State Prison System

PROS

• Comprehensive Rehabilitation: A strong focus on rehabilitative and educational programs.
• Family Involvement: Policies that support family visitation and engagement.
• Lower Incarceration Rate: Relatively low incarceration rate compared to the national average.

CONS

• Overcrowding: Despite the lower incarceration rate, some facilities face issues with overcrowding.
• Resource Limitations: Budget constraints can limit the availability and quality of programs.
• Geographical Isolation: The state’s geographic isolation can complicate family visitation and post-release reintegration.

References

Hawaii Department of Public Safety
Personal Development Programs 
Hawaii Parol Authority 

HAWAII STATE PRISONS:

Halawa Correctional Facility

Halawa Correctional Facility
99-902 Moanalua Road
Aiea, HI 96701

Telephone: (808)-485-5200

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
c/o Halawa Correctional Facility
99-902 Moanalua Road
Aiea, HI 96701

Waiawa Correctional Facility

Waiawa Correctional Facility
94-560 Kamehameha Highway
Waipahu, HI 96797

Telephone: (808)-677-6150

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Waiawa Correctional Facility
P.O. Box 1839
Pearl City, HI 96782

Women’s Community Correctional Center

Women’s Community Correctional Center
42-477 Kalanianaole Highway
Kailua, HI 96734

Telephone: (860)-266-9580

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Women’s Community Correctional Center
42-477 Kalanianaole Highway
Kailua, HI 96734

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