Inside Northern State Prison

Introduction to Northern State Prison

Northern State Prison, located in Newark, New Jersey, is a maximum-security prison that has been in operation since 1987. The prison is designed to house approximately 2,700 inmates, making it one of the largest correctional facilities in the state. With a focus on rehabilitation and providing a safe environment for both inmates and staff, Northern State Prison offers a range of programs and services aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting positive behavioral change.

History of Northern State Prison

The construction of Northern State Prison was completed in 1987, with the facility officially opening its doors to receive its first inmates. The prison was built to replace the outdated and overcrowded Trenton State Prison, which had been in operation since 1798. Since its inception, Northern State Prison has undergone several renovations and expansions to improve its infrastructure and enhance its programs and services. Today, the prison is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that provides a secure and supportive environment for inmates to participate in rehabilitation programs and prepare for reentry into society.

Facility and Security

Northern State Prison is a maximum-security facility, with multiple layers of security in place to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and the surrounding community. The prison is surrounded by a perimeter fence, with watchtowers and security cameras strategically located throughout the facility. Inmates are housed in cellblocks, with each cell equipped with basic amenities such as a bed, toilet, and sink. The prison also features a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, outdoor recreation areas, and a library.

Programs and Services

Northern State Prison offers a range of programs and services designed to support the rehabilitation and reentry of inmates. These programs include: * Counseling services: Inmates have access to individual and group counseling sessions, which focus on addressing underlying issues such as substance abuse, mental health, and behavioral problems. * Educational programs: The prison offers a range of educational programs, including GED preparation, vocational training, and college courses. * Recreational activities: Inmates can participate in a variety of recreational activities, such as sports, fitness classes, and hobby groups. * Job training: The prison provides job training programs, which equip inmates with the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment upon release.

Inmate Life

Life as an inmate at Northern State Prison is highly structured, with a focus on routine and discipline. Inmates are expected to follow a strict daily schedule, which includes time for meals, recreation, and programming. Inmates are also required to participate in regular headcounts, which are conducted to ensure the safety and security of the facility. Despite the challenges of prison life, many inmates at Northern State Prison are able to make positive changes and prepare for a successful reentry into society.

🚨 Note: Inmates at Northern State Prison are subject to regular searches and surveillance, and are expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct.

Visitation and Communication

Visitation is an important part of life at Northern State Prison, allowing inmates to maintain connections with family and friends. The prison has a designated visitation area, where inmates can meet with approved visitors. Inmates are also able to communicate with the outside world through phone calls and mail. However, all communication is subject to monitoring and screening to ensure the safety and security of the facility.

Reentry and Release

The ultimate goal of Northern State Prison is to support the successful reentry of inmates into society. To achieve this, the prison offers a range of programs and services designed to prepare inmates for release. These programs include job training, education, and counseling, as well as support for finding housing and employment. Upon release, inmates are provided with a range of resources and support services, including parole supervision and access to community-based programs.

Program	Description
Counseling services	Individual and group counseling sessions
Educational programs	GED preparation, vocational training, and college courses
Recreational activities	Sports, fitness classes, and hobby groups
Job training	Equipping inmates with skills and knowledge for employment

In summary, Northern State Prison is a maximum-security facility that provides a range of programs and services designed to support the rehabilitation and reentry of inmates. With a focus on safety, security, and rehabilitation, the prison offers a supportive environment for inmates to make positive changes and prepare for a successful reentry into society.