Virtual Visitation Preserves Family Ties for Hawaii Inmates
CCA provides technology that makes it possible for out-of-state inmates to stay in touch with relatives on the home front. When families and friends are separated by miles, new capabilities enable inmates to meet face-to-face with their loved ones – virtually and regularly.
Video conferencing enables Hawaii inmates at CCA facilities to participate in more frequent visits with friends and family members. Inmates at Saguaro Correctional Facility and Red Rock Correctional Center use the technology to connect back home.
Hawaii-based relatives coordinate virtual visitations with the facility. Correctional officers organize the facility’s video visitation schedule based on those requests. The facilities may carry out as many as 40 to 50 video visits a day.
These facilities also use video conferencing technology to hold court appointments, including arraignments and parole hearings. Tele-court saves correctional agencies the expense of transporting offenders to and from off-site locations, especially with out-of-state inmates, where flights and increased logistical issues can compound costs.
The benefits for the state of Hawaii, inmates and their families include:
- Cost savings
- Increased community safety and facility security
- Routinely scheduled visitations
- Seamless coordination
- Enhanced communication and strengthened relationships
CCA facilities are increasingly using video conferencing for inmate visitation, psychological consultations, medical visits, court appearances and more.