Please use this thread to post which prison your loved one is currently located at. Please do not use this thread for general discussion. It is meant to be a resource to help PTO members locate other members that have loved ones in the same prison, or close by. If you wish to discuss a particular Unit, please start a new thread in the forum.

Thanks,
Fed-X

I have a pen pal in Anamosa.

I have a very close friend in Clarinda.

I was in Mitchellville's women prison for 7 years.

My brother n law is in Oakdale, awaiting transfer.

My boyfriend is in Rockwell City.

My son spent 3 years at Mount Pleasant. He is on work release and will be off paper 9/27/03!!

John has been in Clarinda since May

Hi Guys- well Im a bit closer to having a prision for ya, but not quite yet. He was sentnced today so I have to go thru the Oakdale bit yet, Im told he will be there in the next couple of days.
I do have a question for anyone that may beable to answer.
Bink asked if I would come visit him @ Oakdale. I told him I would if its allowed. I have heard that only family members were allowed, does anyone know???

If I remember (it's been 5 years) no one can during his .. oh I can't think of the word. It's were he gets all his shots and physical, mental, and educational exams. That takes 1-2 weeks. After that, he has to put you on his visitor's list and he sends you a form to fill out. They do a check on you and that takes 4-6weeks. They will let him know (they don't tell you) if you are approved or not. Then he lets you know.

Thanks for the fast reply LadyDi. I figured as much, but wasnt absolutely positive. So he will send a form for visiting, while he is still at Oakdale, or when he is placed in the actual prision??

He did tell me about them checking me out, so I should be good to go, the only thing I have on my record was I spent 3 hours in jail one night (public intox) and a few no seatbelt and speeding tickets which all took place atleast 5-7 years ago.

Well I can answer this . Since John was at oakdale 7 monthes ago. Only family menber can visit wifes,parents, brothers,sisters. I didnt get to visit John tell he got moved to Clarinda. It really sucked not seeing him for 2 months. Thats the good thing now that he is at Clarinda. I get to visit him

I I didnt think the non Family members couldnt visit, maybe I was hoping anyway ;) I figured I would have to wait til beyond, And I still hope I get anamosa, its closest to me ;)

So what about the phones there, do you remeber any of that, will he beable to use a prepaid card??
If so any idea how much it costs?

Heather, please do not hope for Ananmosa. It is the 2nd worstest prison in our state, Ft. Madison being the 1st. It is a hard tough prison.

There are no phone cards. If you go to the Iowa doc web site, there is a place you click on and can get a form to print out. You have to fill out this phone form and mail it to the address on the form along with your $20 (or more) money order (no checks if I remember and definitely no cash). If i remember correctly they even check on the # and address on the form to approve it , could be wrong about that. Anyway, this new system of you paying $20 minimum for phone calls is cheaper than when it use to be collect calls. For us, $20 gave us about 5 15min calls. He was at Mt. Pleasant and we are in Polk county. It will vary depending on where you/he is.

Hi Lady- I only hope for anamosa because its closest to me. I dont think there are any good prisions. Ricky has been in both Fort Madison (John Beniot) and Anamosa. He told me that out of the 2 Anamosa was better, you had more freedom. And it is defiantely possible he wont get either. Clarinida sounds like it may be better than these 2, but its the farthest for me. Id rather he not go to any, but you know how that goes. Im not gonna worry about it to much, I cant control where he goes. And I dont feel too bad, since hes been in before, he already knows what hes is up against, and knows how to work himself. I hate it that this is not his first time in, but then again Im glad for that reason.
And anouther reason I want anamosa...Binks Mom has a friend there that has already served 20 and has quite a bit to go, he will help keep an eye on him, he did it before ;)

All I know is, I want him, In, out and home. And this time never look back again. And I guarantee if he does....I will not stand by him again, all this is too hard to deal with.

Nice to know on the phones, I have a block on mine, it will not accept collect calls. And my other problem is, there is gonna be many times he wont beable to call direct to my home phoine as I am staying with my x husband for now, hopefully that will change soon, so I was hoping he could call my cell phone. Does anyone know if this is possible??

Cell phones are forbidden!! If they find out he is calling a cell phone there is a chance he will not be allowed to call you.
I'm told they do check on the #'s just like they do checks on people visiting. I think it's silly, not being able to call a cell #.

it's completely fine for him to put your cell number on his calling list. i only have a cell and that's all aaron calls. :)

wow, i posted before i read your post di...

hm. i'm not sure what to think. do you think they don't know my number is a cell, or that they've changed the rules...

i'm going to have to investigate

here is the link to the order sheet http://www.doc.state.ia.us/Forms/PrePaidPhoneService.PDF

and yes, di, you are right! cell numbers are prohibited, according to the bottom of the sheet. i could swear, though, that the form aaron originally sent me had that blacked out. i'll have to check tonight. i would not have used this system (my cell) for so long if i thought it wasn't permitted! eek.

Wow guys, I guess maybe its a matter of which prision they are at huh? Oh my this may cause a big problem for me..

How bout this, are you allowed to put more than 1 number down?? I mean, could I put, home, cell and a friends? For instance could I put a friends number down, and then arrange that he call there at a certain day and time that I would be there?

BTW- Sherriff called his Mom again, he will be transferred to Oakdale today for sure, they wouldnt give a time though, I guess they are afraid you might try to hi jack them or something.

And ya know what else guys....Im glad we are moving Iowa forum around a bit ;)

Lets keep it up!!

Heather, check out the link that lam422 put out for you. I really can't remember if it's one # per form or not.

You are fortunate that the sheriff even called his mom to tell him they were moving him. I'm really surprised they even let that out.

Ok, i did check the form and it does look like only 1 number can be put on. Well I guess I'll just have to wait and hear it from him. so I know forsure the scoop.

When his mom called me she said that the Sherriff who called was a women, and that she explained they really weren't sapose to do it, She was nice i guess. She even gave her a 800# to call and ask questions...Here it is if anyone would need it, its direct to Oakdale.
1-800-247-6022

And about 3:45 this afternoon, I did get a call from his mom again,they called again telling her to have someone pick up his stuff, that means he is forsure gone.

He should Be in oakdale by now, now all i can do is sit and wait for another letter. All this waitting......... sheeesh :rolleyes:

Hey LadySoldier- You said on 8/10 your brother-in-law was in Oakdale..by now he should be placed?? Was just wondering what prision he ended up at?

How is every one this fine aftternoon? Heather you got lucky when they moved John to oakdale no was told tell polk county told his mom to pick up his stuff. When he got Moved to Clarinda his mom went down on a Friday to oakdale and she waited there for awhile before they told her they had moved him that Morning. On phone calls I think you can have more than one phone number. John has 3 numbers on his list. From east Des moines to Clarinda it costs me about $5.64 for the 15 min. Yea it says no cell phone on the sheet but if i know im not going to be home I have my calls forwarded to my cell. Before he was able to call i hade to get a block off my phone which sucked because that cost me $80.00 Im am so glad the calls are pre paid because if they wern't my phone bill would be a killer even though i spend about $120.OO a month in calls thank god for the over time at work are i coundn't send that much money. Hell I just wish he would get out of confinement so I can talk to him. The man that beat him up got released Sunday. Heck John didn't even hit the guy and he's got a worse punishment than the other guy :argh

Hi all-I still say I am so glad we are getting this Iowa forum moving, I spend a great deal of time looking at things. And the more we get imfo on here, the more our questions will be answered-specifically for us Iowans ;)

I went to the Doc site (have been here a gazillion times already) And today his name came up, it doesnt tell me alot (im hoping more in the future) but its the 1st day it actually came up, which tells me he is forsure there (Oakdale).

I do have a question if anyone would know the answer.
Under physical description is says LFA-B:ALLAS any ideas what this means??? I always thought physical descipt was-height,weight, eye& hair color, tatoos ect.....It had nothing on any of that, just the letters above and his SS# (which I dont understand why that would be made public!?)

Tami- Jeez John is still in confinement!!!?? WTF! Again i agree Big B.S.!! Especially since the other guy is released now.I will hope he gets out soon!!!

As for how is my afternoon going- all I can say is I hate not knowing what is going on, I guess I need to learn more patience LOL Its still pretty tough when thats all ya think about, and I'll be glad when everything settles down. Unfortunately, I dont think Im gonna be too comfortable with all this tell until he is placed and I have every bit of the rules, everything squared away with the phone, mail and visits. Anyone else go thru this feeling??
Anyway, sorry so long, had to get alittle venting in :rolleyes:


:cuffs: I'm waiting again :cuffs:

Well on the Doc websight All it saids about John is his name his age and what his is in for .The rest hasnt been filled out on his yet. Whats funny they have his wrong age on there. When they say something about tattoos, height .weight.scars i was surprise they didnt say any thing about his glass eye. Well Heather i know what you mean I feel lost every day. Since I cant talk to him the letters keep me up dated . An the visits mean so much to me. There are some days i just start crying on the drop of a hat. I miss him so much and i will be right there waiting at the gates when they let him out

Please use this thread only for telling everyone where your loved one is at and start new threads for any conversations relating to Iowa.. Thanks! Fed-X

My fiance is in Clarinda and will, hopefully, be out and home soon

crisslee, a warm welcome to our forum. :) I have read you 3 other posts. I, too, hope that your loved one will be home soon!! I also hope that your illness will go into remission.

Hello crisslee I also welcome u to our forum. My boy friend is also at Clarinda,he's been there since May. I hope Everyone is having a nice weekend!!

My Good Friend is in Anamosa and has been there for 113 years and serving a life sentence. I see him 4 times a month.

Oops sorry he has been there for 13 years seems like 113 years.

Hello crisslee and weddings! :wave:

It's nice to have more and more people finding the Iowa forum and get some action in here! I hope you enjoy meeting the rest of us and find some good friends here.

Check out the other threads in the forum and get to know us!

Blessings,
lam

Thank you all for welcoming me
NIGHTMAGIC-my Jimmy has been in Clarinda since June
Lady Di-thank you for your encouragement on my illness

Se ya in other forums

Thank you for the welcome. I just visited on Monday in Anamos State Prison!

The news is in all.........Ricky got sent to Anamosa.

Looks like I may be visiting with you Weddings ;)

Hi Binky's Gal

I usually go see my friend in Anamosa on Mondays. I can visit 4 times a month. 3 hours on the weekdays Monday- Closed on Tuesday and Wed. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. If you visit on Sat and Sun you can only have 2 hour visits. It is not bad at all. I moved from Colorado, so I have only been visiting since September. Let me know if I can help you with any questions you might have.

Hi everyone...do any of you visit Clarinda facility on either Saturdays or Sundays? I have been going down there about once a month (I have gone three times)...wondered if anyone would like to share ride/gas expenses?

I wish I could but John got transfered To Fort Madison on Monday after are visit. He got transfered To CCU which is right next to ISP . CCU stands for Critical Care Unit. Him and 69 other guys got transfered there. Because of his eye Clarinda didn't have the facility to care for him. Now instead of a 2 hour drive its a 3 hour drive. I hope everyone has a good weekend.

My son is in Fort Dodge, but will be going to IFI in Newton soon.
Buddy

Ah! Congrats, Buddy! IFI is absolutely wonderful. My best to your son!

My hubby is in Mt. Peasant right now.....

Binky's Gal I know when my hubby was in oakdale that he was not allowed to have any visits but i know that it depends on if they are in Genreal Population or in reception if the are in GP they can but if they are in reception the can until they are transfered and they are at Oakdale 30-90 days my hubby was in Oakdale for 30 and you have to have your visits approved before they are transfered....Sorry for the bad news but wanted you to know the truth...I'm not saying Lady Di is worng but that is what they told me at Oakdale...Christine

Buddy, That is wonderful about your son getting into IFI. I'm working with some IFI grads for a prison ministry here in my area. The vision is that is will grow and go state wide one day. This ministry helps men and women coming out of prison to find houseing, jobs, clothing, transportation, meeting the family's needs, etc.

Chritstine, I sure hope all is well with your loved ones eye. When I first read Ft. Madison, my stomach dropped to the floor. A young man (18) that I know is at ISP. I did not know there was a (what did you call it?) critical care unit.

BTW, my son was at Mt. Pleasant for 3 years. He went off paper 10/25/03.

Hi. My boyfriend is in Anamosa.
They let him call my cell phone b/c I'm not home a lot. We haven't had any problems. I tell him when we're on the phone to call my cell at a certain time and I know they listen to us. I think you should try and have him put your cell on his phone list. You could always forward the house phone to your cell too if you want. Just a couple of ideas.

Hi JJsGb- My guy is in Annie also, and yes he calls my cell too.
Welcome to Pto!!

Hi all! My Jimmy is still in Clarinda...hopefully will be home sometime in January or February...they don't let them have a clue until it's time for them to be released...at least in Jimmy's case...way it has been since he became incarderated 14 months ago. He is about to finish the programs they put him in...what more can they do for him there (or, he for them)...the system SUXS

My son is now in the IFI program in Newton, I also have friends in Clarinda, Ft Dodge, Rockwell & Ft Madison.
Buddy

Hi, I spent two years at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women. A state and Federal concurant sentence. They also house federal inmates there now.

Hi my brother was in I.M.C.C. Oakdale prison for about 6-7 years, then transferred to Mt. Pleasant where he spent a few more years. We had him transferred back to Oakdale when we found out he had cancer. I also have a good friend (whom I met though my brother) who is in Mt. Pleasant. Had it not been for this friend, my brother would have suffered worse than he did during his time there in Mt. Pleasant. (If your loved one is in general poplulation at the I.M.C.C. you can be put on the visiting list they allow girlfriend/boyfriend as one of his friends (I think they allow 2 friends to be on the list - can't remember for sure as when my brother went back it was not under normal circumstances and we were given extra special treatment).

Hello Everyone! My husband was transferred to Ft. Dodge Correctional Facility last Tuesday. I don't know if my experience so far is typical or not, but so far they have really gone above and beyond to answer questions, and help me try to figure my way through this transition. When I called to verify that he was really there, Judy in the Bus. Office was so kind. I asked about the status of my visitors app. (hadn't seen him for 44 days) and she said I had been approved. I asked when I could actually see him thinking there would be a transition period. She told me that day and I started to cry I was so happy. Got lost on the way there and she stayed on the phone to guide me there. The guards have all been extremely kind even when having to teach me a new rule! I've been there 3 times this week, and each time have been met with kindness, and courtesy. I sure hope it stays like this!
Suzanne

HEY YA'LL----MY MAN WAS IN ROCKWELL CITY. NOTICE I SAID WAS! NOW HE IS RESIDING IN MISSISSIPPI. WHEN I FIRST MET HIM 10 YRS AGO, HE WAS IN ANAMOSA, THEN WENT TO MT PLEASANT, THEN LAST STOP TO ROCKWELL. HE HAS BEEN OUT SINCE JULY 2003-----DOING VERY WELL.

My boyfriend just got to Oakdale he will be moved in a couple months. How come they cant have visitors there? Do they send them to the nearest place that has room, how does that work. And where in Iowa are all the prisons. I know of Ft Maddison. Could someone send me a private message with a list ?

hey guys, my guy is home......but, you need to watch out for the sad times cause they will hit all of a sudden...even tho my man was only gone for just a little over one year, things do change...big tme...my guy has achute pancreatitis and they did not treat him while he was incarcerated...therefore, i guess i have to put up with all their mistakes...so, even tho i am so glad he is home with me, i am usually lonely and upset every day...he is on pain killers, which makes him not the man i knew so long ago, thanks to incarceration...it sure gets lonely out here anyway, i am back on line and hope some one remembers me.....oopps,guys, he is up now...i am going to show him the PTO forum...talk to ya all later...chow

Alexis

you sound about as scared as as i was about a little over a year ago...what was your boyfriend put in for?...if you can tell me that, i may be able to tell you some infor...

Is there anyone on line right now from Iowa? My b/f is in Oakdale, and how do they decide where to take them after oakdale? And what do they do all day there? he has only been there for a little over a week, and I have only received on letter, since they only get 2 a week. And do you know if they hold there mail? And when do the inmates know or how do they know when someone sends them money, do they tell them right :confused: away? sorry for all the questions, i have never been through this before. He sent me a sheet with the info on it. do they get mad if you call and ask questions like this. I mean the Administrators?

Hi Alexis~ This is Heather from Iowa. It wasnt all that long ago I went thru the oakdale bit myself. Did you get your questions answered? I pmed you already but you didnt respond. I am on pto quite a bit, so if ya need more help, pm me anytime. Also have you checked Oakdale's rules out? There is a number there u can call with questions, and no generally they dont get mad, I just wouldnt want to keep them on the phone real long ya know.
Let me know if ya need me. Nice to meet you BTW~Good luck,
Heather

My dad is in Yankton Federal Prison Camp in South Dakota, thats the closest they could get him to us here in denison ia.

My man is in Fort Dodge!
My brother was in Fort Dodge, Anamosa, Oakdale (of course), Mt. Pleasant. and I don't remember where else. So i know abit about most prisons and from my accounts I believe Fort Dodge is the best one if there is one

Thanks everyone, for your responce, Billy will be in IMCC for another month or 2. Still not sure where they are sending him. Last week was so hard no letters. But they sent me all his stuff yesterday, my cats even miss him, they have been sleeping on his coat since I took out of the box, and me of course with his shirt. He sent me 2 letters in one day, which boosted me up enormously he wrote bdoth front and back on both letters!! (Not like him lol) And said something so special, that he's glad Im sticking with him, and that he loves me from the bottom of his heart, I have never heard him talk like that before! He has a decente cell mate which Im glad! And my baby is bald lol. I wish I could see him bald!! What have you done for your man in prison, his birthday is the 29th of this month, Im going to send money of course but did you do anything else, since I cant go see him. I think he's in general not sure about visitations. And can the have pics sent to them in IMCC? Again thanks for your help and your responses greatly appreciated, and feel free to add me to your buddy list.

Hi everyone... My boyfriend was just sentenced to Fort Madison. I don't know much about the place being I am not from Iowa. This really sucks being so far away from him.. Him being in Iowa and me in Florida. I haven't heard from him yet but it has only been a couple days.

Is there someone actually in charge of the Iowa forum? If so, who is it?

Buddy

My husband is in Clarinda - I moved to California before he got arrested - I knew with his drug problem he was either going to jail or die from his drug use. Glad for jail - it has saved his life and is slowly bringing him back. I only can get back to see him ever 2 months and he has 3 years left. Is Clarinda a Federal prison and does anyone know if there is such a thing as conjugal visits. I'm new to all of this - my husbands mood changes all the time - he can be so thoughtful sometimes on the phone or in his letters and then it is like - he is back on drugs and an ass. He has been of the drugs (meth) now for 8 months (as long as he has been in jail). Thanks

Hi chucks wife~ Glad you told us a bit more about yourself. Just thought Id answer a few questions for you. No Clarinida is not a federal prison. Its a state prison, I dont believe Iowa even has Federal prisons. And no, we all wish we could have conjugal visits (hell I just want a visit LOL), but nope Iowa dont have conjugal visits either. I know bummer huh?
Hope this helps, come and post lots, we are all here for you.
Hugs~Heather

Hi, in reply to chucks wife, my dad was in Clarinda and he said it was the worst state prison that he had been to, and hes been to quite a few! I thought that Fort Dodge was a federal prison but i could be wrong. If there is Anything else you want to know just ask, and they dont have conjugal visits.

My dad is in Fort Madison & I have a uncle in Anaomsa.

My husband john is in imcc right now but i know he is to go to ft. dodge for the rivers program soon, have not heard from him yet:confused: ..if anyone knows about that program please let me know..thanks:)

Hi blueyez!

Welcome to PTO. I don't know about the program you have questions about, but I'm sure if you post a new thread in the Iowa forum Heather (Binky's Gal) can help you, as well as some other nice people.

Surf around and enjoy yourself...let us know what we can do!

Hi I just joined up, I'm actually living in Washington but my boyfriend is in Fort Madison

My husband is in Anamosa but we are hoping he can be sent to Ft Dodge soon, since, naturally, they sent him to the place the farthest away from me. I only get to visit once a month, it takes an overnight trip, motel bill, money to kennel the dogs, three hours in the car after working 8 hours (graveyard shift) and then his counselor wants to know "why did they send you here?" Yet they "encourage visits". Then put his CLOSER. Anybody know what I mean? By the way, I'm Jan and I live in NW Iowa

Hi Jan :wave: Welcome to Pto and the Iowa forum. My BF is also in Anamosa. Glad you joined us. Anamosa is the closest to me, and it was requsted to be there for that reason. I hope you can get your hubby closer. Good luck!!
How long does he have yet?
Hugs~Heather

Hi Jan!
Welcome to PTO! :) I do know what you mean about the driving and the money! I hope you find lots of sympathetic ears, hilarious laugh-starters and companionship here! Surf around--and don't forget to check out the Iowa PTO get-together thread...you're invited!

Lam422

My Guy is at Mt. Pleasant.

Hi Fred's Gal! Welcome to PTO and the Iowa forum. :) Make sure to check out the info. on the Iowa PTO get-together...YOU are invited! Make yourself at home here and drop a line whenever you need anything.

Lam422

:) Thanks!! I'm sure I will need something before this is all over!!! :slap: His dad was here today!!! :faint: He came to pick up one of his cars that has been sitting in our yard for 2 years!! :argh: At least this time he was not yelling at me for money that my guy owes him!!! Later!!:D

My husband is in Anamosa, doing a two and half year mandatory on a ten year sentence. Anamosa is a five hour drive one way for me, why they put him so far away, no one can explain. It's like it's a(nother) test. They say they "encourage visits from family and friends" then they make it as difficult at possible to make the visits work. Anyway, hopefully they can transfer him in September to Fort Dodge which is only an hour an a half away. He was arrested on December 24, 2003 so we still have two to five to go. This is his second number, I met, fell in love with and married him when he was in the first time. Ladies ~ STAND BY YOUR MAN!

Hi. My son is being taken to Eldora tomorrow for alluding and many traffic fines. Does anyone know anything about the Hardin County jail? We live in WY, so almost impossile to find anything out. Any inforamtion will be much appreciated.
Thanks

my boyfriend aaron is at oakdale right now...we dont know how long yet

He is in ISP In Ft. Madison.Please use this thread to post which prison your loved one is currently located at. Please do not use this thread for general discussion. It is meant to be a resource to help PTO members locate other members that have loved ones in the same prison, or close by. If you wish to discuss a particular Unit, please start a new thread in the forum.

Thanks,
Fed-X

My man is in Fort Dodge. anyone from cedar rapids??

my fiacee is in mt.pleasant

I am new to all this and my husband just got sent to Oakdale for processing...he was sentenced to 30 years...which I am told he may be eligible for parole in 4-5...Have filled all the forms and have been writing back and forth...don't know what happens next...

My husband is in Clarinda and I live 4 hours away - I get to see him once a month - it's a horrible system and I cant wait til he's home.

My daughter is a federal prisoner but is housed in Mitchellville. It's only 109 miles so I am able to take her children to visit often.

My baby is in Fort Madison. I'm new here so hope i'm doing this right. My fiancee was sentenced to 2 20 year consecutive terms and is a habitual offender so do you all know how long he will have to serve?

My man is in Fort Dodge... My dad is Oakdale... Nick my man got 2 years nothing big but he is still a bad boy he shouldnt have did what he did... and my dad got 20 years... and to magical lady76 hey again...but i know when you go to oakdale your time gets cut i half so my dad really has 10 years and my man has 1 year but i am not sure really that is just what i hear...

my husband is in Anamosa now...anyone out there have a loved one there?

My Husband to be is in Fort Madison but, is being transfered to Newton soon. We are hoping he will be home for Christmas!!!!! Cross your fingers and say us a little prayer!

i'm new to this and trying to figure everything out. I just moved to Florida but my guy back in iowa just went through oakdale and is now in fort dodge. I don't really know anything about prision. first time dealing with all this. I was hoping someone could just fill me in. I have only gotten one letter from him and he's been at fort dodge for a 3 or 4 weeks now and i'm not sure how often they can write and what the writing, or calling process is. i'd love some information --- lyn

When U moved from oakdale to the next place it sometimes takes a bit for your $$$ to follow he may not have cash for envelopes. He may be trying to Adjust to his new surrounding. Just some possibitilties to consider. Why not drop him a line and see.MAIL ranks right up there with food for an inmate

BTW MY Steph is at ICIW with a mandatory not up til 2/2006. They say it gets easier THEY lied soooooo bad It was so hard to leave her behind. All I can do is be here for her

I meant 3 months. but thank you stephsgirl.

My son is @ Rockwell City. He is to be there until June, but they are talking about a halfway house, any word o how those work? Is it better to just finish your time at the prison?

hi everyone im new here and my son is in mt pleasant.

Welcome, my son is also in Mt Pleasant.

Buddy

Hi all! I thought I had posted this but I just went through looking and apparently only had good intentions :D my boyfriend is in Ft. Madison serving life.

I'm new in here. I have a really good friend in Marshall County, moved from Polk county a couple days ago. Closer drive to see him!!:thumbsup:

My dad is in Fort Madison.

My hubby is in Fort Dodge. He was at Newton (up the hill) last time around and I think we both liked him being there a lot better!

Hello! My husband just got sent to Oakdale last week. Was wondering if anyone could give me any info on what it's like there, etc. And if anyone could tell me what it means by everyone saying their time gets cut in half when they get sent to Oakdale. Meaning the time at Oakdale, or their total time? My husband sentence was 'not to exceed 10 years', with the mandatory taken off. His lawyer said he'd do about 12 months. Thanks to All.

<3 Tara

For questions on time count, I found that the best thing to do is to just call Oakdale
(319)626-2391
and choose the records option on the recording, and ask for someone in time count. they can answer any time count question you have and can explain the whole "cut it in half" thing a lot better than I ever could. And just a note, the lawyers have no idea.

Just updating here. Shane got sent from Oakdale to Rockwell City on Feb. 8th. We got our first visit and picture taken together on the 19th. It went great! I'm ready to make the 4 and a half hour trip again next week!

My 20 yo son was sentenced to 90-day shock in January. The judge recommended he stay at Oakdale because he's insulin-dependent and depressed. I just found out tonight he's been moved to Fort Dodge. It's all pretty scary.

Hi All,
I just found out yesterday that my love was moved into GP at IMCC
(Oakdale). So cool as it's only an hour away.

Can you tell me more about the prison ministry in Newton? I heard this can cut back on some of their sentence, is that true??



Buddy, That is wonderful about your son getting into IFI. I'm working with some IFI grads for a prison ministry here in my area. The vision is that is will grow and go state wide one day. This ministry helps men and women coming out of prison to find houseing, jobs, clothing, transportation, meeting the family's needs, etc.

Chritstine, I sure hope all is well with your loved ones eye. When I first read Ft. Madison, my stomach dropped to the floor. A young man (18) that I know is at ISP. I did not know there was a (what did you call it?) critical care unit.

My husband is in Clarinda and won't be home until 6 of 2008. I have a 5 1/2 drive to visit and would love all the support I can get.

My husband is in Clarinda and I live 4 hours away - I get to see him once a month - it's a horrible system and I cant wait til he's home.I know the feeling of being so far away, I live 5 1/2 hours from Clarinda and he is doing time till June of 2008. So hang in there your are not alone.

Hello I am new to this site. My mom just got sentanced today for i believe it was 5-10 months. :( Im not quite sure really. I dont understand all that stuff. I am going to visit her tomorrow at the woodbury county jail hopefully she wont be gone before i get there. But she is on her way to oakdale, then to mitchellville. this is her 3-4 time going. I have never been to see her while she was there. Normally i dont let her get into mylife. She is My mother and she will always be my mother. I just get tired of being hurt by her. But needless to say this time I let her in. I dont regret any of it. I love her with all my heart. she is not only my mother she is my best friend. I have my daughter on March 24, 2004 and mom got out of prison on March 25th 2004. One day after she was born. so she has been in my daughters life this whole past year. She knows her and loves her as grandma. So needless to say I plan on visiting my mother at least once a month if i could. Mitchellville is 4 hours away from sioux city. So i Dont know how well my daughter will do in a car for that long. LOL... but im sure going to try. So needless to say to answer the question to this forum My mother is on her way to oakdale with in the next few days. Then to mitchellville.

my loved one is in Fort Dodge until 2007, i also have a friend there too. and another friend in anamosa.

Well my fiance is in Clarinda also. I live 5 hrs from him. I go see him every other weekend. He should be up for parole next year if everything goes right. I can't wait for my baby to be home!!!!

Hey that is really sad, i read a post about your son.... does he need a penpal?? LOL.. i'm 20 from iowa...my best friend is in the process of tranferring.

Cell phones are forbidden!! If they find out he is calling a cell phone there is a chance he will not be allowed to call you.
I'm told they do check on the #'s just like they do checks on people visiting. I think it's silly, not being able to call a cell #.
How do you know or what do you know about cell phones? The only phone I have is a cell and my husband calls it whenever he calls?? He has never said or been told about calling it as far as I know..

My husband is in Clarinda.

How do you know or what do you know about cell phones? The only phone I have is a cell and my husband calls it whenever he calls?? He has never said or been told about calling it as far as I know..
On the phone form, which you send your phone money with it stays at the bottom. "Keep in mind that calls to toll free numbers, 900 numbers and cellular numbers are prohibited." Taken From http://www.doc.state.ia.us/PrePaidServiceForm.asp

My Mom also calls my cell phone from time to time when Im not home. I dont think they check the numbers that well because why would they allow someone in prison to call a bar. When My mom went back this time she had 30 some numbers on her account that she didnt know who they were. so she sent me the form with the numbers I of course searched them online and 3 of the numbers were bars here in town. I was mad when I found that out. But what can I do. So anyways she hasent been cought this time or the past times shes been in.

I have never heard of them not being able to call cell phones. My understanding is as long as you use your cell phone as your home phone it is no problem. My Dad was in Oakdale, Mt. Pleasant, and Rockwell City and I have good friends in Ft. Dodge and Ft. Madison and none of them have any troubles calling a cell phone. When my Dad was paroled the first time he could even live with me even if we only had a cell phone because that was the "home phone".

my hubby was at Fort Dodge, but now we got him transferred to new newton, thank god.

my boyfriend is at mt. pleasant and will be home in october

My husband is in Mt. Pleasant, he discharges in Oct. but has a detainer for escape..

i have a brother in newton and a x brother in law in clarinda

My Fiance is in Mt.Pleasant he gets out in 23 months.

On the phone form, which you send your phone money with it stays at the bottom. "Keep in mind that calls to toll free numbers, 900 numbers and cellular numbers are prohibited." Taken From http://www.doc.state.ia.us/PrePaidServiceForm.asp

My Mom also calls my cell phone from time to time when Im not home. I dont think they check the numbers that well because why would they allow someone in prison to call a bar. When My mom went back this time she had 30 some numbers on her account that she didnt know who they were. so she sent me the form with the numbers I of course searched them online and 3 of the numbers were bars here in town. I was mad when I found that out. But what can I do. So anyways she hasent been cought this time or the past times shes been in.


my fiance calls my cell phone too cuz that is the only phone i have for him to call.

My friend of 10 years turned boyfriend was recentlty put back in Clarinda

I have my father at IMCC

:) hi my mans in isp

Well my boyfriend was told he would probably go to Rockwell, but they sent him to Newton, the minimum security part. I talked to him today, he said it is okay there, except that he is out of money.

Hi all, my dad was just moved from IMCC to Mt pleasant about a week ago.

Cell phones are forbidden!! If they find out he is calling a cell phone there is a chance he will not be allowed to call you.
I'm told they do check on the #'s just like they do checks on people visiting. I think it's silly, not being able to call a cell #.
My fiance calls me on my cell phone all the time. When he was in Anamosa and now that he is in Mt.Pleasant so I really don't think they are prohibited because that is the only phone he can call me on. I wonder what is up with that because they do say that they are prohibited?? N E ways hope everything is going ok for everyone and have a happy holidays even though our loved ones won't be here physically to celebrate with us they'll be in our hearts.:)

Hey Brook just wondering how your Dad is doing in Mt.Pleasant and how you and the family are doing. I know this is a really hard time of the year to have a loved one gone but just remember that he is right there with you always in your heart. Keep your chin up things will be ok. :)

My Boyfriend is in IMCC too... I dont know much about it but I can't see him and so I am ready for him to be moved.

My man is in Mt. Pleasant. Which sucks because that is 6 hours away from me. He was in Ft. Dodge but was transferred to MP for treatment. At least when he was in Ft. Dodge I could go and visit every other week. I am planning on going to Mt. Pleasant this weekend for a visit. It's a pain in the butt to drive that far and pay for a motel, but seeing him is definitely worth it. I can't wait!!!

My boyfriend just got to Oakdale he will be moved in a couple months. How come they cant have visitors there? Do they send them to the nearest place that has room, how does that work. And where in Iowa are all the prisons. I know of Ft Maddison. Could someone send me a private message with a list ?Im with the understanding that some people got out and took a visitors car and hurt them ,so they will not allow visitors there but fill out the visitors form for when he go's to the next prison

Thanks everyone, for your responce, Billy will be in IMCC for another month or 2. Still not sure where they are sending him. Last week was so hard no letters. But they sent me all his stuff yesterday, my cats even miss him, they have been sleeping on his coat since I took out of the box, and me of course with his shirt. He sent me 2 letters in one day, which boosted me up enormously he wrote bdoth front and back on both letters!! (Not like him lol) And said something so special, that he's glad Im sticking with him, and that he loves me from the bottom of his heart, I have never heard him talk like that before! He has a decente cell mate which Im glad! And my baby is bald lol. I wish I could see him bald!! What have you done for your man in prison, his birthday is the 29th of this month, Im going to send money of course but did you do anything else, since I cant go see him. I think he's in general not sure about visitations. And can the have pics sent to them in IMCC? Again thanks for your help and your responses greatly appreciated, and feel free to add me to your buddy list.
hang in there friend,if you would like to email me at(email removed, please PM member if you would like to contact her) please do that ,my name is Janie and my 28 yr old son just left there to clarinda. he was into drugs bad and was caught 3 times. so 9 yrs on him but if he takes his class it may be out nov on parole

Hi Guys- well Im a bit closer to having a prision for ya, but not quite yet. He was sentnced today so I have to go thru the Oakdale bit yet, Im told he will be there in the next couple of days.
I do have a question for anyone that may beable to answer.
Bink asked if I would come visit him @ Oakdale. I told him I would if its allowed. I have heard that only family members were allowed, does anyone know???they don't allow visitors there,something to do with some guys getting out stoled a visitors car. not for sure if thats true but fill out your visitors form so you can see him at the next prison,it will go with him when he leaves there, my son was there for 2 months and just got moved to clarinda now. if you'd like to chatt or email me (email edited out due to PTO policy. Please pm member if you'd like to contact her. Thanks). My son is 28 yrs old - Janie

no we were not able to see our son but fill the visitors form out then he'll have it for the next place he gos too

My Aunt is in Mitchellville Iowa.

My sweetie is in IMCC right now, but seems to think he is going to be moved any day now. I sure hope so because I want to be able to start visiting him soon!

Life with him is too short and life without him is too long!!

My son's in anamosa. Been there for a few months now.

for everyone who has someone in Mitchellville,please post a hi, so we can trade info,and i can pick your brain! sister was transfered yesterday, have a very high need to know...everything....
suer

mine is in Anamosa Iowa. I have to travel 2 hours to go and see him. But its worth it!!!!!!!!!

my man is in anamosa prsion. :mad:

My name is Nikki. My guy is in Clarinda, IA. Been in for 2 years..has 5 to go :mad:
Dated for a while a few years back and now got together again. My first visit was last weekend.

I travel 3 hours to go visit mine in Clarinda. Usually stay the nite at a hotel there so I can visit on Sundays as well. If anyone wants to split room costs with me there that would be great!

Welcome to PTO :)

:) Hi Everyone, Wyatt is still at Oakdale. Its been two weeks since he got there, before that 2 1/2 months in county bouncing around. This is second time, he's in on a parole violation and new charge. It sucks but he had good news the other day, his new charge has no minimum so he will probably just do 6-8 on the violation and then get to come home. I'm Praying!

Do the COs at oakdale have email? Can I email them?

Now that I've posted something where do I go to get my replies?

My friend is in Newton. He had been in Fort Madison for 20 years before this transfer.

Welcome to PTO Jeff's Cuz!

Now that I've posted something where do I go to get my replies?

You should get replies right here after your post. I'm sorry, but I have no idea whether COs have email or not. Hopefully, someone else will be able to help out.

My sweetie is in Iowa State Prison In Ft. Madison, about one hour away from me.

I posted a while back. Since then My husband has been transferred to Clarinda and is now on the Treatment side. He has to go through the Relapse program before they will consider his release.

my boyfriend is in general population at Oakdale. he was in reception there for 6 weeks, and has been in gen. pop. for almost 2 weeks now. i finally got approved to see him and now make the hour drive every saturday and sunday to spend 3 hours a day with him :)

My Husband is in anamosa.

my baby is in Rockwell city

My Man Is In Fort Dodge And Has Been Since Last Aug.

my man was in Fort Dodge but they have moved him to Mt. Pleasant to finish classes before they will release him.

The love of my life, soulmate, best friend and father of my baby is in Ft. Dodge.

My future husband and father of our son is in oakdale awaiting transfer,he has 6 points against but thats all we know for now...hopefully within the next week or two.

:( :confused: hello i'm new to all this. my brother was booked in polk county two weeks ago and they just moved him today to marshalltown. does any one have info on this jail. we ar waiting on the outcome of maybe a pre trial release maybe this week. we are praying for this. i realy need some people to talk too. but the nature of the charges scare me to talk just anyone. my family and i are not use to this world of jail life and do not understand what is all going on please help!

My sons father is in Oakdale waiting to be transfered he has been there for a week. :( Right now im :angry: :mad: :confused: :broken: :cry:

My boyfriend will be moved to Oakdale this friday September 1, 2006. I guess this will be more of a classification as to where he will be sent on in order to serve his time. I have told him I am going to stay with him every step of the way. I love him so much. He has a great support system! His parents also love him very much too. I am already wanting to count down til the day he gets out. His name is Russell.

Grneyegirl:)

I have a very close friend in Anamosa

Anamosa lover girl here:)

My man is in Oakdale for now..who know where he will end up!

My boy is at Oakdale for his processing and then Fort Dodge for the Rivers Program. We live in Iowa right next to the Mississippi, I can look out my window and see Illinois. Now my son will be closer to South Dakota than Illinois.

Anamosa:) 2 hours from me

Opps, I see I posted already in this thread:(

My Man Is At M.p.c.f.

my friend has been calling me on my cell phone for 2 years now he said they are allowed...he is in ft madison

Thank God for cell phones!! $4 a call is a heck of a lot better than almost $10 a call :) Someone posted on one of the boards that DOC approved them awhile back but hadn't updated the forms.

My guy calls my cell for $2 a call instead of the $7.80 we were paying

I have a prepaid phone that I got before going to Ft. Madison, so the calls are $2 for him and 10 cents a minute for me (so $4 for a 20-minute call). I would get a regular cell phone, but we're hoping he's going to move in the next 3 months or so, so I don't want to get locked into a contract right now. I can't wait to have $2 calls!!

Well, Im a sucka:) I changed my cell number when my guy moved so the number was local where he was going. Sometimes I get bad reception cause its a ways away from where I am, but I can deal with a little bad reception in exchange for the bundle we save on the phone calls.

What service do you use?

US Cellular

Cool...I'll have to look into that then. Thanks!

They can call cell #'s now. My friend has called mine for a few months. Mines in Fort Dodge and my late hubby was in mt pleasent,rockwell n fort dodge.

My 'cherished one' is right here in town; county. Waiting for sentencing/plea.
Next, as you know is Oakdale. The not-knowing is the worst part of this wait.
IGIT

my old man is in mt pleasant now, he was in oakdale for 6 months. now we are just waiting for him to take drug treatment...and see the parole board..not lookin good though :(
jbg

My husband is in FDCF on parole violation, he goes up for parole 12 April 07

Welcome to PTO!

My fiance is in Story County now but he's being sent to Oakdale within a month or so. We have no clue what to expect ... I'm in Ohio and want to go and visit him... what do everyone think?

my recommendation would be to hold out til he gets to whatever prison he is going to, but I dont know if I could do that myself. There is another member on here from Ohio too... I cant think of her screen name off the top of my head...

I suggest waiting because once he is settled in a prison he will have regular visitation, visit list established, all that stuff. Less red tape and complications is all.

I agree with Missy. Welcome to PTO!!!

welcome to PTO!!

my fiance is in oakdale right now, will be transfered to fort dodge once he's done with his eval but you know how long those take....

My husband had all his evaluations done in county jail before he was sent to Oakdale. They said it was something new they were starting so it wouldn't take so long in Oakdale to get a placement. How soon did you guys find out he was going to Fort Dodge? Did you make any request about where he was to be placed?
IGIT

Well, they liked him so well they just kept him...
He's doing good after the shock.
Got a job.
Calls most nights.
Now on to the visit situation.
IGIT

Lol! Good for him and the job!!
Steven was moved last week.. I'm pretty sure he likes it there now since he can smoke.. but he promised he wouldn't when he got home (b/c I'm an asthmatic!) so we'll see how that goes ;) haha.
I hear ya on visits!! Now if I could only get on that approved list.. grr..

I'm With You On That Approved List. Gotta Send Off The Letter Tomorrow To The Lawyer And Then It Is In His And God's Hands.
Igit

Hello All!! My best other half has been in Clarinda since January 2007.

Hi :) My husband is in Clarinda too. What unit is your man in? I think mine is north or 4 north or something like that. It's where they go for orientation (he's out of orientation, but stayed there).

My fiance is in Fort Dodge.. I get to go see him for the first time since April tomorrow.. and my first time visiting in prison.. ;)

Good luck on the first visit, I was scared to death my first time in a prison.

I was scared also and it was WEIRD!!! We hadn't seen eachother in so long face to face, but they do get better~ good luck! Oh and my guy is in Newton Federal Detainer. However I still consider myself an Anamosa wife!

My fiance is in Fort Madison!

I have two in. My Father is currently at Mount Pleasant. My Boyfriend Is still at oakdale as far as I know. My dad was just transfered about 30 days ago. My Boyfriend is on transfer to Mount pleasant.

Oakdale seems to be the suckiest place to be.. no visits, you're just sitting there waiting to be evaluated and then transfered.

My fiance is at oakdale. Living the dream :) .... not.

My man was just sent to Oakdale for intake. I am totally new to the whole jail/prison thing & am totally clueless.

I was new to it about.. 4 months ago.. what am I saying.. I am STILL new!! lol

Leigh called last night and said his counselor told him he could be sent to Mt. Pleasant or Fort Dodge. Leigh told him Fort Dodge would be closer for family and friends to visit, so he thinks that is where they will be sending him. It may happen sometime in the next two weeks (he has been at Oakdale 4 weeks). I hope our visitor application (for me and my 15-yr-old daughter) will be approved quickly once he gets there. Anyone who visits Fort Dodge, the scoop on visiting would be appreciated. Thanks!

I hope everything goes fast and you get FD :) I think Anne (frkydaze) is our resident FD expert. I know there are a few others, but I can't think of names off the top of my head.

FYI they are now using part a cell house in Fort Madison as a intake unit for overflow at Oakdale. Ny husband is waiting to get moved to the next leval of his program bt cant until these guys are shipped off somewhere...where ever they are going!

Wow... overflow?! This just makes me even more mad.. :angry:

My fianc'e is in Fort Dodge.

My honey just got transfered to Mt. Pleasant. Now he's even further away :(

The overflow at Oakdale is the outcome of our unforgiving and hysterical society
we live in. More and harsher laws to pacify the clueless mentality of the witch-hunters= more votes and overcrowded prisons. Mandatory sentencing and no good-time means this will continue until SOMEONE finds the courage to agree that this is cruel and senseless punishment and what is needed is REHABILITATION!!!!!
Since what I hear with my own ears is that those who are in on drug charges (NOT ALL) are planning to get high before they leave the parking lot; and sex offenders who want help are NOT GETTING IT: the PTB are busy making more laws and using more mandatory sentencing.
Someone is insane with power: power corrupts and total power corrupts totally! We need a change.
IGIT

Found out this morning on the DOC website that Leigh was transfered to Fort Dodge. We haven't heard yet that we've been approved for visiting, but I'd appreciate hearing as much about visiting at Fort Dodge as you think would be helpful. My 15 yr old daughter and I will be visiting him. Thanks.

My penPal turned BoyFriend is in Fort Madsion, ISP.

My husband just got transferred to Clarinda and will be in the Lodge.

My husband is at Clarinda, so let me know if you have any questions. He is also in the unit where the new guys stay until they are classified.

My husband is at Oakdale until he is classified.

i have a loved one who is in I.S.P. and i have never been through something like this especially since i live in nyc...my question is if anyone can give me some kind of advice with dealing with this situation it would b greatly appreciated...

My friend is in Clarinda. Does anyone know of a way to send care packages from online to C.C.F.? :confused:

There aren't any for Iowa prisons. You can order books from bookstores and have them sent directly there, but that's it.

You have got to be kidding? Some of these rules and regulations are just ridiculous!! So are we allowed to send a care package from home?

I know...it sucks. No, you can't send anything from home either. You can send money to Ft. Dodge to go on his books, you can order magazines or you can order books and have them sent from the bookstore.

My husband is at Oakdale. I can send nothing and there is nothing but food and cleaning stuff he can buy from the commissary. He's not allowed books sent from a book store. No other clothes to buy on the commissary list. But the warden let me send his wedding ring back and keep it this time. That's a blessing from God and a Christmas present for my husband.
IGIT

That is awesome IGIT!!!! Did you kiss it before you sent it back? :) We always touch each others rings before we leave a visit so that later we can touch it and know the other one was touching it earlier.

Mt Pleasant :(

My wife is an inmate at the Iowa Correctional Facility for Woman in Mitchellvile, IA. She has been there for a month and it seems like a year. She has been away from me for 3 months and it really been hard on me through the Christmas season. She will be gone for another 6 mos and I hope it goes fast. The more I visit her the harder it has been to leave her each week.

Anamosa is where my guy is.

Can they have hard back books in the different prisons. Currently mine is in county jail awaiting sentencing and I sent from bookstore a couple of books but he was not allowed to keep the hard bound book. What a crock of stuff.

Is anyone interested in starting a group on msn where it would be easier to post and keep each others spirits up??

how do you do this on MSN?

My husband has been moved to NCCF in Rockwell City, if anyone visits there please let me know. I am in Des Moines, and I don't have a car, I haven't been approved for visits yet.

My son is in reception at Oakdale. Has been there since 12/26/07. He has a TDD of 11/22/08. Does anyone know if that is the actually date that he will walk out of the prison?

Sorry, I can't help you with your question, but welcome to PTO!!

They cant hold him any longer then that date. He might walk out before then. UNLESS he violates the rules or does something terribly wrong. That would make the prison make him stay his full sentence and not just 50% Or what have you. If that makes sense lol

Well, I haven't wanted to post in here yet as being unsure of my status, but as Dawn knows my status is becoming clearer everyday to him and me. My man is in Clarinda. I know absolutely nothing as I haven't visited yet and due to small complications I have yet to receive a phone call. All small road bumps in the way, but nothing we can't handle.

Hi Jamie!!!!!

My son is in Clarinda , he saids he working in the kitchen and will be going to school soon. Do anyone know how this prison is?

My husband is currently at Mt.Pleasant. He's doing a 5 and 10 yr. bid concurrently. He is afraid he's going to be sitting there forever waiting to get in the drug program. He is hearing that you can get in the drug program at Clarinda faster. Anyone know if there is any truth to this? I told him I'd ask y'all cause I can get answers faster on here than from the IDOC!!!

I don't know about that. I'll have to ask my husband if he knows. I know I've heard of a few people waiting for treatment there, but I'm not sure how long. I'll let you know what he says.

Thanks alot. I appreciate you finding out.

Shoot, I forgot to ask him today on our visit. Our phone money was entered yesterday, but wasn't available today so they must not have uploaded last night. I'm praying it goes through tonight (although I'm sure it's a lost cause since it's Saturday night). Anyway, when it does, I will ask him and let you know. Clarinda sure seems like a revolving door - new guys are in and out all the time.

My man has been in Clarinda (CCF) since 1-20-07...

My wife is in the Iowa Correctional Institute for Women in Mitchellville, IA. She has been gone since Sept 1 when she was arrested and has been through County, IMCC and now ICIW. She is suppose to go before the March Parole Board and (hopefully) be released in April. She's my love and my only love and I miss her so very much.

Aw! That was so cute Radio! I love it when my guy says cute things like that. It makes my day. :) I hope you get her back soon!

My boyfriend is in Fort Madison, unfortunately his second time around... he will be out this May though!! WOO HOO11

Welcome to PTO!!

my husband is in anamosa

Welcome to PTO!!

Uncle in Rockwell City. =[

Welcome to PTO.

My baby is in Rockwell City.

My guy was finally sent to Newton. Anyone else have someone there?

My dad is at Fort Madison.

Welcome to PTO!

Fiance is in anamosa,

Welcome to PTO!!

Hey all my Iowa sisters!! I'm still here and coming for our second visit April 10. Hubby is still at Mt. Pleasant but waiting on a transfer to John Bennet. Hope he still is at MPCF when we get there. Just a couple questions. Can we wear capri pants or long shorts? What about sandals? Might be too cool but trying to plan for whatever the weather is. Anyone know anything about John Bennet? Thank you all for all your encouraging remarks. I don't post much but I do lurk around! You know, this Iowa group is the best!!! So if anyone is visiting MPCF April 10-14 ask around for Gunny's Wife from Florida. Would love to meet y'all!!

hi hey john bennet is really good there laid back there and you can were capris and sandls(sp) long day. my husband was there and its nice not like other prisons it run my isp but the staff is really cool

Thanks for answering! Now I got another question. Got a call this morning from my husband and he says they are moving him tomorrow but to ISP until he gets off his Paxil and some other stuff he takes for sleeping, because they said he won't get these meds at John Bennett. Does that even sound remotely right? Why can't he take meds at John B? So now, what is the dress code at ISP? Capris? Sandals? Can I take quarters in? Good vending machines? What about ion scanner? My dad is going and is taking chemo. Also, do I need a bra without underwire? I wore one to MPCF and wasn't a problem. Sorry about all these questions but makes me feel like I have some control over something, even though I know I have none where the IDOC is concerned. This whole ISP think just really threw me for a loop! Man, I hate this.

I'm getting ready to leave for a visit, so I'll answer more in depth later, but for now, let me just say that ISP is an awesome place to visit!! The visiting room CO is awesome!!!!

im not quite sure why he cant have meds there but it more like a ollege dorm so maybe but i know my husband was on the farm and they can have meds there and yes to the clothes you can where capris and open toe shoes underwire bra yes i were them and the ion never had it done there very nice well expect a couple of them but for the most part they make you feel welcomed the co in the visting room is really cool and will walk you through everything and any questions just ask and he will tell you hope that answers any questions you had

Thanks dewife. I feel a little better having some info. I just don't understand why they're sending him to ISP. The whole meds thing just isn't flying with me. I called Mike Brown last week about the transfer and he said he only put down for him to go to John Bennett. Something just isn't right but little do they know that I won't let it drop till I find out what is going on. Going to call Mike Brown tomorrow and find out what happened.

they really hate a woman with a voice i had to do some b@#@$@# because of one of the co and they did not like that im not letting it drop and the whole med thing is not flying with me bacause i asked abt that and the women i talked to said she never heard of that so dont let this go and hey you can pm me if you have anymore questions or need names to talk to

my fiance is in fort dodge till 05/13 then he gets shipped to south dakota

My guy is at IMCC right now, but will be transferring to Newton in the next few days. He is there in a parole violation and will likely be out on work release after seeing the judge in Newton.

My boyfriend is in Luster Heights Camp which is located in Harpers Ferry, Iowa. It is mainly for substance abusers.

My penpal is at Newton, just got moved to the CRC at Newton.

I have an uncle in Rockwell City,.. has been to almost all the prisons in Iowa the past 17 years.

First week in IMCC and I still haven't heard a word from him.. I just don't know how this system figures no contact is beneficial for any of us! *sigh*

My man is in JBU, Iowa State Pen, Fort madison, Ia

welcome to PTO Ladyhawk Mine is in ISP! Everyone is friendly here and a great shoulder to cry on.

hey all, my son is now an inmate in fort dodge, anybody else have a loved one there?

My brother is now at Rockwell City!

anncac,
My better half is Fort Dodge and has been for quite a while. Let me know if I can help in any way. :)

my boy is still in Oakdale, transferred from Scott Co. Im not sure where I HOPE he goes, because were both not from Iowa.

They just transferred Tony to Rockwell City & let me tell you its WAYYYYYY different than Anamosa. He got there 2 weeks ago & I visited the friday after. WAY better visits than Anamosa. Hours sucks. SUPER relaxed. Pictures are .60cents. You can't take money in you have to buy a debit card like thing. You pick your seat. PM me if you have more questions. I am going back this weekend for a long weekend. From what I was told & saw on the Friday that I was there, Fridays are very slow. People told me that the weekends are busy cuz if the guy works his "outs" he can't have visits on Monday or Friday. But I'll figure that out this weekend.

SaraTony- Yep, Rockwell City is awesome. My brother has been there for about 2 months. It is so different than the other prisons from what I am told. Mondays are really slow also... Make sure that your card for the vending machines doesn't get to zero, because then you have to buy another card. The guards there are so extremely nice.... they are awesome. My brother was telling me that they even have an option to order out of a JCPenny catalog for commisary... how cool is that. Did your man get to grill out on Sunday? My brother said that he ordered 2 huge burgers and grilled it out himself.... so much different than GP at Oakdale.

I don't know if Tony got to grill out. I haven't talked to him since Last friday. But I get to see him in less than 20 hours!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm super excited. I am use to seeing Tony 2 times a week & this is absolutely killing me. But it just makes the visits more special.

Tarclay~did you get to take the baby up yet? And do you know if we can wear hoodies if its part of our outfit? I want to wear this pants & hoodie outfit but they made me take off my sweater last time. I HATE being cold & that would make me cold cuz i wear a beater under it.

SaraTony- Yes, I have worn a hoodie every time I have gone. There IS a sign on the door when you go into the visiting room that says to hang them up, but I never have. And they have not said anything to me about them.
I did get to bring Kason up to see my brother!!!! The first time that my brother saw him, they approved a "special visit" for the baby, and now he has been approved. At Rockwell City, they didn't even look in my plastic bag for the baby when I brought it in, which I thought was odd. I love the visits at Rockwell City. Try the pie in the vending machine, it seriously is the BEST pie I have ever had... :)
Have a wonderful visit!!!!!!!!

My guy is at Fort Madison. I never heard of a rule against calling cell phones. My guy has always been able to call me on mine. I even got a Fort Madison number so that it's a local call for him.

Tarclay~is that room always cold when you are in there??? I was absolutely FREEZING in there both of the times that I have been there. So I'm not sure what to do about the rest of the weekend. They told me that I can't wear my hoodie. So I guess that I'll just be really really sick when I get off Vacation. which sucks. but I'll suffer for my hubby!

Did your brother like seeing the baby???

Tony doesn't really do the whole pie thing but maybe I'll get him to share some with me.

Hey SaraTony- When I went to visit my brother, Tony, on Monday, the visiting room was so HOT! They must not be able to decide if they want it hot or cold. Rockwell City made you take your hoodie off???
Tony loved seeing Kason... it just made his day...
How did your visits go this week-end?

I got to wear a hoodie on Fri & Sat. I had a heavy sweater on Sunday & monday it was comfortable.

My weekend was good. It was really hard to leave him on Monday. I bawled my eyes out. But I didn't let him see me cry. I didn't want him to see me cry. I know that it makes it hard on him if he sees me cry.

I love visiting in Rockwell. It is so much better than Anamosa. And the guards are so much nicer. So that makes it better as well. I'm going back on Dec. 13th-15th. so maybe that will be easier. I'm just not looking forward to the winter. Cuz I might not see him for awhile. But he will be home soon so I have that to look forward to.

My Jason is in Anamosa

~SaraTony~
Hey, how did your man get transferred to Rockwell? My jason is trying his best to get closer to home. He tried to get Newton, but they won't send him there, his co-defendent is there. Jason would really like to go to Rockwell, he asked his counselor about it, he said he would have to wait 6 months. His counselor doesn't like him anyway. This is Jay's 2nd time in and even though he went through drug treatment and criminology at mt pleasant, he would have to go through it again, just to make him have to stay in longer. Have you had any bad experiences at Anamosa? I really need some friends, right now, cuz it is real hard dealing with this. you can message me anytime. thank you for your time

Missin' Jay

My fiance (after jumping around for months to county jails) is currently at Oakdale awaiting his transfur to "lord knows where".

They just transferred Tony to Rockwell City & let me tell you its WAYYYYYY different than Anamosa. He got there 2 weeks ago & I visited the friday after. WAY better visits than Anamosa. Hours sucks. SUPER relaxed. Pictures are .60cents. You can't take money in you have to buy a debit card like thing. You pick your seat. PM me if you have more questions. I am going back this weekend for a long weekend. From what I was told & saw on the Friday that I was there, Fridays are very slow. People told me that the weekends are busy cuz if the guy works his "outs" he can't have visits on Monday or Friday. But I'll figure that out this weekend.

ryan just got moved to rockwell city, too!

ryan just got moved to rockwell city, too!

Sari,
Glad to hear Ryan finally got his move so now you can start visiting:)
Now I'm super paranoid, Rockwell is 3 hours from where I am and I keep hearing they are sending a lot of people there due to others being full. We have our fingers crossed for Mt. Pleasant, which is only 1 hr. from where I am. Rockwell is where we are dreading he is going, only because of the drive. I've heard quite good things about the facility itself. I'm sure Ryan wont have any problems there :D. Let me know when you get to visit him and how the visit went!

Sari,
Glad to hear Ryan finally got his move so now you can start visiting:)
Now I'm super paranoid, Rockwell is 3 hours from where I am and I keep hearing they are sending a lot of people there due to others being full. We have our fingers crossed for Mt. Pleasant, which is only 1 hr. from where I am. Rockwell is where we are dreading he is going, only because of the drive. I've heard quite good things about the facility itself. I'm sure Ryan wont have any problems there :D. Let me know when you get to visit him and how the visit went!

yeah rockwell city isn't close to me either. i'm right in the des moines metro, so it's a 2 hour drive to rockwell city. mt pleasant is 1 hour and a half. i guess they keep the prisons away from the capital city. how long has your man been at oakdale? they seem to be good at moving people after 40 days.

did you say that he was also in oakdale for a probation violation in another post?...because that might increase his chance of going to rockwell city :( it's super minimum security and a lot of probation violators are sent there (like ryan). but don't worry they do try to send them near where friends/family live so hopefully he will be sent to mount pleasant.

yeah rockwell city isn't close to me either. i'm right in the des moines metro, so it's a 2 hour drive to rockwell city. mt pleasant is 1 hour and a half. i guess they keep the prisons away from the capital city. how long has your man been at oakdale? they seem to be good at moving people after 40 days.

did you say that he was also in oakdale for a probation violation in another post?...because that might increase his chance of going to rockwell city :( it's super minimum security and a lot of probation violators are sent there (like ryan). but don't worry they do try to send them near where friends/family live so hopefully he will be sent to mount pleasant.

After 6 months in Hope House, 3 months in county he's been at Oakdale for only 2 1/2 weeks. He has take a ton of classes early that even the pros pointed out to the judge has never been done prior to sentencing (we waited forever for his court date 'cause it kept getting bumped back). I don't want him to go to Rockwell, I'll never have the money for gas to get there!!!!:sad&blue:

hey if he does go to rockwell city i can give you a ride there! des moines is an hour and a half from iowa city.

hey if he does go to rockwell city i can give you a ride there! des moines is an hour and a half from iowa city.

Thanks! That would certainly help!
I have a question....
this is his 3rd felony and we assumed he would be a class D because this is his 3rd felony (not just his 3rd charge). When I look at his info, it has his numbered followed by a "B". Is this what they classified him as? If so what does the "B" mean? I know all about the "D" because that's what we were expecting.

hey if he does go to rockwell city i can give you a ride there! des moines is an hour and a half from iowa city.

I just did a Google map. If I were to go there from here on 380, it would take 3hrs. If I go to Des Moines first it would take 3hrs 45min. I wonder how that is....

Waitin: Is this his second time in? The way Jeff explained it to me after I asked about the "B" after his number, was that it meant this is his second time in the prison system.

Waitin: Is this his second time in? The way Jeff explained it to me after I asked about the "B" after his number, was that it meant this is his second time in the prison system.

Yes, this is his second time. So it's not what level they classified him as? Because all of his felonies are D felonies and I couldn't understand why they would bump him to a B, other than the fact that this is his official 3rd felony. I hope what your saying is the case because from what I find a class B is right below life in prison without parole! Thank you so much, this makes me feel a little more at ease! :D

oh wait, barbiepayne is right. that makes sense.....sorry waitin2be i told you the wrong info, but hey i'm glad i was wrong and that he's not class "b"!! he's still class "d" and that means he won't be doing a lot of time.

oh wait, barbiepayne is right. that makes sense.....sorry waitin2be i told you the wrong info, but hey i'm glad i was wrong and that he's not class "b"!! he's still class "d" and that means he won't be doing a lot of time.


Hey, it's okay. I think I am just going to wait and find out for sure if it is the case....I've gotten my hopes up too much and been let down by the system. For whatever reason it seems like they outright make things confusing intentionally (like we are supposed to know how everything works).

yeah i know how that is :shrug:

Hey all you rockwell girls....I live in Cedar Rapids & we should car pool. I HATE that drive by myself. Also I work at a hotel so I get cheap rooms if we want to spend the night. Let me know. PM me your email addresses & we can talk about it.

Well, he was apparently moved from IMCC to Mt. pleasant. Finally. NOW I'll be able to send him some $$.. I hope he saved his extra envelopes!!

Well, he was apparently moved from IMCC to Mt. pleasant. Finally. NOW I'll be able to send him some $$.. I hope he saved his extra envelopes!!


Woohoo! And now you can get your visits whenever you can do so! So happy for you :D

My very good friend is in Anamosa

I have a very good friend in Anamosa

My Brother is in fort dodge

my fience is in Fort Dodge

Imcc

I just got an email from VINE that my son got transfered to Fort Dodge....anyone have any helpful info? it's about a 3 1/2 hr. drive so don't know how often i'll get to visit, but my other son is 5 1/2 hrs away in southern illinois....sucks sucks sucks.....I was hoping he'd go back to Anamosa but guess not....

go to the visitation/mail section of the iowa forums, theres a few threads on fort dodge about what to expect/what to wear, etc. :)

my husband was at fort dodge before a few years ago, and there are a few other ladies on here that are fort dodge "advisors" :).

sorry it's such a long drive for you, but be thankful he didn't get sent to clarinda!!! that would be even worse, thats by nebraska!

Hello all, my bf is supposed to go to Luster Height's!