System and method for visitation management in a controlled-access environment

Abstract

A method of managing visitation includes accessing a visitation control system including a visitation session scheduling interface, communications devices, a switching interface, and at least one authentication interface, defining rules governing visitation, requesting a visitation session using the scheduling interface, assessing whether the visitation session complies with the rules governing visitation, scheduling the visitation session if the visitation session complies with the rules, using the at least one authentication interface to authenticate a first party and a second party, establishing communication between the first party and the second party after authenticating both parties, and storing a record of the visitation session in a database. The record preferably includes at least information regarding identities of the first party and the second party. The visitation session may also be monitored (e.g., in real time, near real time, or by recording).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is related to U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 901,342, filed Feb. 15, 2007 and U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 706,431, filed Feb. 15, 2007. The foregoing are hereby incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]a. Field of the Invention[0003]The instant invention relates to visitation sessions occurring in a controlled-access environment, such as a correctional institution. In particular, the instant invention relates to a system and method for managing and monitoring visitation sessions.[0004]b. Background Art[0005]In the correctional industry, inmate visitation is an essential part of rehabilitation of an inmate. Numerous studies have shown that visitation by friends and family can help reduce recidivism as well as prepare an inmate for life after prison. Since the vast majority of inmates are eventually released into the public, any steps to minimize the problems the indi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0025]Another advantage of the present invention is that it improves compliance of visitation sessions with rules governing visitation in a controlled-environment.

Problems solved by technology

The simplest method, but also the most risk prone, is a face to face contact visit.

Although this is the most desirable form of visit from both the visitor's and inmate's points of view, it is also the hardest to control.

Additionally, it is difficult for corrections officers to enforce rules that allow only certain visitors to visit certain inmates when all inmates and visitors are in a common location.

Both of these forms of visitation still present the difficulty of and risks associated with allowing the general public into the secured prison environment.

For example, in comparison to contact visitation, having an inmate and visitor physically separated by a barrier will reduce, but may not eliminate, the potential to pass contraband between the visitor and the inmate.

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