Friends and Family

How can I obtain information about an individual who is incarcerated at NDCS?

Information about where an individual is housed and incarceration numbers can be found on the incarceration records search. You may also call the facility where the individual is housed and obtain any information that is considered public record. **Please note that messages cannot be relayed through staff to incarcerated individuals. 

What is the intake and orientation process like?

The Reception and Treatment Center (RTC) in Lincoln serves as the intake facility for all adult males. Youthful male incarcerated individuals are received at RTC and transferred immediately to the Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility in Omaha. Adult females are received in the diagnostic and evaluation unit at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women in York.

Intake and orientation includes initial intake procedures, assessments, reentry orientation and classification. After completion of these activities, the individual may remain at that facility or be transferred to another NDCS facility. 

How can I communicate with my family/friend who is incarcerated at NDCS?

• Tablets:  NDCS distributes tablets to individuals, which allows them to communicate through messages and video on GettingOut.com. Please note that this process can take several weeks for distribution and programming. 

• Mail: Until the tablet process is complete, communication through mail is the preferred option. Use the incarceration records search to locate the incarcerated individual's number and facility for correspondence. **Please note that all personal mail from family and friends such as letters, pictures, and drawings is digitally delivered via the tablet’s “Facility Messages” app under the free profile. Click here for the mailing address and more information. 

• Phone: An incarcerated individual may submit a phone request with any numbers they want to be added to their approved phone list. Once a number is approved, they may use the phone inside the housing unit to call. 

• In-person/virtual visit: If you are an approved visitor, you may schedule an in-person or virtual visit here. Please note that the process to become an approved visitor must be initiated by the incarcerated individual.  

How do I send money, books, photos, emails, e-cards?

For information on sending money, books, photos, emails and e-cards, visit here.

What are the differences between the facilities?

While each facility has different housing styles, security levels, and resources, all support the NDCS rehabilitative mission. Opportunities to participate in programming, education, workforce development and religious services are available at all facilities. During an individual's incarceration, they will typically transition through multiple facilities as they progress towards release.  

Many facilities have Mission Specific Housing, which houses individuals with common demographics, interests, challenges and/or needs together, to provide safe and effective living environments. Click here to learn more about Mission Specific Housing.

What resources are available to incarcerated individuals?

NDCS provides a variety of rehabilitative services to incarcerated individuals. Click here to learn more.

How can I resolve an issue or report a concern?

• For a phone/email issue, contact GTL/Via path Customer Service.

• For assistance with the GettingOut network, contact 1-866-516-0115 or visit GettingOut.

• For phone/visiting restrictions, classification, and transfer information, you may write a letter to the facility warden or report a concern here. 

• For other concerns, contact the NDCS Chief Inspector. 

How do individuals receive medication?

NDCS provides all medications and equipment prescribed in accordance with an individual's treatment plan. 

Do individuals have access to religious services?

NDCS accommodates 21 religions. Individuals have a variety of opportunities to exercise their religious beliefs with services and faith-based programming. Individuals living in community corrections facilities have access to religious services in the community as they prepare for a reentry.

Will special dietary needs be met?

Yes, dietary needs will be met upon written request from the incarcerated individual. 

How can I find information regarding parole hearings? 

Information regarding parole eligibility dates and parole hearings can be found on the incarceration records page. For additional information, please visit the Nebraska Board of Parole website. Click here for information on the parole process and click here for parole hearing schedules. 

How do I pick up property? 

To receive property, you must be the person the incarcerated individual has authorized to pick up the property. During normal business or visiting hours, you may come to the facility with a valid government ID to pick up the property. Please contact the facility directly with questions.

For more information on sending money, books, photos, emails and e-cards, visit here.