Arizona Department of Corrections (ADCRR) LEWIS

The Arizona Department of Corrections (ADCRR)-Lewis operates as one of 13 prison facilities in the state. Spanning a vast area in Maricopa County, ADCRR-Lewis serves as a modern, medium-security prison constructed through a collaboration of commercial and convict labor efforts. With a capacity exceeding 5,000 inmates spread across 8 units, the facility accommodates individuals at various security levels ranging from 2 to 5 (maximum/high custody).

Utilizing a comprehensive score classification system, ADCRR assesses inmates to determine their appropriate custody and security level placements. This scoring system, ranging from 1 to 5, categorizes inmates based on their risk or need, with higher scores indicating increased risk factors. The eight units within ADCRR-Lewis include Bachman Unit (housing inmates at levels 2, 2/3 mixed, and 5), Barchey Unit (2-3), Buckley Unit (4), Eagle Point (2), Morey Unit (4), Rast Unit (4-5), Stiner Unit (3), and the Sunrise Unit (5).

In terms of education, the Education Department at ADCRR-Lewis offers a range of programs catering to inmate needs. These include special education, mandatory literacy, GED preparation, and vocational programs. For inmates unable to participate in classroom settings due to health or safety concerns, alternative methods such as direct instruction, video/closed circuit instruction, and computer-assisted instruction are provided. Furthermore, inmates have the opportunity to pursue college-level correspondence courses at their own expense, with onsite education staff offering assistance with materials and proctoring examinations. Academic and vocational programs are delivered through a partnership between ADCRR-Lewis Education staff and Rio Salado College, with library services maintained to support literacy and academic initiatives.

Educators conduct screenings to identify inmates' educational needs and determine the appropriate environment for program delivery, considering offender classification and security requirements. The Inmate Program Plan (IPP) process facilitates the creation of individualized schedules for inmates, ensuring access to all relevant programs, including education and library services, daily. Curriculum materials, assessment materials, and library resources are accessible to inmates across all units within the constraints of institutional security protocols.

The Religion Department ensures that inmates have access to religious activities, materials, and dietary requirements aligned with their faith. Regular worship/study opportunities are provided for major faith groups. Counseling and moral guidance services are available upon request, with consultation options available for family members under specific conditions.

Notably, in early 2004, the Morey Unit of the Lewis complex was the site of the longest standoff between inmates and law enforcement officers in United States history. Spanning 15 days, from January 18 to February 2, the ordeal involved two inmates, Ricky Wassenaar and Steven Coy, who took two officers hostage, sexually assaulting one female officer and a kitchen officer. Initially attempting to escape, the inmates' plan evolved into a hostage situation, resulting in Wassenaar's subsequent conviction on 19 charges related to the siege, receiving 16 life sentences.