Arizona Department of Corrections (ADCRR) YUMA

ASPC-Yuma, a modern medium-security prison, stands among the 13 prison facilities operated by the ADCRR. Situated in San Luis, Yuma County approximately 190 miles southwest of Phoenix, it lies a mere three miles from the Mexican border. ADCRR-Yuma hosts an inmate capacity of 2,245 across 3 housing units, spanning security levels 2, 3, and 4, with a meticulous score classification system employed to determine each inmate's appropriate custody and security level, ranging from 2 to 5, with 5 indicating the highest risk or need.

The Cocopah Unit, a 250-bed minimum-security facility, was prepared for inmates in 1986 but remained unused until 1987 due to a potential sale to the Federal government that never materialized. Functioning as a level two (low custody) unit, it became part of the ADCRR-Perryville in October 1992 until transitioning into its prison complex in November 1995.

The complex plays a crucial role in housing an average population of 4,100 convicted male felons across minimum, medium, and high custody institutions. Responsible for providing security, education, and recreation programs for these inmates, it ensures high-quality security for the public, employees, and inmates alike. Additionally, the complex serves as a significant employer in the Yuma County area, boasting a workforce of 960 full-time employees, and provides an inmate work program utilized by local state and community organizations.

Construction for the Cheyenne Unit commenced in June 1995, utilizing both commercial and inmate labor. By September 1996, the Cheyenne Unit, a level three (medium custody) facility, was operational. Subsequently, the Dakota Unit began construction in June 1997, relying solely on commercial labor, with an anticipated opening in September 1998, functioning as a level four (maximum custody) unit.

Work Programs at ASPC-Yuma are facilitated through the Work Incentive Pay Plan (WIPP), allowing inmates to engage in meaningful employment while supporting their needs. Positions include those contracted through Arizona Correctional Industries, Wild Land Fire Crew, kitchen roles, groundskeepers, and janitorial positions, depending on the inmate's skill level, education, and security classification. Both full-time and part-time positions are available.

Education Programs encompass Adult Basic Education classes for inmates below the Literacy Standard, a high school education program for non-graduates, and vocational education through a local community college offering instruction in carpentry, masonry, and plumbing. Additionally, higher education is available through correspondence courses at the inmate's expense.

Treatment Programs, overseen by ADC programs staff or external facilitators, cover various areas such as Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA), drug treatment, money management, re-entry preparation, parenting, high school education mentoring, music appreciation, Spanish language instruction, and yoga.

Inmate involvement in Volunteer Programs is actively encouraged, with inmates engaging in fundraising for victims' services and community betterment initiatives. The fundraising committee, comprising inmates and staff, coordinates these efforts, with ASPC-Yuma inmates donating significant sums and volunteering numerous labor hours to designated agencies, organizations, and projects.

Religious/Spiritual Programs facilitate opportunities for inmates' religious expression under ADC policies, with chaplains, staff, contract service providers, volunteers, and community religious leaders offering worship, counseling, support, and crisis intervention.

Recreational Programs provide opportunities for outdoor and indoor activities, including softball, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, track and field events, board games, card games, and hobby crafts such as arts and crafts, drawing, painting, bead craft, plastic model kits, and more, tailored to inmates' security classifications. All activities are supervised and monitored by staff to ensure safety and security.