What is a private prison?

A private prison is a correctional facility owned and operated by a private corporation under a contract with federal, state, or local governments. These facilities house inmates in exchange for a per-inmate daily fee, which the government pays to the company. Private prisons handle security, food, medical care, and rehabilitation programs, but their goal is to operate profitably, which has led to controversy over cost-cutting measures that may affect inmate welfare.

How do private prisons differ from public prisons?

Unlike state or federal prisons, which are directly operated by government agencies, private prisons function as for-profit businesses. While they must follow contracted guidelines, they often have different staffing policies, fewer rehabilitation programs, and more cost-cutting measures to increase profitability. Public prisons are held directly accountable to taxpayers and elected officials, whereas private prisons are accountable to shareholders and company executives.

Who owns private prisons?

The two largest private prison companies in the U.S. are: CoreCivic (formerly Corrections Corporation of America - CCA) The GEO Group These companies manage numerous facilities nationwide, contracting with state correctional departments, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some smaller companies, such as Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and LaSalle Corrections, also operate private correctional facilities.

Do private prisons have different security levels?

Yes, private prisons operate minimum, medium, and maximum-security facilities, though they primarily house low to medium-security inmates due to contractual limitations. Inmates with violent criminal histories or severe disciplinary problems are often transferred to government-run facilities because private prisons lack the infrastructure and staffing for high-risk populations.

Are private prisons more dangerous than public prisons?

Multiple studies have shown that private prisons experience higher rates of violence, inmate assaults, and staff turnover than government-run facilities. Cost-cutting measures in staffing and training lead to: Fewer correctional officers per inmate Lower wages lead to high turnover and inexperienced staff Reduced medical care access, contributing to untreated illnesses and mental health crises However, some private facilities claim to have lower incident rates due to strict behavioral screening of inmates before placement.

Why do governments use private prisons?

Governments contract with private prisons to reduce overcrowding, lower operational costs, and provide flexibility in managing inmate populations. When state or federal prisons reach capacity, private prisons act as overflow facilities, housing inmates until space becomes available in public institutions. Some states rely heavily on private prisons due to budget constraints and lack of funding to build new government-run facilities.

Which states use private prisons?

As of recent reports, the states with the largest private prison populations include: Texas (over 12,000 inmates) Florida (over 10,000 inmates) Arizona (about 8,000 inmates) Georgia (over 7,000 inmates) Some states, including California, Illinois, and New York, have banned private prisons for housing state inmates but still allow federal contracts for immigration detainees.

How are private prisons funded?

Private prisons generate revenue through contracts with government agencies, which pay a fixed daily rate per inmate housed. Additional revenue streams include: Inmate phone services (provided by companies like GTL and Securus, with high per-minute rates) Commissary sales (charging premium prices for snacks, hygiene products, and personal items) Inmate work programs (where inmates are paid as little as $0.12 per hour for labor) Medical co-pays (some facilities charge inmates for non-emergency medical visits)

Do private prisons save taxpayers money?

Supporters argue that private prisons reduce costs through lower staff wages, fewer pension benefits, and operational efficiencies. However, critics claim these cost savings come at the expense of safety, rehabilitation, and inmate care. Reports indicate that private prisons cut corners on healthcare, food quality, and staffing, which may increase long-term costs due to higher recidivism rates and legal challenges.

Can private prison inmates make phone calls?

Yes, inmates can make outgoing calls using prepaid phone services such as GTL (ViaPath), Securus, NCIC, Paytel, and IC Solutions. Calls are monitored and recorded, and rates vary by state. Some facilities offer video visitation services, but these are often costly for families.

How do families send money to inmates in private prisons?

Funds can be deposited through JPay, Western Union, MoneyGram, or facility-approved JailATM kiosks. Private prisons often outsource financial transactions to third-party companies that charge higher fees than public institutions.

Do private prisons offer education and rehabilitation programs?

Programs vary by contract, but many private prisons offer GED courses, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. However, these programs are often underfunded, and inmate participation may be limited due to facility staffing shortages.

Do private prisons house federal inmates?

Yes, private companies contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house federal and immigration detainees. However, in 2021, the Biden administration ordered the DOJ to phase out private prison contracts for BOP inmates, reducing their role in federal incarceration.

What happens if a private prison contract is terminated?

If a state or federal agency ends a contract, inmates are transferred to public facilities or another private facility. Some private prisons are repurposed for detention centers, mental health facilities, or immigration housing.

Are private prisons subject to the same oversight as public prisons?

Private prisons must comply with state and federal laws, but they are not subject to the same transparency requirements as public facilities. Some states audit private prisons to ensure compliance, while others allow more operational secrecy due to corporate protection.

Can inmates transfer from private to public prisons?

Transfers depend on contract terms, inmate classification, and bed availability. Some inmates are transferred if security risks arise, while others remain in private facilities until their sentence is completed.

Do private prisons have higher recidivism rates?

Studies suggest that private prisons have higher recidivism rates due to fewer rehabilitation programs, lack of mental health support, and profit-driven incentives to keep beds full.

Why are private prisons controversial?

Critics argue that private prisons prioritize profit over inmate welfare, leading to:

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Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

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Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

Private Facility

Last Updated: July 21, 2025

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Address

2389 Silo Rd, Bonham, TX 75418

Beds

528

County

Fannin

Phone

903-640-4171

Fax

903-640-0832

View Official Website

Fannin Co Jail is for Private Facility offenders have not been sentenced yet and are detained here until their case is heard.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Securus Tech®, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Looking for an inmate at this facility? Visitation Information, Times and Rules

Satellite View of Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

Official Resources

Nearby Facilities

Grayson County TX Jail 22.6 mi
Hunt County TX Detention Center 24.7 mi
Hunt County TX Juvenile Detention Center 24.7 mi

If your loved one is at Fannin Co Jail, InmateAid can help you stay connected. Call the facility directly at 903-640-4171 with any immediate questions.

Located in Bonham, TX, Fannin Co Jail operates as a private contractor with various government agency agreements providing state-minimum custody requirements. Programs are offered to all custody levels, including work release residents focused on reentry success. With a strong emphasis on rehabilitation, Fannin Co Jail provides comprehensive educational and vocational opportunities. Onsite amenities include dietary, health, fitness, educational, religious, and recreational services. Regular inspections ensure compliance with government standards, ensuring the facility's continued operation.

LaSalle Corrections is the private prison contractor hired to operate Fannin Co Jail with inmate programs that are designed to change lives through the implementation and development of evidence-based and innovative programming solutions. From booking to re-entry, LaSalle offers a variety of programs and services to securely process, house, treat, and return inmates to society. In addition to offering typical activities like outside recreation, telephone communications, and commissary services in our facilities, there are opportunities to pursue continuing education, participate in rehabilitative programs, develop vocational skills, and even earn additional income that is available to inmates.

Program Categories:

Accountability Planning - Supervision strategies are devised by a panel of advisors (i.e., law enforcement, community partners, correctional staff, family members, etc.) in order to assure a continuum of care for the offender during incarceration and upon release. This process begins with an initial intake process for the offender in order to assess programming needs, and then follows with the implementation of an individualized plan aimed at preparing the offender for successful re-entry.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) - CBT addresses emotional, psychological, and cognitive disorders through behavior modifications. By aiding offenders in recognizing responses to different environments and situations, CBT impacts decision-making. It identifies detrimental patterns of thought and attempts to alter them. It is effective in treating substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Family Reunification - Children with offender parents are five to six times more likely to be incarcerated than children without offender parents. Family reunification programming focuses on strengthening family support networks. Regular visitation (both face-to-face & video conferencing), family counseling, parenting skills, and services provided for the well being of the child/children, are all utilized resources.
Victim Awareness - Offenders do not always understand the impact of crime on the community, particularly the victims. Victim awareness programming enhances offenders' comprehension of the cause and effect nature of their actions, especially as it regards to the experience of being victimized. Programming may include any resources that assist the offender in attaining this comprehension, such as panels made up of victims, facilitated group discussion, statistics, audio/visual materials, and more.
Workforce Development - Work release programs provide a community-based experience for offenders before their release date, and the Workforce Development Program coordinates work release activities with pre-transition educational and vocational training (i.e., GED, technical certification, computer training, etc.) because the synchronization of these processes allows offenders to develop a career path by providing them with marketable skills.

Specific Programs:

GED, Literacy Training, CDL Computer-based training, Carpentry, Plumbing, Welding, Mechanical Training, Electrical Training, Heavy Equipment Training, Computer Training, Work-Release, Resume Training, Job Application Training, Offender Managed Newsletters, Freedmen Ministry - Accountability Planning & Workforce Development.
Faith-based Substance Abuse Programs (Celebrate Recovery, Breaking Out: Faith-based Recovery, Drawing Near - Accountability Planning, CBT, Family Reunification, & Victim Awareness.
Secular Substance Abuse Programs (AA, NA, CA, Blue Walters 90 Substance Abuse Program, STAR 1 year Substance Abuse Program) - Accountability Planning, CBT, Family Reunification, & Victim Awareness.
Multi-denominational Worship Services, Group and Individual Counseling, Bible Study Sessions, Reading Groups, Offender Choirs, Angel Tree Christmas Gift Ministry, Traveling Sport Teams, Bicycle Repair Program - Accountability Planning, CBT, Family Reunification, & Workforce Development.

Table of Contents for Fannin Co Jail

Inmate Locator

Finding an Inmate at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

If you're trying to locate someone in custody at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle in Bonham, Texas, the fastest path depends on how recently the arrest happened, what type of facility holds the inmate, and how quickly that facility updates its public records. There is no single nationwide inmate database that covers every detention facility in real time, so locating a specific person often means checking multiple sources or calling Fannin County Jail - LaSalle directly at 903-640-4171.

Using the InmateAid Inmate Search

The InmateAid inmate search is the fastest starting point for locating someone at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle. The search pulls from facility rosters, booking systems, and arrest record databases to return current custody status, charges, and housing facility. If the person was arrested or transferred recently and doesn't appear yet, the facility likely hasn't updated its public roster, which can lag by hours or a full business day. Try again later or call 903-640-4171 to confirm.

When the Inmate Doesn't Appear in the Search

Several explanations are possible if a person isn't showing up. The booking may not be complete. The person may have been released, transferred to another facility, or moved to federal or immigration custody. Some facilities deliberately delay public records by 24 to 72 hours for security reasons. Minors are never published in any public locator regardless of facility. To rule out a transfer or release, call 903-640-4171 and ask the booking desk to confirm current status.

What You'll Need to Search Effectively

Have ready: full legal name and any aliases, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest. If you know which agency made the arrest, that narrows results significantly. A booking number locates the record immediately. Without at least a full name and approximate date, searches return too many results to be useful.

Once You've Located the Inmate

When you confirm the person is at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle, set up a prepaid phone account so you don't miss the first call, and arrange any money transfer or commissary funding needed. For phone discount plans, money transfer, and mail services available at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 903-640-4171.

To confirm current custody status, recent transfers, or release information at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle, call 903-640-4171.

Visitation Information

Visiting an Inmate at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

Visiting someone held at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle in Bonham, Texas starts with confirming the current visiting schedule, the visitor approval process, and your status on the approved visitor list. Visitation policies vary widely from one facility to another based on operating authority, security level, and the inmate's current status. Call Fannin County Jail - LaSalle directly at 903-640-4171 to confirm what applies right now.

Getting on the Approved Visitor List

Most detention facilities require visitors to be approved in advance. The inmate at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle typically submits a list of proposed visitors, and each adult on that list completes a visitor application form for a background check. Approval timelines range from a few days to several weeks depending on the facility. Do not travel for a visit until you have received confirmation. Call 903-640-4171 for the visitor application process and expected approval timeline.

Visiting Days, Hours, and Scheduling

Visiting schedules at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle depend on the facility's operating model. Some facilities offer walk-in visits during posted hours; others require advance scheduling through an online portal or phone reservation. Visiting days may differ by housing unit or classification. Holiday schedules often change without much notice. Call 903-640-4171 a day or two before your planned visit to confirm the slot is still open and the inmate is eligible for visits.

ID, Dress Code, and What to Bring

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID: driver's license, state ID, military ID, or passport. Most facilities require it to be unexpired and match the name on your approved application. Dress codes at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle are enforced at entry: no revealing attire, no clothing that resembles inmate or staff uniforms, no hats, and in many facilities no underwire bras. Leave phones, bags, electronics, keys, and wallets in your vehicle or in lobby lockers.

Inmate Status and Visit Eligibility

A visit can be denied for reasons unrelated to your paperwork: the inmate may be in disciplinary status, restricted housing, medical isolation, or holdover during a transfer. Facility-wide lockdowns also suspend visits without notice. If the inmate has recently arrived, been moved, or had any change in status, call 903-640-4171 before traveling. A phone call the morning of the visit can save a wasted trip.

Video Visitation

Many detention facilities now offer video visitation through providers such as Securus, GTL/ViaPath, HomeWAV, or Smart Communications, either alongside or in place of in-person visits. Video visits typically require setting up a paid account, scheduling in advance, and connecting from a smartphone, tablet, or computer. For information on inmate phone discount plans and money transfer services, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 903-640-4171 to confirm what's available at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle.

To confirm visiting hours, the visitor application process, or current eligibility at Fannin County Jail - LaSalle, call 903-640-4171.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fannin County Jail - LaSalle

What is a private prison?
A private prison is a correctional facility owned and operated by a private corporation under a contract with federal, state, or local governments. These facilities house inmates in exchange for a per-inmate daily fee, which the government pays to the company. Private prisons handle security, food, medical care, and rehabilitation programs, but their goal is to operate profitably, which has led to controversy over cost-cutting measures that may affect inmate welfare.
How do private prisons differ from public prisons?
Unlike state or federal prisons, which are directly operated by government agencies, private prisons function as for-profit businesses. While they must follow contracted guidelines, they often have different staffing policies, fewer rehabilitation programs, and more cost-cutting measures to increase profitability. Public prisons are held directly accountable to taxpayers and elected officials, whereas private prisons are accountable to shareholders and company executives.
Who owns private prisons?
The two largest private prison companies in the U.S. are:
- CoreCivic (formerly Corrections Corporation of America - CCA)
- The GEO Group
  These companies manage numerous facilities nationwide, contracting with state correctional departments, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some smaller companies, such as Management & Training Corporation (MTC) and LaSalle Corrections, also operate private correctional facilities.
Do private prisons have different security levels?
Yes, private prisons operate minimum, medium, and maximum-security facilities, though they primarily house low to medium-security inmates due to contractual limitations. Inmates with violent criminal histories or severe disciplinary problems are often transferred to government-run facilities because private prisons lack the infrastructure and staffing for high-risk populations.
Are private prisons more dangerous than public prisons?
Multiple studies have shown that private prisons experience higher rates of violence, inmate assaults, and staff turnover than government-run facilities. Cost-cutting measures in staffing and training lead to:
- Fewer correctional officers per inmate
- Lower wages lead to high turnover and inexperienced staff
- Reduced medical care access, contributing to untreated illnesses and mental health crises
  However, some private facilities claim to have lower incident rates due to strict behavioral screening of inmates before placement.
Why do governments use private prisons?
Governments contract with private prisons to reduce overcrowding, lower operational costs, and provide flexibility in managing inmate populations. When state or federal prisons reach capacity, private prisons act as overflow facilities, housing inmates until space becomes available in public institutions. Some states rely heavily on private prisons due to budget constraints and lack of funding to build new government-run facilities.
Which states use private prisons?
As of recent reports, the states with the largest private prison populations include:
- Texas (over 12,000 inmates)
- Florida (over 10,000 inmates)
- Arizona (about 8,000 inmates)
- Georgia (over 7,000 inmates)
  Some states, including California, Illinois, and New York, have banned private prisons for housing state inmates but still allow federal contracts for immigration detainees.
How are private prisons funded?
Private prisons generate revenue through contracts with government agencies, which pay a fixed daily rate per inmate housed. Additional revenue streams include:
- Inmate phone services (provided by companies like GTL and Securus, with high per-minute rates)
- Commissary sales (charging premium prices for snacks, hygiene products, and personal items)
- Inmate work programs (where inmates are paid as little as $0.12 per hour for labor)
- Medical co-pays (some facilities charge inmates for non-emergency medical visits)
Do private prisons save taxpayers money?
Supporters argue that private prisons reduce costs through lower staff wages, fewer pension benefits, and operational efficiencies. However, critics claim these cost savings come at the expense of safety, rehabilitation, and inmate care. Reports indicate that private prisons cut corners on healthcare, food quality, and staffing, which may increase long-term costs due to higher recidivism rates and legal challenges.
Can private prison inmates make phone calls?
Yes, inmates can make outgoing calls using prepaid phone services such as GTL (ViaPath), Securus, NCIC, Paytel, and IC Solutions. Calls are monitored and recorded, and rates vary by state. Some facilities offer video visitation services, but these are often costly for families.
How do families send money to inmates in private prisons?
Funds can be deposited through JPay, Western Union, MoneyGram, or facility-approved JailATM kiosks. Private prisons often outsource financial transactions to third-party companies that charge higher fees than public institutions.
Do private prisons offer education and rehabilitation programs?
Programs vary by contract, but many private prisons offer GED courses, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling. However, these programs are often underfunded, and inmate participation may be limited due to facility staffing shortages.
Do private prisons house federal inmates?
Yes, private companies contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house federal and immigration detainees. However, in 2021, the Biden administration ordered the DOJ to phase out private prison contracts for BOP inmates, reducing their role in federal incarceration.
What happens if a private prison contract is terminated?
If a state or federal agency ends a contract, inmates are transferred to public facilities or another private facility. Some private prisons are repurposed for detention centers, mental health facilities, or immigration housing.
Are private prisons subject to the same oversight as public prisons?
Private prisons must comply with state and federal laws, but they are not subject to the same transparency requirements as public facilities. Some states audit private prisons to ensure compliance, while others allow more operational secrecy due to corporate protection.
Can inmates transfer from private to public prisons?
Transfers depend on contract terms, inmate classification, and bed availability. Some inmates are transferred if security risks arise, while others remain in private facilities until their sentence is completed.
Do private prisons have higher recidivism rates?
Studies suggest that private prisons have higher recidivism rates due to fewer rehabilitation programs, lack of mental health support, and profit-driven incentives to keep beds full.
Why are private prisons controversial?
Critics argue that private prisons prioritize profit over inmate welfare, leading to:

Staffing shortages and high officer turnover
Inadequate medical care and long delays in receiving treatment
Higher rates of violence and assaults
Minimal educational and vocational programs
These concerns have led to state and federal efforts to reduce reliance on private prisons.

Ask The Inmate

Connect directly with former inmates and get your questions answered for free. Gain valuable insights from individuals with firsthand experience in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and GEO and CoreCivic-run private prisons. Whether you're seeking advice, clarification, or just curious about life behind bars, this unique opportunity allows you to ask questions or explore answers to previous inquiries from the InmateAid community. Engage in meaningful discussions and get informed perspectives from those who truly understand the system.