INDIANAPOLIS — Beginning Wednesday, March 18, to lessen strain on offenders and their loved ones as a result of the COVID-19 virus, Indiana Department of Correction officials worked with the telephone and video service provider to help prisoners keep in contact with those outside prison walls.

The short-term policy permits each eligible offender the opportunity for two five-minute-long phone calls, as well as one video visit of either 10 or 25 minutes each week and fee-free. This agreement runs through April 14.

“We recognize the importance of in-person visits by friends and family, but we cannot afford the risk this poses to potentially introduce the COVID-19 virus into our facilities,” said Commissioner Rob Carter.

Visitation remains suspended at all Indiana Department of Correction facilities. This decision was precautionary in nature and was made in the interest of the health and safety of IDOC staff and offenders. It is important to note there are no known cases of COVID-19 among any staff or offenders at any IDOC facility.