Rikers Island - West Facility

Rikers Island - West Facility Information

The Rikers Island - West Facility is a 940 bed jail in the city of East Elmhurt, New York County, New York.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 718-546-4120, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.

Phone: 718-546-4120

Physical Address:
16-06 Hazen Street
East Elmhurt, NY 11370

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate Name, Inmate ID#
Rikers Island - West Facility
16-06 Hazen Street
East Elmhurt, NY 11370

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate Name, Inmate ID#
Rikers Island - West Facility
16-06 Hazen Street
East Elmhurt, NY 11370

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Rikers Island - West Facility?

To search for an inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 718-546-4120 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up an offender's Criminal Court Case online for New York County Court or any other county court in New York. This information includes future court appearances.

Rikers Island - West Facility Inmate Search

The Rikers Island - West Facility maintains an average of 940 offenders in custody on any given day. The Rikers Island - West Facility has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year New York County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 348,040 offenders.

The following charts of New York County inmate population demographics are updated daily. The information shown is for today. For research purposes we have broken down the inmates by sex, age, ethnicity, and criminal charges.

The information is compiled from the New York County Corrections Department, the state of New York Department of Corrections, as well as the United States Department of Justice and Census Bureau records. It represents every person in custody in New York County.

For complete information on how to get directions, bond, visit, mail, send and receive email and texts, receive phone calls, and send money or commissary to an inmate, find arrest information for New York County and other counties surrounding this one, scroll down this page. We have a section for each.

We also provide photos of the jail that we have collected over the years.

For a collection of over 20 additional graphs and charts of the demographic and criminal arrest information of the inmates in New York County and New York state prisons, click the button below.
New York County INMATE DEMOGRAPHICS

New York County Inmate Race & Ethnicity - 3/28/2024

Race Inmates % Total
White 3,693 27.04%
Black 3,313 24.25%
Hispanic or Latino 4,763 34.87%
American Indian/Native Alaskan 2 0.01%
Asian 1,769 12.95%
Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian 0 0.00%
Other 120 0.88%
Total 13,660 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the New York County Sheriff’s Department, New York Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

New York County Inmate Criminal Charges - 3/28/2024

(many inmates have multiple charges)

Charge Inmates % Total
Felony (3rd Degree) 6,766 49.53%
Felony (2rd Degree) 4,603 33.70%
Felony (1st Degree) 1,981 14.50%
State Jail Felony 3,328 24.36%
Felony (Uncategorized) 3,846 28.16%
Misdemeanor (Class A) 6,163 45.12%
Misdemeanor (Class C) 0 0.00%
Holds 589 4.31%
Uncategorized 147 1.08%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the New York County Sheriff’s Department, New York Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

New York County Inmate Sex - 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 12,256 89.72%
Female 1,404 10.28%
Total 13,660 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the New York County Sheriff’s Department, New York Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.

New York County Inmate Age - 3/28/2024

Age Inmates % Total
Under 18 82 0.60%
18-20 829 6.07%
21-24 1,346 9.85%
25-30 2,499 18.29%
31-35 2,522 18.46%
36-40 2,601 19.04%
41-45 1,782 13.05%
46-50 686 5.02%
51-55 547 4.00%
56-60 453 3.32%
61-65 176 1.29%
66-75 137 1.00%
76-85 0 0.00%
Total 13,660 100.0%
Demographic, Crime and Inmate data is compiled from public reports provided by the New York County Sheriff’s Department, New York Corrections, United States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Census Bureau.
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
About the Rikers Island - West Facility

Rikers Island - West Facility is the Department of Corrections designated jail for those inmates who have contagious diseases. Both male and female inmates are housed in these units.

The building itself differs from other jail buildings because it has increased air filtration and an air controlled environment. It is particularly beneficial for inmates with tuberculosis and acute illnesses like bacterial infections. Because the focus of this jail is medical in nature, it does not have as many programs available to inmates as in some of the other nine facilities on Rikers Island.

Inmates generally have short term stays in Rikers Island - West Facility. They are ultimately placed back into the regular population when they are deemed healthy. There is space for 940 inmates.

It is staffed by health care professionals as well as generalized jail staff to ensure security and focus on patient needs in terms of care and treatment for their diseases.As many of the diseases are highly contagious, there are extra precautions around visiting at the facility, and some inmates may not be able to have visitors at all for medical reasons. Televisits may be available on Fridays for those who qualify.

The Rikers Island jail system is scheduled to be totally revamped, and the inmates with move to borough-based jails in each of the five New York City boroughs. The process of construction and transfer will be done in phases and is scheduled to be compled by 2027, but overcrowding, violence and staffing issues may cause changes and delays.

Inmate Mail: Inmate Name, ID Number ​West Facility 16-06 Hazen Street East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Sending money and inmate commissary. Inmate phone contact.  Visitation: Visiting days depend upon the last name of the inmate and must be checked before planning a visit. Wednesday/Thursday: 1pm-8pm; Friday/Saturday/Sunday 8am-4pm. Registration for visits occurs 7am-2pm Televisists: Fridays 8am to 1:30pm.  For more information on all inmate services, please scroll down.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Recent Bookings & Arrests

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Rikers Island - West Facility?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Rikers Island - West Facility, call the jail’s booking line at 718-546-4120.

There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.

Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.

If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.

Rikers Island - West Facility Booking Roster

What happens during booking in New York County?

After being arrested and taken into custody, and after being read their Miranda Rights, an offender will next be transported to the local police or department or the Sheriff’s Department in New York County for booking.

Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.

What is the booking process like at the Rikers Island - West Facility?

Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in New York County and other New York and USA jurisdictions.

If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.

It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

The arresting jurisdiction will ask about gang affiliations, tattoos, medical conditions, prescribed medication they are taking, recreational drugs they are on or addicted to, allergies, if they are suicidal, and other relevant information that will help with determining their cell assignment and special needs.

What happens to an offender’s personal property during booking?

During the arrest and booking process an offender will also have all their personal property confiscated and held for either their release from jail, or with the offender’s approval, released to a friend or family member.

Personal property includes the clothing they are wearing, money, wallets, purses, cell phones, jewelry, body rings, earrings, watches, and even glasses if they are deemed a security risk. If they are allowed to keep their shoes or sneakers, the laces are removed.

What happens after booking?

At this point the offender will be allowed to make a free phone call to a person of their choice to notify them of their arrest, and/or arrange a bond or bail for their release.

If the offender is being detained and housed while awaiting arraignment, the Rikers Island - West Facility will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.

Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.

How long does the Rikers Island - West Facility Booking process take?

Booking can take anywhere from an hour to 24 hours or more. It all depends on the number of people that are awaiting processing, the number of staff on duty at the time, and the behavior of the offender.

If the offender is heavily intoxicated and/or violent, the Booking Officer may decide to stick the offender in a holding cell for several hours until they become more manageable.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Directions / Map to the Rikers Island - West Facility
Inmate Bail and Bonding

How to Bail out an Inmate in Rikers Island - West Facility or any NYC or Rikers Island Jail

To Bail out an inmate in Rikers Island - West Facility or a New York City Jail follow these instructions:

1. You can post bail either online or in person.
2. To post bail online or in person you need the exact name your inmate used when arrested, and their book and case number. You can find this information here.
3. You can use one of multiple payment systems online.... Western Union, Moneygram or Jpay.
4. In person bail payments must be made in Brooklyn, Queens or the Bronx.
5. Personal checks or Money Orders exceeding $1,000 will NOT be accepted for bail.

For the complete information on how to bail out someone from Rikers Island - West Facility or any Rikers island or NYC Jail, check out our Inmate Bail Page.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility? What is the Schedule?

NYC DOC provides free visitor transportation to and from Rikers at the following locations:

BUS SCHEDULE

Harlem - East 125th Street,
at 3rd Avenue.

Brooklyn - Jay Street,
between Fulton Street and Willoughby Street.

The typical one-way route time is 45 min for the Harlem stop and 60 min for the Brooklyn stop.
This is subject to changing traffic conditions and therefore times may vary from those provided in the schedule as they expand this service.

Call 311 for information about Rikers Visit Bus service.


TELEVISITING

Televisiting will take place from 8:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday, and 8:00am to 2:00pm on Sunday. Televisiting follows the Department's existing in-person visit schedule, which organizes visit days based on the first letter of the person in custody's last name. Please refer to the Visit Schedule in order to determine which day of the week you may visit your loved one.

VISIT SCHEDULE (changes monthly)

In-person visits will take place Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.- and Friday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitors need to arrive 1 hour prior to their scheduled visit time. Visits will follow the existing visitor schedule according to the last name of the individual in custody.

Visiting groups may consist of no more than two (2) adults and one (1) child who will sit on one of the adult’s lap; or one (1) adult and two (2) children, at least one of whom is small enough to sit on someone’s lap.

Detainees may receive visits three (3) times per week. Sentenced individuals may receive visits two (2) times per week. All individuals in custody are limited to one (1) visit session per visit day, regardless of the number of visitors in that session.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Remote Video Visitation

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility?

TELEVISITING AT Rikers Island - West Facility

Instructions for televisiting can be found on this page:  TELEVISITING PAGE

  • Televisiting will take place from 8:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday, and Sunday.
  • Televisiting follows the Department's existing in-person visit schedule, which organizes visit days based on the first letter of the person in custody's last name.
  • Refer to the Visit Schedule in order to determine which day of the week you may visit your loved one.

Scheduling a Televisit:

  • If you would like to schedule a televisit, you must fill out the Online Televisit Web Form.
    ONLINE TELEVISIT WEB FORM 
    When filling out the form, you will be directed to select three potential dates for your televisit to occur.
  • In order to make sure equal access is afforded to everyone, you are only able to fill out a request form for the upcoming week. Requests for dates beyond the following week will not be fulfilled.
  • IMPORTANT: A visit is not confirmed until you receive a confirmation email at the email address you provided on the televisit request webform. The confirmation email will provide you with the date and time for your visit as well as an access link.
    If you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of the last requested visit date this means that none of the dates you requested were available. 
    In that case, you must resubmit another web form with different dates and times.
  • Online Televisit Web Forms will not be processed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and no confirmation emails will be sent out on those days.

    VISITATION HOURS - ALL  FACILITIES

  • Wednesday -Thursday:  In-Person Visits: 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 

  • If you do not have a scheduled visit appointment, your walk-in visit may not be honored if you arrive after 6pm.

  • Friday:  In-Person Visits: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

  • If you do not have a scheduled visit appointment, your walk-in visit may not be honored if you arrive after 12pm.

  • Saturday - Sunday:    Televisits: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

    It is strongly suggested that all visitors pre-register for their in-person visits.
    Visitors who do not pre-register, and who do not receive confirmation of their scheduled visit, cannot be guaranteed a visit upon their arrival.
    Visitors who do not pre-register also may not be able to wait inside, due to social distancing space constraints.
    To pre-register for an in-person visit please click here.

All Televisits must be scheduled in advance. Click here to schedule a Televisit.

  • NOTE: the start of visiting hours can be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.

  • Facility lockdowns may affect regularly scheduled visit hours.

  • There are no visits on Mondays and Tuesdays.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility?

How to Deposit Money in the Account of an NYC DOC Inmate in Rikers Island - West Facility

To deposit money in the commissary account of an NYC DOC inmate, follow these instructions:

  • You can deposit money online using Jpay, Western Union or Moneygram. The money can also be used for bail.
  • You can mail a money order of cashier's check into Rikers Island - West Facility.
  • You can deposit cash into a kiosk that is located in the Vernon C. Bain Center in the Bronx.

For all the information, including links to all of the online deposit methods and addresses fo mailing money orders, check out our Send Money Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility?

How Inmates in Rikers Island - West Facility, Rikers Island and the entire NYC DOC Jail System Make Phone Calls

To find out how Rikers Island - West Facility makes phone calls, read this information:

  • Inmates in the Rikers Island - West Facility can make 21 minutes worth of domestic calls every three hours, with no call going longer than 15 minutes.
  • Inmates in Segregation get less time, and only once a day maximum.
  • There is a fee if an inmate wants to buy more phone calling time when incarcerated in the NYC DOC.

For all the information on how to buy time, using tablets to make calls, how much it costs and more, check out out Inmate Phone Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility, and what can I send them?

Postcards

The Rikers Island - West Facility allows inmates to receive pre-metered postcards like the type purchased from the post office. They may also allow certain photo postcards as long as they have not been tampered with or contain images that may be considered to be obscene or violent in nature.

Envelopes

The Rikers Island - West Facility also allows inmates to receive letters in envelopes as long as they aren’t altered by things such as perfume or lipstick.

Click here  to look up the inmate’s Booking and Casing number. Once the link opens, click on inmate look-up. Input the inmate’s first and last name and locate the Booking and Casing number.

Address the envelope or postcard like this:

Inmate Name, Inmate ID#
Rikers Island - West Facility
16-06 Hazen Street
East Elmhurt, NY 11370

You must also place your full name and address in the left-hand top corner of the envelope or postcard.

Incoming mail without a return name and address may be rejected by jail staff.

There is no limit to the number of pages you send as long as the weight does not exceed 15 pounds, which would be almost impossible with a handwritten letter.

Newspapers & Magazines

Detainees in Rikers Island - West Facility may receive one cubic foot (12 inches X 12 inches X 12 inches) of non-legal printed materials, including soft and hardcover books, magazines, newspapers, periodicals, pamphlets, advertisements and other printed articles, in any combination.

News, special interest or sports magazines may be mailed directly from the publisher or from a private person. Magazines do not have to be new.

The label should be addressed in the same way you address the letters – with first name, last name and booking number.

 Any magazines that contain profanity, weapons, pornography or other content that is adult in nature will be confiscated by the jail staff and will NOT be delivered to the inmate.

Mail subscriptions to:

Inmate Name, Inmate ID#
Rikers Island - West Facility
16-06 Hazen Street
East Elmhurt, NY 11370

Books

Rikers Island - West Facility will also allow the inmate to receive books by mail. They can be sent directly from a vendor such as Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com or you can send them yourself. They do not have to be new.

While there isn’t a rule against hardcover books, the jail staff has discretion in whether to allow hardcovers, therefore, it is best to always send softcover books. Mail them to the same address you mail letters and be sure to put the inmate’s booking number on the label.

It is a good idea to also write the inmate’s first and last name and booking number in the inside flap of each book if they are being sent from home.

Books must NOT contain images or content that are considered excessively violent, pornographic or obscene. Any book that does not meet the Rikers Island - West Facility standards will be disposed of.

Clothing

You are allowed to mail clothing to an inmate but cannot mail clothing that is camouflage, blue, red or yellow in color.

Jail staff strongly recommends you send brown, grey or white clothing. You cannot send shoes or slippers. They must be purchased from commissary.

Shoes are only allowed for courtroom appearances or other outside needs such as the funeral of a family member,  etc.

Inmates are not allowed to wear button-down white shirts.

The box cannot weigh more than 15 pounds and must be less than 12 inches high, 24 inches deep and 24 inches wide.

Packages

Packages cannot exceed fifteen pounds (15 lbs.) and shall be less than twenty-four inches (24") wide, twelve inches (12") high, and twenty-four inches (24") deep.

All items brought or shipped to the Rikers Island - West Facility will be thoroughly searched for contraband.  Anyone bringing contraband into the facilities will be arrested and prosecuted.

  • Toiletries and food items are prohibited. They must be purchased by the inmate in the commissary.
  • Cash for inmate fund accounts is no longer being accepted by mail.  Only money orders and cashier checks will be accepted by mail.
  • NO clothing, footwear or accessory is permitted in the colors of red, yellow, and light blue. Permissible colors for clothing and accessories for detained persons are: Brown, Grey or White, but no button down white shirts. Permissible colors for footwear are: Black, White or Grey or any combination of the three.

The following is a list of the ONLY items that may be brought in for an inmate or sent by mail. Permissible items delivered to the facility must be mailed or brought in an open paper shopping bag, labeled with the name and address of the sender and the name and facility address of the inmate.

Inmates are allowed to have the following clothing items in their possession:

Personal Items

  • *One Coat (Non-uniform, No Blue or Camouflage, No leather, "Carhart"  "Dickies" or Bubble Coats, etc.)
  • *One Suit Jacket (Non-Uniform, No Blue or Camouflage, No leather or "Carhart").
  • *One Pair of Gloves (For outdoor cold weather, October-April).  No work or leather gloves, knit type only.
  • *One Hat/Cap (Non-uniform, no stocking type caps).
  • *One Raincoat (Non-Uniform or reversible, no black, no camouflage and no hoods).
  • ** One pair of Shoes or Sneakers, (No hollow chambers or platform soles, Converse All-Stars high tops, New Balance, Nike or Adidas sneakers or boots, to be used for on-trial court appearances or a significant family event. Shoes cannot have metal supports/shoe shanks).
  • ** Two sets of shoelaces to be used for on-trial court appearance or a significant family event.
  • Four sets of underclothing (In accordance with the inmate's sex unless otherwise approved by medical).
  • Four pairs of socks.
  • Four pairs of Stockings, Panty hose, Knee-hi's (Combination) - (female only).
  • Two pairs of pajamas (men).
  • Two nightgowns or two pairs of pajamas (female only).
  • One bathrobe.
  • One Housecoat (female only).
  • *Two sweaters/sweatshirts (combination) (sweatshirts - no hoods or pockets).
  • *Two pairs of Shorts or Cut-off Long Pants.
  • *Four pairs of pants (Non-uniform, no dark blue or camouflage).
  • *Four shirts/blouses (Non-uniform, no white, dark blue or camouflage).
  • *Four dresses (female only).
  • *Four skirts (female only).
  • *One Belt (Maximum 1 ½" wide, buckle maximum 2 ¼" x 2", Non-elastic).
  • *One tie (No black) (male only) (Not allowed for detainees housed in mental health observation).
  • Two handkerchiefs (white only).
  • Two scrunchies (ponytail holder).

*Items marked with an asterisk (*) are not allowed for any sentenced inmate unless he/she is scheduled for court or is going to attend a significant family event.

** Detainees are not permitted to wear personal footwear, except for scheduled on-trial court appearances or significant family events. Upon admission, all detainees are issued one pair of Department issued footwear. All detainees are allowed to have one (1) pair of personal footwear in their property, which will only be re-issued for scheduled on-trial court appearances or significant family events.

Stationery Supplies

  • One (1) calendar
  • Six (6) pencils (No erasers, no metal parts)
  • Six (6) charcoal sketch pencils
  • Two (2) erasers (gum, rubber, or ink)
  • Three (3) composition books
  • Six (6) pads
  • One (1) pack of writing paper
  • Ten (10) envelopes
  • One (1) ruler (No metal or metal edge)
  • One (1) portfolio (legal size, cardboard only)
  • One (1) pair of prescription eyeglasses

Detainees may NOT possess or receive photographs that include pictures of themselves. Polaroid photographs are prohibited.

Jewelry

Although it is recommended that Rikers Island - West Facility inmates receive or possess jewelry, detainees may receive the following items of jewelry:

  • One watch (date and time functions only – maximum value $50)
  • One (1) wedding band (no stones or protrusions - maximum value $150)
  • One (1) religious medal (no stones, pins, or protrusions) if worn around neck, a thin chain no longer than 26 inches may be worn (maximum value $50)

How to Mail, What Can you Mail and What Can't you Mail to an Inmate in Rikers Island - West Facility, or Rikers Island or NYC DOC Inmates

To understand the Mail Policies for Rikers Island - West Facility requires a lot of time and attention as NYC DOC Jails are some of the most permissive in America.

1. Rikers Island - West Facility allows unlimited mail.
2. They allow packages to be sent in to inmates.
3. They allow magazines, newspapers and books to be sent direct from friends and family.
4. They allow clothing, jewelry, art supplies and all kinds of stuff to be sent to inmates.

In short, to fully understand the Rikers Island - West Facility and see the full list of things you can mail to an inmate, check out our Inmate Mail Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility, and what can I purchase?

Rikers Island - West Facility Commissary Ordering

The New York City Department of Correction is rolling out a new commissary system in 2024. Inmates will be able to order commissary directly and have it delivered from an outside vendor. Stay tuned for updates.

This jailhouse 'Uber Eats' system will be replacing the current commissary system in which commissary is fulfilled by the jail, which results in most items being out of stock almost all of the time. 

Call 718-546-4120 for information or stay on top of developments by following stories in the media or by going to this page.

How to Order Commissary for Rikers Island - West Facility, Rikers Island or NYC Jails

Instructions for ordering commissary for Rikers Island - West Facility will soon be announced.
The New York City Department of Correction is rolling out a new commissary system in the Spring of 2022. Inmates will be able to order commissary directly and have it delivered from an outside vendor. Stay tuned for updates.

This jailhouse 'Uber Eats' system will be replacing the current commissary system.

Stay tuned by checking out our Commissary Page for Rikers Island - West Facility

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Rikers Island - West Facility using an Online Messaging Service?

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Rikers Island - West Facility have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Rikers Island - West Facility now offers Securus 'SecureView' Tablet Rentals to their inmates.


  
Securus is the same company that handles the inmate phone system, video visitations, email and texting and digital letters.

The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for the following activities:

  • Phone Calls - Inmates may make calls directly from their tablet allowing for more privacy. The rates are the same as the phones in the unit, and the calls are still recorded and monitored.
  • eMessaging - Communicate via a text based message or picture. Fee based system.
  • Job Search - Using JobView, a secure job search application, inmates have the ability to see what jobs are available when they are released.
  • Education - Free educational platform and course catalog that provides thousands of educational resources.
  • Self Help -Inmates have daily access to mental health and addiction recovery programming.
  • Music - Top-40, Hip-Hop, Country, Rock, Gospel, and more.
  • Law Library -  Legal research with up-to-date case information.
  • eBooks - Thousands of available titles.
  • Religion - Religious resources for spiritual guidance.
  • Games - Inmates can play their favorite games. Available through monthly subscriptions
  • Facility Services - Digital access to submitted forms, requests, facility documents, and notifications from staff.

Here's how it works:

  • Register here.  It is recommended you use Chrome or Firefox.
  • Pay for the subscription using Paypal.
  • You get charged the 1st of each month. 
  • You get charged a full month even if it's only used for a partial month.
  • No activation or early termination fees.
  • Your inmate will receive their tablet in 3-5 business days, after you pay.

Questions:

How to Rent a Tablet for an Inmate in Rikers Island - West Facility

To rent a tablet for an inmate in New York County follow these instructions:

  • Register here.  It is recommended you use Chrome or Firefox.
  • Pay for the subscription using Paypal.
  • You get charged the 1st of each month. 
  • You get charged a full month even if it's only used for a partial month.
  • No activation or early termination fees.
  • Your New York County inmate will recieve their tablet in 3-5 business days, after you pay.


If you have any questions:

For all New York County information on Tablet Rentals for your inmate, check out our Tablet Rental Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Rikers Island - West Facility’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 718-546-4120 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Are there photos of the Rikers Island - West Facility? What does it look like?
Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding New York County?

New York Hudson Bergen Bronx Kings Queens
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
US State Prison Population Demographics

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 973,343 93.26%
Female 70,362 6.74%
Total 1,043,705 100.0%

Total Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 327,300 35.27%
Black 345,500 37.23%
Hispanic 226,800 24.44%
American Indian / Alaska Native 15,900 1.71%
Asian 12,500 1.35%
Total 928,000 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 622,200 95.46%
Female 31,700 4.86%
Total 653,900 100.0%

Total of Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 178,600 29.23%
Black 234,500 38.38%
Hispanic 179,500 29.38%
American Indian / Alaska Native 9,600 1.57%
Asian 8,800 1.44%
Total 611,000 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 147,500 93.95%
Female 10,000 6.37%
Total 157,500 100.0%

Murderers Held in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,600 26.04%
Black 63,000 43.63%
Hispanic 39,100 27.08%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,300 1.59%
Asian 2,400 1.66%
Total 144,400 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 16,000 86.02%
Female 2,600 13.98%
Total 18,600 100.0%

Violent Negligent Manslaughter Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 5,400 43.90%
Black 3,600 29.27%
Hispanic 2,900 23.58%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.63%
Asian 200 1.63%
Total 12,300 100.0%

Violent Rape & Sexual Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 159,800 98.95%
Female 2,200 1.36%
Total 162,000 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 125,800 96.18%
Female 5,400 4.13%
Total 131,200 100.0%

Violent Robbery Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 18.64%
Black 66,800 56.85%
Hispanic 26,500 22.55%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,200 1.02%
Asian 1,100 0.94%
Total 117,500 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 137,000 94.74%
Female 8,100 5.60%
Total 145,100 100.0%

Violent Aggravated/Simple Assault Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 37,500 23.28%
Black 53,300 33.09%
Hispanic 65,300 40.53%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,800 1.74%
Asian 2,200 1.37%
Total 161,100 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 36,100 91.86%
Female 3,300 8.40%
Total 39,400 100.0%

Other Violent Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 12,200 32.45%
Black 14,200 37.77%
Hispanic 9,700 25.80%
American Indian / Alaska Native 800 2.13%
Asian 700 1.86%
Total 37,600 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 127,900 90.64%
Female 13,600 9.64%
Total 141,500 100.0%

Total of Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 60,500 50.46%
Black 37,800 31.53%
Hispanic 18,100 15.10%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,100 1.75%
Asian 1,400 1.17%
Total 119,900 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 75,900 95.11%
Female 4,200 5.26%
Total 80,100 100.0%

Burglary Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 30,500 44.40%
Black 24,200 35.23%
Hispanic 12,300 17.90%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,100 1.60%
Asian 600 0.87%
Total 68,700 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 22,300 84.47%
Female 4,200 15.91%
Total 26,500 100.0%

Larceny & Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 13,800 58.97%
Black 6,800 29.06%
Hispanic 2,200 9.40%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 1.28%
Asian 300 1.28%
Total 23,400 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,400 91.43%
Female 600 8.57%
Total 7,000 100.0%

Motor Vehicle Theft Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,500 48.08%
Black 1,500 28.85%
Hispanic 1,000 19.23%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.92%
Asian 100 1.92%
Total 5,200 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 9,800 75.97%
Female 3,200 24.81%
Total 13,000 100.0%

Fraud Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,900 63.30%
Black 2,600 23.85%
Hispanic 900 8.26%
American Indian / Alaska Native 300 2.75%
Asian 200 1.83%
Total 10,900 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,600 90.67%
Female 1,400 9.33%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Other Property Crime Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024 - non-categorized

race Inmates % Total
White 6,700 58.26%
Black 2,700 23.48%
Hispanic 1,700 14.78%
American Indian / Alaska Native 200 1.74%
Asian 200 1.74%
Total 11,500 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 114,600 87.08%
Female 17,400 13.22%
Total 132,000 100.0%

Total of Drug Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 49,500 47.50%
Black 37,300 35.80%
Hispanic 14,600 14.01%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,700 1.63%
Asian 1,100 1.06%
Total 104,200 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 28,500 84.57%
Female 5,300 15.73%
Total 33,800 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 14,800 56.27%
Black 7,900 30.04%
Hispanic 3,000 11.41%
American Indian / Alaska Native 400 1.52%
Asian 200 0.76%
Total 26,300 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 86,100 88.04%
Female 12,000 12.27%
Total 98,100 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Drug Dealing/Manufacturing in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 34,700 44.54%
Black 29,400 37.74%
Hispanic 11,600 14.89%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 1.67%
Asian 900 1.16%
Total 77,900 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 102,500 93.95%
Female 6,900 6.32%
Total 109,400 100.0%

Total of 'Public Order' Related Inmates in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 35,900 40.84%
Black 34,500 39.25%
Hispanic 13,800 15.70%
American Indian / Alaska Native 2,500 2.84%
Asian 1,200 1.37%
Total 87,900 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 37,800 97.93%
Female 900 2.33%
Total 38,700 100.0%

Inmates Convicted on Illegal Weapon Possession in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 7,200 22.86%
Black 16,900 53.65%
Hispanic 6,500 20.63%
American Indian / Alaska Native 500 1.59%
Asian 400 1.27%
Total 31,500 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 13,400 89.33%
Female 1,600 10.67%
Total 15,000 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Multiple DUI/DWI in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 6,800 59.65%
Black 2,000 17.54%
Hispanic 1,800 15.79%
American Indian / Alaska Native 700 6.14%
Asian 100 0.88%
Total 11,400 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 51,200 92.25%
Female 4,400 7.93%
Total 55,600 100.0%

Inmates Convicted of Other 'Public Order' Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 21,900 48.45%
Black 15,700 34.73%
Hispanic 5,600 12.39%
American Indian / Alaska Native 1,300 2.88%
Asian 700 1.55%
Total 45,200 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Sex on 3/28/2024

Sex Inmates % Total
Male 6,100 89.71%
Female 800 11.76%
Total 6,900 100.0%

Total Number of Inmates Convicted of Unspecified Felonies in US State Prisons by Race/Ethnicity on 3/28/2024

race Inmates % Total
White 2,700 52.94%
Black 1,500 29.41%
Hispanic 700 13.73%
American Indian / Alaska Native 100 1.96%
Asian 100 1.96%
Total 5,100 100.0%
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

This facility, known as "Rikers Island - West Facility" is also known as WF, New York City Department of Correction, New York City Inmate Search & Arrests, Brooklyn Inmate Search & Arrests, Queens Inmate Search & Arrests, Bronx Inmate Search & Arrests, Staten Island Inmate Search & Arrests, Manhattan Inmate Search & Arrests, Richmond County Inmate Search & Arrests, NYC DOC Inmate Search & Arrests , New York City Police Arrests, NYPD Arrests.