Eddyville, KY Kentucky State Penitentiary View

Kentucky State Penitentiary is a maximum-security state prison in Eddyville, Lyon County, Kentucky. It is operated by the Kentucky Department of Corrections and primarily houses sentenced adult male inmates in state custody, including inmates who require high-security supervision. It is not a county jail and generally does not serve as the main holding facility for local pretrial detainees. Its role in the justice system is to confine and manage people who have been sentenced to state prison by Kentucky courts, while providing custody, security, and access to required correctional programs and services.

Contact and Location Information

Jail Name: Kentucky State Penitentiary
Type: State Prison
Security Level: Maximum
Address: 266 Water Street
City: Eddyville
Zip: 42038
Phone: 270-388-2211
Kentucky State Penitentiary Contact Details

How to Find an Inmate at Kentucky State Penitentiary

Members of the public can search for an inmate using the official inmate search link provided on this page. State inmate records typically list the person’s name, inmate number, current location, custody status, sentence information, and offense details; county jail rosters may also show booking date, charges, and bond information. Records are not always searchable immediately after an arrest or transfer because intake, identity checks, and data entry can take several hours. If a person does not appear right away, check again later or contact the facility or the Kentucky Department of Corrections for guidance.

FAQs

How do I visit an inmate at Kentucky State Penitentiary?

Visitation is usually scheduled in advance and may require the visitor to be approved before a visit is allowed. Check the facility’s current visitation rules, hours, and scheduling process before traveling, because rules can change for security or operational reasons.

What do I need to bring when visiting Kentucky State Penitentiary?

Visitors generally need a valid government-issued photo ID and must follow the facility’s dress code and conduct rules. Bring only approved items, as personal property, bags, phones, and other items may be restricted or not allowed inside.

How do I make phone or video calls with an inmate?

Inmates typically cannot receive incoming calls, but they may be able to place outgoing calls through an approved phone service. Video visits, if available, usually require an account with the facility’s approved provider and must follow scheduling and conduct rules.

How do I send mail to an inmate?

Mail should include the inmate’s full name and identification number, along with the correct facility mailing address. All mail is usually inspected, and items such as cash, prohibited photos, or unauthorized materials may be rejected.

How does the commissary work?

Commissary allows inmates to buy approved items such as hygiene products, snacks, and writing supplies. Family or friends may be able to add money through the approved deposit system, but limits, fees, and posting times can vary.

How is bail set and how do I post bond at Kentucky State Penitentiary?

This facility is a state prison for sentenced inmates, so bail is usually not available for people already serving a state sentence. If the person has a pending court case or bond question, contact the court clerk, the attorney, or the county jail connected to that case for instructions.

What happens during the intake process at Kentucky State Penitentiary and when will the inmate appear in the system?

During intake, staff confirm identity, review records, assign housing, complete health and security screening, and enter information into the correctional system. Records may take several hours or longer to appear online, especially after a transfer or new admission.

Mailing to Kentucky State Penitentiary Inmates and Staff

Inmate Visiting Days and Hours

Day of Week Hours
Thursday Special Security Unit (Death Row): 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM
Friday Protective Custody: 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM
Saturday General Population and Outside Detail: 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM
(except 1st and 3rd Saturdays) Protective Custody: 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM
(1st Saturday of each month) Special Security Unit (Death Row): 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM
(3rd Saturday of each month)
Sunday General Population and Outside Detail: 7:30 AM - 1:45 PM

How to Send Money to Kentucky State Penitentiary

Family and friends can send money to inmates at Kentucky State Penitentiary through approved methods to help them purchase essential items from the commissary.