Halawa Correctional Facility

Located in Aiea, Hawaii, the Halawa Correctional Facility (HCF) is the largest prison in the state’s correctional system. Originally established in 1962 as the Halawa Jail under the City and County of Honolulu, the facility transitioned to state control in 1977. It is now a key component of Hawaii’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

The prison is divided into two main sections. The medium-security facility houses male inmates who have been convicted of felonies, while the special needs facility is designated for inmates requiring maximum security or mental health treatment, as well as those under protective custody.

With renovations and expansions, including those in 1987, the facility can accommodate up to 1,124 inmates. However, overcrowding remains a significant challenge, with many inmates transferred to out-of-state facilities.

Visitation schedules at HCF are updated regularly. According to the latest guidelines (updated October 17, 2024), in-person visits are available for the medium-security facility, while the special needs section is currently closed for renovations. This schedule is crucial for maintaining connections between inmates and their families.

HCF is notable not only for its size but also for its focus on rehabilitation and cultural preservation. Programs include educational classes, substance abuse recovery, and sex offender treatment services. A particularly impactful cultural program reconnects inmates of Native Hawaiian descent with their language and traditions.

These efforts, often led by cultural practitioners like Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong, include chanting, historical discussions, and traditional practices, aiming to ground inmates and prepare them for reintegration into the community.

Through its mix of security measures, rehabilitation programs, and cultural enrichment, Halawa Correctional Facility represents a critical institution within Hawaii’s correctional framework.

For further information about the Halawa Correctional Facility, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the  Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation – Hawaii or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of Hawaii.