New Jersey State Prison

The New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) in Trenton is the oldest continuously operating state prison in the United States. Its history dates back to 1798 when the Penitentiary House was first established as New Jersey’s primary correctional facility. This initial structure was one of the first state prisons in the nation. Over time, the prison evolved, with its most notable expansion—the Fortress Penitentiary—completed in 1836.

The prison reflects various eras of American penitentiary design. Its current complex comprises historic and contemporary facilities, combining 18th-century architecture with modern correctional features. The NJSP holds a maximum inmate capacity of 1,819 individuals and is managed by the New Jersey Department of Corrections. It primarily houses male inmates classified as maximum security, often dealing with the state’s most dangerous offenders.

Until New Jersey abolished capital punishment in 2007, NJSP played a significant role in carrying out the state’s death penalty sentences. The prison not only housed the state’s death row inmates but also contained the execution chamber where electrocutions were conducted until 1963. The facility has held many infamous individuals, including Richard Cottingham, New Jersey’s notorious serial killer, and Jesse Timmendequas, whose crimes led to the establishment of Megan’s Law.

Today, the prison continues to serve a critical role, providing correctional, educational, and rehabilitation services while maintaining high levels of custodial control. While the latest visitation schedule could not be verified, NJSP remains a significant historical and operational institution in New Jersey’s justice system.

For further information about the New Jersey State Prison, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the New Jersey Department of Corrections or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of New Jersey.