Wende Correctional Facility

Wende Correctional Facility is a maximum-security prison located in Alden, New York, serving as a cornerstone of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Initially constructed in 1923 as a county jail, Wende became a state prison in 1983, reflecting its evolving role in the state’s correctional landscape. With a capacity to house 961 inmates, Wende is equipped to manage a diverse inmate population under maximum security protocols.

The facility’s history is deeply rooted in the penal traditions of Erie County, having been built on land donated by the Wende family. Over the decades, Wende has undergone significant transformations to meet growing prison space and inmate care demands. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Wende was notably impacted, with numerous cases among inmates and staff highlighting the challenges faced by correctional institutions nationwide.

Wende’s daily operations include a comprehensive range of programs aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration. These include alcohol and substance abuse treatment, educational and vocational training, anger management, and family development programs, all designed to support inmate growth and mitigate recidivism.

As of November 2024, the visitation schedule allows for:

• Daily visits from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, accommodating a wide array of visitors under strict health and safety protocols.

The facility is renowned for its stringent security measures and commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both inmates and staff.

Notable inmates have included high-profile figures such as Mark David Chapman, the man who murdered John Lennon, and Harvey Weinstein, the former film producer serving time for sexual offenses. These cases underscore Wende’s role in housing some of the state’s most notorious offenders.

The facility continues to adapt to modern correctional needs, emphasizing security, inmate rehabilitation, and community engagement as part of its core mission.

For further information about the Wende Correctional Facility, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of New York.