For decades, the prison visitation system has remained unchanged. However, with the advancement of technology, the prison system is also evolving. Computers are now very important in our lives, and it seems that everything revolves around computer technology nowadays. That’s why Dallas County Prison has made the pioneering decision to allow prisoners to video chat with their loved ones. These video chat sessions will be treated just like regular visitations, with prison guards monitoring them to ensure no illegal topics are discussed.
Prison Inmates Can Now Use Video Chat to Communicate With Their Loved Ones
The implementation of this new computer-powered inmate video visitation system is still a work in progress and is currently in the testing phase. However, it holds the potential to revolutionize prison communication. While Dallas County is the first prison to adopt this technology, more prisons are following suit and embracing similar communication advancements. Securus Technologies is currently offering this service, albeit at a cost. Prisoners are charged $10 for a 20-minute video chat session. Although this may seem pricey, it is actually quite affordable considering the visitors no longer need to spend money on gas to physically visit the prisoners.
Multiple Benefits
There are multiple benefits associated with the introduction of video chat visitations in prisons. One of the most significant advantages is the reduced risk of smuggling items into jail. Webcam-based video chat eliminates the possibility of smuggling, making these visitations much safer. Additionally, visitors no longer have to bear the financial burden of traveling long distances to see their loved ones. With the reduced risk of violence and the need for fewer guards, prisoners can have more frequent video chat visitations compared to in-person visits.
Too Much Freedom
However, there are some who oppose the idea of video chat visitations in prisons, arguing that prisoners should not have access to such technologies. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that this approach provides a safer means of communication. Granting prisoners this type of freedom is beneficial as it allows them to connect more easily with their loved ones, which may ultimately contribute to their rehabilitation.
In the end, video chat in prisons is not much different from making phone calls. Prisoners are required to pay for the video chat sessions, and their interactions are still monitored by guards. While Dallas County is currently the first prison in the USA to introduce such technologies, more prisons are joining the trend, indicating that this is the way of the future. We can expect to witness the expansion of communication technologies not only in prisons but also in other establishments such as hospitals, call centers, and more in the coming years.
