Welcome to the website of the Philadelphia Prison System, the birthplace of modern corrections. It is our hope that visitors to the website will better understand who we are, the services we provide, and how we carry out our mission.

Our job is to ensure the security and safety of the inmates who are entrusted to our care, as well as the protection of the citizens of Philadelphia. We also share a fundamental responsibility to provide services that will help inmates return to our communities with the skills, knowledge and support that they need. We cooperate in this effort with public and private agencies, advocacy groups, faith based organizations and community organizations.

Mayor Nutter and Commissioner Giorla dedicate mural celebrating prison employees (photo taken by Jack Ramsdale). Click here to view press release

For all questions please go to our Office of Community Justice and Outreach.

Located on the grounds of the Curran-Fromhold Correctional facility, CJO  is open Monday - Friday 8AM to 4PM and accepts complaints and suggestions concerning prison operations while disseminating information about prisons operations and services.

History of the Philadelphia Prison System
The City's Walnut Street Jail (1773-1835), located one block below Independence Hall, is cited by historians as the birthplace of the penitentiary. Click here to read the full history .

Visiting Times
Contact PPS
Frequently Asked Questions
City Harvest Program
Prison Newsletter May 2008
Prisoner Re-Entry Topics
News/Press Releases

National Victim Notification Network