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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

    Press and Communications

    The Press and Communications Office is responsible for responding to news media requests for information about department policies, procedures, programs, employees and the inmate and reentrant populations.

    Reporters with microphones and cameras during an interview

    Press and Communications Office media contact information for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections is listed below. 

    Maria Bivens, Press Secretary | mabivens@pa.gov

    Kurt Bopp, Digital Director | kbopp@pa.gov

    Priyanka Jindel, Deputy Digital Director | pjindel@pa.gov

    Ryan Tarkowski, Communications Director | rtarkowski@pa.gov

    Additionally, each state correctional institution has a dedicated public information officer (PIO). Reporters who have questions regarding a specific facility may contact the appropriate facility PIO directly. Media questions regarding the Pennsylvania Parole Board should be sent to Special Assistant to the Chairman Janaki Theivakumaran at jtheivakum@pa.gov.

    Note to Family and Friends of Inmates: This is not the office to contact if you have an inmate issue or question. Please contact the appropriate state prison or regional deputy secretary's office.

    Requesting to Cover an Inmate Program

    The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (PADOC) maintains a Media Relations Policy (DC-ADM 009) to protect institutional security, individual privacy, and the integrity of its facilities. This page contains information on how to request to cover a PADOC program at a state correctional institution.

    If you are interested in covering an inmate program:

    1. Complete the DC-ADM 009 media request form [add direct form link to attached document]
    2. Submit it to the Superintendent’s Assistant/PIO at the desired state correctional facility.

    Important Notes About Recording in a State Correctional Institution

    • Inmate faces may not appear in photographs or video footage.
    • Inmates’ last names may not be used.
    • Discussion of inmates’ crimes or criminal histories is prohibited.

    The PADOC does not facilitate media interviews, one-on-one sessions, podcasts, or similar direct engagements with specific inmates. Reporters interested in contacting an incarcerated individual have the same rights and responsibilities as the general public. Visit our Find or Contact an Inmate page for more information. Reporters interested in interviewing an incarcerated individual should contact that person directly and ask to be added to their phone/visitor list.

    For additional questions, please contact the appropriate facility PIO or email the Department Communication’s Office at RA-CRDOCPRESSOFFICE@pa.gov.