Virginia Department of Corrections expands ‘Virginia Model’ program

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Corrections is expanding its “Virginia Model” to three additional state prison facilities following significant improvements in safety and behavior at Lawrenceville Correctional Center, the agency announced.

Beginning September 1, 2025, the Virginia Model will be implemented at Buckingham Correctional Center, Dillwyn Correctional Center and Cluster S1 at Greensville Correctional Center, according to VADOC Director Chad Dotson.

The announcement comes as the department marks one year since it assumed control of the Lawrenceville facility from a private operator and began using the Virginia Model as a pilot program.

What is the Virginia Model?

The VADOC said the Virginia Model is an incentive-based corrections model that ties access to privileges to inmate accountability, consistent good behavior and a commitment to rehabilitation. Inmates who meet strict eligibility requirements can earn benefits like expanded visitation, better meals and mattresses, increased programming and lead their own workshops.

“Accountability is crucial for everyone at our Virginia Model facilities,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “This improves safety for both our dedicated corrections professionals and our inmate population, and provides an environment where everyone can thrive.”

Safer facilities by the numbers

Since the model’s implementation at Lawrenceville on Aug. 1, 2024, the department said the facility has seen dramatic safety improvements, including:

• 100% reduction in confirmed drug overdoses and overdose deaths
• 100% reduction in serious assaults on inmates
• 100% reduction in total fights
• 94% reduction in positive drug tests
• 75% reduction in cell phone seizures

VADOC said inmates must continue to meet behavior standards or risk being transferred out of a Virginia Model facility.

“The safety of our corrections team and inmates is the VADOC’s top priority,” said Dotson. “This is why it was important for Virginia to try an innovative model to create real change for both our team and the inmate population.

A broader rollout

As VADOC prepares to bring the program to Buckingham, Dillwyn, and part of Greensville, eligible inmates are already being transferred in advance of the official launch date.

“Every facility within the VADOC makes up The Virginia Model in some capacity,” said Dotson. “I want as many inmates as possible to strive to become eligible… That would be a continued win for our corrections team, a win for our inmates, and a win for public safety all across Virginia.”