GTL (Global Tel*Link) — now known as ViaPath Technologies — is not publicly traded. It is a private company that has long held controversial contracts for prison communications across the U.S., including in Virginia.
Virginia inmates and their families are paying private equity-backed corporations like ViaPath Technologies (formerly GTL) just to stay in touch. It’s a rigged market where exploitation is baked into the business model—and the state gets a cut.
The companies profiting from Virginia’s incarceration system aren’t accountable to the public. They’re backed by shadowy private equity firms with no public oversight and no interest in justice—just returns.
Quick Facts on GTL / ViaPath:
- Ownership:
GTL was acquired by American Securities, a private equity firm. It’s part of their investment portfolio—not listed on any public stock exchange. - Name Change:
GTL rebranded as ViaPath Technologies in early 2022, possibly to distance itself from bad press. - Core Services:
- Inmate phone calls
- Video visitation
- Tablets for media and email (via ConnectNetwork)
- Payment systems for commissary and communication
- Controversies:
- Accused of price gouging families of inmates
- Criticized for poor service quality and lack of transparency
- Some states have received commissions/kickbacks from inmate call revenue
Who owns American Securities?
- It’s owned by a small group of partners and investors, likely wealthy individuals, institutions, and possibly endowments or pension funds.
- They manage billions in private equity, investing in companies like GTL (now ViaPath), and others in energy, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Because it’s private:
- They don’t disclose shareholders.
- No SEC filings like public companies are required to submit.