Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction (ODRC) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction (ODRC) is the state agency responsible for managing Ohio's adult prison system. It oversees multiple correctional institutions across the state, providing custody, supervision, and rehabilitation services for adult felony offenders.
Contact Information
Address: 4545 Fisher Road, Suite D, Columbus, OH 43228
Phone: (614) 752-1159
Website: https://drc.ohio.gov/
Email: [email protected]
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate in the Ohio prison system, use the ODRC Offender Search tool available on their website: https://appgateway.drc.ohio.gov/OffenderSearch
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation policies and hours vary by institution. Check the specific facility's page on the ODRC website for detailed information. Generally, visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list and follow dress code and conduct rules.
How to Send Money
Funds can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- JPay: https://www.jpay.com/
- Money order by mail (sent to the specific institution)
- Western Union Quick Collect
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make outgoing collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation is available at some facilities through JPay. Check with the specific institution for availability and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
ODRC offers various programs including:
- Education (GED, college courses)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Reentry programs
History of the Facility
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction was established in 1972, consolidating various correctional functions under one agency. It has since evolved to focus on rehabilitation and reentry alongside secure custody.
Security and Management Information
ODRC operates facilities with varying security levels, from minimum to maximum security. Each institution has its own management team, overseen by the central ODRC administration.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends visitation rights are subject to ODRC policies and individual facility rules.
Booking and Release Process
Upon sentencing, offenders are first sent to a reception center for assessment before being assigned to a specific institution. The release process includes pre-release programming and may involve post-release supervision depending on the sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up a visitation appointment?
Contact the specific institution where the inmate is housed. Each facility has its own visitation schedule and procedures.
Can I send packages to an inmate?
Generally, personal packages are not allowed. Approved vendors may send certain items. Check with the specific institution for their policies.
How can inmates further their education while incarcerated?
ODRC offers various educational programs, including GED preparation, vocational training, and some college courses. Availability varies by institution.
Famous Prisoners
- Ariel Castro - Kidnapper who held three women captive for over a decade in Cleveland.
- T.J. Lane - Perpetrator of the Chardon High School shooting in 2012.
- Anthony Sowell - Serial killer known as the Cleveland Strangler.
- Charles Manson - Infamous cult leader (briefly held in Ohio before being transferred to California).
- Donald Harvey - Serial killer known as the "Angel of Death".
