Ohio Reformatory for Women: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW) is the primary state correctional institution for female offenders in Ohio. It is a multi-security level facility that houses minimum to maximum security inmates.
Contact Information
Address: 1479 Collins Avenue, Marysville, OH 43040
Phone: (937) 642-1065
Website: https://drc.ohio.gov/orw
Locating an Inmate
To locate an inmate at ORW, you can use the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's online inmate search tool: Offender Search
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the inmate's security level and housing unit. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. For the most current visitation schedule and rules, please check the facility's website or call the institution directly.
Sending Money
Funds can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- JPay: https://www.jpay.com/
- Money order by mail (made payable to the inmate's name and number)
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to telephones during designated times. Video visitation may also be available. For more information on communication options, contact the facility directly.
Inmate Services and Programs
ORW offers various programs and services, including:
- Educational programs (GED, college courses)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Reentry preparation programs
History of the Facility
The Ohio Reformatory for Women was established in 1916 and has been continuously operating since then. It is the oldest female correctional facility in Ohio.
Security and Management Information
ORW is managed by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. The facility employs various security measures to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be on the approved visitation list to visit inmates.
Booking and Release Process
New inmates undergo a reception and classification process upon arrival. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's sentence and release conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to visitation?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring a small amount of cash for vending machines and a photo ID. All other items must be approved in advance.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Visitation frequency depends on the inmate's security level and behavior. Most inmates are eligible for visits on weekends and holidays.
Can I send books or magazines to an inmate?
Books and magazines must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. Contact the facility for specific guidelines.
Notable Inmates
Some notable inmates who have served time at the Ohio Reformatory for Women include:
- Claudia Hoerig - Convicted of murdering her husband in 2007.
- Kelly Renee Gissendaner - Transferred from Georgia, where she was the only woman on death row before her execution in 2015.
- Donna Roberts - Ohio's only female death row inmate (as of 2021).
- China P. Arnold - Convicted of killing her 28-day-old daughter by putting her in a microwave oven.
- Tina Brodbeck - Convicted of hiring a hitman to kill her husband.