Ohio State Penitentiary: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Ohio State Penitentiary (OSP) is a supermax prison located in Youngstown, Ohio. It houses the state's most dangerous and high-security inmates, including those on death row. The facility opened in 1998 and is designed to provide maximum control and security.
Contact Information
Address: 878 Coitsville-Hubbard Road, Youngstown, OH 44505
Phone: (330) 743-0700
Website: https://drc.ohio.gov/osp
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate at Ohio State Penitentiary, use the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's online inmate search tool: Offender Search
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation at OSP is strictly controlled due to the high-security nature of the facility. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Visiting hours and procedures may vary, so it's best to contact the facility directly for the most up-to-date information.
How to Send Money
Inmates at OSP can receive money 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
Phone services are provided through GTL (Global Tel Link). Inmates have limited access to phones based on their security level. Video visitation may be available, but availability and procedures can change. Contact the facility for current information.
Inmate Services and Programs
Due to the high-security nature of OSP, programs and services are limited compared to other facilities. However, some educational and rehabilitative programs may be available, including:
- GED classes
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Limited work assignments
History of the Facility
Ohio State Penitentiary opened in 1998 as a response to the need for a supermax facility in Ohio. It was built to house the state's most dangerous offenders and to improve overall prison safety. The facility has been the subject of controversy and legal challenges regarding inmate conditions and rights.
Security and Management Information
OSP is a level 5 supermax prison, the highest security level in Ohio. Inmates are typically confined to their cells for 23 hours a day. The facility employs advanced security measures, including constant surveillance, controlled movement, and highly trained staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at OSP have legal rights protected by the U.S. Constitution and Ohio state law. These include the right to legal counsel, access to courts, and protection from cruel and unusual punishment. Visitation rights may be more restricted than in lower-security facilities due to safety concerns.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are not typically booked directly into OSP but are transferred from other facilities based on their security classification. The release process is highly controlled and may involve step-down programs to lower-security facilities before release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security level of Ohio State Penitentiary?
Ohio State Penitentiary is a level 5 supermax prison, which is the highest security level in Ohio's prison system.
Are death row inmates housed at Ohio State Penitentiary?
Yes, Ohio State Penitentiary houses some of Ohio's death row inmates, along with other high-security prisoners.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Phone access is limited and varies based on an inmate's security level. Specific details should be obtained directly from the facility.
Notable Inmates
Some high-profile inmates who have served time at Ohio State Penitentiary include:
- Siddique Abdullah Hasan (Carlos Sanders) - Convicted for his role in the 1993 Lucasville prison riot
- James Were - Also convicted for involvement in the Lucasville riot
- Keith LaMar - Sentenced to death for his alleged role in the Lucasville riot
- Antwan Parker - Convicted of multiple murders in Cincinnati
- Donald Harvey - Known as the "Angel of Death," a serial killer who claimed to have murdered 87 people
