Columbia Correctional Institution is a state prison located in Lake City, Florida. It is a mixed-security facility that houses adult male inmates. The prison has been the subject of multiple on-site physical and mental health surveys conducted by the Correctional Medical Authority (CMA) in the past years.
The CMA reports have highlighted several areas of concern, including the provision of adequate medical and mental health care to inmates. In 2015, the CMA conducted an on-site physical and mental health survey of Columbia Correctional Institution and distributed the survey report on August 7, 2015. The report identified several deficiencies in the prison’s healthcare system and recommended corrective measures.
In 2018, the CMA conducted another on-site physical and mental health survey of the prison and identified further areas of concern. The survey report recommended several corrective actions to improve the healthcare system at Columbia Correctional Institution.
Temporarily closed satellite location: Columbia Work Camp
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 3,279 |
| Physical Address | 216 S.E. Corrections Way Lake City, Florida 32025-2013 |
| Mailing Address | PO Box 23608 Tampa, FL 33623 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturdays and Sundays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (386) 754-7600 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History of Columbia Correctional Institution Florida
Columbia Correctional Institution (COLCI) is a state prison located in Lake City, Florida. It was opened in 1992 and is managed by the Florida Department of Corrections. The facility is a multi-level security prison that houses adult male inmates.
COLCI is one of the largest prisons in Florida, with a capacity of approximately 3,270 inmates. The prison is divided into four main areas: the Main Unit, Annex, Work Camp, and Reception and Medical Center.
The Main Unit is the highest security area of the prison and houses inmates who have committed serious crimes, such as first-degree murder. The Annex is a lower security area that houses inmates who have less serious offenses. The Work Camp is a minimum security area that allows inmates to work outside the prison in various jobs, such as road maintenance or agriculture.
Over the years, Columbia Correctional Institution has faced several challenges, including overcrowding and understaffing. In 2018, the prison was the site of a riot that left seven inmates dead and several others injured. The incident prompted a review of the state’s prison system and led to calls for increased funding and staffing.
In 2021, Florida State Representative Chuck Clemons proposed a bill that would have allowed private companies to manage state prisons, including Columbia Correctional Institution. The bill was met with criticism from many who argued that private prisons prioritize profits over rehabilitation and safety.
Despite the challenges, Columbia Correctional Institution remains an important part of Florida’s prison system. The facility continues to house inmates from across the state and provides various programs and services aimed at rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates.
Location and Contact Information
Columbia Correctional Institution Florida is a state prison located in Lake City, Florida. It is situated at 216 SE Corrections Way, Lake City, FL 32025. The prison is located in a rural area, surrounded by farmland and forests.
Visitors can reach the prison by car or public transportation. The physical address of the prison is 216 SE Corrections Way, Lake City, FL 32025. Visitors can use this address to get directions to the facility.
For those who wish to contact the prison, the phone number is (386) 754-7600. The prison can also be reached by mail at the following mailing address:
Columbia Correctional Institution
216 SE Corrections Way
Lake City, FL 32025The prison is located in a secure area, so visitors should be prepared to go through security screening before entering the facility. Visitors should also be aware that the prison has strict rules and regulations regarding visitation, so it is important to check the prison’s website or call ahead to confirm visitation hours and rules.
Overall, Columbia Correctional Institution Florida is a state-of-the-art prison that provides a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff. The prison’s location in Lake City, Florida, makes it easily accessible to visitors and provides a peaceful setting for those who work and live there.
Administration and Capacity
Columbia Correctional Institution is a state prison in Florida that houses adult male inmates. The facility is managed by the Florida Department of Corrections. The administration of the institution is headed by a Warden who is responsible for the overall management of the facility.
The institution is designed to house a maximum of 3,279 inmates.
The facility has several major institutions, including a Reception and Medical Center, which serves as the primary medical and mental health facility for the Florida Department of Corrections. The center provides medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates throughout the state.
Columbia Correctional Institution also has a close-custody unit, a faith and character-based program unit, and a general population unit. The facility offers a variety of educational and vocational programs to inmates, including adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
The administration of Columbia Correctional Institution is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for both inmates and staff. The facility has implemented several measures to ensure the safety and security of the institution, including the use of security cameras, metal detectors, and other advanced security technologies.
Overall, Columbia Correctional Institution is a major state prison in Florida that plays an important role in the state’s correctional system. Despite the challenges posed by overcrowding, the administration of the facility is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all inmates and staff.
Inmate Information
Columbia Correctional Institution Florida houses inmates convicted of various crimes. The facility houses men. Each inmate is assigned a unique ID number, which is used to track their movements and activities within the facility.
Inmate searches can be conducted through the Florida Department of Corrections website. The website provides information about the inmate’s name, ID number, race, and other details. Inmates can also be searched by their conviction status, which includes whether they are awaiting trial, serving a sentence, or on parole.
The facility provides inmates with basic necessities such as food, shelter, and medical care. Inmates are also provided with educational and vocational training programs to help them acquire useful skills that can help them reintegrate into society once released.
The race of the inmates at Columbia Correctional Institution Florida is diverse, with a mix of White, Black, Hispanic, and other races. The facility has implemented policies to ensure that all inmates are treated fairly and without discrimination based on their race.
Overall, the facility strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates. The staff is well-trained and equipped to handle any situation that may arise within the facility.
Visitation Rules and Regulations
Visiting an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution Florida is subject to specific rules and regulations that visitors must follow. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and security of the facility, staff, inmates, and visitors.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Columbia Correctional Institution Florida are on Saturdays and Sundays: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST. Visitors should check the facility’s website or contact the facility directly to confirm visitation hours. In general, visitation hours are on weekends and holidays, and they usually start in the morning and end in the afternoon.
Rules and Procedures
Before visiting an inmate, visitors must be approved and added to the inmate’s approved visiting list. Visitors must fill out a visitation application and submit it to the facility for approval. Once approved, visitors must bring a valid government-issued photo ID and follow the dress code and other rules.
Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the facility, including cell phones, cameras, purses, or bags. The facility provides lockers for visitors to store their personal belongings. Visitors must pass through a metal detector and may be subject to a search.
During the visit, visitors must remain in the designated visiting area and follow all staff instructions. Visitors are not allowed to touch the inmates or pass any items to them. Any violation of the rules and regulations may result in the termination of the visit and may lead to further consequences.
Additional Information
Visitors with disabilities may request special accommodations by contacting the facility in advance. Visitors who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed to visit. The facility may also deny visitation to anyone who poses a threat to the safety and security of the facility, staff, inmates, or visitors.
In conclusion, visitors must follow the rules and regulations when visiting an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution Florida. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved.
Inmate Services and Programs
Columbia Correctional Institution (COLCI) offers a variety of services and programs to its inmate population to aid in their rehabilitation and successful re-entry into society. These services and programs include academic programs, vocational programs, religious services, wellness education, and more.
One of the primary focuses of COLCI’s inmate services is education. The institution offers academic programs, including special education services, to help inmates earn their GEDs or high school diplomas. Additionally, vocational programs are offered to provide inmates with the skills necessary to obtain employment upon release. These vocational programs include training in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and more.
Chaplaincy services are also available to inmates at COLCI. The chapel library program provides inmates with access to religious texts and other reading materials. Independent-directed study is available for inmates who wish to pursue religious education on their own. Religious holiday observances and worship services are held regularly.
Institutional betterment programs are also offered at COLCI. These programs include the law library program, which provides inmates with access to legal resources and assistance with legal matters. The music/band program allows inmates to learn and perform music. Wellness education programs are available to promote physical and mental health.
The volunteer literacy program is another valuable service offered at COLCI. This program provides inmates with one-on-one tutoring to improve their literacy skills. Fresh start smoking cessation programs are also available to help inmates quit smoking.
Overall, the inmate services and programs offered at Columbia Correctional Institution are designed to aid in the rehabilitation and successful re-entry of its inmate population.
Correspondence and Commissary
Columbia Correctional Institution allows inmates to receive and send mail to their loved ones and friends. Inmates are allowed to receive letters and cards, but they cannot receive packages or items that are not approved by the facility. The mailing address for Columbia Correctional Institution is as follows:
Inmate’s last name, first name, DC#
PO Box 23608
Tampa, FL 33623
Inmates can also receive money from their family and friends, which they can use to purchase items from the commissary. The commissary is a store within the facility that sells items such as snacks, hygiene products, and clothing. Inmates can order items from the commissary using their account balance, which is funded by the money they receive from their loved ones.
To send money to an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution, family and friends can use services such as JPay or Western Union. These services allow people to send money online, over the phone, or in person at a location near them. It is important to note that there may be fees associated with these services.
Inmates can also use JPay to send messages to their loved ones. JPay is a service that allows inmates to send and receive electronic messages, as well as access educational and entertainment content. Inmates can purchase JPay credits using their account balance, which they can then use to send messages or access content.
Overall, Columbia Correctional Institution provides inmates with the opportunity to stay in touch with their loved ones and access essential items through the commissary. By following the facility’s rules and regulations, inmates can maintain their connections with the outside world and improve their quality of life while incarcerated.
Institutional Issues and Complaints
Columbia Correctional Institution has been the subject of numerous complaints regarding the conditions of the facility. In 2015, the Correctional Medical Authority (CMA) conducted an on-site physical and mental health survey of the institution, and the survey report distributed on August 7, 2015, found that the facility was “unfit for human habitation.” The CMA identified numerous issues, including inadequate medical care, unsanitary living conditions, and overcrowding.
In response to the CMA report, Columbia Correctional Institution submitted an institutional corrective action plan (CAP) which outlined the steps to address the issues identified in the report. However, a second on-site corrective action plan assessment conducted by the CMA in 2018 found that the facility was still failing to meet the minimum standards for health and safety.
The CMA report highlighted ongoing issues with medical care, including delayed treatment and inadequate staffing levels. The report also noted that the facility was still overcrowded, with inmates being housed in areas that were not designed for long-term occupancy.
In addition to the CMA reports, Columbia Correctional Institution has also been the subject of numerous complaints from inmates and their families. These complaints have included allegations of physical abuse, inadequate nutrition, and unsanitary living conditions.
Despite efforts to address the issues at the facility, it is clear that there are ongoing problems at Columbia Correctional Institution. It is essential that steps are taken to ensure that the facility is meeting the minimum standards for health and safety and that inmates are not subjected to inhumane conditions.
Community and Statewide Impact
Columbia Correctional Institution has a significant impact on both the local community and the state of Florida. The facility is located in Columbia County, which has a population of approximately 71,000 people. The prison is one of the largest employers in the county, providing jobs for hundreds of residents. In addition to providing employment opportunities, the facility also contributes to the local economy by purchasing goods and services from local businesses.
The impact of Columbia Correctional Institution extends beyond the local community. The facility is part of the Florida Department of Corrections, which oversees the state’s prison system. As of December 31, 2019, there were over 96,000 inmates in Florida’s state prison system. The system also includes community corrections programs, such as probation and parole. As of the same date, there were over 179,000 people under probation and over 4,000 under parole in Florida.
Columbia Correctional Institution is also home to several work camps and re-entry centers. These facilities provide inmates with vocational training and other skills that can help them successfully re-enter society after their release. The work camps allow inmates to participate in paid employment in the community, which can help them develop job skills and save money for their eventual release.
The impact of Columbia Correctional Institution on the community and the state is not without its challenges. In recent years, the facility has faced criticism for issues related to the physical and mental health of inmates. Corrective action plans have been put in place to address these concerns, and ongoing efforts are being made to improve the quality of care provided to inmates.
Despite these challenges, Columbia Correctional Institution remains an important part of the community and the state. Its impact on the local economy and its role in the state’s prison system make it a significant institution in Florida.
Special Visitation Provisions
Columbia Correctional Institution in Florida allows inmates to have social visits with their friends and family. However, there are some special provisions that visitors must follow during their visitation.
All visits must be scheduled by the inmate through their Unit Team. Visitors must arrive at the institution at least 30 minutes before their scheduled visitation time. The visiting hours at the institution are on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Visitors should check with the institution for the exact visiting hours.
Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visiting room except for their identification and a small amount of money. Visitors with infants or young children may bring in one diaper, one baby bottle, one sipper cup, one pacifier, and one baby food container. Visitors may also bring in one baby blanket and one infant clothing item.
Visitors are not allowed to bring in baby wipes. The institution will provide wipes for visitors with infants or young children. Visitors may also bring in medication for themselves or the inmate they are visiting. The medication must be in its original prescribed container and the dosage must be clearly marked.
Visitors are not allowed to administer injections, needles, or syringes to themselves or the inmate they are visiting. If the inmate needs medical treatment during the visit, they must be taken to the institution’s medical unit.
Visitors are allowed to bring in a wallet, but it must be small enough to fit in a clear plastic bag. Visitors must also wear appropriate clothing, including shoes and shirts. Visitors wearing revealing clothing will not be allowed to enter the visiting room.
Overall, visitors should carefully review the institution’s visiting regulations before their visit to ensure they are in compliance with all rules and regulations.
Notable Incidents
Columbia Correctional Institution has experienced several notable incidents in recent years. One of the most tragic incidents occurred in 2017 when an inmate, Jonathan Silva, was stabbed to death by another inmate. The incident sparked an investigation into the safety and security of the institution, and several corrective measures were implemented to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
In 2018, Florida State Representative David Richardson visited Columbia Correctional Institution and was shocked by the conditions he observed. According to Richardson, the facility was overcrowded, understaffed, and lacked basic resources such as soap and toilet paper. Richardson’s visit led to increased scrutiny of the state’s prison system and calls for reform.
In another incident, a former correctional officer at Columbia Correctional Institution, Jerry Lee Alley, was arrested and charged with smuggling contraband into the facility. Alley was accused of bringing in cell phones, tobacco, and other prohibited items in exchange for cash payments from inmates. The incident highlighted the ongoing problem of contraband in Florida’s prisons and the challenges faced by correctional officers in preventing its entry.
Finally, in 2021, an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution was sentenced to 20 years in prison for attacking a correctional officer during a riot in 2017. The inmate, Jose Moreira, was found guilty of aggravated battery and battery on a law enforcement officer. The incident underscored the dangers faced by correctional officers in their daily work and the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for both staff and inmates.
Overall, these incidents demonstrate the complex and challenging nature of managing a correctional facility and the ongoing need for reform and improvement in Florida’s prison system.