Ohio State Penitentiary (OSP) is a mixed-security prison located in Youngstown, Ohio. It is one of the most secure prisons in the country and houses some of the most dangerous inmates in Ohio. OSP was opened in 1998 as part of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) and has been in operation ever since.
The prison is known for its strict policies and procedures, as well as its state-of-the-art security systems. It is designed to house inmates who have committed serious crimes, including murder, rape, and other violent offenses. The prison also has a reputation for being one of the most challenging prisons to work in, with a high level of stress and danger for correctional officers and staff.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 504 |
| Physical Address | 878 Coitsville-Hubbard Road Youngstown, OH 44505 |
| Mailing Address | 878 Coitsville-Hubbard Road Youngstown, OH 44505 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Weds through Sun: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 330-743-0700 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History
Ohio State Penitentiary has a long and complex history that dates back to the early 19th century. The prison system in Ohio began with the establishment of Ohio Penitentiary in Columbus in 1813. However, due to overcrowding, a new facility was needed, and Ohio State Penitentiary was built in Youngstown in 1876.
Ohio Penitentiary
Ohio Penitentiary was the first state prison in Ohio and was built in Columbus in 1813. The prison was designed to hold 300 prisoners, but by the 1830s, it was overcrowded with over 1,000 inmates. The prison was known for its harsh and volatile conditions, and many inmates died from disease and violence. In 1930, the prison was destroyed by a fire that killed 322 inmates.
Ohio State Penitentiary
Ohio State Penitentiary was built in 1876 in Youngstown, Ohio, to replace Ohio Penitentiary. The prison was designed to hold 1,500 inmates, and it was considered state-of-the-art at the time of its construction. However, like its predecessor, Ohio State Penitentiary soon became overcrowded, and conditions deteriorated.
In the early 20th century, Ohio State Penitentiary became known for its use of the electric chair. Between 1897 and 1963, a total of 315 inmates were executed at the prison. In the 1960s, the prison was the site of several riots, and in 1998, a high-security unit was added to house Ohio’s most dangerous inmates.
Today, Ohio State Penitentiary is still in operation and is home to over 500 inmates. The prison is known for its strict security measures and is considered one of the most dangerous prisons in the United States.
Visitation
Ohio State Penitentiary allows incarcerated individuals to receive visits from approved visitors. Visitation is an important part of maintaining the connection between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones. The institution has established its own visiting hours, which are available on the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction website.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at OSP are available on Wednesdays through Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visitors must make a reservation using the ViaPath visitation reservation system to ensure they have access to the facility. The system allows guests to make reservations 24 hours a day.
Visitation Rules
To visit an incarcerated individual at OSP, visitors must submit an application for visitation, which will be processed by institutional staff. Once the approval process is complete, visitors will be able to create an account and schedule a visit.
Visitors must adhere to a dress code when visiting the facility. All attire worn upon entry into the facility must be worn throughout the duration of the visit. Visitors should not wear revealing clothing, shorts, skirts, or dresses that are shorter than knee-length or any clothing that contains offensive language or graphics.
During the visit, visitors must follow all institutional rules and regulations. Visitors must not bring any items into the facility, including cell phones, purses, or bags. Visitors should also not bring any food or drinks into the facility.
In conclusion, Ohio State Penitentiary allows for visitation to maintain the connection between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones. Visitors must follow all institutional rules and regulations, including the dress code and restrictions on bringing items into the facility.
Security
Ohio State Penitentiary is a maximum security prison that houses some of the most dangerous inmates in Ohio. The prison is designed to ensure the safety of both the inmates and the staff. The security measures employed at the prison are some of the most stringent in the state and are designed to prevent any escape attempts or other security breaches.
Level 4A
The prison is classified as a Level 4A facility, which means that it is designed to house the most dangerous and violent offenders in the state. The security measures at the prison are designed to prevent any escape attempts or other security breaches. The prison has a secure perimeter fence, armed guards, and surveillance cameras to monitor all activity within the facility.
Fire
Fire safety is a top priority at Ohio State Penitentiary. The prison has a comprehensive fire safety plan in place that includes regular fire drills, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers throughout the facility. In the event of a fire, the prison staff is trained to respond quickly and efficiently to ensure the safety of all inmates and staff.
Prison Riots
Prison riots are a serious concern at any correctional facility, and Ohio State Penitentiary is no exception. The prison has a comprehensive plan in place to prevent and respond to any prison riots. The plan includes training for staff on how to respond to riots, as well as the use of non-lethal force to control any disturbances. The prison also has a specialized riot team that is trained to respond to any situation quickly and effectively.
In conclusion, Ohio State Penitentiary is one of the most secure prisons in Ohio. The security measures employed at the prison are designed to prevent any escape attempts or other security breaches. The prison has a comprehensive fire safety plan and a specialized riot team that is trained to respond to any situation quickly and effectively.
Education and Programs
Ohio State Penitentiary offers a variety of educational and vocational programs to incarcerated adults. These programs aim to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed both inside and outside of prison. The Ohio Central School System (OCSS) provides basic education, high school diplomas, apprenticeships, skilled trades, and post-secondary education in partnership with six Ohio-based colleges and universities.
Accepting Responsibility
One of the programs that OSP offers is the Accepting Responsibility program. This program is designed to help incarcerated individuals understand the impact of their actions and take responsibility for their behavior. The program is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and helps individuals develop positive coping skills and strategies for dealing with difficult situations. The program also aims to reduce recidivism rates by helping individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make positive changes in their lives.
Fear: The Anger Trigger
Another program offered at OSP is Fear: The Anger Trigger. This program is designed to help individuals understand the connection between fear and anger and how to manage these emotions in a healthy way. The program uses cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help individuals identify their triggers and develop coping strategies to manage their emotions. The program also focuses on developing communication skills and conflict-resolution strategies to help individuals build positive relationships with others.
In addition to these programs, OSP offers vocational training in a variety of areas, including automotive technology, construction, culinary arts, and horticulture. These programs provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain employment upon release from prison.
Overall, the educational and vocational programs offered at OSP aim to provide individuals with the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of prison. By providing education and training, OSP hopes to reduce recidivism rates and help individuals successfully reintegrate into society upon release.