Okeechobee Correctional Institution is a state prison located in Okeechobee, Florida. The prison facility is operated by the Florida Department of Corrections and has a capacity of 2,681 inmates. The prison is known for its focus on providing educational and vocational programs to inmates, with the goal of reducing recidivism rates and preparing inmates for successful reentry into society.
In addition to its educational and vocational programs, Okeechobee CI also offers a range of mental health and medical services to inmates. The facility has a dedicated medical unit staffed by healthcare professionals and also provides mental health counseling and treatment to inmates who require it. The prison has been the subject of several surveys and reports in recent years, with the results generally indicating that the facility is well-run and provides adequate services to its inmates.
Despite its positive reputation, Okeechobee CI has faced criticism in the past for its use of private contractors to provide certain services, such as food and healthcare. Some advocates have expressed concern that these contractors may prioritize profits over the well-being of inmates, and have called for greater oversight and transparency in the prison’s operations. Overall, however, Okeechobee CI is widely regarded as a well-managed facility that provides valuable services to its inmates.
Temporarily closed satellite location: Okeechobee Work Camp
| Security | Maximum |
| Capacity | 2,681 |
| Physical Address | 3420 N.E. 168th Street Okeechobee, Florida 34972-4824 |
| 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 | (863) 462-5400 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Okeechobee Correctional Institution Overview
Okeechobee Correctional Institution (OCI) is a maximum-security state prison operated by the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) located in Okeechobee, Florida. The facility was opened in 1995 and has a capacity of 2,681 inmates. OCI houses adult male inmates and is one of the two facilities located in the central Florida region, the other being South Bay Correctional Facility.
OCI is responsible for providing a safe and secure environment for its inmates, staff, and visitors. The facility offers various programs and services to its inmates, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. OCI also has a faith-based program for inmates who wish to participate in religious activities.
The facility has faced several challenges in recent years, including issues with overcrowding, understaffing, and inadequate healthcare services. According to a report by the Correctional Medical Authority (CMA) in 2019, OCI failed to meet the standards for physical and mental health care services. The report identified several deficiencies, including inadequate staffing levels, lack of proper medical equipment, and failure to provide timely and appropriate medical care to inmates.
Despite these challenges, OCI has taken steps to address these issues. The facility has implemented new hiring and retention strategies to address staffing shortages and has increased its healthcare budget to improve medical services. OCI has also expanded its educational and vocational programs to provide more opportunities for its inmates to acquire skills and knowledge that can help them successfully reintegrate into society.
In summary, Okeechobee Correctional Institution is a medium-security state prison in Okeechobee, Florida, operated by the FDC. The facility provides various programs and services to its inmates, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Although OCI has faced several challenges in recent years, it has taken steps to address these issues and improve its operations.
Inmate Information
When a loved one is incarcerated, it can be challenging to navigate the system and obtain information. This section will provide information on how to find an inmate, how to call an inmate, and how to send mail to an inmate at Okeechobee CI.
Inmate Search
To find an inmate at Okeechobee CI, individuals can use the Florida Department of Corrections (FDOC) Inmate Population Information Search tool. The tool allows users to search for inmates by their first or last name, DC number, or their Florida Identification Number (FID). Once the inmate is located, the tool provides information such as their custody status, their sentence, and their projected release date.
Calling an Inmate
Inmates at Okeechobee CI are allowed to make phone calls to their loved ones. To receive calls from an inmate, individuals must establish an account with the Offender Telephone System (OTS). The OTS account can be set up online, by phone, or by mail. Once the account is established, individuals can receive calls from the inmate. It is important to note that all calls are recorded and monitored by the FDOC.
Inmate Mailing Address
Sending mail to an inmate at Okeechobee CI is a great way to stay in touch. Inmates are allowed to receive letters, cards, and photos. However, there are restrictions on what can be sent. For example, inmates are not allowed to receive cash, checks, or packages. Additionally, all mail must be sent through the United States Postal Service and addressed to the inmate’s full name and DC number. The full mailing address for Okeechobee CI is:
- Inmate’s last name, first name, DC#
- PO Box 23608
- Tampa, FL 33623
Overall, it is important to remember that inmates at Okeechobee CI are in custody and must adhere to strict rules and regulations. By following the guidelines for inmate search, calling an inmate, and sending mail, individuals can stay connected with their loved ones while they are incarcerated.
Visitation Information
When visiting an inmate at Okeechobee CI, there are specific rules and guidelines that prison visitors must follow. This section will provide information on visiting hours, the visitor application process, and the visitation dress code.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at Okeechobee CI are on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the end of the visiting hours to be allowed entry. It is important to note that visiting hours may be canceled or modified due to holidays, facility events, or other circumstances. Visitors are encouraged to call the facility to confirm visiting hours before making travel arrangements.
Visitor Application
All visitors must complete a visitor application before being allowed to visit an inmate at Okeechobee CI. The application can be obtained from the facility or downloaded from the Florida Department of Corrections website. Visitors must complete the application in its entirety and submit it for approval at least 30 days prior to the intended visit. The application process includes a criminal background check, and visitors with certain criminal convictions may be denied visitation privileges.
Visitation Dress Code
Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code when visiting an inmate at Okeechobee CI. The dress code is in place to ensure the safety and security of the facility. Visitors are not allowed to wear halter tops, bra-less attire, underwear-type t-shirts, tank tops, skin-tight clothing, or shoes with removable parts. Visitors are also not allowed to wear clothing made of see-through fabric, skirts or shorts that are shorter than knee-length, or any clothing with a threatening picture or camouflage pattern. Visitors may be subjected to a pat search or barrier search before entering the facility.
It is important to note that violating the dress code may result in the visitor being denied entry to the facility. Visitors who are unsure about the dress code should contact the facility before their visit.
In conclusion, visitors to Okeechobee CI must follow specific rules and guidelines to ensure the safety and security of the facility. This includes adhering to the dress code, completing the visitor application process, and arriving during visiting hours. By following these guidelines, visitors can have a safe and successful visit with their loved ones.
Institutional Facilities
Okeechobee Correctional Institution is a mixed custody level facility located at 3420 NE 168th St, Okeechobee, FL 34972. It is a male-only facility that focuses on providing educational and vocational training programs to inmates. OCI has a capacity of 2681 inmates and is one of the largest facilities in the state of Florida.
Academic Programs
OCI offers various academic programs to inmates, including Adult Basic Education (ABE), General Educational Development (GED), and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. Inmates can also enroll in vocational training programs such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and welding. These programs aim to provide inmates with the skills they need to secure employment upon their release.
Substance Abuse Programs
OCI offers a range of substance abuse programs to help inmates overcome addiction and stay sober. These programs include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and various counseling services. Inmates can also participate in the Therapeutic Community (TC) program, which is a long-term residential treatment program designed to help inmates overcome substance abuse and develop pro-social behaviors.
Chaplaincy Services
OCI provides chaplaincy services to inmates of all faiths. The chaplaincy program offers religious services, counseling, and pastoral care to inmates. The facility has a chapel where inmates can attend services and participate in religious activities.
Institutional Betterment Programs
OCI offers various institutional betterment programs to help inmates improve their lives and prepare for re-entry into society. These programs include the Literacy Program, which provides inmates with access to books and other reading materials. Inmates can also participate in work camps, re-entry centers, and work release centers, which provide job training and placement services.
In conclusion, OCI provides a range of facilities and programs to help inmates improve their lives and prepare for re-entry into society. From academic programs to substance abuse programs, chaplaincy services, and institutional betterment programs, OCI is committed to providing its inmates with the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of prison.
Safety and Security
Okeechobee Correctional Institution is a level 7, mixed custody prison located in Okeechobee, Florida. It is designed to house adult male inmates. The facility has a current capacity of 2681 beds, and it is authorized to hold up to 2681 inmates. The prison is operated by the Florida Department of Corrections, which is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of staff, inmates, and the public.
The institution has a comprehensive security plan that is designed to prevent escapes and maintain order within the facility. The plan includes a variety of measures, such as regular security checks, perimeter fencing, and electronic surveillance. The prison also has a K9 unit that is trained to detect contraband and assist in the search for escapees.
In addition to its security measures, OCI also has a number of programs and services that are designed to promote safety and security within the facility. These include substance abuse treatment, education and vocational training, and mental health services. The institution also has a zero-tolerance policy for violence and contraband, and all prison staff members are trained to recognize and respond to potential security threats.
The safety and security of OCI are taken very seriously, and the institution has a strong track record of maintaining order and preventing escapes. However, like all prisons, OCI is not immune to security incidents. In the event of an incident, the institution has a comprehensive emergency response plan that is designed to ensure the safety of staff, inmates, and the public.