Pasquotank Correctional Institution is a state prison facility located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. It is comprised of four buildings and houses male inmates in both close and minimum custody units. The facility offers vocational and academic classes, medical and mental health services, and administrative offices.
The prison has had a troubled history, including a tragic incident in 2017 when four staff members were killed during an escape attempt. The incident prompted a complete facility search by the Prison Emergency Response Team and the permanent shutdown of the sewing plant. Despite the challenges, Pasquotank Correctional Institution remains committed to providing education and rehabilitation services to its inmates, including GED classes and vocational training programs.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 896 |
| Physical Address | 527 Commerce Drive, Elizabeth City, NC 27906 |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 247 Phoenix, MD 21131 |
| Can You Send a Gift? | No |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 252-331-4881 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
Facilities
Pasquotank Correctional Institution is a North Carolina prison facility that houses male offenders in close and minimum custody. The facility is comprised of four buildings, including the Close Custody Building and a separate Minimum Custody Unit.
Close Custody Building
The Close Custody Building includes a kitchen, dining hall, academic classrooms, mental health offices, and administrative offices. Inmates in the Close Custody Building have limited movement and are under close supervision. They have restricted access to recreational activities and are not allowed to participate in work programs.
Minimum Custody Unit
The Minimum Custody Unit includes a visiting area, recreation area, and dining hall. Inmates in the Minimum Custody Unit have more freedom of movement and are allowed to participate in work programs. They also have access to recreational activities such as sports and games.
Both the Close Custody Building and the Minimum Custody Unit have access to medical and dental services. Inmates in both areas are provided with basic necessities such as clothing, bedding, and hygiene products.
Overall, Pasquotank Correctional Institution provides a secure and controlled environment for inmates in both close and minimum custody. The facility strives to maintain a safe and healthy environment for both inmates and staff.
Programs
Pasquotank Correctional Institution offers a variety of programs to support the rehabilitation and education of incarcerated individuals. These programs are designed to help individuals develop new skills and prepare for life after incarceration.
Education Program
The Education Program at Pasquotank Correctional Institution provides incarcerated individuals with the opportunity to earn their GED. The program is designed to help individuals improve their literacy and numeracy skills, as well as their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The program also provides academic counseling and support to help individuals succeed.
Vocational Programs
Pasquotank Correctional Institution offers a range of vocational programs to help individuals develop new skills and prepare for employment after release. These programs include training in areas such as carpentry, masonry, electrical work, and plumbing. The vocational programs also provide individuals with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications.
Substance Abuse Treatment
Pasquotank Correctional Institution provides substance abuse treatment programs to help individuals overcome addiction. The programs are designed to provide individuals with the tools and support they need to achieve and maintain sobriety. The programs also help individuals develop coping mechanisms and life skills to help them avoid relapse after release.
Mental Health Services
Pasquotank Correctional Institution provides mental health services to incarcerated individuals who require them. The institution has a team of mental health professionals who provide counseling, therapy, and medication management to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues.
Recycling
Pasquotank Correctional Institution participates in county recycling programs. Incarcerated individuals are able to work in the recycling program, which provides them with an opportunity to develop new skills and contribute to the community. The recycling program also helps to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Overall, the programs at Pasquotank Correctional Institution are designed to help individuals develop new skills, overcome challenges, and prepare for life after incarceration. These programs provide individuals with the tools and support they need to succeed and make positive changes in their lives.
Inmates
Security Class
Pasquotank Correctional Institution houses male offenders in close custody and a separate minimum custody unit. Inmates with a close custody security classification are those who have committed serious offenses and pose a significant threat to staff and other inmates. Minimum custody inmates have been classified as lower-risk offenders and have demonstrated good behavior while incarcerated.
Capacity
The prison has a total capacity of 896 inmates. As of June 8, 2023, there were 853 inmates housed at Pasquotank Correctional Institution. The prison is designed to house male inmates only.
Inmates at Pasquotank Correctional Institution have been convicted of a variety of crimes, ranging from drug offenses to violent crimes such as murder. Some of the most notorious inmates to have been housed at the prison include Mikel Brady, Seth Frazier, Veronica Darden, Justin Smith, Wendy Shannon, and Geoffrey Howe.
In 2017, four inmates attempted to escape from Pasquotank Correctional Institution, resulting in the deaths of four prison employees. Mikel Brady was one of the inmates involved in the escape attempt and was subsequently charged with murder.
While Pasquotank Correctional Institution has had its share of high-profile incidents, the vast majority of inmates at the prison serve their sentences without incident and without attempting to escape. The prison offers a variety of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release, including educational and vocational training programs.
Visitation
Pasquotank Correctional Institution allows visitation for inmates in both close and minimum custody units. Visitors must follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety and security of the facility. For more information call 252-331-4881.
Appointment Only
All visits must be scheduled in advance. Visitors must call the facility to schedule an appointment at least two weeks in advance. Only approved visitors are allowed to visit inmates. Visitors must provide valid photo identification such as a driver’s license or passport. In addition, visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list of visitors.
To schedule a visit, visitors can call the facility at 252-331-4881 during business hours. The facility is located at 527 Commerce Drive, Elizabeth City, NC 27909.
The inmate mailing address is as follows:
- Name and Opus Number
- Name of Prison (do not abbreviate)
- P.O. Box 247
- Phoenix, MD 21131
Overall, visitors must follow all rules and regulations set by the facility to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Mail and Packages
Inmates at Pasquotank Correctional Institution are allowed to receive mail and packages from their loved ones. However, all incoming mail is subject to inspection by the prison staff to ensure the safety and security of the facility. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety has strict guidelines for inmate mail, which must be followed by all visitors and inmates.
Inmates are allowed to receive letters, cards, and photographs in the mail. However, any mail that contains pornography, drugs, or other prohibited items will be confiscated and the inmate may face disciplinary action. In addition, inmates are not allowed to receive packages from anyone other than approved vendors.
Approved vendors are companies that have been vetted by the prison staff and are allowed to send packages to inmates. These packages may contain items such as clothing, food, and personal hygiene products. Inmates are not allowed to receive packages from family or friends, as this could be a security risk.
It is important to note that all incoming packages are subject to inspection by the prison staff. Any packages that contain prohibited items will be confiscated and the inmate may face disciplinary action. In addition, inmates are only allowed to receive one package per week, so it is important to plan accordingly.
Overall, the mail and package policy at Pasquotank Correctional Institution is designed to ensure the safety and security of the facility, while still allowing inmates to maintain contact with their loved ones. Visitors and inmates should familiarize themselves with the guidelines set forth by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to avoid any issues with incoming mail or packages.
Work Programs
Pasquotank Correctional Institution offers various work programs to its inmates, which include community work squads, prison work, and road cleanup crews. These programs provide inmates with opportunities to develop new skills, earn wages, and give back to the community.
Community Work Squads
The community work squads consist of minimum custody inmates who work on various projects, such as cleaning up parks, highways, and other public areas. These inmates are supervised by correctional officers and are required to wear distinctive clothing to identify them as inmates. The work squads provide a valuable service to the community while also giving inmates a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
Prison Work
Pasquotank Correctional Institution also has a variety of work programs available for adult males of all custody levels. Inmates can work in a range of jobs, such as janitorial services, food service, and maintenance. They can also participate in vocational training programs, such as carpentry, welding, and auto mechanics. These programs provide inmates with valuable job skills and work experience, which can help them successfully reintegrate into society upon release.
Road Cleanup Crews
In addition to community work squads, Pasquotank Correctional Institution also has road cleanup crews. These crews consist of inmates who are responsible for cleaning up litter along highways and other roadways. Inmates are provided with safety equipment and are supervised by correctional officers. This program not only helps keep the roads clean but also provides inmates with an opportunity to work outdoors and get exercise.
Overall, the work programs at Pasquotank Correctional Institution provide inmates with opportunities to learn new skills, earn wages, and give back to the community. These programs are an important part of the institution’s efforts to prepare inmates for successful reentry into society.