The Sussex Correctional Institution (SCI) is a maximum, medium, and minimum security prison located in Georgetown, Delaware. It is one of the oldest correctional facilities in the state, having opened its doors in 1931. The SCI houses an all-male population and is designed to hold a capacity of 1,206 inmates.
Recently, a major expansion project was completed at the SCI to increase its capacity, improve security measures, and enhance the living conditions of its inmates. The expansion project included the construction of new housing units, recreation areas, and medical facilities. The SCI has implemented several programs to help inmates with their rehabilitation, including education, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment.
As with any correctional facility, the SCI has faced its share of challenges, including overcrowding, understaffing, and security concerns. However, the SCI has taken steps to address these issues and improve the safety and well-being of its staff and inmates. The SCI is an important part of Delaware’s criminal justice system and plays a vital role in maintaining public safety.
| Security | Mixed |
| Capacity | 1,206 |
| Physical Address | 23203 Dupont Blvd, Georgetown, DE 19947 |
| Mailing Address | P O Box 500 Georgetown DE 19947 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | (302) 856-5280 |
| Jurisdiction | State |
History and Location
Sussex Correctional Institution is a correctional facility located in Georgetown, Delaware. It was opened in 1931 and is one of the oldest correctional facilities in the state. SCI houses an all-male population in maximum, medium, and minimum security housing units.
Over the years, SCI has undergone several expansion projects to increase its capacity. Between April 1997 and April 2000, 760 beds were added to the facility for a total capacity of 1,206 beds. A major expansion project was recently completed at SCI, which included the construction of a new housing unit and the renovation of several existing buildings.
SCI is located on Dupont Blvd in Georgetown, which is the county seat of Sussex County. Georgetown is a small town in southern Delaware with a population of approximately 7,000 people. It is located about 15 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its historic downtown area and annual Georgetown Christmas Parade.
SCI is operated by the Delaware Department of Correction, which was created in 1975 by Senate Bill 487. The Department is responsible for the custody and care of inmates in Delaware’s correctional facilities, as well as the supervision of probationers and parolees. The Department’s mission is to provide safe, secure, and humane correctional services to the public, staff, and inmates.
Inmate Information
Inmate Identification
Inmates at Sussex Correctional Institution are identified by their SBI number, which is a unique identifier assigned to them upon entry into the correctional facility. Inmates are also identified by their last name. Visitors and those sending mail to inmates should include the inmate’s full name and SBI number to ensure proper identification and delivery.
Inmate Custody Levels
Sussex Correctional Institution houses maximum, medium, and minimum security inmates. Inmates are assigned custody levels based on their criminal history, behavior in prison, and other factors. Maximum security inmates are housed in the most secure areas of the prison and have the most restrictions on their movements and activities. Medium and minimum security inmates have fewer restrictions and may have more privileges, such as being allowed to work outside the prison or participate in educational programs.
Inmate Success
Sussex Correctional Institution offers a range of programs and services designed to help inmates succeed after their release. These include educational programs, job training, and substance abuse treatment. Inmates who participate in these programs may be more likely to find employment and avoid reoffending after their release.
Overall, Sussex Correctional Institution strives to provide a safe and secure environment for inmates while also offering opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation.
Visitation Information
Visiting an incarcerated person is a privilege, not a right. Sussex Correctional Institution allows inmates to have visitors on certain days and times, but there are strict rules that visitors must follow. Here is some important information about visiting an inmate at SCI. Visitors can call to make an appointment at (302) 856-5545 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Visitation Rules
To visit an inmate at SCI, visitors must complete a Visitor Consent Form and submit it to SCI at least 24 hours before the visit. Visitors must also provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Visitors are subject to a search before entering the facility, and any prohibited items will be confiscated.
Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visiting area, except for a clear plastic bag containing a small amount of money for the vending machines. Visitors are not allowed to bring any food or drinks into the facility. Visitors should dress appropriately and avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing.
Visitors must follow all instructions given by SCI staff during the visit. Visitors who violate any of the rules or engage in inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave and may be banned from future visits.
In conclusion, visiting an inmate at SCI can be a rewarding experience, but visitors must follow all rules and regulations. By doing so, visitors can help ensure the safety and security of the facility and its inmates.
Communication with Inmates
Inmates at Sussex Correctional Institution have limited communication options with the outside world. However, the Delaware Department of Correction (DOC) provides several ways for family and friends to stay in touch with their incarcerated loved ones.
Phone Calls
Inmates at SCI are permitted to make phone calls, but they must first be approved by the facility. Phone calls are limited to 15 minutes and can only be made to individuals on the inmate’s approved call list. The DOC has contracted with GTL (Global Tel*Link) to provide phone services for inmates. To set up an account and add funds for an inmate to make calls, family and friends can visit the GTL website or call their customer service line.
Money Orders
Inmates at SCI are not allowed to receive cash or personal checks. However, family and friends can send money orders to inmates, which can be used to purchase items from the commissary or to pay for phone calls. Money orders must be made out to the inmate and include their full name and SID number. They can be mailed to the following address:
Inmate Name
SBI Number
Sussex Correctional Institution
Building & Tier where inmate is housed
P O Box 500
Georgetown DE 19947It is recommended that family and friends keep a record of the money order’s serial number and date of purchase, in case there are any issues with delivery or processing.
Communication with inmates at SCI may be limited, but the DOC provides these options to help families and friends stay connected with their loved ones. It is important to follow the guidelines and procedures set forth by the facility to ensure that communication is maintained in a safe and secure manner.
Incidents and Investigations
Sussex Correctional Institution has been the subject of several incidents and investigations in recent years. One such incident occurred on June 25, 2022, when an inmate died at the facility. The Delaware State Police conducted an investigation into the death, and the victim was later identified. The details surrounding the circumstances and cause of the death have not been made public.
Another incident at the institution occurred on August 14, 2022, when a 62-year-old inmate experienced a sudden life-threatening cardiac arrest while working in the SCI kitchen. Thanks to the quick response of correctional officers and medical professionals, the inmate’s life was saved. The Delaware Department of Correction recognized those involved for their heroic actions.
In 2021, Sussex Correctional Institution received the highest number of allegations of sexual abuse and harassment among Delaware correctional facilities, according to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Annual Report. The facility received 87 allegations, while Howard R. Young Correctional Center received only one allegation.
The Delaware State Police and the Delaware Department of Correction work together to investigate incidents and ensure the safety and security of inmates and staff at correctional facilities across the state. The investigations are conducted thoroughly and impartially, and the results are made public when appropriate.
Overall, while incidents and investigations do occur at Sussex Correctional Institution, the facility is committed to addressing any issues that arise and maintaining a safe and secure environment for all those within its walls.