Allen Correctional Institution Overview

Allen Correctional Institution, located in Lima, Ohio, is a medium-security facility operated by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Established in 1987, the prison houses over 1,400 male inmates under minimum to medium security, with a smaller number classified as close custody. This institution offers a range of educational and vocational programs to help inmates reintegrate into society post-release, including GED programs, apprenticeships, and advanced job training in areas like carpentry and plumbing. Notable programs such as “Bonds Beyond Bars” and “Angels for Animals” demonstrate the institution’s focus on rehabilitation and family connections.

 

Allen Correctional Institution in Lima, Ohio

Contact Information for Allen Correctional Institution

  • Address: Allen Correctional Institution, 2338 North West Street, Lima, Ohio 45801
  • Phone: (419) 224-8000
  • Email: drc.aoci@odrc.state.oh.us

Visitation Information at Allen Correctional Institution

Visitation at Allen Correctional Institution includes both in-person and remote video options. In-person visits are available on specific days, and appointments must be made in advance. Visits typically last 30 minutes but can be extended if additional time is available. All visitors must complete a visitation application and get approval. Up to 15 individuals can be placed on an inmate’s visitation list. When attending a visit, visitors should bring a valid government-issued ID and dress conservatively.

  • Visiting Hours:
    • Morning: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
    • Afternoon: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
    • Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • What to Bring: Government-issued photo ID, completed visitor application.
  • Visitation Duration: Typically 30 minutes; extensions may be granted.

How to Book a Visit to Allen Correctional Institution

To book a visit, you must first be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. The application process includes filling out a visitation form and submitting it for review. Once approved, visits can be scheduled through the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s online system or by calling the facility. You can also use the GettingOut platform for remote video visitation.

 

Directions and Parking Information for Allen Correctional Institution

Allen Correctional Institution is located at 2338 North West Street, Lima, Ohio. It is easily accessible from major highways, including I-75. Visitors will find on-site parking available near the entrance of the facility.

  • Directions: From I-75, take exit 125 onto OH-117 toward Lima. Continue on OH-117 West for approximately 4 miles to reach the facility.
  • Parking: Free visitor parking is available on-site.

What is Life Like at Allen Correctional Institution?

Life inside Allen Correctional Institution focuses on rehabilitation through various educational, vocational, and community service programs. Inmates have access to apprenticeships in trades like carpentry and plumbing, while programs such as “Angels for Animals” allow inmates to care for rescued animals. Inmates can also earn degrees through partnerships with colleges like Sinclair Community College. The facility provides mental health support through specialized units for inmates with psychiatric needs, contributing to their overall well-being.

Recent news surrounding the prison includes escape attempts and efforts to improve security, such as adding new surveillance systems and sealed trash compactors to prevent future escapes. These updates followed a high-profile incident in 2023 when two inmates briefly escaped but were recaptured.

Famous Prisoners at Allen Correctional Institution

Allen Correctional Institution has housed several notorious inmates, including:

  • T.J. Lane: Perpetrator of the 2012 Chardon High School shooting, who briefly escaped in 2014 before being recaptured.
  • Donald Harvey: The infamous “Angel of Death” nurse who was responsible for the deaths of multiple patients in Cincinnati.
  • James Ruppert: Convicted of killing 11 family members in 1975.

FAQs About Allen Correctional Institution

  • What is Allen Correctional Institution? Allen Correctional Institution is a medium-security prison for male inmates located in Lima, Ohio.

  • How do I contact Allen Correctional Institution? You can contact the prison at (419) 224-8000 or via email at drc.aoci@odrc.state.oh.us.

  • How do I book a visit at Allen Correctional Institution? Visits can be scheduled through the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s system or by using the GettingOut platform for video visits.

  • What are the visitation hours at Allen Correctional Institution? Visiting hours are 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM, and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM on designated visitation days.

  • Are there special programs for inmates at Allen Correctional Institution? Yes, inmates can participate in programs such as GED education, vocational training, and rehabilitation initiatives like “Angels for Animals.”

  • What is the security level of Allen Correctional Institution? The facility primarily holds medium-security inmates, with some close-custody inmates housed in a separate section.

  • Can I send mail to an inmate at Allen Correctional Institution? Yes, mail can be sent to inmates following the facility’s guidelines. Ensure the inmate’s name and ID number are included.

  • What educational opportunities are available for inmates? Inmates can earn GEDs, apprenticeships, and even associate degrees through partnerships with local colleges.

  • Has anyone escaped from Allen Correctional Institution? Yes, in 2023 two inmates briefly escaped before being recaptured.

  • Who are some famous prisoners at Allen Correctional Institution? Notable inmates include T.J. Lane, Donald Harvey, and James Ruppert.

Summary and Conclusion

Allen Correctional Institution plays a crucial role in the Ohio prison system, offering a range of rehabilitative services to its inmates. Its commitment to education, vocational training, and mental health support demonstrates the institution’s efforts to prepare prisoners for successful reintegration into society. Despite past security issues, the facility continues to evolve, ensuring the safety of both inmates and the surrounding community.

For more detailed information, visit the official Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

Sources Used:

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