Broad River Correctional Institution: General Overview

Broad River Correctional Institution is a maximum-security prison located in Columbia, South Carolina. This facility primarily houses male inmates convicted of violent crimes and those serving long sentences. As a Level 3 facility, it holds some of the most dangerous offenders in the state, including death row inmates. Inmates are housed in single or double cells, and the institution provides 24/7 medical care for those with special health needs. Established in 1988, Broad River Correctional Institution is also the site where South Carolina’s executions are carried out.

This facility offers a range of rehabilitative and educational programs, including vocational training through its Industries program, which operates a sign shop and a license plate manufacturing plant. Inmates also have access to literacy programs, GED preparation, and religious services.

Broad River Correctional Institution

Contact Information for Broad River Correctional Institution

Visiting Information for Broad River Correctional Institution

Visiting an inmate at Broad River Correctional Institution requires you to follow strict guidelines. Visits are typically scheduled by appointment, and all visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list. Be prepared to show valid identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. The number of visitors per inmate may be limited, so confirm the rules beforehand.

  • Visiting Hours: You must contact the prison directly to verify visiting hours as they can change frequently.
  • What to Bring: Only essential items like ID are permitted. No phones, food, or bags are allowed. The prison has strict regulations on what can be brought into the visiting area.
  • Duration: Visits typically last 1-2 hours, depending on the day and inmate privileges.

How to Book a Visit at Broad River Correctional Institution

Booking a visit at Broad River Correctional Institution can be done by contacting the facility directly. You will need the inmate’s name and ID number to schedule the visit. Ensure you have all required documentation and that the inmate has listed you as an approved visitor.

 

Directions and Parking at Broad River Correctional Institution

Broad River Correctional Institution is located at 4460 Broad River Road in Columbia, South Carolina. Visitors should use the main entrance off Broad River Road. The facility has a parking lot available for visitors, but spaces may be limited during busy times, so plan to arrive early.

For those using GPS or maps, entering the full address will provide accurate directions. The facility is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Columbia.

Life Inside Broad River Correctional Institution

Life inside Broad River Correctional Institution is highly regimented due to the high-security nature of the facility. Inmates follow a strict daily schedule, with limited time for recreational activities. The facility offers several programs aimed at reducing recidivism, including GED courses, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training in trades like barbering and manufacturing.

Despite these efforts, contraband and violence remain significant issues. Broad River has been involved in several investigations into the smuggling of illegal goods and weapons. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on mental health services, especially for inmates in crisis.

 

Famous Prisoners at Broad River Correctional Institution

Broad River Correctional Institution has housed some of South Carolina’s most notorious criminals:

  • Todd Kohlhepp: A serial killer and rapist convicted of seven murders, currently serving life without parole.
  • Quincy Allen: Convicted of killing four people in a series of murders across South Carolina.
  • Hastings Wise: Executed in 2005 for killing four workers during a workplace shooting.

FAQs About Broad River Correctional Institution

1. How do I send money to an inmate at Broad River Correctional Institution?
You can send money via U.S. Postal Service in the form of a money order made payable to the inmate, or use online services like Western Union.

2. What is the security level of Broad River Correctional Institution?
Broad River is a Level 3 maximum-security prison that houses inmates with violent criminal histories and long sentences, including death row inmates.

3. Can I call an inmate at Broad River Correctional Institution?
Inmates cannot receive incoming calls, but they can make outbound calls using pre-approved methods, such as calling cards or collect calls.

4. How do I locate an inmate at Broad River Correctional Institution?
You can use the South Carolina Department of Corrections’ online inmate search tool by entering the inmate’s name or ID number.

5. What educational programs are offered at Broad River Correctional Institution?
Inmates can enroll in GED courses, adult literacy programs, and vocational training, such as the Barber Tech Academy and Sign Shop.

6. What are the rules for visitation at Broad River Correctional Institution?
Visitors must be on the approved list and follow the prison’s visitation guidelines, including dress codes and restricted items. All visitors must present valid ID.

7. Is there parking available for visitors at Broad River Correctional Institution?
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors, but space may be limited during peak visiting hours.

8. What kind of rehabilitation programs are offered?
Inmates have access to programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, anger management, and job skills training through the Prison Industries Program.

9. Are inmates at Broad River Correctional Institution allowed to work?
Yes, inmates can work in various prison industries, such as manufacturing license plates and refurbishing golf carts.

10. How are executions carried out at Broad River Correctional Institution?
Broad River is the designated site for executions in South Carolina, using methods authorized by the state, including lethal injection and the electric chair.

Conclusion

Broad River Correctional Institution is a maximum-security prison that plays a critical role in housing and rehabilitating some of South Carolina’s most dangerous offenders. While it offers a variety of educational and vocational programs, it remains a challenging environment for inmates due to its high-security protocols and frequent issues with contraband.

For more information on Broad River Correctional Institution, visit the official South Carolina Department of Corrections website.

Sources:

Visit Bridgewater State Hospital