Charlotte Correctional Institution Overview

Charlotte Correctional Institution, located in Punta Gorda, Florida, is a high-security prison designed to house male offenders with varying custody levels—minimum, medium, and close. Opened in 1989, this state prison has a maximum capacity of 1,291 inmates. The facility is operated by the Florida Department of Corrections and provides educational and vocational training programs to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release. Despite its rehabilitative efforts, the prison has been subject to controversy over inmate deaths and other incidents in recent years.

 

Charlotte Correctional Institution in Punta Gorda

Contact Information for Charlotte Correctional Institution

For inmate inquiries, use the Florida Department of Corrections inmate search tool.

Visiting Charlotte Correctional Institution

Visiting hours at Charlotte Correctional Institution are held on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors should arrive early to allow time for processing and adhere to the dress code provided by the prison. The institution encourages family visits to support inmate rehabilitation, but each visitor must be pre-approved through a background check.

What to Bring to a Visit: Visitors should bring a valid ID, the inmate’s information (full name and DOC number), and follow specific guidelines regarding clothing and personal items (like money for vending machines). Personal belongings like cell phones or bags are not allowed inside the visitation area.

How to Book a Visit at Charlotte Correctional Institution

To schedule a visit, you must complete an application available through the Florida Department of Corrections. The approval process may take several weeks, so plan ahead. Each inmate is permitted a limited number of visitors, typically up to four at one time. Visits are family-friendly, and you can expect to spend the day in a designated visitation room under the supervision of staff.

 

Directions and Parking at Charlotte Correctional Institution

Charlotte Correctional Institution is located off Oil Well Road, a short distance from I-75, making it accessible for visitors traveling from various parts of Florida. Free parking is available near the facility, but ensure you leave prohibited items in your vehicle as they will not be allowed inside.

 

Life Inside Charlotte Correctional Institution and Latest News

Life inside Charlotte Correctional Institution is structured, with inmates spending time in shared “pods” for recreational activities like watching TV, reading, or playing cards. Educational programs such as GED classes, literacy programs, and vocational training in fields like masonry are offered to help inmates acquire new skills. The prison has faced scrutiny in the past for inmate deaths, including high-profile incidents like the 2014 death of inmate Matthew Walker at the hands of guards. Recent improvements have been made to address these concerns, but the institution remains a challenging environment, especially for those serving long-term sentences.

 

Famous Prisoners at Charlotte Correctional Institution

Notable inmates include Lionel Tate, the youngest person in U.S. history sentenced to life imprisonment without parole for murder, and Tony Ables, a convicted serial killer. These cases have brought national attention to the institution over the years.

 

FAQs About Charlotte Correctional Institution

  • Where is Charlotte Correctional Institution located?
    Charlotte Correctional Institution is located in Punta Gorda, Florida, at 33123 Oil Well Road.

  • What type of inmates does Charlotte Correctional Institution house?
    The prison houses male offenders of various security levels, including minimum, medium, and close.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Charlotte Correctional Institution?
    Inmates can receive mail at the facility by using the address:
    Inmate Name, Inmate ID #
    33123 Oil Well Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33955.

  • How do I book a visit?
    To book a visit, submit a visitor application through the Florida Department of Corrections. The process can take several weeks for approval.

  • What are the visiting hours?
    Visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

  • Is there parking available at the prison?
    Yes, free parking is available on-site for visitors.

  • What vocational programs are offered at the prison?
    Inmates can participate in masonry and environmental services vocational programs.

  • Has the prison had any incidents of violence?
    Yes, there have been incidents, including the death of inmate Matthew Walker in 2014, which led to investigations and staff changes.

  • Can inmates receive books and magazines?
    Yes, but these must be sent directly from the publisher to comply with prison regulations.

  • Who is the current warden?
    The current warden is John Willis, overseeing the facility’s operations and security measures.

Conclusion

Charlotte Correctional Institution plays a critical role in housing and rehabilitating Florida’s male inmates through a combination of educational and vocational programs. While it has faced its share of controversies, efforts are being made to improve conditions and offer inmates better opportunities for personal growth and re-entry into society. Whether you’re planning to visit an inmate or simply seeking more information, staying informed about the institution’s rules and operations is essential.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Florida Department of Corrections official site​

Visit Charleston Correctional Facility