Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center: General Overview
The Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center (ERDCC), located in Bonne Terre, Missouri, is a maximum and medium-security prison that houses adult male inmates. Opened in 2003, the facility is primarily responsible for intake, diagnostic evaluation, and classification of male offenders from eastern Missouri. ERDCC has a capacity of approximately 2,721 inmates and plays a critical role in Missouri’s prison system by assessing inmates’ medical, mental, and behavioral needs before they are transferred to other facilities.
ERDCC offers various programs aimed at rehabilitation and personal development, including Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous, restorative justice programs, and educational courses such as “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” Due to its intake role, the prison frequently experiences lockdowns, reflecting the challenges of managing newly committed individuals.
Contact Information for Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
Address:
Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
2727 Highway K
Bonne Terre, MO 63628
Phone Number: (573) 358-5516
Email: Not publicly available, but inquiries can be directed to the Missouri Department of Corrections via their official website.
Visiting Information for Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
Visiting at ERDCC is available for inmates who have been incarcerated for more than 30 days. Visits occur on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with two time slots:
- 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Visitors must undergo a rigorous application process, which includes a background check. The visiting application can be obtained through the Missouri Department of Corrections website, and approval is required before scheduling a visit. Personal items such as cell phones and bags are prohibited inside the facility, and all visitors must pass through security screening.
Items to Bring:
Visitors can bring coins for vending machines, medication (with a doctor’s note), and limited baby supplies if visiting with an infant.
How to Book a Visit to Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
Booking a visit at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center involves completing a pre-approval process, which includes a background check. Once approved, visitors can schedule an appointment by contacting the prison at (573) 358-5516. Remote visits are also available through the Securus Video Connect service, which allows family and friends to visit virtually from their homes.
To schedule a remote visit:
- Register with Securus Video Connect.
- Select ERDCC as the facility.
- Schedule an available time slot and pay the associated fee (between $5 and $15 per visit).
Directions and Parking at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
The Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center is located off Highway K in Bonne Terre, Missouri, about an hour south of St. Louis. Visitors can easily drive to the facility using Highway 67. Upon arrival, parking is available on-site at no charge. It is advised to arrive early, as security screenings can take time, and visiting slots are limited.
What is Life Like Inside Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center?
Life at ERDCC is largely shaped by its role as a diagnostic facility. Inmates undergo a thorough medical and psychological evaluation during their intake process, which typically lasts 3 to 6 weeks. This period is crucial for determining the inmate’s permanent placement within Missouri’s correctional system.
Due to the frequent intake of new prisoners, ERDCC experiences regular lockdowns to manage inmate behavior and maintain security. The prison offers limited but essential services, including counseling, educational programs, and substance abuse support. However, the environment remains highly structured, and inmates often find it challenging due to the transitional nature of the facility.
Famous Prisoners at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
ERDCC has housed some notorious inmates, particularly those on Missouri’s death row. Notable executions include:
- Russell Bucklew – executed in 2019 for a brutal murder during a home invasion.
- Ernest Lee Johnson – executed in 2021 for a triple homicide at a convenience store.
- Carman Deck – executed in 2022 for the murder of an elderly couple.
- Amber McLaughlin – a notable case, McLaughlin was executed in 2023, the first openly transgender person executed in the United States
FAQs about Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center
What is the Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center?
ERDCC is a maximum/medium security prison in Bonne Terre, Missouri, responsible for processing and evaluating male inmates.How can I schedule a visit at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center?
To schedule a visit, you must complete the visitation application available on the Missouri DOC website and receive approval. After that, contact the prison to book a time slot.What are the visiting hours at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center?
Visits occur on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM.Are remote visits available at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic, and Correctional Center?
Yes, remote video visits are available through Securus Video Connect for a fee.What items are allowed during a visit?
Visitors can bring coins for vending machines, necessary medications (with a doctor’s note), and limited baby supplies.What security measures are in place at ERDCC?
Visitors undergo security screenings, including metal detectors and pat-downs. Personal belongings are not allowed inside.How many inmates does ERDCC house?
ERDCC has a capacity of approximately 2,721 male inmates.What types of programs are offered to inmates at ERDCC?
Inmates have access to programs such as Narcotics Anonymous, restorative justice, and educational courses.How do I send mail to an inmate at ERDCC?
Inmate mail must be sent to the Digital Mail Center for Missouri DOC. Include the inmate’s full name and DOC ID number.What is life like for inmates at ERDCC?
Life at ERDCC is structured around evaluations, assessments, and eventual transfer to a permanent facility, making it a highly transitional environment.