Ojibway Correctional Facility Overview
Ojibway Correctional Facility, located in Marenisco Township, Michigan, was a state prison for male inmates. Established in 1971 as a camp, it was later transformed into a Level I correctional facility in 2000. With a capacity of 1,180 inmates, it housed adult males and focused on rehabilitative services, including education, vocational training, and treatment programs. The facility was known for its minimum-security level, offering GED programs and basic adult education, with a secure perimeter monitored by armed guards.
However, Ojibway Correctional Facility was closed in December 2018 due to budget cuts and declining prisoner populations. Its closure had a significant impact on the local economy of Marenisco Township and Gogebic County, where the prison was a major employer. Despite its shutdown, Ojibway remains an important part of Michigan’s correctional history.
Contact Information for Ojibway Correctional Facility
While the facility is no longer operational, here is the last known contact information:
- Address: N 5705 Ojibway Road, Marenisco, MI 49947
- Phone Number: (906) 787-2217
- Warden (at time of closure): Kathleen Olson
For more up-to-date information about facilities in the region, you can visit the Michigan Department of Corrections website.
Visiting Information for Ojibway Correctional Facility
Prior to its closure in 2018, Ojibway Correctional Facility had standard visiting hours in line with Michigan Department of Corrections policies. Visitors needed to complete a visitor application and follow strict guidelines, such as bringing valid ID and adhering to dress codes. Visits were designed to offer inmates some time with family and friends, typically lasting up to two hours per session, depending on the inmate’s housing unit and schedule.
How to Book a Prison Visit at Ojibway Correctional Facility
Though the facility is closed, the process for booking a visit at other Michigan prisons remains similar. Visitors were required to be on an inmate’s approved visitation list and needed to book their slots in advance through the facility’s administration. Bringing a government-issued ID, following the dress code, and limiting personal items were mandatory. Up to four visitors could be allowed at one time, and both in-person and video visitation were available.
How to Get to Ojibway Correctional Facility
Ojibway Correctional Facility was located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, near M-64 in Marenisco Township. The prison had limited access to public transportation, and most visitors traveled by car. Parking was available near the facility, but visitors were advised to arrive early to allow time for security checks.
What was Ojibway Correctional Facility Like for a Prisoner?
Inmates at Ojibway Correctional Facility had access to a variety of educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation and reentry preparation. The facility provided General Education Development (GED) courses, basic education, and vocational training to prepare inmates for life after incarceration. Despite being a minimum-security facility, the prison maintained strict control with two security fences and armed personnel monitoring the perimeter.
Ojibway also provided basic healthcare services on-site, with more complex cases referred to a nearby healthcare facility. Since its closure in 2018, former inmates and employees have reflected on the tight-knit community the prison created, both within its walls and in the local area.
Famous Prisoners at Ojibway Correctional Facility
While Ojibway Correctional Facility did not house high-profile prisoners compared to other Michigan facilities, it was part of the state’s broader correctional system that aimed at rehabilitating low-security inmates. Most prisoners were involved in non-violent crimes and participated in educational and vocational programs as part of their rehabilitation.
FAQs about Ojibway Correctional Facility
1. What was the capacity of Ojibway Correctional Facility?
Ojibway Correctional Facility had a capacity of 1,180 male inmates.
2. When did Ojibway Correctional Facility close?
Ojibway Correctional Facility officially closed on December 1, 2018, due to budgetary constraints and a decline in inmate numbers.
3. Where was Ojibway Correctional Facility located?
The prison was located at N 5705 Ojibway Road, Marenisco Township, Michigan, in Gogebic County.
4. What security level was Ojibway Correctional Facility?
Ojibway Correctional Facility was classified as a Level I, minimum-security prison.
5. What type of programs did Ojibway Correctional Facility offer?
The facility offered GED education, adult basic education, vocational training, and pre-release programs.
6. How could you visit an inmate at Ojibway Correctional Facility?
Visitors had to apply for approval, bring valid ID, and schedule visits in advance. Both in-person and video visits were allowed.
7. What was the economic impact of Ojibway’s closure?
The closure of the facility significantly impacted the local economy, as it was a major employer in the region.
8. What healthcare services were available to inmates at Ojibway?
Inmates received routine medical and dental care on-site, with emergency cases referred to local hospitals.
9. Why was Ojibway Correctional Facility closed?
The prison was closed as part of Michigan’s budget cuts and efforts to consolidate its prison system due to declining inmate populations.
10. Can I still contact the Michigan Department of Corrections about Ojibway Correctional Facility?
Yes, for information related to the facility or former inmates, you can contact the Michigan Department of Corrections.
Summary and Conclusion
Ojibway Correctional Facility was a key part of Michigan’s correctional system, providing rehabilitation services to low-security inmates for nearly 50 years before its closure in 2018. While it no longer operates, its history and impact on the community remain significant. For more information on Michigan’s correctional facilities, visit the
Sources:
- Michigan Department of Corrections
- Wikipedia
- PrisonPro
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