Grafton Correctional Institution: General Overview

Grafton Correctional Institution, located in Grafton, Ohio, is a state-run facility that houses adult male inmates. Opened in 1988, it is operated by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC). With a capacity to hold up to 2,074 inmates, Grafton is a medium- and minimum-security prison. The facility focuses on rehabilitation through various educational, vocational, and community service programs. Grafton Correctional Institution also features special housing units, including a veterans’ unit and faith-based units, designed to support inmate reintegration into society.

 

Grafton Correctional Institution

Grafton Correctional Institution Contact Information

  • Address:
    Grafton Correctional Institution
    2500 South Avon Belden Road
    Grafton, OH 44044
  • Phone: (440) 748-1161
  • Fax: (440) 748-2521
  • Email: drc.gci@odrc.state.oh.us

Grafton Correctional Institution Visiting Information

Visiting an inmate at Grafton Correctional Institution requires an approved application. Visits are scheduled based on the inmate’s ID number, with sessions available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Morning visitation runs from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and the afternoon session is from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the session begins for check-in.

What to Bring:

  • A valid government-issued ID
  • Up to $20 in coins for vending machines
  • No cell phones, purses, or bags are allowed

Visits are typically held in a communal area, and visitors can expect a friendly environment with opportunities to interact with inmates through conversation and board games. All interactions are monitored for security reasons.

How to Book a Visit at Grafton Correctional Institution

To book a visit, use the ODRC’s online scheduling system or call the facility directly. The process requires the inmate’s ID number, visitor identification, and approval status. You will also need to ensure that the time slot aligns with the inmate’s eligibility based on the last digit of their ID number.

 

Directions and Parking for Grafton Correctional Institution

Grafton Correctional Institution is located at 2500 South Avon Belden Road, Grafton, OH. The easiest way to reach the prison is via I-480 or I-90, taking the Grafton exit. Ample parking is available on-site, with designated visitor parking areas near the entrance. Be sure to allow extra time for parking and security checks before your scheduled visitation.

 

Life Inside Grafton Correctional Institution

Life for inmates at Grafton Correctional Institution is structured around rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. Programs include education leading to GED certification, vocational training in fields like welding, culinary arts, and landscaping, as well as apprenticeships in braille transcription and tailoring. Inmates also participate in community service, such as roadside cleanups and animal care. These initiatives are designed to provide inmates with valuable skills and reduce recidivism upon release.

Recent news highlights include the development of a culinary training program, which offers inmates a chance to earn a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and job placement opportunities post-release. The prison also garnered attention for hosting a unique five-course meal event for the public as part of its outreach efforts.

Famous Prisoners at Grafton Correctional Institution

Several high-profile inmates have served time at Grafton Correctional Institution, including:

  • Ronnie Shelton: A notorious serial rapist, Shelton was sentenced to thousands of years in prison. He died by suicide in 2018.
  • Daniel Petric: Convicted for the murder of his mother and the attempted murder of his father, Daniel Petric has been housed at Grafton Correctional Institution.

FAQs About Grafton Correctional Institution

  • What is Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Grafton Correctional Institution is a state prison in Ohio that houses male inmates under minimum and medium security classifications.
  • How do I contact Grafton Correctional Institution?

  • How can I book a visit at Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Visits can be booked through the ODRC’s online system or by calling the facility. You will need the inmate’s ID number and approval as a visitor.
  • What security level is Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • The facility holds inmates at both minimum and medium security levels.
  • What programs are offered to inmates at Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Grafton provides GED education, vocational training, apprenticeships, and reentry programs focused on reducing recidivism.
  • What is the capacity of Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • The institution has a capacity of 2,074 inmates.
  • Can I send books to an inmate at Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Yes, but books must be sent directly from a publisher or authorized retailer to comply with prison regulations.
  • What is the process for sending mail to an inmate at Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Mail must include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and the facility’s mailing address. Ensure all items comply with prison guidelines.
  • Are there special units at Grafton Correctional Institution?

    • Yes, the prison features special housing units, including those for veterans and faith-based groups.
  • Has Grafton Correctional Institution been involved in any controversies?

    • Like many prisons, Grafton has faced challenges, including allegations of misconduct. However, the institution works continuously to improve conditions and address concerns.

Conclusion

Grafton Correctional Institution is an integral part of Ohio’s correctional system, balancing security with a strong focus on inmate rehabilitation. From its extensive vocational training programs to its community outreach, Grafton strives to prepare inmates for life after incarceration. Visitors can connect with their loved ones through well-structured visiting procedures, while inmates benefit from a range of services aimed at fostering personal growth and societal reintegration.

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