Lee Correctional Center Overview

Lee Correctional Center, located in Bishopville, South Carolina, is a maximum-security prison housing some of the state’s most dangerous and violent male offenders. Opened in 1993, it has the capacity to hold 1,785 inmates and is operated by the South Carolina Department of Corrections. The prison is known for its history of violence, including the infamous 2018 riot, which resulted in seven inmate deaths. Lee Correctional Center serves as a high-security facility for long-term and life-sentenced inmates and those who pose a significant threat to public safety.

 

Lee Correctional Center, South Carolina

Contact Information for Lee Correctional Center

Visiting Information for Lee Correctional Center

Visiting an inmate at Lee Correctional Center requires pre-approval. Visitors must fill out a visitation application form available on the South Carolina Department of Corrections website. Only approved visitors will be allowed inside, and everyone must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.

  • Visiting Hours: Typically, visitation occurs on weekends, but the schedule may vary. It’s advisable to contact the prison directly to confirm current visiting hours.
  • What to Bring: Visitors need to bring their ID and should avoid bringing large bags or unnecessary personal items. All visitors, including children, must adhere to a strict dress code and pass through security checks.
  • Length of Visit: Visits generally last a few hours but may vary based on the inmate’s security classification and the facility’s schedule.

How to Book a Visit at Lee Correctional Center

Booking a visit at Lee Correctional Center requires completing a visitor application form available online or by calling the prison directly. Once your application is approved, you can schedule a visit by calling ahead. You’ll need the inmate’s full name and identification number to complete the booking.

  • What You’ll Need: Valid ID, approved visitation application, and inmate’s identification number.
  • Number of Visitors: Typically, up to three visitors, including children, are allowed per visit.
  • What Visits Are Like: Expect thorough security checks, strict adherence to dress codes, and limited physical contact during the visit. Visiting Lee Correctional Center can be an emotional experience, especially for families, given the high-security environment.

Directions and Parking at Lee Correctional Center

Lee Correctional Center is located at 990 Wisacky Highway in Bishopville, South Carolina. It is approximately 40 miles northeast of Columbia, SC, and is easily accessible via major highways. There is parking available for visitors near the facility, but spots may be limited, so arriving early is recommended.

  • Directions: From Columbia, take I-20 East to Exit 120 toward Bishopville. Continue on SC-341 to Wisacky Highway, where the prison is located.
  • Parking: Visitor parking is available, but the area can get congested, especially on visitation days. Make sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

What is Life Like for Prisoners at Lee Correctional Center?

Life inside Lee Correctional Center is marked by strict security measures, minimal freedoms, and high tensions due to the violent nature of many inmates. The facility has a history of violence, including riots and assaults, making it one of South Carolina’s most dangerous prisons. Inmates have access to programs aimed at rehabilitation, including religious services, addiction treatment, and educational programs. However, day-to-day life is highly regulated, with inmates confined to their cells for much of the day.

Recent news reports highlight ongoing issues with contraband, including cell phones and drugs, which have contributed to tensions within the prison. The 2018 riot, the deadliest in the U.S. in 25 years, was sparked by gang conflicts and further emphasized the challenges of managing such a volatile inmate population.

Famous Prisoners at Lee Correctional Center

Lee Correctional Center has housed some of South Carolina’s most notorious criminals, including individuals convicted of murder, gang leaders, and inmates serving life sentences. While specific famous prisoners are not publicly listed, the facility has been known for its high-profile violent offenders involved in the 2018 riot.

 

FAQs about Lee Correctional Center

  • Where is Lee Correctional Center located?
    Lee Correctional Center is located at 990 Wisacky Highway, Bishopville, South Carolina, 29010.

  • What type of prisoners does Lee Correctional Center hold?
    Lee Correctional Center houses high-security male inmates, including those serving long-term sentences for violent crimes.

  • How do I book a visit to Lee Correctional Center?
    To book a visit, you must first complete a visitation application, get it approved, and then schedule a visit by contacting the facility directly.

  • What are the visiting hours at Lee Correctional Center?
    Visiting hours are generally on weekends, but it’s best to call the prison to confirm the specific schedule.

  • How many inmates are housed at Lee Correctional Center?
    Lee Correctional Center can hold up to 1,785 inmates.

  • What happened during the 2018 Lee Correctional Center riot?
    In April 2018, a riot at Lee Correctional Center led to the deaths of seven inmates, making it one of the deadliest prison riots in U.S. history.

  • What security level is Lee Correctional Center?
    Lee Correctional Center is a maximum-security facility.

  • Can I send money to an inmate at Lee Correctional Center?
    Yes, you can send money via money orders or approved online services like GTL. Make sure to include the inmate’s full name and ID number.

  • What is life like for inmates at Lee Correctional Center?
    Life at Lee Correctional Center is heavily regulated, with limited freedom and access to programs, but marked by frequent violence.

  • Is there parking available for visitors at Lee Correctional Center?
    Yes, there is visitor parking available, but it may be limited on busy visitation days.

Summary

Lee Correctional Center is a maximum-security facility housing South Carolina’s most violent offenders. Known for its 2018 riot, the prison is a challenging environment for both inmates and staff. Visitors must follow strict procedures for entry, and the facility provides limited opportunities for inmate rehabilitation.

For more detailed information, you can visit the official South Carolina Department of Corrections website.

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