Marion Correctional Center: Overview

Marion Correctional Center is a state prison in North Carolina located in McDowell County. Established in 1995, it operates as a close- and minimum-security facility for adult male offenders. Originally designed as a medium-security prison, Marion was later expanded to meet the state’s demand for high-security housing. With a current capacity of 793 inmates, Marion houses individuals serving time for various felonies and provides a wide range of rehabilitative programs aimed at education, job training, and behavioral therapy. Programs like GED preparation, vocational training, and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention help inmates reintegrate into society upon release.

 

Marion Correctional Center in North Carolina

Contact Information for Marion Correctional Center

  • Address: 355 Old Glenwood Road, Marion, NC 28752
  • Phone: (828) 659-7810
  • Capacity: 793 inmates
  • Email: Not publicly available. Contact via phone for details.
  • Facility Type: Close and minimum custody for male inmates

Visiting Information for Marion Correctional Center

Visitation at Marion Correctional Center is crucial for maintaining inmate-family connections. Visits are typically scheduled by appointment, and visitors must adhere to strict guidelines.

  • Visiting Hours: Appointments are required. Hours may vary, so it’s advised to call ahead.
  • What to Bring: A valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is necessary. Minors must be accompanied by an adult and bring appropriate identification.
  • Visit Duration: Each visit typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on the facility’s schedule and the inmate’s custody level.
  • Items Allowed: Minimal personal items are allowed, such as car keys and cash for vending machines. All items will be inspected.

How to Book a Visit at Marion Correctional Center

Booking a visit at Marion Correctional Center requires calling the prison ahead of time to schedule an appointment. Visitors should be prepared to provide the inmate’s full name, ID number, and the date and time they wish to visit.

  • What You Need to Book: Full name of the inmate, their ID number, and personal identification.
  • Maximum Number of Visitors: Up to three visitors can attend at one time, but this varies based on the inmate’s custody level.

Directions and Parking at Marion Correctional Center

Located at 355 Old Glenwood Road in Marion, North Carolina, the correctional center is accessible via major roads.

  • Directions: From I-40, take Exit 86 towards Marion. Follow signs for Old Glenwood Road, and the facility will be on your left.
  • Parking: Visitor parking is available on-site. Spaces are limited, so arriving early is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

What is Marion Correctional Center Like for Inmates?

Life inside Marion Correctional Center revolves around structure and rehabilitation. Inmates are given opportunities to engage in educational and vocational programs, which include GED preparation, horticulture, and computer skills training. The facility also offers various behavioral programs, such as Cognitive Behavioral Intervention, designed to help inmates make better decisions and develop new coping strategies. Marion also features unique initiatives like the “New Leash on Life” program, which allows inmates to train shelter dogs for adoption, providing a sense of responsibility and purpose.

The prison has faced some criticism in the past for overcrowded conditions and inmate grievances related to cold temperatures, particularly in areas housing mentally ill inmates. Legal cases, such as the one involving the death of Charles Givens, have drawn attention to conditions inside the prison and raised questions about the treatment of vulnerable inmates.

Famous Prisoners at Marion Correctional Center

While Marion Correctional Center is not known for housing a large number of notorious criminals, it has been home to several high-profile inmates. One notable case is that of Charles Givens, whose death in 2022 led to a lawsuit and broader questions about the treatment of mentally ill inmates within the prison system.

 

FAQs About Marion Correctional Center

  • Where is Marion Correctional Center located? Marion Correctional Center is in McDowell County, North Carolina, at 355 Old Glenwood Road.

  • What types of inmates does Marion Correctional Center house? The prison houses close and minimum custody adult male inmates.

  • What is the visiting schedule for Marion Correctional Center? Visiting hours vary, and visits must be scheduled in advance by calling the prison directly.

  • How do I schedule a visit at Marion Correctional Center? You can schedule a visit by calling the prison at (828) 659-7810 and providing the necessary details such as the inmate’s name and ID number.

  • Can I bring food during my visit? No, outside food is not permitted. However, there are vending machines on-site.

  • Does Marion Correctional Center offer educational programs? Yes, the prison offers GED preparation, vocational training, and other educational programs.

  • What is the capacity of Marion Correctional Center? Marion Correctional Center has a capacity of 793 inmates.

  • Are there work programs for inmates at Marion Correctional Center? Yes, inmates can participate in work programs, including on-site jobs and work release programs in the community.

  • What is the process for mailing an inmate at Marion Correctional Center? All mail must follow the facility’s guidelines. It is best to contact the prison directly for current mailing procedures.

  • What rehabilitation programs are available at Marion Correctional Center? Marion offers cognitive behavioral programs, vocational training, and character education, among others.

Summary

Marion Correctional Center, a close and minimum custody prison for adult males, is committed to rehabilitation and skill-building for inmates. While providing essential programs, it has also faced scrutiny over conditions for vulnerable populations. Visitors should carefully plan visits by scheduling appointments in advance, and the facility’s various programs aim to help inmates reintegrate into society with useful skills and support.

For further information, visit the  NC DAC

Visit Malibu Correctional Facility