Overview of Mount Olive Correctional Complex

Mount Olive Correctional Complex (MOCC) is West Virginia’s largest and only maximum-security prison, located in Fayette County, approximately seven miles east of Montgomery. Opened in 1995, this facility replaced the aging West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville, known for its Civil War-era architecture. MOCC has a capacity of 1,030 inmates and is designed to house the most violent and dangerous male offenders in the state. The facility includes various inmate populations, such as general population, segregation, and special management units. Additionally, there is the Slayton Work Camp, a 48-bed minimum-security unit located outside the secure perimeter, catering to non-violent, low-risk offenders.

The prison functions like a small town, offering comprehensive facilities like a medical clinic, gymnasium, chapel, classrooms, and more, along with security measures that include both electronic and manual controls. MOCC also offers educational and vocational programs to help inmates with rehabilitation, including a unique partnership with Appalachian Bible College, which allows inmates to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Bible & Theology.

Mount Olive Correctional Complex in West Virginia

Contact Information for Mount Olive Correctional Complex

Visiting Information for Mount Olive Correctional Complex

Visiting hours at Mount Olive Correctional Complex are typically on weekends, with visitor processing starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending by 10:30 a.m. In the afternoon, visiting hours extend from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Inmates in the general population can receive visitors for up to six hours, while those in segregation may have more limited times.

When visiting MOCC, visitors must bring a valid ID and are advised to dress appropriately. You are not allowed to bring gifts or cash, and all visitors undergo thorough security checks before entering. A maximum of three people may visit an inmate at a time, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Visits are an important part of inmate rehabilitation, helping maintain family bonds.

How to Book a Visit to Mount Olive Correctional Complex

To book a visit to Mount Olive Correctional Complex, you need to contact the facility directly or fill out a visitation request form through the prison’s website. Be prepared with the inmate’s name and ID number. Booking in advance is necessary, as visitation slots fill quickly. Always check for any special regulations before your visit, such as restrictions on certain days or requirements for first-time visitors.

 

Directions and Parking for Mount Olive Correctional Complex

Mount Olive Correctional Complex is located on Cannelton Hollow Road, just east of Montgomery in Fayette County, West Virginia. If driving from Montgomery, follow Route 60 East until you reach Cannelton Hollow Road. Ample parking is available at the facility, though visitors should arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

 

Life Inside Mount Olive Correctional Complex

For the inmates at Mount Olive Correctional Complex, life is highly structured. Inmates in the general population are allowed some movement within the facility, including time for recreational activities, educational programs, and work assignments such as making license plates through Correctional Industries. However, those in segregation units spend most of their time in cells, sometimes up to 23 hours a day, depending on their security status.

Staff shortages and difficult working conditions are ongoing issues at the facility. Inmates with life sentences or long terms are a significant portion of the population, and the prison faces challenges with overcrowding, as well as mental health and aging concerns.

Famous Prisoners at Mount Olive Correctional Complex

Mount Olive has housed several notorious inmates over the years. Among them is Charles Redman, who was sentenced to 40 years for second-degree murder. The facility has also been involved in high-profile cases, including a lawsuit addressing issues of overcrowding and understaffing, which has affected both inmates and staff.

 

FAQs about Mount Olive Correctional Complex

  1. Where is Mount Olive Correctional Complex located?
    Mount Olive Correctional Complex is located in Fayette County, West Virginia, about seven miles east of Montgomery.

  2. What type of inmates are housed at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    Mount Olive Correctional Complex houses male inmates, including maximum-security offenders and those deemed to be high-risk or violent.

  3. How can I contact Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    You can contact the facility at (304) 442-7213 or visit in person at 1 Mountainside Way, Mount Olive, WV 25185.

  4. What is the capacity of Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    The facility can accommodate up to 1,030 inmates.

  5. Can I send packages to an inmate at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    All packages must be sent through approved vendors. The prison has strict guidelines on what inmates can receive.

  6. What are the visiting hours at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    Visiting hours are on weekends, starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending at 3:30 p.m. Visitors should arrive early for processing.

  7. How can I book a visit to Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    Visits can be booked by contacting the facility or submitting a request form through the prison’s website.

  8. What programs are offered to inmates at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    Educational and vocational programs, including a unique Bible and Theology degree through Appalachian Bible College, are available to inmates.

  9. What are the security measures at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    MOCC has both electronic and manual security controls, with some inmates spending 23 hours a day in their cells for security reasons.

  10. Are there any notorious prisoners currently housed at Mount Olive Correctional Complex?
    Mount Olive has housed several high-profile inmates, including individuals involved in high-profile crimes and lawsuits.

External Links:

For more information, visit the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Sources:

Visit Moultrie Correctional Institution