Oregon State Correctional Institution Overview

Oregon State Correctional Institution (OSCI) is a medium-security prison for male inmates located in Salem, Oregon. Established in 1959, OSCI primarily houses younger inmates, many of whom are transitioning from juvenile facilities. With a capacity of 888 beds, about 350 of these are designated for inmates preparing for release. OSCI emphasizes rehabilitation, offering a variety of educational, vocational, and treatment programs to help offenders reintegrate into society. The institution provides services like drug and alcohol treatment, mental health support, and religious programs, alongside vocational opportunities in areas like graphic design, printing, and mail services.

The prison also focuses on inmates with medical or physical needs, housing those who require specialized care but do not need hospitalization. The institution plays a key role in the Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE), offering inmates jobs that develop valuable skills for life after incarceration.

Oregon State Correctional Institution in Salem, OR

Contact Information for Oregon State Correctional Institution

Address:
Oregon State Correctional Institution
3405 Deer Park Drive SE
Salem, OR 97310-9385

Phone Number:
(503) 373-0100

Email:
For general inquiries, you may contact the facility directly via the Oregon Department of Corrections website.

Visiting Information at Oregon State Correctional Institution

Visiting an inmate at Oregon State Correctional Institution is an important way to stay connected. The prison allows visitation five days a week, from Saturday through Wednesday. Visiting hours are as follows:

  • Morning Session: 8:15 AM – 10:40 AM
  • Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM – 3:45 PM

For inmates in Disciplinary Segregation Unit (DSU), visits must be scheduled by appointment by contacting the facility at (503) 373-0173. Always confirm visiting availability before arriving.

During a visit, you can bring up to $15 in quarters for vending machines, and lockers are available for personal items. However, electronic devices, cell phones, and weapons are prohibited. The visiting experience is designed to allow families and friends to connect in a secure and controlled environment, with monitoring to ensure safety.

How to Book a Visit to Oregon State Correctional Institution

To book a visit, you will need the inmate’s name, ID number (often called the SID), and your own identification. It is recommended to schedule visits in advance, especially if the inmate is housed in the DSU. You can call the facility directly to arrange a visit. It is also essential to adhere to the prison’s dress code and follow all rules regarding visitor conduct.

 

Directions and Parking at Oregon State Correctional Institution

Located in Salem, Oregon, OSCI is accessible by major highways. From downtown Salem, you can take State Street to Deer Park Drive SE, which leads directly to the facility. The prison provides ample parking for visitors, but you should arrive early to allow time for security checks.

 

Life Inside Oregon State Correctional Institution

Life at Oregon State Correctional Institution is focused on preparing inmates for successful reentry into society. OSCI provides a range of vocational training opportunities, educational programs, and mental health services. Inmates nearing release can access transitional services to ease their reintegration. However, like many medium-security prisons, inmates face restrictions on their freedoms, with movement and activities closely monitored.

OSCI recently made headlines for its emphasis on inclusivity and rehabilitation. In 2024, the prison held its first-ever LGBT Pride event, reflecting its progressive stance on supporting diverse inmate populations. Additionally, OSCI’s service dog training program has gained recognition for helping inmates develop empathy and responsibility while preparing dogs for community service roles.

Famous Prisoners at Oregon State Correctional Institution

Among OSCI’s most infamous inmates is Kipland Philip Kinkel, the perpetrator of the 1998 Thurston High School shooting. Kinkel is serving a 112-year sentence, making him ineligible for parole until the 22nd century. His case continues to draw national attention due to debates surrounding juvenile justice and mental health in the criminal justice system.

 

FAQs about Oregon State Correctional Institution

  1. What type of facility is Oregon State Correctional Institution?
    OSCI is a medium-security prison that houses male inmates, including those transitioning from juvenile facilities.

  2. How can I contact an inmate at Oregon State Correctional Institution?
    Inmates can receive letters and approved packages. To call an inmate, they must initiate outbound collect calls using a phone system provided by IC Solutions.

  3. What are the visiting hours at Oregon State Correctional Institution?
    Visiting hours are from 8:15 AM to 10:40 AM and 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM on Saturday through Wednesday. DSU visits require prior scheduling.

  4. How do I book a visit to Oregon State Correctional Institution?
    Visits can be booked by calling the facility and providing the inmate’s ID number. Ensure to confirm the visit before arriving.

  5. What programs are available to inmates at OSCI?
    OSCI offers various educational, vocational, and rehabilitation programs, including drug treatment, mental health support, and service dog training.

  6. Where is Oregon State Correctional Institution located?
    OSCI is located at 3405 Deer Park Drive SE, Salem, OR 97310-9385.

  7. Is parking available for visitors?
    Yes, the facility offers parking for visitors. Arrive early to go through security checks.

  8. What is life like for inmates at OSCI?
    Inmates participate in educational and vocational programs, with an emphasis on preparing for release. However, as a medium-security facility, movement is controlled and restricted.

  9. Are there any famous inmates at OSCI?
    Kipland Kinkel, the Thurston High School shooter, is one of the most well-known inmates at OSCI.

  10. How can I send mail to an inmate?
    Mail should be addressed as follows: Inmate Name, ID Number, Oregon State Correctional Institution, 3405 Deer Park Drive SE, Salem, OR 97310-9385.

For more information about Oregon State Correctional Institution, visit the official Oregon Department of Corrections website.

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