Pontiac Correctional Center: General Overview
Pontiac Correctional Center is a maximum-security prison located in Pontiac, Illinois, housing some of the state’s most dangerous male offenders. Established in 1871, this facility has a long and storied history, serving as a key part of Illinois’ prison system. The Pontiac Correctional Center is known for housing inmates who have committed violent crimes, including murder, assault, and other serious felonies. The facility is also equipped to handle inmates who require heightened security measures due to behavioral issues or escape attempts. With a capacity of approximately 2,600, Pontiac Correctional Center also has a special unit for inmates on death row (prior to the abolition of the death penalty in Illinois in 2011). Despite its reputation as a tough environment, the prison aims to provide rehabilitation programs, including educational and vocational training.
Pontiac Correctional Center Contact Information, Address, Email, and Telephone Number
If you need to contact Pontiac Correctional Center, here are the essential details:
Address: 700 West Lincoln Street, Pontiac, Illinois 61764
Telephone: (815) 842-2816
Email: Contact through the Illinois Department of Corrections website under the facility’s directory.
Warden: At the time of writing, the warden is Teri Kennedy.
Pontiac Correctional Center Visiting Information: What to Know Before You Visit
Visiting a loved one at Pontiac Correctional Center requires you to adhere to strict rules and regulations. Visitors are allowed, but all visits must be scheduled in advance. The prison offers both in-person and video visits. In-person visiting times vary by the inmate’s housing unit, and visits typically last 2 hours. Visitors are allowed to bring photo identification, car keys, and any necessary medical items, but other personal belongings should be left in your vehicle or a secure location.
Visiting Days:
- Monday through Sunday (Schedule based on housing unit availability)
- Times: Typically between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM. It is recommended to call ahead for specific visiting hours based on the inmate’s location in the facility.
Items you should bring include a valid government-issued ID and any pre-approved items. Visitors must follow the dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing, hats, and certain colors that may match prison uniforms.
How to Book a Visit to Pontiac Correctional Center
To book a visit at Pontiac Correctional Center, you need to pre-register via the Illinois Department of Corrections’ online system. This process requires your full name, relationship to the inmate, and other identifying information. Once your visit is approved, you will be notified of the date and time. Visits can be booked for up to three adults and two children, but the exact number depends on the inmate’s privileges and the prison’s current rules. Be sure to confirm the specifics before your visit. Visits tend to fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended.
You will need to provide:
- Valid ID
- Inmate’s full name and ID number
- Pre-approved visitor list registration
Directions to Pontiac Correctional Center: Parking and Access
Pontiac Correctional Center is located in central Illinois, making it accessible from most major cities in the state. The prison is roughly 90 miles southwest of Chicago and 35 miles northeast of Bloomington. It is located just off Interstate 55, making it easy to find via GPS.
Parking: Visitors can park in the designated lot located near the main entrance of the facility. Parking is free, but spaces can be limited during peak visiting hours, so it’s best to arrive early.
What is Pontiac Correctional Center Like for Prisoners?
Life inside Pontiac Correctional Center is highly regulated, with a focus on strict discipline and security. Inmates are housed in single or double cells depending on their classification. The prison offers limited recreational activities, including time in the yard and access to a small library. Educational programs, such as GED courses and vocational training, are available, but opportunities are limited due to the facility’s security needs. Pontiac Correctional Center also offers mental health services for inmates dealing with psychological issues.
Recent news about Pontiac Correctional Center has focused on ongoing challenges such as overcrowding and staff shortages, which have led to tensions between inmates and correctional officers. Efforts to reduce inmate violence and improve rehabilitation programs are ongoing, but the prison remains a tough environment, especially for inmates serving long sentences for serious crimes.
Famous Prisoners at Pontiac Correctional Center
Over the years, Pontiac Correctional Center has housed several notorious prisoners. Among the most infamous was Richard Speck, who murdered eight women in Chicago in 1966. Though Speck was eventually transferred to another facility, his time at Pontiac contributed to the prison’s notoriety. Another well-known inmate was Drew Peterson, a former police officer convicted of murdering his third wife and plotting to kill the prosecutor who put him behind bars. These high-profile cases have brought media attention to the prison, further cementing its reputation as one of Illinois’ most secure correctional facilities.
FAQs about Pontiac Correctional Center
1. How do I contact an inmate at Pontiac Correctional Center?
You can contact an inmate at Pontiac Correctional Center through written letters or by setting up an account for approved phone calls via the prison’s phone system.
2. What is the visiting schedule at Pontiac Correctional Center?
Visiting schedules depend on the housing unit of the inmate but are generally available Monday through Sunday. It’s recommended to contact the facility directly for specific times.
3. How do I send money to an inmate at Pontiac Correctional Center?
Money can be sent to an inmate through the Illinois Department of Corrections’ approved vendors, such as JPay or Western Union.
4. Can I bring children to visit Pontiac Correctional Center?
Yes, children are allowed to visit, but they must be accompanied by an adult, and each child counts toward the maximum number of visitors allowed per inmate.
5. What items am I allowed to bring to a visit at Pontiac Correctional Center?
You can bring a government-issued ID, car keys, and approved medical items. All other personal belongings must be left in your car or a locker.
6. What security measures are in place at Pontiac Correctional Center?
Pontiac Correctional Center has extensive security protocols, including perimeter towers, high walls, and 24/7 surveillance to prevent escapes and maintain order.
7. Are there educational programs at Pontiac Correctional Center?
Yes, the prison offers basic education programs like GED classes, along with limited vocational training.
8. How do I find out if an inmate is eligible for parole?
Inmate parole eligibility can be checked through the Illinois Department of Corrections website or by contacting the prison directly.
9. Has Pontiac Correctional Center ever had any riots?
Yes, the prison has experienced riots, with one of the most notable occurring in 1978, resulting in the deaths of several correctional officers.
10. Who is the current warden of Pontiac Correctional Center?
As of the latest available information, the warden of Pontiac Correctional Center is Teri Kennedy.
Summary and Conclusion
Pontiac Correctional Center remains one of the most well-known and secure maximum-security prisons in Illinois. With its storied history, notorious inmates, and current challenges such as overcrowding and staff shortages, the prison is a significant part of the state’s correctional system. Visitors to Pontiac Correctional Center must follow strict protocols, but with proper planning, it is possible to maintain contact with inmates through in-person and video visits. The prison continues to focus on maintaining security while offering limited rehabilitative programs for its inmates.
For more detailed information on the Illinois prison system, visit the Illinois Department of Corrections website.
References:
- Illinois Department of Corrections