State Correctional Institution Benner Township: Overview

State Correctional Institution Benner Township (SCI Benner) is a modern, medium-security prison located in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. Opened in 2013, the facility primarily houses adult male inmates and plays a significant role in the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections system. With a capacity of 1,900 inmates, SCI Benner has consistently operated over capacity, holding over 2,000 prisoners at times, which contributes to some of the challenges the prison faces, such as overcrowding. It offers various vocational, educational, and mental health programs aimed at inmate rehabilitation, including a notable dog training program where inmates help prepare dogs for adoption.

 

State Correctional Institution Benner Township

Contact Information for State Correctional Institution Benner Township

  • Address: 301 Institution Drive, Bellefonte, PA 16823
  • Telephone: (814) 353-3630
  • Inmate Mail Address:
    Inmate Name, Inmate Number
    Benner Township State Correctional Institution
    301 Institution Drive, Bellefonte, PA 16823

Visiting Information at State Correctional Institution Benner Township

Visiting hours at SCI Benner are structured to allow families and friends to maintain contact with inmates. Visits can be scheduled on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Visitors must adhere to a dress code and can store personal items in lockers provided at the facility for a small fee. Visits typically last several hours, depending on the security level and privileges of the inmate.

What to Bring to a Visit:

Visitors are required to present valid identification and must be on the approved visiting list. Personal items, including cell phones and bags, are prohibited. It is recommended to bring a quarter for locker use and to arrive early for check-in.

How to Book a Visit at State Correctional Institution Benner Township

Booking a visit at SCI Benner requires prior approval. Family members must complete a visitor application, which includes a background check. After approval, visits can be scheduled online. On the day of the visit, check the institution’s visiting status to ensure no lockdowns or cancellations.

What You Need to Book a Visit:

  • Full name and ID number of the inmate
  • Valid government-issued ID
  • Pre-approval on the inmate’s visiting list

Up to five visitors are allowed per session, including children. Be sure to follow the institution’s guidelines regarding visitor conduct and attire.

 

Directions and Parking for State Correctional Institution Benner Township

SCI Benner is located near Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, and is accessible via major highways. From Interstate 80, take Exit 161 to merge onto US-220 S toward Bellefonte. Parking is available on-site, and visitors are advised to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot.

 

Life Inside State Correctional Institution Benner Township

Life at SCI Benner is structured around strict schedules, ensuring safety and security. Inmates undergo an orientation period upon arrival, during which their security level is assessed. They are housed in one of the 10 housing units and can participate in work programs, including custodial services, kitchen duties, and laundry operations. Inmates also have access to educational opportunities, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment programs. However, overcrowding has led to issues such as limited access to resources and increased tension among inmates.

The facility has garnered some negative attention due to reports of inmate suicides and overcrowding, which have contributed to difficult living conditions for some prisoners. Despite these challenges, SCI Benner continues to emphasize rehabilitation and reentry preparation for its inmates.

Famous Prisoners at State Correctional Institution Benner Township

While SCI Benner is not known for housing high-profile criminals, it has held inmates transferred from other facilities, such as SCI Cresson and SCI Greensburg, after their closure. Its reputation for handling complex inmates, including those with mental health issues, adds to its significance within the state prison system.

 

FAQs about State Correctional Institution Benner Township

  • What is the capacity of State Correctional Institution Benner Township?
    SCI Benner has a capacity of 1,900 inmates, though it often houses over 2,000 prisoners.

  • What types of inmates are housed at State Correctional Institution Benner Township?
    The facility houses medium-security male inmates, including those requiring mental health services.

  • How can I book a visit at State Correctional Institution Benner Township?
    Visits can be booked after completing a visitor application and gaining approval. Scheduling can be done online.

  • What are the visiting hours at SCI Benner?
    Visiting hours are Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

  • How do I send mail to an inmate at SCI Benner?
    Inmates can receive mail at 301 Institution Drive, Bellefonte, PA 16823, with their full name and inmate ID number included.

  • What programs are available for inmates at SCI Benner?
    Inmates can access educational courses, vocational training, mental health support, and participate in a dog training program.

  • Is there parking available for visitors at SCI Benner?
    Yes, visitor parking is available on-site.

  • What challenges does SCI Benner face?
    The prison faces issues related to overcrowding, which has led to increased tensions and limited resources for inmates.

  • How are inmates transferred to SCI Benner?
    SCI Benner serves as a centralized transportation hub for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, facilitating inmate transfers.

  • What types of jobs can inmates perform at SCI Benner?
    Inmates can work in laundry services, kitchen duties, and maintenance roles within the facility.

Conclusion

State Correctional Institution Benner Township serves as a critical medium-security facility within Pennsylvania’s prison system. Despite the challenges of overcrowding, SCI Benner remains committed to inmate rehabilitation, offering various programs designed to prepare inmates for reentry into society. For more detailed information on visiting procedures and inmate life, visit the

PA.gov

Visit Stark Correctional Institution