Sumter Correctional Institution: General Overview
Sumter Correctional Institution, located in Bushnell, Florida, is a state prison managed by the Florida Department of Corrections. It opened in 1965 and houses male inmates across various security levels, including minimum, medium, and close custody. The prison has a capacity of 1,639 and is designed to accommodate adult males and youthful offenders. The institution is known for its unique Basic Training Unit, a boot camp-style program aimed at rehabilitating young offenders. Educational opportunities, vocational training, and re-entry programs at Sumter Correctional Institution provide inmates with skills necessary for reintegration into society, emphasizing rehabilitation alongside punishment.
Contact Information for Sumter Correctional Institution
For those needing to contact Sumter Correctional Institution, here are the key details:
Address:
Sumter Correctional Institution
9544 County Road 476B
Bushnell, FL 33513
Telephone: (352) 569-6100
Fax: (352) 569-6196
Email: SumterCI.WardenOffice@fdc.myflorida.com
Visiting Information at Sumter Correctional Institution
Visiting hours at Sumter Correctional Institution are typically on weekends and state holidays. The visitation schedule runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, but visitors must arrive no later than 2:00 PM to be admitted. Visits can last for several hours depending on the number of visitors and specific institutional guidelines. Inmates are allowed up to five visitors at a time, including children.
What to Bring and What Visits Are Like
Visitors must carry a government-issued ID and may be subjected to a search for security purposes. Dress codes are strictly enforced; avoid revealing or inappropriate clothing. During the visit, family members can interact with the inmate in a supervised setting, and depending on the facility’s policies, physical contact such as a handshake or hug may be allowed at the start and end of the visit.
Directions and Parking Information for Sumter Correctional Institution
Sumter Correctional Institution is located at 9544 County Road 476B, about 60 miles from both Orlando and Tampa. For those driving, the facility is easily accessible from major highways, with ample parking available on-site. Ensure to follow the signposts leading to the visitor entrance. Public transportation options to the prison are limited, so driving is recommended.
Life at Sumter Correctional Institution: Latest News
Life inside Sumter Correctional Institution is structured with a focus on rehabilitation through various educational, vocational, and wellness programs. Inmates have access to GED preparation, literacy programs, and vocational training in areas such as welding and automotive repair. These programs are aimed at reducing recidivism and helping inmates reintegrate into society post-release. In recent news, the institution has faced incidents including staff assaults by inmates and a notable lawsuit in 2013 involving a juvenile inmate, highlighting some of the ongoing challenges within the system.
Famous Prisoners at Sumter Correctional Institution
While Sumter Correctional Institution has housed various inmates over the years, it is not widely known for housing high-profile individuals. However, its role as a major correctional facility in Florida means it has seen its share of notorious cases and rehabilitation success stories, particularly within its youthful offender programs.
FAQs About Sumter Correctional Institution
1. What type of inmates are held at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Sumter Correctional Institution houses male inmates across minimum, medium, and close custody levels, including both adults and young offenders.
2. How do I contact Sumter Correctional Institution?
You can reach the facility by calling (352) 569-6100 or emailing SumterCI.WardenOffice@fdc.myflorida.com.
3. What are the visiting hours at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and state holidays.
4. What programs are available for inmates at Sumter Correctional Institution?
The facility offers GED preparation, literacy programs, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling to help inmates develop skills for post-release success.
5. How do I book a visit at Sumter Correctional Institution?
You must submit a visitor application for approval. Once approved, you can visit during designated hours without needing to book specific slots.
6. Is parking available at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at the institution.
7. How can I send mail to an inmate at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Mail can be sent to the prison’s mailing address, including the inmate’s name and ID number.
8. Can I send money to an inmate at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Yes, funds can be sent through services like JPay, which allows electronic transfers.
9. What should I wear when visiting Sumter Correctional Institution?
Visitors should follow a conservative dress code, avoiding revealing clothing and adhering to all prison regulations.
10. What is life like for inmates at Sumter Correctional Institution?
Inmates have access to various educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation, with a focus on preparing for reentry into society.
Conclusion
Sumter Correctional Institution plays a crucial role in Florida’s correctional system, offering a wide range of programs that support inmate rehabilitation and societal reintegration. With its mix of security levels and commitment to educational opportunities, it serves a diverse population of adult and youthful male offenders. The institution continues to adapt its programs to better serve inmates and reduce recidivism rates. For more information, visit the Florida Department of Corrections website.
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