Elkton Federal Correctional Institution: A Closer Look
In the realm of the United States Federal Bureau of Prisons, the Elkton Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) stands as a low-security prison complex nestled in Lisbon, Ohio. Comprising not only the FCI but also a nearby low-security satellite prison, Elkton FCI serves as a crucial component of the federal correctional system. In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of Elkton FCI, including its facilities, inmate population, notable prisoners, programs, visiting hours, and contact information.
Facilities and Structure
Elkton FCI is constructed primarily from sturdy cement blocks, emphasizing security and durability. The facility is divided into a total of five housing units, each designed to accommodate inmates securely. Of these five units, the federal correctional institution comprises three housing units, while the satellite prison includes two housing units. Each unit consists of a two-story building with living quarters on both floors, maintaining a structured and organized environment within the prison.
To further enhance security, Elkton FCI is encompassed by chain-link fencing, adding an extra layer of protection to prevent unauthorized access and maintain the safety of both inmates and staff.
Inmate Population
As of the latest available data, Elkton FCI houses approximately 2,297 male inmates. This population includes individuals serving sentences for various offenses, ranging from non-violent crimes to more serious convictions. Elkton FCI is responsible for providing housing and rehabilitation opportunities to this diverse inmate population.
Notable Prisoners
Throughout its history, Elkton FCI has been home to several notable inmates. One such case is that of William J. Platz, a 61-year-old prisoner who, in 2010, faced charges related to drawing and distributing explicit images involving minors engaged in sexual conduct. Platz distributed these disturbing images to another inmate, leading to his indictment by a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio. Subsequently, Platz pleaded guilty and was sentenced to Seagoville Federal Correctional Institution to serve additional prison time. Remarkably, Platz had previously been sentenced for a child pornography offense in 2000 and was a co-conspirator of the infamous Eric Rosser. Rosser, at one point, was on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list until his capture in 2001.
Another noteworthy inmate currently incarcerated at Elkton FCI is Peter Gotti, who is serving a 25-year sentence. Gotti was convicted not only of extortion in 2004 but also of plotting a murder involving Sammy Gravano. Peter Gotti is the brother of John Gotti, who passed away in 2002. Following John’s death, Peter Gotti assumed the role of the boss of the Gambino crime family. It is believed that Gotti targeted Gravano due to Sammy Gravano’s testimony against John Gotti during his 1992 trial.
Rehabilitation Programs
Elkton FCI and its satellite prison offer a range of programs aimed at inmate rehabilitation and reintegration into society. These programs include a Sex Offender Management Program and a Non-Residential Drug Abuse Program, available at the satellite prison. The federal correctional institution itself hosts a Residential Drug Abuse Program. Additionally, Narcotics Anonymous sessions are conducted at both parts of Elkton, providing inmates with essential support and resources to address addiction issues.
Visiting Hours
For families and loved ones of inmates at Elkton FCI, the facility follows a consistent visiting schedule. Visits are permitted on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Weekend and holiday visits occur between 8:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M., while Friday visiting hours are from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
To determine which inmates can receive visitors each weekend, the facility employs an odd/even register number system. If the fifth number in an offender’s register number is odd, they are eligible for visits on odd weekends, and if the number is even, visits are allowed on even weekends. Fridays, however, are an exception, as any inmate can have visitors on this day, regardless of their register number.
It’s important to note that Elkton FCI does not utilize a point system to track visits. Visitors should aim to arrive before 2:00 P.M. on Fridays, as no processing of visitors occurs after 8:00 P.M. on weekends. In the event of overcrowding in the visiting area, visitors who have not traveled a significant distance may be asked to leave first to accommodate “out of town” visitors.
Visitors are advised that prisoners are allowed a maximum of six visitors at a time, including children. Furthermore, several items are prohibited from being brought into the prison during visits, including cell phones, other electronics, food items, and unnecessary medications. Visitors should familiarize themselves with the facility’s regulations to ensure a smooth and trouble-free visit.
Contact Information
For those seeking to reach out to Elkton FCI, the following contact information is provided:
- Physical Address: Elkton Federal Correctional Institution 8730 Scroggs Road Lisbon, Ohio 44432
- Telephone: (330)-420-6200
- Inmate Mailing Address: Inmate Name, ID Number Elkton Federal Correctional Institution P.O. Box 10 Lisbon, Ohio 44432
Conclusion
Elkton Federal Correctional Institution plays a significant role in the U.S. federal correctional system, providing housing and rehabilitation programs for a diverse population of inmates. While notable prisoners have passed through its gates, Elkton FCI continues to uphold its mission of rehabilitation and reintegration. For those wishing to visit or contact inmates at the facility, it is essential to adhere to the visiting hours and guidelines set forth by the institution.
FAQs
- Are visitors allowed to bring gifts or money for inmates at Elkton FCI?
- No, visitors are not permitted to leave money or gifts for inmates during visits.
- Can inmates at Elkton FCI make phone calls to their families?
- Yes, inmates typically have access to phone services to maintain contact with their families.
- What types of programs are offered to inmates for rehabilitation at Elkton FCI?
- Elkton FCI offers programs such as a Sex Offender Management Program, Non-Residential Drug Abuse Program, and Residential Drug Abuse Program.
- How can visitors determine which weekend they can visit an inmate at Elkton FCI?
- The facility uses an odd/even register number system to determine visitation weekends, with Fridays being an exception.
- Are there any restrictions on the number of visitors allowed during an inmate’s visitation hours?
- Yes, Elkton FCI allows a maximum of six visitors at once, including children, during an inmate’s visitation hours.
