What to Bring (and What to Leave Home) When Visiting Someone at Menard Correctional Center
Arrive at Menard Correctional Center at least 10 minutes before your scheduled visit time. That buffer matters - check-in and screening happen before you reach the visiting room, and showing up late can cost you the entire visit.
You'll go through a COVID-19 symptom and temperature screening when you arrive. Factor that into your timing so you're not scrambling at check-in.
First-time visitor? You'll need to complete a Prospective Visitor's Interview (DOC 0148) unless you already received electronic approval. Show up early - this paperwork adds time, and cutting it close can backfire.
ID and Vehicle
- ✓ Two forms of identification (adults)
- ✓ One of those IDs must be a current, state-issued photo ID
Prohibited and Lockers
- ✓ Cell phones
- ✓ Tablets
- ✓ Smart watches
- ✓ Food
- ✓ Drinks
- ✓ Smoking materials
- ✓ Currency
- ✓ Packages
- ✓ Purses
- ✓ Bags
- ✓ Books
- ✓ Magazines
- ✓ Sunglasses
- ✓ Personal keys
Free small lockers are available at the Visiting Center for personal items that can't go into the Visiting Room. You can carry the locker key with you during your visit. One catch: the facility isn't responsible for anything stored in a locker. Bring only what you need and leave valuables secured elsewhere.
Leave medication at home. The only exceptions are physician-prescribed heart medication or an asthma inhaler - and those must be in a properly labeled container. Everything else stays out of the Visiting Room.
- ✓ Three diapers and wipes
- ✓ One blanket
- ✓ Two filled clear plastic bottles, or two sealed containers of baby food (or one of each)
- ✓ One change of clothes
- ✓ One bib
- ✓ One pacifier
- ✓ One plastic spoon
- ✓ One clear empty cup with lid
- ✓ One coat or jacket and one hat (as appropriate)
- ✓ One pair of gloves or mittens during appropriate weather
- ✓ Store all infant/toddler items in a clear bag or plastic container
Expect a body search at the Visitor Center. If staff believe you're intoxicated or under the influence, you won't be allowed in.
All visitors, their vehicles, and their property are subject to search. If you refuse a search, Menard can deny the visit and may suspend or restrict your visiting privileges.
Dress conservatively. Dresses, shorts, and skirts must reach the knee. Clothing that's sexually explicit, reveals buttocks or breasts, or displays gang symbols is not allowed.
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