Can You Bring Money or Packages During Your Visit to Ohio Reformatory? What's Actually Allowed

At Ohio Reformatory, you cannot hand an incarcerated person anything during a visit. No packages, no letters, no money, no printed materials. Nothing passes directly between you. If something needs to be sent, it goes through the proper channel (processed through the mail per policy). You can't pass it over in the visiting room.

• ✓ Packages of any kind
• ✓ Correspondence (letters, notes, paperwork)
• ✓ Money (including cash)
• ✓ Printed materials (papers, printed pages, documents)

ODRC takes a zero-tolerance approach to prohibited items on prison grounds. That includes the obvious things like drugs, alcohol, and weapons. It also includes cash and electronic communication devices like cell phones. Violations can be treated as a crime. ODRC will seek prosecution under Ohio Revised Code 2921.36, which covers knowingly conveying or attempting to convey banned items into a detention facility.

Want to help with funds? Here's the key rule: only approved visitors may deposit money to an incarcerated person's account, and the deposit must go through ODRC's approved process. Don't plan on bringing cash to "give it to them" or handing it to staff informally. Deposits are handled through the official system, not through the visiting room.

1. Confirm you are an approved visitor – ODRC limits deposits to approved visitors, so make sure your visitation status is approved before you attempt to add funds.
2. Use the approved ODRC deposit process – Follow the deposit instructions ODRC provides for the institution. The approved process is the only way funds are supposed to be added.
3. Follow the method exactly as provided – Depending on the approved process, that may mean using an approved payment service or submitting a payment in the approved format. Stick to what the ODRC instructions allow so your deposit is accepted and you do not risk a rules violation.

Some payments work differently from regular account deposits. Tablet-related payments are one example. For tablet repairs, only Money Orders and Cashier's Checks are accepted. Make the payment payable to "ViaPath Technologies" for the full $250.

• ✓ Use a Money Order or Cashier’s Check only
• ✓ Make it payable to “ViaPath Technologies”
• ✓ Send the full payment amount of $250

If anyone asks you to carry something in or take something out, refuse. Visitors cannot deliver money or other items directly to incarcerated people, and ODRC treats attempts to bring prohibited items onto prison grounds seriously. Say no and tell staff. I know that feels uncomfortable, especially if the request comes from someone you care about. But it protects you. ORC 2921.36 covers knowingly conveying or attempting to convey prohibited items (including cash and cell phones), and ODRC will seek prosecution for violations.

1. Stay calm and cooperate – Getting defensive usually makes things harder. Keep your hands visible and follow instructions.
2. Do not accept or hand over items – If someone tries to pass you something, refuse it. Do not put it in your pocket, bag, or car.
3. Notify staff immediately – Tell a staff member right away if you were asked to carry something or if an item was placed with your belongings.
4. Ask for documentation – If there is an incident report or written notice related to the accusation, request a copy or the details you are allowed to receive.
5. Contact an attorney if you are charged – ORC 2921.36 is a criminal statute. If law enforcement becomes involved, get legal advice as soon as possible.