How to Visit Richland Correctional Institution (OH)

Before you can visit anyone at Richland Correctional Institution, you need to be approved as a visitor. For adults, that means completing and submitting the DRC-2096 adult visitor application. Fill it out completely and honestly. Unanswered questions or false information can get your application denied. You'll also need to include a legible copy of your photo ID, and the name on that ID has to match the name on your DRC-2096. Even if you're eager to schedule a date, nothing moves forward until this step is done and approved. One more thing to know: the incarcerated person's visiting list has a cap. Under ODRC policy used at Richland, the list can include up to 15 approved adult visitors total, and no more than two of those can be designated as friends.

Visiting areas must be accessible to visitors with disabilities, including accessible restrooms and entrance ramps. If you need an accommodation, don't hesitate to ask. ODRC policy also limits the use of devices that prevent physical contact during visits. Those devices are only supposed to be used when there's a substantiated security risk.

S2

• ✓ Complete the DRC-2096 adult visitor application fully, truthfully, and accurately.
• ✓ Include a legible copy of your photo ID with the application, and make sure it matches the name on your DRC-2096.
• ✓ After you’re approved, register with GTL VisitMe so you can schedule visits.

• ✓ Expect to be searched on entry.
• ✓ Avoid (or be ready to remove) items that often trigger the metal detector, including hairpins, underwire bras, and excessive jewelry.
• ✓ Plan your outfit and accessories with screening in mind so you do not lose time during check-in.

• ✓ Confirm you are on the incarcerated person’s approved visiting list before you try to schedule.
• ✓ Keep the list limits in mind: up to 15 approved adult visitors total, with no more than two designated as friends.
• ✓ If the list is full, the incarcerated person may need to update it before you can be added.

• ✓ If you need disability access, ask for accommodations so you can use the entrance and visiting area (including restrooms and ramps).
• ✓ Be prepared to explain what you need and, if applicable, bring any documentation you rely on for accommodations.
• ✓ If a contact-precluding device is used, it should only be for a substantiated security risk.

Before you start, confirm the current DRC-2096 submission details for Richland, including where to send it and how long approvals typically take. Once you're approved, double-check the steps for registering and scheduling through GTL VisitMe, since that's the required system for booking appointments.

Verify which photo IDs are accepted and what "legible" actually means in practice. Does the copy need to be enlarged? In color? Does the expiration date need to be clearly visible? Confirm any extra requirements for the ID copy you submit so your paperwork doesn't get held up.

Security screening sets the tone for your visit, so confirm the current prohibited-items list and what search procedures to expect at entry. Ask about anything that might be temporarily restricted or handled differently. Rules can shift, and you don't want surprises at the front door.

Have the incarcerated person confirm who's currently on their visiting list, especially if you're being added and the list may already be near the 15-person limit. If you need an accessibility accommodation, check what's available in the visiting area and whether staff want you to bring anything specific when you arrive.