What You Can’t Bring Into Roederer (And the Consequences If You Do)

Before you head to Roederer, keep a few things straight: no food or drinks inside the institution. Don't bring money into the visitation room, and don't count on vending machines being available. Also, plan your group size around the seating limit. Each table holds a maximum of three visitors, including children.

Expect to be searched. At Roederer, all visitors and their vehicles can be searched when entering the institution, while on the grounds, and again before leaving. Screening may include a frisk, a physical search, and body scanning. Dress and pack with that in mind.

• ✓ Assume both you and your vehicle can be searched when you arrive, while you are there, and before you leave.
• ✓ Expect hands-on screening, including a frisk and body scanning.
• ✓ If staff direct you to a search or screening step, follow instructions. Refusing can end your visit before it starts, or lead to detention until law enforcement arrives.

Bringing contraband into a prison isn't just a visitation rule violation. It can be a criminal charge. Roederer cites KRS 520.050: anyone who knowingly introduces dangerous contraband into a detention facility or penitentiary can be charged with Promoting Contraband in the 1st degree. That's a Class D felony, carrying fines and up to five years in prison. The facility lists firearms, liquor, and drugs as examples of dangerous contraband.

Practical Tips at the Door

• ✓ Leave all food and drinks behind. They cannot be brought into the institution.
• ✓ Do not take money into the visitation room, and plan your visit knowing there is no vending available.
• ✓ Keep your vehicle and anything inside it visit-ready, since vehicles are also subject to search.
• ✓ Expect screening that can include a frisk, a search, and body scanning, and avoid bringing extra items that can slow that process down.
• ✓ Count your group carefully. Roederer limits visitation seating to three visitors per table, including children.

If you get selected for a search, stay calm and go with the process. Refusing before entry can mean you're turned away. Refusing while inside can mean being detained until law enforcement arrives. Not sure what staff are asking you to do? Ask a clear question, then follow their instructions.

Roederer does allow medication during your visit, with limits. You can bring only the amount you'll need while you're there, and you must get approval from the Shift Supervisor first. If you know you'll need medication, build in extra time so you can request approval before heading into the visiting room.