Understanding Ohio's Zero Tolerance Policy: What Could Get You Prosecuted When Visiting Southeastern Correctional

ODRC's stance is simple: zero tolerance for bringing drugs, alcohol, or weapons into any of its facilities. That warning ties directly to Ohio Revised Code 2921.36, which makes it a crime to knowingly convey - or even attempt to convey - prohibited items onto detention facility grounds, including ODRC prisons.

Specific Prohibited Items

• ✓ Deadly weapons or dangerous ordnance (including parts or ammunition)
• ✓ Drugs of abuse
• ✓ Intoxicating liquor
• ✓ Cash
• ✓ Cellular phones, two-way radios, or other electronic communication devices

Enforcement starts at the door. All visitors are subject to search upon entry. Do a careful pocket-and-bag check before you leave home - and again before you step onto the grounds.

Criminal charges under ORC 2921.36 aren't the only risk. Contraband issues can also trigger visiting and mail restrictions. ODRC guidelines describe escalating penalties - from a warning to 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or even permanent loss of visiting privileges.

Tobacco catches people off guard. ODRC's Declaration of Understanding lists tobacco products as prohibited - and it goes beyond cigarettes. Loose tobacco, cigars, snuff, chewing tobacco, tobacco substitutes, and smoking paraphernalia are all banned. That includes matches, lighters, cigarette papers, and rolling machines. A lighter in your pocket isn't "no big deal" on prison grounds.

ODRC treats these violations seriously. If you're visiting Southeastern Correctional, the safest approach is straightforward: don't bring anything that could be viewed as contraband, even everyday items like cash, a phone, or a lighter.

1. Empty your pockets and leave extras behind - Before you head to Southeastern Correctional, remove anything that falls under ORC 2921.36 (including cash and electronic communication devices) and don’t bring tobacco or smoking items.
2. Expect a search and cooperate - All visitors are subject to search upon entry, so plan for screening and avoid bringing anything that can cause problems.
3. Know the stakes before you walk in - Contraband issues can lead to visiting and mail restrictions that escalate (examples include 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or permanent), and ODRC says it will pursue prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.