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ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI)

State Prison

Last Updated: April 24, 2014
Address
2075 S Avon-Belden Rd, Grafton, OH 44044
Beds
1361
County
Lorain
Phone
440-748-1049
Fax
440-748-2191
Email
drc.lorci@odrc.state.oh.us
View Official Website

LorCI is for State Prison offenders sentenced anywhere from one year to life by the State Court in the county where the charges were filed

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for State - medium facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Looking for an inmate at this facility? Visitation Information, Times and Rules
Satellite View of ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI)
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Official Resources

Nearby Facilities

If your loved one is at LorCI, InmateAid can help you stay connected. Call the facility directly at 440-748-1049 with any immediate questions.

LorCI is a State - medium state correctional facility in Grafton, OH, operated by the Ohio Department of Corrections. Inmates serve sentences ranging from one year to life and have access to programs including education, vocational training, and work assignments. This page covers how to locate an inmate, schedule visits, make calls, send money, and stay connected throughout their sentence at LorCI.

While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

LCI serves as a reception and distribution center for the northern half of Ohio, situated adjacent to Grafton Correctional Institution. This reception center accommodates male inmates of all security levels, from minimum to closed custody, overseen by the ODCR, typically processing them within 30 days. However, due to persistent overcrowding, some inmates may remain for extended periods awaiting classification. While primarily a short-term holding facility, it offers adult basic education classes and GED programs for inmates awaiting transfer to appropriate facilities.

One unique program at LCI is the Bee Keeping Program, launched in 2012 to promote green initiatives and teach inmates beekeeping skills. Inmates construct hives and manage over a million bees, attending weekly classes covering various aspects of beekeeping. The program not only benefits the facility but also positively impacts the surrounding community through pollination and honey donations to local food banks. Additionally, inmates gain valuable writing and editorial skills by producing a monthly newsletter.

Reading rooms at LCI foster family literacy by providing a comfortable space stocked with children's books. Inmate narrators read to visiting children twice daily, mimicking public library story hours. Arts and craft supplies are also available, often donated by employees and organizations, enhancing the experience for both children and incarcerated parents.

LCI offers various offender programs, including community services like the Medina County SPCA Dog Foster Program and educational opportunities such as adult basic education, pre-GED, and GED classes. Apprenticeship programs cover a range of skills like animal training, baking, carpentry, HVAC, and plumbing. The institution also provides resources for reentry, special education services, and access to libraries.

For inmate releases, families can park in designated areas and inform institutional staff upon arrival. Release times are scheduled between 12:30–1:30 p.m. on weekdays and after 8 a.m. on weekends. Family support can provide clothing for release, following specific guidelines, either on the day of release, through advance ordering, or by mailing it to the institution.

On this page - LorCI

Inmate Locator

Finding a State Inmate at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI)

If you're trying to locate someone in Ohio state custody at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI) in Grafton, the Ohio Department of Corrections maintains a state-level inmate locator that covers all DOC facilities. Every state runs its own system, so the search experience differs significantly from federal or county-level locators. If the DOC locator does not return the person you're looking for, call ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI) directly at 440-748-1049 to confirm current custody status.

Using the State DOC Inmate Locator

The Ohio DOC inmate locator searches by full name, DOC inmate number, or both. The state inmate number is assigned at intake and stays with the inmate across transfers between facilities within the state, but it does not transfer if the inmate moves to another state or to federal custody. State locators typically return the inmate's current housing facility, custody level, projected release date, and parole eligibility, though specific data fields vary by state.

When the Inmate Doesn't Appear in the DOC Locator

A state inmate may be missing from the DOC locator for several reasons. Newly sentenced inmates often spend weeks at a county jail awaiting transfer to the state reception center, during which they are not yet in the DOC system. Inmates in transit between facilities may be temporarily missing. Some states delay public records by 24 to 72 hours after intake. The Truthfinder arrest search can help locate someone during this gap period because it pulls from county jail rosters as well as state systems.

State Inmate Numbers and Out-of-State Transfers

If the inmate was recently transferred from another state under an interstate compact, or moved to federal custody on writ, the Ohio DOC locator may show them as "in transit" or remove the record entirely. To track inmates across state or federal jurisdictional moves, call 440-748-1049 for current location and case status.

Once You've Located the Inmate

When you confirm the person is at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI), set up an inmate phone account with the facility's contracted provider and arrange any money transfer or commissary funding needed. For phone plans, money transfer, and mail services that work with Ohio state facilities, see InmateAid's inmate services and call 440-748-1049.

To confirm current custody status, recent transfers, or release information at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI), call 440-748-1049.

Visitation Information

Reservations are required for all visits. Visiting hours are subject to change without notice. Please call the institution to confirm hours before visiting.

Visiting hours are 8:00 am to 11:00 am (morning session) and 12:00pm to 3:00pm (afternoon session). Visitors are asked to arrive by no later than 9:30 am for the morning session and no later than 1:00 pm for the afternoon session.

All visitors must complete a visitor application and become an approved visitor prior to being able to schedule a visit. This application can be located under the “Visitation” tab on main page of the website. Visit applications may either be emailed to DRC.VisitationLorCI@odrc.state.oh.us; mailed directly to the facility or faxed to 440-748-2191.

**YOU MUST PROVIDE VERIFICATION OF ADDRESS SUCH AS A COPY OF A UTILITY BILL**

Making Reservations

Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for all visiting sessions. Approved visitors may make a reservation up to 30 days in advance via the online registration portal.

Any families indicating issues with the reservation system can call GTL Visitor Support at: (855) 208-7349 or visitorsupport@gtl.net. Families can also speak with the Visitation Officer at the facility by calling 440-316-4094 from 7:30am to 3:00pm.

Guidelines for Visitors

Visiting is limited to a maximum of three (3) preapproved visitors per incarcerated person at one time. Each incarcerated person will be permitted four visits per month.

No cash may be taken into the Visiting Room. Visitors will be permitted to take in one credit card or one debit card for use in the vending machines.

Visitors may also purchase tokens from the token machine for pictures during visit. The cost is $5 for two pictures with a maximum of five pictures and one frame.

How to Save Money on Inmate Calls

Understanding Prison Phone Services: The Lowest Rate Is Now the Law

For decades, prison phone companies held a monopoly within the facilities they contracted with and charged whatever the market would bear, sometimes a dollar a minute or more. InmateAid spent years doing the legwork for families, finding the lowest rate available at each facility. On April 6, 2026, the government finally did what InmateAid's service did for years: it put a guaranteed ceiling on what every family pays. Federal rate caps now limit phone calls to $0.11 per minute at prisons and large jails, and no more than $0.18 per minute at even the smallest county jails, plus a small facility fee. Video calls are capped for the first time.

What that means in real dollars: a 15-minute call from a state prison now tops out around $1.95 before taxes, where that same call once cost $12 or more. Rates have flattened nationwide, and you can be confident the price you pay sits at or below a legal ceiling, guaranteed. Six states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New York) have gone further and made calls from state prisons free.

Some things have not changed. The provider at your facility is still the only option, prepaid accounts still beat collect calls nearly every time, and add-on fees for funding accounts can still creep onto your bill. Check the per-minute rate you are actually paying, switch to prepaid if you are receiving collect calls, and review your first statement. In federal prisons, note that pandemic-era free calling ended in January 2025; inmates enrolled in First Step Act programming earn 300 free minutes per month, so encourage your loved one to ask their case manager about enrollment.

For the complete breakdown of the new caps, facility size tiers, and which states are affected, read InmateAid's full guide: FCC Prison Phone Rate Caps 2026: What Changed and What It Means for Your Family. For facility-specific phone details, visit the InmateAid page for the facility where your inmate is incarcerated.

How to Send Money to an Inmate

How to Send an Inmate Money in Ohio

These are general guidelines for sending money to an inmate's commissary account. Inmates need money to access several privileges like weekly shopping at the commissary, making phone calls, using the email service where offered, using the electronic tablets where offered and paying their co-pay when needing the medical or dental services.

What is a Commissary?

A commissary is a store within the correctional institution. Commissary day is usually held once a week and can only be enjoyed if the inmate has funds in their commissary account. An inmate's commissary account is like a bank account within the prison. If the inmate has a job, their paycheck is deposited into this account, too.

The Commissary sells various products that the inmates may purchase if they have money on their books. The commissary sells clothing, shoes, snacks and food, as well as hygienic products like soap, shampoo, and shavers. The commissary might also sell entertainment-related products like books, magazines, televisions, radios, playing cards, headphones, MP3 players, electronic tablets like an iPads (no internet access), songs, and educational programming.

How do you send money to an inmate?

Sending money to an inmate varies from state to state, depending if it is county, state, or federal, their ways of accepting money for inmates change by the money transfer company they’ve contracted with.

Federal Prisons and some state-level prisons have centralized banking systems which means that you do not need to know where they are specifically, just that they are in the state systems of for instance the California, Texas, Florida DOC, or the FBOP to name a few.

Some facilities will allow you to deposit cash through the lobby window stand-alone kiosk in the lobby or visitation room. Most facilities will also accept a postal money order mailed to the institution’s inmate mailing address made payable to the full inmate’s name.

Electronic banking allows friends and family members to send the funds online, and correctional departments are starting to favor this method because it is less work for staff and more accurate/easier to keep track of, as well as being more convenient.

Regardless of the method of sending funds, there are several key things you will need to know:
• Inmate’s full committed name
• Inmate’s ID number
• Inmate’s location – or a system like the federal BOP

Before sending any funds you should find out what online transfer companies the institution your inmate is incarcerated in uses. You can find this information on our site by navigating to the facilities page click on the Money Transfer button under the address and phone number. Pay close attention to the rules of the facility. Sometimes they will require money senders to be on the inmate's visitation list. Some correctional facilities have a deposit limit, like $200-300 at a time, but in federal, there is no limit.

Some of the money transfer firms are MoneyGram, Securus Pay, JPay, AccessCorrections, JailATM, and CommissaryDeposit

Who else can access the money you send?

An inmate with fines or restitution will be subject to commissary/trust account garnishment. If the inmate has these financial obligations, they will be extracted from the inmate’s bank account. It may be a percentage or the entire amount depending on the situation. We recommend inmates who are going into their bid contact the counselor and make an arrangement beforehand. If you go in knowing they are taking 20-25% of all deposits is better than have them take it all and you find out in the commissary line when the account is zero.

Why is my inmate asking for more than I normally send?

This is generally a signal that the inmate is doing something they shouldn’t and need money to get them out of or through a situation. It could be gambling, it could be extortion it could be other things you don’t need to know on this forum (for now). Set boundaries with your inmate. Tell them that “this is the amount I can send each month” and that is it. There are no extras beyond the boundary. Also, NEVER send money to the account of another inmate on your inmate’s instruction. This is a sign that something is not right. If the corrections people discover this, and they do more times than not, it will result in some severe disciplinary action to the inmate, and certainly the loss of all privileges.

Who can I call if I suspect something?

We recommend speaking with the counselor or case manager of the facility and using a generic reference if your suspicions are wrong. You needn’t put them in a more difficult position if they are.

How do I send money using MoneyGram?

Send Photos, Letters, and Postcards

Sending Mail to Inmates at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI): Guidelines and Services

Looking to send heartfelt greetings to your loved one in prison? Some facilities have recently updated their rules for incoming mail to protect staff from potential drug contamination through the ink used in mail pieces. These new rules require mail to be sent to a third-party post office box, where it is scanned into computer files and shared with inmates without anyone physically handling the original mail. When sending letters, photos, postcards, greeting cards, and magazines to inmates at ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI), adherence to specific guidelines is essential. Both incoming and outgoing mail undergo inspection to prevent the introduction of contraband that could compromise the safety, security, or well-being of the facility, its staff, and residents.

Inmate mail must not contain content that poses an immediate threat to jail order, such as descriptions of manufacturing weapons, bombs, incendiary devices, or escape tools that could realistically endanger jail security. Content advocating violence, racial supremacy, or ethnic purity is also prohibited. Additionally, inmate-to-inmate mail is not allowed and will be destroyed.

To simplify the process, individuals can utilize the mailing services offered by InmateAid. This automated system makes sending special messages or pictures to loved ones convenient and efficient. InmateAid has successfully sent tens of thousands of mail pieces per month without encountering issues with prisons or jails. Envelopes bearing the InmateAid logo assure mail room staff that the contents comply with regulations, establishing a trust that has been maintained since 2012.

Inmates are permitted to receive only metered, unstamped, plain white postcards no larger than 4" x 6". Writing must be done in pencil or blue or black ink. Any other type of mail will be returned to the sender. If there is no return address, unauthorized mail will be stored in the inmate's locker until their release. Again, InmateAid's service for postcards and greeting cards complies with the old and new rules. You can get 8 postcards/greeting cards for only $8.

By following these guidelines and using reliable services like InmateAid, you can ensure your mail reaches your loved one safely and without complications.

Inmate Commissary

Understanding Inmate Commissary

An inmate commissary, often referred to as a "canteen," is a store within a correctional facility where incarcerated individuals can purchase items not provided by the institution. Commissary services play an essential role in improving the quality of life for inmates by giving them access to additional goods and services. Here's what you need to know about how commissaries function and the impact they have:

What Is Available at Commissary?

Commissary stores typically offer a wide range of products, including:

  • Snacks and Beverages: Chips, candy, coffee, and instant noodles are common purchases.
  • Hygiene Products: Toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and feminine hygiene items.
  • Writing Supplies: Paper, envelopes, pens, and stamps to facilitate correspondence with loved ones.
  • Entertainment Items: Books, playing cards, radios, and sometimes MP3 players or tablets for facilities with digital programs.
  • Clothing and Accessories: Basic clothing, shoes, and thermal wear.
  • Miscellaneous Items: Batteries, headphones, and over-the-counter medications.

How Do Inmates Pay for Commissary?

Inmates use funds from their trust accounts to make purchases. These accounts are funded by money sent from family or friends, as well as wages earned from jobs within the facility. Without available funds, inmates cannot access commissary items unless they qualify as indigent, in which case the facility may provide limited basic supplies like paper and stamps.

Why Is Commissary Important?

Commissary services enhance the overall well-being of inmates in several ways:

  • Comfort: Access to familiar snacks and hygiene products provides a sense of normalcy.
  • Communication: Purchasing writing supplies and stamps enables inmates to stay connected with family and friends.
  • Rehabilitation: Items like books and educational materials contribute to personal growth and development.
  • Autonomy: The ability to choose and purchase items fosters a sense of independence.

Regulations and Limits

Each facility has strict rules governing commissary purchases:

  • Spending Limits: Weekly or monthly caps are set to prevent hoarding or misuse of funds.
  • Item Restrictions: Facilities may prohibit certain products to maintain safety and security.
  • Delivery Schedules: Commissary orders are typically processed and distributed on designated days.

Inmate commissaries provide more than just goods—they offer a vital connection to the outside world and an opportunity for inmates to manage their daily needs. For families and friends, ensuring your loved one has funds in their trust account can significantly improve their experience during incarceration. Always check the specific rules and options available at the facility to better support your loved one.

Inmate Care Packages

How to Buy Inmate Commissary Care Packages Online

Purchasing commissary care packages for an inmate is a thoughtful way to show support and provide essential items they may not otherwise have access to. These packages often include a variety of approved products such as snacks, hygiene items, and personal necessities. Here’s how you can buy commissary care packages online:

  1. Find the Facility’s Approved Vendor
    Correctional facilities typically partner with approved providers like Keefe Group, Access Securpak, Union Supply Direct, Walkenhorst’s, or CareACell. These vendors work directly with facilities to ensure that the items in the packages meet all regulations.

  2. Search for the Inmate’s Facility
    Visit the vendor’s website and select the correctional facility where your loved one is housed. This ensures that you see the packages and items specifically allowed for that institution.

  3. Select a Package
    Browse the available packages, which often include bundles of snacks, toiletries, and even seasonal or holiday-themed items. Many services also allow customization, so you can tailor the package to your loved one’s preferences.

  4. Enter the Inmate’s Details
    Provide the inmate’s full name and ID number to ensure the package is delivered to the correct person. Double-check this information to avoid delivery issues.

  5. Complete Your Purchase
    Add the selected package to your cart, proceed to checkout, and make your payment using a credit or debit card. Some vendors may also offer alternative payment methods.

  6. Confirm Delivery Guidelines
    Delivery schedules vary by facility, so check when packages are typically distributed. Most vendors provide estimated delivery times and tracking options.

By following these steps, you can easily send a commissary care package to brighten an inmate’s day. These packages not only provide comfort but also remind your loved one that they are supported and cared for. For added convenience, many vendors offer affordable pricing and frequent promotions to help you maximize your support

Frequently Asked Questions About ODRC - Lorain Correctional Institution (LorCI)

  1. What is a state prison?
      A state prison is a correctional facility operated by the Ohio Department of Corrections, housing individuals convicted of state crimes. Inmates typically serve sentences longer than one year. State prisons have different security levels and provide rehabilitation, education, and work programs.

  2. How do state prisons differ from federal prisons?
      State prisons hold offenders convicted of crimes under state laws, while federal prisons house those convicted of federal offenses. State prisons are managed by state DOCs and vary in policies, security levels, and resources. Federal prisons, run by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), often have more structured programs and uniform policies nationwide.

  3. What are the different security levels in state prisons?
      State prisons are classified as minimum, medium, or maximum security, based on inmate risk assessments. Minimum-security facilities house non-violent offenders with lower risks. Medium-security prisons have higher security protocols and structured daily routines. Maximum-security prisons, or supermax facilities, house the most dangerous offenders with strict confinement measures.

  4. How are inmates classified in state prisons?
      Classification is based on criminal history, sentence length, behavior, and medical or mental health needs. The DOC assesses inmates upon intake to determine their housing assignment, work eligibility, and rehabilitative program access. Inmates may be reclassified based on behavior or security concerns.

  5. What types of programs are offered in state prisons?
      State prisons offer GED courses, vocational training, substance abuse counseling, mental health treatment, religious programs, and work release opportunities. Many prisons collaborate with colleges and trade schools to provide certificates in fields such as welding, plumbing, and computer technology.

  6. Can inmates earn early release from state prisons?
      Some inmates qualify for parole, good behavior credits, or sentence reduction programs. State laws determine eligibility based on offense type, institutional behavior, and participation in rehabilitation programs. Some states offer compassionate release for elderly or terminally ill inmates.

  7. How do state prisons handle medical care for inmates?
      Inmates receive basic medical, dental, and mental health care inside the facility. For specialized care, they may be transported to hospitals under security escort. State DOCs often contract with private healthcare providers such as Corizon Health, Wellpath, and Centurion Health.

  8. Are state prison inmates allowed to work?
      Yes, inmates can work within the prison (kitchen, janitorial, maintenance) or in prison industries (manufacturing, farming, sewing, furniture-making). Some states allow inmates to participate in work-release programs, where they work outside the prison and return at night. Inmate workers may earn small wages (often $0.10 to $2.00 per hour) depending on the job.

  9. What are the visitation rules for state prisons?
      Visitation varies by facility but generally requires pre-approval of visitors, background checks, dress codes, and scheduled visiting hours. Some prisons allow contact visits (where inmates and visitors can hug or hold hands), while others allow only non-contact visits (separated by glass). Video visitation services are provided by companies like GTL (ViaPath), Securus, and IC Solutions.

  10. Can inmates receive mail and packages?
      Yes, inmates can receive letters, photos, and books, but all mail is screened for contraband. Some state prisons require mail to be sent through third-party processors, which convert letters into digital copies. Packages with clothing or hygiene items must often be ordered through approved vendors like Access Securepak, InmateCanteen, JailCanteen, iCareGifts, MyCarePack or Union Supply Group.

  11. How do phone calls work in state prisons?
      Inmates can make outgoing calls to approved numbers through prison phone services, but cannot receive calls. Calls are typically monitored and recorded. Services like GTL (ViaPath), Securus, and IC Solutions provide prepaid accounts for families to deposit funds for calls. Some states offer tablet-based calls with limited messaging services.

  12. What are the disciplinary rules in state prisons?
      Inmates must follow prison regulations regarding behavior, movement, and interactions with staff and other inmates. Infractions like fighting, possession of contraband, or rule violations can result in loss of privileges, solitary confinement, or additional time added to their sentence.

  13. Do state prisons offer religious services?
      Yes, state prisons have chaplains and religious volunteers who provide services for various faiths. Many facilities offer Bible study groups, prayer meetings, and religious dietary accommodations for inmates who follow specific religious beliefs.

  14. How does parole work in state prisons?
      Inmates eligible for parole must appear before a parole board, which reviews their behavior, program participation, and risk to society. If granted parole, inmates serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community, following specific rules such as curfews and employment requirements.

  15. Can inmates transfer between state prisons?
      Yes, inmates may be transferred for medical needs, security risks, disciplinary actions, or administrative reasons. Some may request transfers to be closer to family, but approvals depend on facility capacity and eligibility requirements.

  16. What happens when an inmate finishes their sentence?
      Inmates released from state prison may receive reentry services, such as job training, housing assistance, and substance abuse counseling. Some states require certain inmates to remain under supervision (such as parole or probation) after release.

  17. Are state prisons overcrowded?
      Many states struggle with overcrowding due to high incarceration rates. Solutions include alternative sentencing programs, early release initiatives, and building new facilities to accommodate growing populations.

  18. How can family members send money to an inmate?
      Families can deposit funds into an inmate’s commissary account through services like JPay, ConnectNetwork, or  Access Corrections. Money is used for purchasing snacks, hygiene items, and phone calls. Some states have limits on how much an inmate can receive per month.

  19. Do state prisons offer educational opportunities?
      Yes, many prisons provide GED classes, college courses, and vocational training programs. Some offer Pell Grants for inmates to take college-level courses. Popular vocational programs include auto repair, HVAC, and culinary arts.

  20. Can inmates be placed in protective custody?
      Yes, inmates who are at risk of harm due to gang conflicts, former law enforcement ties, or other safety concerns can be placed in protective custody (PC). These inmates are housed separately from the general population, often with limited movement and privileges for their safety.

Ask The Inmate

Connect directly with former inmates and get your questions answered for free. Gain valuable insights from individuals with firsthand experience in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and GEO and CoreCivic-run private prisons. Whether you're seeking advice, clarification, or just curious about life behind bars, this unique opportunity allows you to ask questions or explore answers to previous inquiries from the InmateAid community. Engage in meaningful discussions and get informed perspectives from those who truly understand the system.
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