LAWRENCE Correctional Center

[Dazzler]

Lawrence Correctional Center
Marc Hodge, Warden

Facility Data
Lawrence Correctional Center
Opened: November 2001
*Operational Capacity: 2,445
Medium Security Adult Male
*Current Population: 2,303
Average Age: 33
FY2010 Average Annual Cost Per Inmate: $16,585.00

*As of 11/30/2011. Reflects bed space capacity analysis as outlined in the January 1, 2012 Quarterly Report to the Legislature.
Visiting Hours
 

IDOC Visitation Rules and Information

Visitors to any correctional facility will be required to produce photo identification and verification of date of birth. Please be sure to bring 2 forms of identification with you; these would include a current photo ID such as a driver’s license, a state ID card, government ID card, military ID/driver’s license, or acceptable documentation of non-U.S. citizenship including a current Passport, or Visa, documentation must contain the visitor’s date of birth. Expired forms of identification will not be
accepted. Visitors will also be required to provide vehicle information and other pertinent data, such as government identification, official credentials, attorney registration, and or law student certification.

Lawrence Correctional Center's Visiting Rules
General Population
Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday and holidays 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
All visits will unlimited in length; however, should overcrowding occur, time limits will be established so all visits may be accomodated.

Segregation/Non-Contact Restriction
Daily 9:00a.m. to 2:00p.m.

No visits will be processed prior to 8:30a.m. and visitors must be checked in no later than one hour prior to the end of the visiting session.  Please refer to attached visiting Visiting Rules and Regulations for additional visiting information
Facility Address

Business Mail:
10940 Lawrence Road
Sumner, IL 62466

Inmate Mail:
Inmate Name & IDOC#
10930 Lawrence Road
Sumner, IL 62466

Phone: (618) 936-2064
Fax: (618) 936-2577


Facility Information

The mission of Lawrence Correctional Center is to provide for the protection of society through the humane and secure incarceration of the adult male offenders based upon the foundation of legislative and judicial decisions. The institution's administration is committed toward the instilling of responsibility and mature decision making in its offenders. The institution is expected to go far beyond the provision of the minimum necessities of food, sanitation, clothing, housing and medical services to the offenders of the facility by providing extensive and high quality educational programs, work assignment opportunities, leisure time activities and religious services.

 

Lawrence Correctional Center is a Medium Security Adult Male facility located in southeastern Illinois. The facility consists of 16 buildings, which comprise more than 364,000 square feet. The warehouse, mailroom, vehicle maintenance and maintenance departments are located outside of the perimeter fence, which assists in the safety and security of the facility. Lawrence Correctional Center consists of approximately 56 acres on a 160-acre sight. The eight housing units are T-design with a segregation unit and health care unit. The facility is ADA (American Disabilities Act) approved and houses several ADA offenders.

 

Inmate Programs

Academic:

    ABE (Adult Basic Education)
    GED (General Educational Development)

Vocational:

    Commercial Custodial
    Baccalaureate Courses
    Print Management
    Food Service Tech
    Career Technologies

Volunteer Services:

    Chaplaincy
    Tutor Training/Literacy Development
    Story Book Program
    Father’s Initiative

Other:

    Substance Abuse Education
    Leisure Time Activity
    Chaplaincy
    Library
    TRAC I
    Lifestyle Redirection
    Parole School
    Monthly “Hot Topics”
    New Offender Orientation
    Re-Entry Summits


http://www2.illinois.gov/idoc/facilities/Pages/lawrencecorrectionalcenter.aspx

[dancer]

C was moved here from western.  The visiting rules have changed time to time when we visited.  Sometimes we had to call and write ahead of time to get extended visits and other times they said "just ask when you get here".   The first time we went there,  we got 4 hours max, and another time it was 6 hours. 
It is anticeptically clean there,  since it is a very new built prison.  When I visited there,  three years ago,  the vending machines had a nice variety of food.  The pat down procedures there were the strictest I have experienced with them looking in my mouth,  wanting me to raise my tongue up, etc.  no wire bras here.  I had to take my barrettes out of my hair and put them to the side,  go through a metal detector, and then they still took a wand over me for areas it went off because I had metal hooks in my bra!  It did not feel relaxed there.  Couples can do a "real" kiss there. 
Once I stayed at this state park in Sumner,  which is one block away.  It only cost about $7 a night to camp there for three of us.  there was a shower to use close by.  I think it was called Red Hills?  red something. 
One thing that bugged me is that they would not call him for a visit until we got into the visting room ourselves.  Sometimes we were trying to get a quick visit in before driving 13 hours home, and it was still almost an hour from the time we arrived til our visit started, and there would be just hardly anyone there. 
By the way,  Lawrence is the name of the prison, not Lawrenceville.  Lawrence is a mile from the town of Sumner.  it is about 30 miles from Robinson Correctional .

[Forever and a Day]

Is there any information you can give me about Lawrence?  My husband would like to transfer there and I need to know about the visits.  How long are the visits?  How about the weekends, can you go any weekend? What are the hours?
Thanks

[swtnsxy513]

my fiance is at lawrence and i know everything there is to know. what do you wanna know?

They are always on lockdown. just got off on monday last week after a month.
no pictures but besides that, my visits are always good. it takes a while to get into school.
hes been there a year and just got his ged. theres barely no movement   23/1 most the time. 3 showers a week.
yard 3 days a week

[smfchicago]

Hello -

I have to  visit a client at Lawrence - do any of you have suggestions for decent hotels that are not too far away? Thanks!

[mlk5358]

There are at least 3 good choices. The best of which is actually in Indiana. The Super 8 in Vincinnes, Indiana or the Super 8 in Olney. Vincinnes is 20 to 25 minutes east of Lawrence CC on 50 and just under the underpass for the cloverleaf take the next exit south to the light and right a quarter of a mile. This is a clean secure facility with a continental breakfast and a pool. A full service gas station on the lot and several fast food and a Ponderosa and an Applebees a mile east of the Super 8. If you book on line the cost is about $48.00. Be sure to book in advance! The Super 8 in Olney, 15 minutes west of Lawrence CC doesn't have a pool and is across the street from a truckstop..I thought it a little shabby. If you take the first exit into Olney it winds through the country about a mile and a half and one of the first places on the right is a small motel. I don't recall the name. The rooms on the southside of the motel are more modern with A/C and cable, coffee and donuts and juice in the morning, they also have Western Union available. The cost is $40.00 per night.

[mlk5358]

The visiting hours at Lawrence are:
9am to 6pm M-F       
9am to 7pm S-S and Holidays
There are 5 visits per month, 2 of which can be either a Holidays or a Sat or Sun.

 4 hour visits allowed; if you travel 300 miles a 2 hour extension may be granted during the visit. You must ask the first shift visiting room guard who will make a note that you have asked. The second shift guard will then call the CO and let you know if an extension has been granted. Extensions are based on the number of visiters that day and availability in the day room and on the inmates conduct.

The inmate may go to the food machines on his arrival and then inform his visitor of his selections then he must remain seated opisite his visitor for the whole 4 to 6 hours  unless he has to go to the bathroom.

No pictures.

They do have a Bible available for visitors at the desk.

I've always been treated cordially by the staff.

If you are visiting a client they usually provide  you a table to the outer edge of the day room and they have a port on north wall for a laptop. There are 2 seg rooms if you request and the Warden agrees otherwise you may be restricted on what you may bring into the day room. If you are an attorney...Counseling requires 48 hour notice by fax of a visit.

[swtnsxy513]

where is this place at?...im payin 80 a night at super 8 in olney

[Forever and a Day]

Thank you so much for the info.  One more question?  Are you at least allowed to hold hands, kiss and hug hello and goodbye?

[swtnsxy513]

yes you are.the co's are pretty decent

[mlk5358]

Travelers Inn Motel
(618) 393-2186

1801 E Main St
Olney, IL 62450

Cross Street: Between Hawthorne Dr and S Van St

I have a map but can't get it pasted on  here. It is right off of Hwy 50..the exit winds through the country about 3/4 mile and the turns left..west and one of the first businesses on the left at the east end of town is the Travelers Inn. Remember the rooms at the back the motel are a little more modern and it is more quiet. There is a full service filling station another 2 blocks toward downtown and Olney has a 24 hour Super Walmart.

The better Super 8 is in Vincinnes Indiana.

[rsandelli]

Has anyone had any experience with hotels in the area?  I am looking for something that is clean but not too pricey.  Also, Dancer you said you had visited and stayed at the state park.  Is it strictly tent camping or do they offer cabins as well?  Since it's getting cold out, I don't know how I'd do over night in a tent by myself.

[rsandelli]

Dancer:  do you still have someone at Lawrence?  Can you give me some info please.

[rsandelli]

Wow, they really are serious about that four hour time limit!  I visited very recently and we were out the door to the second from when our four hours began.  Luckily the four hours doesn't begin until he enters the room because I had to wait about 40 minutes before he even came.  He didn't know I was coming, so probably it will not take as long in the future.

[Jims]

I received a letter from an inmate who used to work with J and was recently transferred to Lawrence. He told me they have a motivational speaker coming in on February 16. He didn't say how many sessions he would give, but that at each session, 100 inmates will be able to attend. They have to apply through the warden and will be chosen by his office.

Also, for Black History Month, they are sponsoring an essay contest. Inmates can write and submit a 100-word essay entitled, "Empowering Our Uniqueness." (100 words??? That's barely an introduction...!)

I wish Menard would have programs such as this.

[dancer]

Hey we could have our own Menard Contest.    Someone who knows no one at menard could judge the entries.  I'd put in  $10 in April towards a pot. 

[WAID]

Thought I'd share info I had on my visit here for other 1st time visitors.
I'm from sw Chi burbs, took 294S to 80W, 57S to 70E a few miles, then exited on Montrose, straight shot to Clay City on 50 for 30 miles. Which from that point is all 2 lane roads in passing a couple little towns, otherwise I was doing 80 on those roads in nothing but cornfields, so have enough gas to get 30 miles & pray you don't break down. Turned on 50 in Clay City, then it's about 10 miles to rte. 130, just pass a walmart distribution center, which is the big town of Olney. They have a Super 8 motel for $80 or a little down Main St. a cheesier motel, but not really a Bates motel thats only $45. The prison was only bout 10 miles down from Olney east on 50. You'll see 1 correction sign just a hundred yards from the right turn you have to  make, just looks like a new white factory from the aproach but it's surrounded by barbed wire fences when you get on it. Turn in the 2nd entrance & park in visitor lot on the far right. The check in building is small 1 room with bathrooms, you fill out a 1st time visitor form & a form if you bring any publications. I took 5 fat books so I wouldn't have to mail. You need 2 forms of ID, 1 has to be a picture ID. I wore jean shorts & they said can't be 5" higher than the back of your knee for shorts or skirts, they will measure & bring extra outfit, just in case.
The 2 things I found I the hard way, cause I didn't have them, was you need 2 quarters for a locker to lock your car keys & ID or other items you can't get in with, I had to trade dimes with someone. Have to leave your purse in car & they will go out to search your car. Also you need a $5. bill to get a new vending machine card, it'll take any increment after but only accepts the $5 bill to get the card, not single or quarters from change machine next to it if you thought you could change a $10. A thought I had but was stopped cause apparently someone else was then stuck with 10 in quarters before me when it didnt work lol
So I couldn't feed him, but told him better not bitch since I came all that way! Of course I said to the guard, it would be nice if they posted all these rules ahead of time to the guard & although nice, not very helpful & said the inmate should tell you the rules but heres a visitors manual to take on your way out & I'm thinking it's his 1st visit how would he know either about the visitor side lol
Anyway, once they call you through next room you will put your keys & in my case, cash I couldn't spend & extra jewelry in lockers. They do a light body search, remove shoes to check feet, look in your mouth & walk through metal detector. Then they will buzz you outside to walk a fenced path to the next building, you press the doorbell & get buzzed into a small vestibule & then into the visiting room, which looks like a nice cafeteria. Go to the guard desk across the room by the vending machines & he assigns you a table to sit & wait. IM comes through a door on the opposite side, they walk him to the guard desk past you & he gets to view the vending machines alone & then will come to your table. He sits on the chair marked I to face the guards & can't move from your table unless he notifies a guard to go to the bathroom. If you have to go, you tell the guard & you go back outside to the checkin building & have to go through the search again & possibly wait. The guard will aproach & tell you when your time is almost up. You can do a fair amount of kiss & hug on entry & exit then only touch hands/arms across the table rest of time. Then you get buzed through to go back to checkin building to get your stuff out of your locker, sign out & leave.
Hope this helps someone else!

[dancer]

Like the inmate is going to know you need  a $5 bill to buy the card,  and two quarters for the locker!  Please.   Sorry,  I went through that and frankly I didn't even  remember which prisons charge  50 cents,  and which ones  25 cents ( stateville) ( maybe Centralia? and big Muddy?)and which ones have free lockers ( dixon).   They change the machines and costs for the debit cards.  I guess it's good for people to have at least two quarters ,  a  $5 bill for a new card just in case,  plus more  $5s,  $10 or $20's to put on the debit cards. 

The first time at a prison is the worst,  since you don't know all the blankety blank rules!  The staff seem oblivious that the rules are different at each prison.  That deal with the inmate viewing the machines first,  I have only seen at Lawrence.  Lawrence will strip search the guys again if they need to use the toilet!   Other places just pat them down,  like they do the visitors.  After the first visit,  C learned to hold back on fluids!

Thanks for posting this WAID. 

[WAID]

Guess it's a live & learn experience cause everyone & every prison is different. I felt nautious the minute I turned down the road & the stuff they were telling or asking me is a blur, cause my mind is wandering a thousand miles a minute asking myself  What Am I Doing here? Guess they all were sympathetic to a 1st time visitor or expected it from a dumb blonde, which was not an act at that moment. ^%$#

Then didn't feel comfortable kissing him on entry with my nerves & watching eyes lol It took me about an hour to say whew, I'm ok now. For the most part, everyone is focused on their own visit to pay any attention to you, but it was nice being the last 1 out & I laid it on him.  *(%$#

[WAID]

On visiting Olney: I've taken several routes coming fron Chi. burbs, explored a bit, seen the nearby hotels in Olney & chose Super 8, which was $53 plus taxes in calling ahead for reservation. Found a very nice steakhouse, went to the old timey movie theatre, went shopping, bought a card at Hallmark to put in mail there so he'd get it quick. I also grabbed a local tourist booklet with everything from local wineries & antique outlets to local bed & breakfast , golf courses & dates of festivals through fall of this year if you wanted to make a weekend of it.

Then just a FYI, over abundant public displays of affection, this particular case I saw being an inmate groping & I don't mean grazing or hand resting there accidentally of a visitors rearend, resulted with him in SEG & his visitor banned for 6 months. Otherwise 5 minutes of kissing & hugging is acceptable on entry & exit, my friend would also kiss my hand several times throughout & nothing has been said, so if you've got long enough arms to reach across the table like I do, go for it! lol
Just PM me & I'd be happy to share any of the info. I picked up or have experienced.

[WAID]

Another update while staying in Olney, just my opinion.
I actually viewed the rooms at Travelers Inn Motel on Main St.,  think 4 hour nap / Bates motel. The 10 extra dollars or so is worth a good nights sleep to stay at Super 8 on 130 for $60 with tax.
 :),./32

The authentic mexican restaurant on 130, right down the block from Super 8 is blah, but edible. I highly recommend the peach daquiri over any dinner combo there or my favorite, vending machine lunch / dinner date shared with him!

[natalieD]

hey everyone-
my boyfriend's at lawrence and i figured i would just post a little bit about what he told me the daily routine is like. apparently they just switched lawrence to max so it's not a secure-medium anymore. they're in their cells 23 hours a day and are only allowed out of their cells to eat, go to yard/gym, and make phone calls. depending on what level of the deck you're on, you get calls monday, wednesday, and friday, or tuesday, thursday, and saturday. the times alternate every week, i.e. morning calls one week and evening calls the next. mail is processed every day. my boyfriend received the first letter i wrote him about 3 days after i sent it, and his mail was forwarded from stateville quite quickly actually. they eat breakfast, which comes at about 2 or 3 am, in their cells. lunch is at 9 or 10 in the morning, and dinner at 2 i think? they get to go to chow for lunch and dinner, though. yard is only 3 times a week, same with showers. all the CO's i've talked to at this facility have been very nice, polite, and helpful. my boyfriend said that most of them are actually really respectful to the inmates as well. i'm not sure what the commissary list is like yet because my boyfriend is still waiting for his money to catch up with him that he had left on the books while at county. i've only talked to him on the phone once since he just got settled there 2 weeks ago, and he has a court date tomorrow, so after that i think we will be able to fall into the routine of things. everything seems very laid out and organized. you'll always know when to expect a call and that sort of thing. his phone and visiting lists were approved within 3 or 4 days tops. another thing my boyfriend told me is that even on level 1 lockdown, visits are allowed, but are only 2 hours long. otherwise they are between 4-6 hours. i'm visiting in a week, so i'll post more about visiting after i have my first experience with that! i think many people have covered that topic already, but this hasn't been updated for some time now so maybe things have changed a little bit since then. all in all, lawrence is definitely a very secure prison, but seems to be an "okay" place to do time if you aren't the kind of person who likes to cause trouble. my boyfriend is really only minimum security, but this is where idoc had room for him, and he just lays low and does as he's told, and he seems to be doing alright. anyhow, i'll post more as i find out more! i hope this helps anyone with LO's at lawrence!

[momof1_623]

This the first time I've posted on here and I'm not sure if I put this in the right place. I have a pen pal in Lawerence and I wanted to send him some books but I have a couple of questions first. How many books can I send him at one time?  Also- do the books have to be new? I have a couple of books I read that he wanted to read as well so I thought maybe I could just send him my copies. If the books have to be new do I have to send a reciept with them?  Lastly, what can I send the books in- I've read on here that bubbler mailer and such have been sent back- what is the best thing to send them in? Thanks everyone!

[PrettyBrwnEyes]

The books you send do not have to be new, nor do you need to send a receipt. Only 5 books, magazines, or any reading material at a time. I have no idea if you ever visit your penpal, but you can also drop that kind of stuff off when you visit that way you save instead of paying for it to be mailed. If you do have to mail them just send them media mail at the post office that way you get a cheaper rate than regular first class. I have always sent the books I send in a manila evelope. I hadn't tried sending them in any bubble wrap so you just told me something new. I do know that I ordered my husband some books from on line and one was refused because it was sent to him in a box. Hope this helps.

[Forevermah]

Be careful with the bubble wrap, be sure Lawrence will accept them, as some prisons will send them  back if they are sent in bubblewrap.   Best to call their mail room first.

[momof1_623]

Thank you for the information. That helps a lot! I'm going to go to the post office first thing Monday morning and mail the books off. I have to put his name and IDOC number on the inside cover of the books too correct? Thanks again PrettyBrwnEyes and Forevermah!

[PrettyBrwnEyes]

Yep, that's right. 

[Trishhhhh]

Yeah you have to put his inmate # on each book.  Another thing I do, depending on the size of books. The post office has a cardboard envelope that costs $4.60 for whatever you can fit in it.  You could definately fit 5 magazines in it or 2-3 medium sized books.  Just a suggestion, and don't send hard back books or books with removable covers.  They are not allowed to have the covers in Lawrence. Idk why!

[PrettyBrwnEyes]

They aren't allowed books with removable covers, but they are allowed hardback books as long as they aren't in Seg. I have mailed and brought to a visit hardback books for my husband. I also called the mailroom before I sent them. Most of them were educational material, but they are allowed to have them in Gen Pop.

[momof1_623]

Thank you Trishhh and PrettyBrwnEyes. So if I got him a hard cover book with a removable cover and sent it to him without the removable cover it'll be alright? Also, one more question (sorry for all the questions)- can I send him like word search books, word find, or activity books like that? I bought him a couple (I made sure they didn't have staples in them or anything). They are fairly small in size. Thanks again ladies. I really appreciate the help! I did send him two books today. Hopefully he'll like them.

[Chell771]

Yes you can send the word search books, etc., but he cannot be sent more than five at a time.  Yes his name and number should be on/in the book as well.  I'm sure he will like the books.  I know my LO read books he may not have normally read just to pass the time. :)

[momof1_623]

Thank you Chell!

[brains]

Hey, I'm Natalie's boyfriend... I was just released from Lawrence CC in January so if anyone has any questions, feel free to send a message my way.
Mike

[Trishhhhh]

Hey Mike, you have a great girlfriend. Nat has been very supportive for me, so stay outta trouble and treat her right! Hehe Good luck to both of you!
~~Trish 

[brains]

Thanks, I know she is the best girlfriend ever. I am staying out of trouble. Nobody has to worry about that. I hope all is going well for you, at least as good as it can be given the situation you're in.

[TrustGod07]

My Husband was just tranfered to Lawrence ... I saw a post that said it took about 3 or 4 days before his visit and phone list was approved, does anybody know if that has changed? Also, do married couples get any sort of extra's maybe longer visits or more frequent visits more than 5 a month (I think that's what someone posted)? If any one has been to Lawrence recently could you give an update on the process? Thanks much 

[Forevermah]

My Husband was just tranfered to Lawrence ... I saw a post that said it took about 3 or 4 days before his visit and phone list was approved, does anybody know if that has changed? Also, do married couples get any sort of extra's maybe longer visits or more frequent visits more than 5 a month (I think that's what someone posted)? If any one has been to Lawrence recently could you give an update on the process? Thanks much 

Pretty much what you read about the phone and visiting lists are true, and No, married couples don't get any preferred treatment over anyone else. Five visits per month, is pretty much the norm throughout IDOC prisons, here is their visiting rules:

The visiting hours at Lawrence are:
9am to 6pm M-F       
9am to 7pm S-S and Holidays
There are 5 visits per month, 2 of which can be either a Holidays or a Sat or Sun.

Hope you get a call and visit soon!


Mah

[TrustGod07]

Pretty much what you read about the phone and visiting lists are true, and No, married couples don't get any preferred treatment over anyone else. Five visits per month, is pretty much the norm throughout IDOC prisons, here is their visiting rules:

The visiting hours at Lawrence are:
9am to 6pm M-F       
9am to 7pm S-S and Holidays
There are 5 visits per month, 2 of which can be either a Holidays or a Sat or Sun.

Hope you get a call and visit soon!
Mah



Thanks Mah, I appreciate your help   
I hope I get a call and visit soon too " )
Do you know of any reliable forms of transportation to get there?
Please let me know,
TrustGOD07
 
 
 

[Trishhhhh]

Hi TG,  I visit my husband every month in Lawrence.  Where are you from?  The only trasportation that I know of is out of Chicago...but reliability isn't their strong point from what i've seen.  I drive down and stay in a motel so I can visit 2 days in a row.  I suggest not visiting on the weekends if you can avoid it cuz your visits can be cut to 2 hours if there are alot of visitors.  If you have any other questions, i'll try to help you the best I can.  Oh and be very careful of what you wear!!!  ~~Trish

[TrustGod07]

Hi TG,  I visit my husband every month in Lawrence.  Where are you from?  The only trasportation that I know of is out of Chicago...but reliability isn't their strong point from what i've seen.  I drive down and stay in a motel so I can visit 2 days in a row.  I suggest not visiting on the weekends if you can avoid it cuz your visits can be cut to 2 hours if there are alot of visitors.  If you have any other questions, i'll try to help you the best I can.  Oh and be very careful of what you wear!!!  ~~Trish

Thanks Trish, what can you wear? I know at some places you can't wear a zip up hoody without a shirt under it ... are they funny acting like that? I'm trying to line up some options to get there, I got a couple of numbers for van services, I spoke with one lady Williw Mae Evans, she's sending me her schedule for when she makes the trip. What motel do you stay at when you go? How far is it from Lawrence? I thought about staying over too, How much is the room? Please let me know ... Thanks Much TG " )

[Trishhhhh]

Clothing restrictions varies by the guard on duty but you'd be safe to just NOT wear ANY hoodies! (I was sent to get different clothes once for wearing a hoodie and wasn't on other visits prior)  No tank tops or anything revealing.  I have stayed at 2 different motels in Olney, IL. It is about 7 miles south of the prison not hard to find.  The Super 8 is better and is $70 a night but it's alittle further away and then there's the Travelers Inn that is umm not that great lol but it's a bed for $45 a night.  Like I said b4, I have never riden in a van but I know I visited on a weekend when the vans came down and alot of people cut visits cut short because their were so many visits and if the visiting room is full when you get there, you have to wait atleast 2 hours to get in.  I definately prefer to drive down and get there at 9 a.m. on the weekends!!  The vans don't get there til later.  When you visit you have to have a $5 bill to buy a vending machine card, it only cost 2 or 3 (can't remember) and the rest is money you can spend.  You'll need atleast $10 more for the visit.  Sandwiches are $4 and up, it's not cheap. And you will need 2 quarters for a locker. (there is a change machine in the waiting room).  So the only things you can take into the visiting room are your locker key and vending machine card.  Everything else must be put in your locker.  I've been there around 10 times now and I have only ran into ONE rude CO so my general opininion is pretty good compared to what I thought it was going to be like.  I was soooo scared the first time I went there.  They do search your car and your body (a pat down) some co's make you shake out your bra, others don't.  You have to take off your shoes and shake them out every time so wear clean socks. LOL  If you wear your hair in a pony tail, some co's make you take it out and shake it.  Let's see what else?  When you get into the visiting room, you have to go to the co desk and tell him your LO's last name and he will tell you where to sit.  Every table has 4 little round stools attached to the table (no backs, uncomfortable as hell!!!) one stool has an I for the inmate to sit at and one stool with a V on it for you to sit on.  If you bring someone with you, they have to sit between you.  You are allowed to stand up whenever you want and move around to the vending machines but you can only hug and kiss them when they first come in and when the visit is over.  Some co's give you up to 5 minutes to kiss n hug while others only give you 30 seconds so be prepared for that.  You have to go into the visiting room and wait while they go get your LO, depending on where they are, it can take awhile (especially don't get there at 3pm. it's shift change and count time so no one is allowed to move for almost an hour).  I always get the things I know he and I want out of the vending machines while i'm waiting for him.  I can't think of anything else hon.  I know how nerve racking and scary it is to worry and wonder what it's going to be like so i'm trying to give you the best idea of the reality of it.  The first visit was the worst for me, so many emotions.  I didn't know if I really wanted to visit again but it does get easier each time and it really isn't that bad!!

[TrustGod07]

Clothing restrictions varies by the guard on duty but you'd be safe to just NOT wear ANY hoodies! (I was sent to get different clothes once for wearing a hoodie and wasn't on other visits prior)  No tank tops or anything revealing.  I have stayed at 2 different motels in Olney, IL. It is about 7 miles south of the prison not hard to find. I didn't know if I really wanted to visit again but it does get easier each time and it really isn't that bad!!

Hey Trish!!!

Thank you sooooooooooooooooooooooooo much for the infor. you painted a real clear picture for me, now all I have to do in digest it ... Are you serious they make you shake out your bra?!?!?!? What's that all about? Are you in Chicago? I'm wondering if you felt like giving me the directions to Lawrence, I can't find anything on the web, I'm trying to get my brother to drive me once the list clears. With all that I'm hearing about the vans I'm a little sceptical plus I want all the time I can get with my Husband, I don't know what I would do if that was cut short. Thanks again for taking time to share the details with me about the visits. GOD BLESS YOU and YOUR HUSBAND   

[Amarie]

TrustGod,

The bra shaking is normal at most all of the prisons. They just want you to take the bottom of your bra and shake it to make sure nothing is being hidden inside. For someone new to visiting it sounds a bit much but once you have done it awhile it doesn't bother you.

[Trishhhhh]

I'm not in chicago but the best way i've found is taking 57 south to Effingham and taking 33 to 120 into olney, once you get in olney you turn left on 50 and it's about 7 miles to the prison.

[Doll4BabyBoy]

Has anyone gotten married recently at Lawrence CC?

I have been reading all the information about Lawrence
everyone has been very helpful!
Is your LO allowed to go to the vending machines
to pick out food??

[LadyjH]

When my husband came in they allowed him to go to the vending machines to see what they had before he came to sit down. 

[Patty]

Does anybody no anything about lawrence correctional center.My son is 17 and just got sent there.Im trying to get info on this facility.A worried mom.

[Bobsgirl17]

  Patty - you have come to the right place!  There are several members that are moms.  I am sure they will be here shortly and can help you.  Hang in there and I will be thinking of you.  Even though my l/o is my fiance, I am also a mom.  I can only imagine what you are going through.  I will pray for you and your son!

[lvanrs2]

My husband is at Lawrence.  There is a board for individual prison profiles but if you need more insight let me know.  You can also look on the Illinois Department Of Corrections website under facilites.

[Forevermah]

Welcome to IPT Patty, I know exactly how you feel and I am glad you found us. We have members that have loved ones at Lawrence that will be able to help you, but here are a couple links that you can read for now, pertaining to information about Lawrence:

LAWRENCE PROFILE BOARD:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/topic,5626.0.html

Photo of Lawrence:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php/topic,170.0.html

Again, welcome to IPT, if you have questions you can't find answers too, please ask.



Mah

[ciessa]

My husband was just transferred to Lawerence yesterday and I'm not sure why he got such a high level of security.  He is a non violent offender with no behavior problems and from what I've read, his is just one step from maximum security.  I just don't understand.  Could it be that was the only place they had available at the time for a drug program?  It just concerns me because with his crime (writing a bad check) we thought he would be in minimum or low medium.  Doesn't make sense to me.  Maybe there is something that I'm missing, who knows.

[superb86]

That happens a lot.  He was probably classified as a minimum escape risk while in receiving, unless he has some sort of escape, fleeing and elduding, etc in his past.  It's all because of bedspace.  It's kind of just a big gamble when your in receiving waiting for transfer.  I don't think it has anything to do with the drug program.  I think the majority of illinois prisons have some sort of drug program.  Unfortunatly for him Lawrence is not a very desireable prison to do time in.  I'm not sure exactly what the conditions are as I've never been there but they are locked down the majority of the day.  He will be able to put in for a transfer but I forget how long he has to be there before he can.  I'm sure someone else on here knows a lot more about it.  Good luck...

[mamacita1]

Is this his first time in prison or in jail?  What class was his conviction?  How long was he given?  Has he been classified as a gang member?  Did his behavior in county All these things are taken under consideration, as well as bed space.

He will have to wait a year before being considered for a transfer to another facility.

[ciessa]

it is his first time in prison. class 4 felony conviction for writing bad checks. was given a 3yr sentence. definately not a gang member. very good behavior at county. the only thing i could think of would be that he has a traffic ticket warrant because he had court on the day he went in to the county jail in another county.

[patsymac]

I have a family member that was transferred from Stateville to Lawrence two weeks ago. Apparently they just opened a house there that has never been occupied before. They were getting about 50 new people a day and I guess they filled the house which is probably a few hundred inmates. My relative was told he would go to a minimum security but is in Lawrence instead. Maybe alot of people were just sent there because of bed space. It has been very difficult trying to get information. All they ever say is that they can't give you that information, you have to wait for the inmate to call. We know his phone list has been approved but no phone call yet in two weeks. We have received one letter. We wanted to visit but can't find out if his list has been approved. Their computer system was done for a whole week because of all the new information trying to be processed. We are feeling very frustrated and they keep saying just be patient but it is hard. They said they do not have the budget to hire any additional help to handle all these new inmates until next year. We are wondering what kind of conditions the inmates will have with this lack of personnel. Has anyone else heard from an inmate recently transferred to Lawrence?

I don't know what we would have done without this website. We have found out so much helpful information. Thanks to everyone!

[mrs.a]

I was Wondering would I be able to leAve my cell phone in the locker or do they not allow it in the bldg period?  I'm gonna be taking a bus out there n wouldn't feel too comfortable going without my phone or leaving it on the bus ??

[shake.maec]

    Starting January 2010!  S.U.C.C.E.S.S. "Showing U' Christ Cares Every Single Second" Transportation services will be traveling from the Northside of Chicago making all stops along Interstate 57 to Robinson & Lawrence Correctional Facilities!  Specializing in 2-Day trips, Weekends, & Multi-day visits.  Two-Day trips including hotel, Continental breakfast, complimentary shopping/movies drop-off/pick up, and nearby restaurant locations only $100 for Adults & $25 extra for children!  Email: shake.maec@ymail.com to reserve your space.  Spaces are limited and going quickly!  Check us out on Facebook~ Shake Maec    $10 off your trip for referring a friend!  You can reserve your own room at the hotel near the prison you're visiting; just pay us $75 for the driving purposes   

[Swishas girl]

I have visited Lawrence 5 times in the past 3 weeks, so any questions I will be happy to answer!

[RMadrigal]

Hello Swishasgirl,

Just wondering how it went for you when you were out in Lawrence and what do they ask for on your first visit, I am planning to visit my son in about 2 weeks.

thanks

[ciessa]

you'll need 2 forms of ID, one picture and one can be your SS card or birth certificate. they make you fill out a page of information when you go the first time and make sure you're on your inmate's visit list. you will need 2 quarters for the locker for your keys, purse, etc. for food, you need a $5 bill to purchase the food card and then you can add money to it in any denomination up to a $20 bill.  The max you can put on it is $40 at one time. their clothing requirements will not allow any v-neck shirts, sleeveless, or short shorts/skirts. they also do not allow headbands. I've been visiting out there for the last 9 months and this last time was the first time they would not let me wear a hair clip. they will almost always search your car before the visit so make sure its clean of any contraband. best thing would be to have a pretty clean car, it makes it easier for the search.  if you're going on the weekend, the earlier the better because they are always busy on weekends. I usually go on mondays myself and have found it to be much calmer. if they have too many visits waiting, they will reduce visits to 2 hours, otherwise it is 4 hours.  they do count at 4pm but have shift change at 3pm so make sure you get there before 2pm to avoid waiting through that. you will have to wait, even if there aren't any other visits waiting. they are a bit slow out there. let's see, what else? once it is your turn for the visit you will get frisked and walk through a metal detector. once you're in the visit room, go to the gard desk and they will tell you where to sit. can give hug and kiss at the beginning of the visit and the end. they actually have cards and checkers now so just ask the guards if you're interested. let me know if you have any other questions. I've been there plenty of times. oh and it's not really that bad of an environment for the visit.

[JOSEY_MONTES]

swishas girl did you drive there?And are you from chicago?

[RMadrigal]

 

Thanks alot Ciessa, I greatly appreciate the information. I am from Chicago and from the information I got on google maps; looks like about a 5 hour drive.

Really excited that I will visiting my son next week.

once again thanks!!!!!!

[JOSEY_MONTES]

DOES ANY ONE KNOW HOW TO DRIVE THERE?I HAVE 3 DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS AND DON'T KNOW WHICH WAY TO GO?

[ciessa]

From Chicago, take I57 South to I70 (will be a left exit). Get off on exit 105 (Montrose). At the end of the ramp, turn right.  Turn left onto Route 33, Right onto Route 130. Take that through a couple of towns, turn left on Route 250 (Main Street).  Turn left on Route 50/Rt250.  Lawrence will be on the right side of the road, about 10 miles up.  If you use the directions from google (using the po box they have for the address), you will actually pass the prison so you can use that one too. Basically, once you're off the highways there's a lot of small town and country driving.  The closest town is Olney, which you will drive through before arriving.  Hope that helps.

[RMadrigal]

 

Thanks ciessa, really appreciate all this information!!!!!!

[RMadrigal]

 

From Chicago, take I57 South to I70 (will be a left exit). Get off on exit 105 (Montrose). At the end of the ramp, turn right.  Turn left onto Route 33, Right onto Route 130. Take that through a couple of towns, turn left on Route 250 (Main Street).  Turn left on Route 50/Rt250.  Lawrence will be on the right side of the road, about 10 miles up.  If you use the directions from google (using the po box they have for the address), you will actually pass the prison so you can use that one too. Basically, once you're off the highways there's a lot of small town and country driving.  The closest town is Olney, which you will drive through before arriving.  Hope that helps.

Ciessa I went to visit my son this past weekend and I just want to thank you for the directions out there. We had actually bought an atlas and didn't even need it by just following your directions and also we did find the hotel out there as well!!!!

thanks!!!   

[JOSEY_MONTES]

LAWRENCE IS ON LOCKDOWN

[RMadrigal]

 Did Lawrence go on lock down today??????????


OOOPS!! just seen yesterdays date!

[ciessa]

RMadrigal, I just noticed your previous post. glad the directions helped. have been there too many times to count myself. hoping they will be off lockdown for a visit this coming monday. its been almost 3wks since i went down so i hope it wont have to be much longer than that. :(

[RMadrigal]

RMadrigal, I just noticed your previous post. glad the directions helped. have been there too many times to count myself. hoping they will be off lockdown for a visit this coming monday. its been almost 3wks since i went down so i hope it wont have to be much longer than that. :(

 

I hope so too, we were planning our visit back there during the Father's day weekend. So we can just keep our fingers crossed that this is over soon!

[Vero86]

Hi everybody just found this website... i was wondering if anybody knows about any bus, transportation, that goes to lawrence???. i dont have a car, i use to go with another person that use to go, but i guess there m.i.a.... i havent seen my boyfriend in over 3 month and i miss him... i really want to go see him...


All CAPS edited out by Staff

[Marks_guy]

You can send Dazzler or Forevermah a PM, and they can relay information on which bus services will make the trip.    to IPT!

[cinlu87]

My husband just got transferred today to Lawrence which is a 5 hour drive from where I live   I was reading the other post and I am so happy to hear that they allow hugs and kisses....can't wait for that!!!  Anyone have any other information on how the facility is for the inmate?

[RMadrigal]

My husband just got transferred today to Lawrence which is a 5 hour drive from where I live   I was reading the other post and I am so happy to hear that they allow hugs and kisses....can't wait for that!!!  Anyone have any other information on how the facility is for the inmate?

My son has been in Lawrence since April and so far has had no problems or complaints about the CO's. He says they treat him pretty decent, hes also on the school deck so I don't really know if that makes a difference or not.

[Vero86]

  I was wondering is there anyone that does car pool to Lawrence???...i live in Chicago


All CAPS edited out by Staff

[Yesmi]

Does anyone know of a good bus company that goes to Lawrence?

I need to visit a friend on the weekends but its too far for me to go and come back in one day- I would need to stay the night at a hotel which I do not want to do, at least not the first time.

[LadyjH]

I don't know of a bus company but I do know in Olney there are hotels.  I stayed at a hotel and it isn't too far from Lawrence.  Good question though I wonder if there is a bus company that goes to Lawrence.  I would think if there is you may still have to stay the night depending on where you are coming from.  From me it is about a 5 hour ride. 

[RMadrigal]

Does anyone know of a good bus company that goes to Lawrence?



I know there is a bus service because when I have gone down there to visit my l/o they got there as well but I'm sorry that I don't know the name of the bus service......you might want to call the facility and ask them if they can give you that kind of information since they have it posted on the board in the waiting area.

Hope this helps.......good luck!

[jaybird]

Can someone please give me the Receive Code for Lawrence for MoneyGram?
Thank you!

[kp18437]

Make sure you put the inmate number pay to field right next to your l/o's name
the receiver is ILDOC

[jaybird]

Thank you.  Do you have a LO at Lawrence?

[MszMelly]

Hi =)
Im trying to find a way to get up to Lawernce to visit my hunnie but I have no car =( Ive read other links about vans picking up people but it also said something about stayng over night?!...Even thought I would love to stay over night I cant. =( So can anyone help me and let me know if there is a grey hound bus or something that can take me up to Lawrence...thank you! =)

[RMadrigal]

Hi =)
Im trying to find a way to get up to Lawernce to visit my hunnie but I have no car =( Ive read other links about vans picking up people but it also said something about stayng over night?!...Even thought I would love to stay over night I cant. =( So can anyone help me and let me know if there is a grey hound bus or something that can take me up to Lawrence...thank you! =)

Maybe you can call the facility and ask for a number there......I know there is a bus service because they have arrived when I have been there visiting my son but Ive never used it.

[HisGirl]

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if the posts from 2006 regarding visits,  showers, yard,  time locked down in cell, etc. , are still accurate? This is a level 2, but from what I read it sounds a lot like Stateville.

Has anyone visited recently? What about bringing infants and or toddlers on a visit?

Any up to date information anyone can give me would be most appreciated. Thanks, and have a great day!

[FightingForSharp]

I have been there about 5 times since October 2010.  My last visit was on March 16, 2011.    My Sweetie has been there for about 5 years now.  There is an old man guard at the visitor's entrance has a bad attitude and treats you like crap.  Because of him and his attitude, I am no longer allowed to visit.  The lady is very nice.  But when you go in, you show 2 forms of ID, sign in and make sure you have your vehicle license number.  They will check your ID and inspect your car, including the trunk.  Once you have passed that than they take you thru this door, where you can get a locker for 50 cents to put your things in.  They will pat you down.

There is a machine that you can put money on a card for the vending machines.  Food is expensive.  $5 for a sandwich, $1.50 for a drink, .65-1.00 for snack foods.

Most usually you have a good visit once you get past that first guard.  They are getting stricked to keep visits to 4 hours. 

I MISS MY BABY!

[RMadrigal]

  Sorry to hear that fightingforsharp.....I think I know exactly what jerk your talking about!!!

[pac5401]

Is Lawrence still as restricted as the earlier posts have indicated?  Still the 23/1 schedule?

My son had an escape from house arrest, so I'm sure that's why he's in a more secure place.  Have not heard from him yet - but I know they're currently on lockdown.

[scotts baby 08]

Pac, yes they are still that restricted..and it really stinks..
sending prayers that you hear from him soon..they are just starting to use phones yesterday and today i guess..

[pac5401]

Heard from him - he got a 10 sec free call. Consolidated screwed up our phone service, had to call them to get it fixed!

I sent him money for his commissary - I couldn't send as much as he wanted, hope they get to shop again soon.

Have to get some magazines in the mail for him.

[scotts baby 08]

glad you heard from your LO Pac.. hugs

[vrijheid]

 
Thank you everyone for taking the time to share all your experiences and knowledge about Lawrence.  23/1 means in your cell all the time???  My son is in there now.  He said it was worse than Stateville??  what about the list of programs etc. that are indicated on their site, all the stuff they supposedly offer.   I can just imagine with more and more cuts to state budgets how our loved ones end up suffering the consequences...

[bmonska]

Thank you everyone for taking the time to share all your experiences and knowledge about Lawrence.  23/1 means in your cell all the time???  My son is in there now.  He said it was worse than Stateville??  what about the list of programs etc. that are indicated on their site, all the stuff they supposedly offer.   I can just imagine with more and more cuts to state budgets how our loved ones end up suffering the consequences...

23/1 means they are in their cells for 23 hours and out for 1 hour each day. As for programs, they exist but the wait lists are very long to get into the classes. Some people have waited as long as 8-12 months to finally get into a class. Some wait lists are longer than others depending on the facility. I don't know what the wait list looks like for Lawrence. Someone with an LO in there will stop by and add more info for you.

[RMadrigal]

vrijheid have your son put in a request right away for either school or work, like I said my son has been there a little over a year and has been in school for about six months already, it didn't take him too long to get into classes...

[snshess]

Like previous people have said...have him fill out request form for work and school....this way when an opening arises he will be considered.  The place is not great but tell him to make the best of it and keep his chin up.  My husband has been there for 6 months and is working.  It is not great but at least he is not locked up in the concrete closet all day he says.  Send your son lots of letters, books and magazines as they is all they have for now and if you can swing it money for tv and headphones.  That is a life saver at this point.

[jdmlt]

Went today for my first visit & after driving around cornfields, I found the place. The CO told me this is the address to use for GPS location:

8272 East US50
Sumner, IL

[scotts baby 08]

  the guys at LCC finally, FINALLY get Hot Pots..it is on the commisary list now, and they are like $22.00 ...yippieeeee

hugs to everyone

[Angela]

Isn't it amazing how such as a little thing like a Hot Pot can help make a person life so much better.I think that all of the commissary should be the same at each IDOC facility.
 Just my opinion for what it's worth.   

[snshess]

they are still only allowed five contract items which stinks.  They need to up that number

[jaf]

Okay, another new phrase to learn. .  what does "5 contract items" mean?

[oneyear2go]

Okay, another new phrase to learn. .  what does "5 contract items" mean?

contract items are tv's , hot pots, fans, the large items

[robin in ohio]

Isn't it amazing how such as a little thing like a Hot Pot can help make a person life so much better.I think that all of the commissary should be the same at each IDOC facility.
 Just my opinion for what it's worth.   

My husband said it's not worth it to get one cause he would have to give up something to get it...he said he'll stay with doing it the old school way...plus he said they could come back later on and tell them they can't have them again or if he would ever get moved they may not let him have it at the new place....he said it's just another way for DOC to get more money out of them.

[Lu]

 

Can anyone tell me how much the contract items will cost (i.e. TV, hotpot, earphones, etc.)?   I need to send some commisary money for my son who just arrived there.

[destinswife]

 

Can anyone tell me how much the contract items will cost (i.e. TV, hotpot, earphones, etc.)?   I need to send some commisary money for my son who just arrived there.

I think this is the same pretty much for every prison for any inmate to get pretty much all of the luxury items such as a T.V., hotpot, etc. you need to send at least $450.00-500.00 that insures they will get some food too. I sent 500.00 to start mine off at his prison and it got him all of the luxury items but he didn't get shirts and underware, socks things like that that he did need. So now he is stuck buying a little at a time on those items.

[TimeStandsStill]

destinswife:  You are much more generous than I was!  

[Forevermah]

 

Can anyone tell me how much the contract items will cost (i.e. TV, hotpot, earphones, etc.)?   I need to send some commisary money for my son who just arrived there.

Here is the Commissary List we have for Lawrence, you can get a general idea of what things cost:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php?topic=19963.0

[Lu]

Is Lawrence Correctional ALWAYS on 23/1?    I was thinking a medium-secured prision would not be that way all the time.    Does any one know if they are out more often than that?

Thanks!

[Lu]

That list was a wonderful help!   Thanks so much for directing me to it.   

Lu

[Lu]

Ok, one more post for this newbie!

Are inmates allowed to receive magazine subscriptions and books sent directly to them from the publishers (vs. family sending mag/books)?  This would save on postage costs if they could.   

It sounds like it takes a long time for inmates to get involved in educational resources or working.   Is this still the case?  I guess we're grasping at any hope of surviving the months and years to come.  Rather discouraged at what I've read so far about the 23/1 hours, etc.

[Forevermah]

Ok, one more post for this newbie!

Are inmates allowed to receive magazine subscriptions and books sent directly to them from the publishers (vs. family sending mag/books)?  This would save on postage costs if they could.   

It sounds like it takes a long time for inmates to get involved in educational resources or working.   Is this still the case?  I guess we're grasping at any hope of surviving the months and years to come.  Rather discouraged at what I've read so far about the 23/1 hours, etc.

Yes, you can send them directly from the publishers, but my suggestion is write down where you bought them, keep the phone # so in the event he is ever transferred you can easily switch his address on the subscription, or in the event he is being released, you can switch the address to home.  This is our board for sending books/money/mail etc to your LO:

http://www.illinoisprisontalk.org/index.php?board=17.0



It is hard for them at times to get into some classes/programs because of the overcrowding situation in IDOC.  They have to get their names on the lists and see what happens. 

[Lu]

Are the cells at Lawrence single-occupancy or double-occupancy?

[robin in ohio]

Are the cells at Lawrence single-occupancy or double-occupancy?

Double

[Lu]

Are there any reports stating how "safe" Lawrence C.C. is for inmates compared to other C.C.'s?   

[Lu]

Do inmates ever qualify to move from a medium-secured prison to a minimum-secured one?  Would the number of years left on your sentence make a difference, i.e. getting below 7 yrs.?

Once you are sent to a particular prison, do you stay there for the complete sentencing time?

[Marks_guy]

Yes, inmates can apply for transfers after a certain amount of time has passed. Usually after 6 months. The length of time they have left has an influence on where they are placed, so make sure that is taken into consideration when applying for transfers. Also be aware that the IDOC can move an inmate at any time, regardless of if a transfer was asked for.

Those with shorter sentences can usually stay at one place, but it seems there are lots of people who, for whatever reason, do a short tour of the system. In almost four years, my loved one has been in three different facilties.

[Lu]

Thank you!   That was informative and helpful to know.

[hisbaby]

I just received a letter today that my l/o is being sent to Lawrence.  He gave me some information that he has found out but I had a couple questions.  Phone calls I read previously were 3 days a week is that still the case?  He wrote in the letter that he only could make calls 2 times a week.  Also, wondering does this facility have a/c? Figured not but I thought that I would ask anyway.  He also mentioned that there is a lot of fighting there and lockdowns, is this true?  Any information would be appreciated!! Thanks!

[Lu]

I just talked to my son and he said they do not have any air conditioning that he can tell.   They can open their window and buy a fan.  It is cold at night.   Guess they pipe in outside air.   I can't imagine a facility built in the 2000's not having a.c. esp. in the south end.   He says Lawrence is more secure than some maximum facilities.  Not a good place to be.   

Still no mail after 3 weeks. 

[hisbaby]

Thanks, you have not received mail in 3 weeks or he hasn't?  I sure hope that they are not that far behind...

[Lu]

Both.   My son hasn't received any mail from me or any forwarded from Stateville.   Hope that changes soon!

[smiley64]

Lu, when my l/o got to lawrence it took 2 weeks to get what I had sent to stateville, other than that the mail goes pretty smooth except for at x-mas. They have been on lockdown about 5 or 6 times that I can remember since feb 2011, and of course today. My l/o called this morning so it happened after that so now I am worrying again. I hope it is over by thursday so he can all. One time it was about a week!

[Lu]

Thanks for the information.   Hopefully, mail will start flowing both ways.

I see that your l/o's time is almost up.   Congratulations and I hope the transition goes well for ya'll!