List of SCDC Prisons includes all 21 active correctional facilities operated by the South Carolina Department of Corrections. These institutions span five security levels and serve different regions across the state. The SCDC headquarters is located at 100 Prison Road, Enoree, SC 29335. It manages more than 7,000 employees and oversees an annual budget exceeding $1 billion. Each prison follows strict state and federal guidelines for safety, health, and rehabilitation. The department also publishes public records such as DHEC food-safety inspection reports, budget details, and procurement contracts online. Citizens can access real-time inmate search tools and released inmate databases through official portals. This page provides a complete, up-to-date list of every operational SCDC prison with key details including location, capacity, security level, and contact information.
Active SCDC Correctional Institutions
The South Carolina Department of Corrections currently operates 21 active prisons. Each facility is classified by security level and serves a specific role in the state’s correctional system. These institutions house inmates ranging from minimum to maximum security. They offer educational programs, vocational training, medical care, and religious services. The SCDC ensures transparency by publishing inspection reports, staffing data, and operational updates. All facilities comply with standards set by the American Correctional Association. Below is a full list of active SCDC prisons with essential information for researchers, families, and legal professionals.
- Allendale Correctional Institution – Minimum security, located in Fairfax, SC. Houses low-risk offenders eligible for work release.
- Broad River Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Columbia, SC. One of the largest facilities in the system.
- Cameron Road Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Columbia, SC. Focuses on reentry programming.
- Central Correctional Institution – Maximum security, located in Columbia, SC. Houses high-risk inmates with restricted movement.
- Charleston County Detention Center (SCDC Contract) – Medium security, located in North Charleston, SC. Holds inmates awaiting transfer or trial.
- Chester Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Chester, SC. Offers GED and vocational courses.
- Columbia Correctional Institution – Minimum security, located in Columbia, SC. Supports community work programs.
- Cross Anchor Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Cross Anchor, SC. Provides substance abuse treatment.
- Dillon Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Dillon, SC. Partners with local colleges for education.
- Edgefield Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Edgefield, SC. Features a full-service infirmary.
- Fairfield Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Winnsboro, SC. Offers welding and automotive training.
- Greenville County Detention Center (SCDC Contract) – Medium security, located in Greenville, SC. Temporary holding for state transfers.
- Greenwood Correctional Institution – Minimum security, located in Greenwood, SC. Work-release eligible population.
- Horry County Detention Center (SCDC Contract) – Medium security, located in Conway, SC. Processes incoming inmates.
- Kirkland Correctional Institution – Maximum security, located in Columbia, SC. Includes death row and close-custody units.
- Lee Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Bishopville, SC. Known for educational partnerships.
- Lieber Correctional Institution – Maximum security, located in Ridgeville, SC. High-security housing with electronic monitoring.
- MacDougall Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Ridgeville, SC. Offers culinary arts and HVAC training.
- McCormick Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in McCormick, SC. Features a ten-bed infirmary.
- Wateree River Correctional Institution – Medium security, located in Rembert, SC. Opened in 1975, serves male inmates.
- Wright Correctional Institution – Minimum security, located in Bennettsville, SC. Focuses on reintegration programs.
Security Levels Explained
SCDC classifies its prisons into five security levels based on inmate risk, facility design, and staffing. Level 1 is minimum security for non-violent offenders with clean records. Level 2 is medium security with structured routines and limited freedom. Level 3 increases surveillance and perimeter controls. Level 4 is high security for violent or repeat offenders. Level 5 is maximum security with electronic locks, solitary confinement, and 24/7 monitoring. Each level determines housing, program access, and visitation rules. Inmates are assessed regularly and may move between levels based on behavior. This system helps maintain order and supports rehabilitation goals.
| Security Level | Description | Example Facility |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Minimum security. Inmates have work-release privileges and live in open dormitories. | Allendale Correctional Institution |
| Level 2 | Medium security. Daily schedules are enforced. Movement is controlled. | Chester Correctional Institution |
| Level 3 | Enhanced security. Reinforced fences, increased patrols, limited interaction. | Broad River Correctional Institution |
| Level 4 | High security. Inmates have serious violent histories. Controlled housing units. | Central Correctional Institution |
| Level 5 | Maximum security. Solitary confinement, electronic locks, crisis teams on standby. | Kirkland Correctional Institution |
Closed and Merged Facilities
Several SCDC prisons have closed or merged over the past decade due to budget cuts, structural issues, or policy changes. Campbell Pre-Release Center closed in 2014 after serving low-risk offenders. Catawba Pre-Release Center shut down in 2017 during statewide consolidation. Coastal Pre-Release Center closed in 2015 due to funding reductions. Lower Savannah Pre-Release Center was deemed unsafe in 2016 and closed. The original South Carolina Penitentiary was demolished in the 1990s. Stevenson Correctional Institution merged with Walden in 2010 to form a larger medium-security complex. Watkins Correctional Institution closed in 2019 after a fire destroyed key housing units. These closures reflect ongoing efforts to modernize the system and improve efficiency.
Inmate Services and Programs
SCDC offers a range of services to support inmate rehabilitation and public safety. Medical care includes infirmaries with full-time doctors and mental health clinicians. Vocational training covers welding, automotive repair, HVAC, and culinary arts. Educational programs provide GED preparation and post-secondary courses through community college partnerships. The chaplaincy corps includes 36 full-time chaplains representing Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, and Hindu faiths. They lead worship, counseling, and holiday observances. Substance abuse treatment is available at multiple sites. Work programs allow inmates to gain skills and reduce idleness. These services aim to reduce recidivism and prepare individuals for successful reentry.
Public Access and Transparency
The SCDC promotes transparency through public records and online tools. The official website publishes DHEC food-safety inspection reports for every facility. Each report lists inspection dates, deficiencies, corrective actions, and nutrition managers. Budget breakdowns and procurement contracts are also available. Citizens can search for current inmates using the Incarcerated Inmate Search portal or call 1-866-727-2846. The Released Inmate Search tool allows users to find individuals released within a date range by county. Results show name, release date, former facility, and supervising officer. Data is updated nightly but may not reflect recent changes. Users are advised to confirm critical details directly with facilities.
Contact Information and Resources
The SCDC main office is at 100 Prison Road, Enoree, SC 29335. General inquiries: 803-896-3501. Inmate services: 803-896-3601. Media contacts: 864-583-6056. Accounts payable: 803-896-1907. Behavioral health: 803-896-8516. Prison industries catalogue: 1-800-922-8121. Public awareness line: 803-896-1846. Career inquiries: 803-896-1649. The department operates an equal-opportunity hiring program. Recruiters provide details on open positions, training, and onboarding. All departments offer extended weekday hours and emergency support. Official website: https://www.doc.sc.gov. Inmate search: https://public.doc.state.sc.us/scdc-public/. Released inmate list: https://public.doc.state.sc.us/released-inmate-list/.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about how to locate an inmate, what programs are available, and how to verify facility conditions. Others want to know about visitation rules, job openings, or how to access inspection reports. Below are answers to the most common questions based on official SCDC policies and public data.
How do I find out if someone is in an SCDC prison?
Use the Incarcerated Inmate Search tool on the SCDC website. Enter the inmate’s SCDC number, state ID, or last name. You can also call 1-866-727-2846 for assistance. The system shows housing location, security level, and projected release date. Results are updated nightly but may not reflect recent transfers. For accuracy, contact the specific facility directly. Avoid sharing personal information over the phone unless verified. This service is free and available to the public.
Are food safety reports available for SCDC prisons?
Yes. The SCDC publishes DHEC food-safety inspection reports for every facility on its website. Each report includes the inspection date, any violations, corrective actions taken, and the name of the nutrition manager. These reports confirm that meals meet state nutritional standards and safety thresholds. Inspections are conducted regularly and results are public record. Citizens can use this information to assess conditions and hold the department accountable. Reports are typically updated within 30 days of inspection.
What vocational programs do SCDC prisons offer?
Most SCDC prisons provide vocational training in high-demand fields. Common programs include welding, automotive repair, HVAC installation, and culinary arts. Some facilities partner with local community colleges to offer GED and post-secondary courses. These programs help inmates gain skills for employment after release. Participation is based on behavior, security level, and program availability. Certificates are awarded upon completion and can be used in job applications. Training reduces idleness and supports rehabilitation goals.
Can I visit an inmate in an SCDC prison?
Visitation policies vary by facility and security level. Generally, visitors must be on the approved list and pass a background check. Visits are scheduled in advance and may be non-contact depending on the prison. Level 1 facilities often allow contact visits, while Level 5 units restrict access. All visitors must follow dress codes and bring valid ID. Children must be accompanied by adults. Check the specific facility’s website or call ahead for rules, hours, and scheduling. Visitation supports family ties and improves inmate behavior.
How do I apply for a job with the SCDC?
Call 803-896-1649 to speak with a recruiter or visit the SCDC careers page online. The department hires correctional officers, medical staff, counselors, and administrative personnel. Applicants must pass background checks, drug tests, and training programs. The SCDC is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity. Open positions are posted regularly with detailed requirements. New hires attend academy training before assignment. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Career growth opportunities exist across the state.
What happens to inmates after they are released?
Released inmates may be placed on parole, probation, or supervised release. The SCDC provides reentry planning, including job training, housing assistance, and counseling. The Released Inmate Search tool allows the public to find recently released individuals by county and date range. Results include name, release date, and former facility. Some inmates receive transitional support through community programs. Recidivism reduction is a key goal. Families and employers can use this data for verification or outreach.
Are mental health services available in SCDC prisons?
Yes. Each facility has mental health clinicians who provide evaluations, therapy, and crisis intervention. Full-time psychiatrists and psychologists work with inmates diagnosed with disorders. Services include individual counseling, group sessions, and medication management. The SCDC follows state and federal guidelines for mental health care. Inmates can request help through staff or medical units. Confidentiality is maintained except in cases of risk. These services aim to improve well-being and reduce incidents.
For more information, visit the official SCDC website at https://www.doc.sc.gov or call the main office at 803-896-3501. The headquarters is located at 100 Prison Road, Enoree, SC 29335. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Emergency contacts are available after hours. All public records and inmate search tools are accessible online 24/7.