Marion Correctional Institution (Ohio)

The Marion Correctional Institution (MCI) is a minimum- and medium-security prison for men located in Marion, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1948. The institution's origins trace back to its location on land previously used for WWII German prisoners of war barracks. Over the years, it transformed into a facility that housed inmates transferred from other correctional institutions, leading to its construction as the Marion Correctional Institution in 1952. The institution has witnessed various innovative inmate programs, legal interventions, and significant events that have left a lasting impact.

Marion Correctional Institution

Location	940 Marion-Williamsport Road Marion, Ohio
Status	open
Security class	medium and minimum
Capacity	2,623
Opened	1954
Managed by	Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

Throughout its history, the institution has seen a succession of wardens who played key roles in its management and development. These changes in leadership reflect the institution's evolution over time.

Marion Correctional Institution has been known for its inventive inmate programs. It introduced initiatives like the "Project Newgate" college program in the 1970s, offering educational opportunities to inmates before their release. It also pioneered the "Papillon" drug rehabilitation program and established the first all-inmate chapter of the Red Cross during the 1980s.

A significant legal milestone was the Taylor vs. Perini case filed in 1969, which led to a consent decree and federal court intervention in the institution's operations. This marked a turning point in Ohio's prison system and brought about operational changes.

The institution's history is also marked by notable events and individuals. A 1966 riot led to substantial damages, while the Marion Correctional Institution became an integral part of a music special featuring David Allan Coe, showcasing his journey from ex-prisoner to celebrated artist.

In recent years, the institution faced challenges related to technology security and COVID-19. An incident in 2015 revealed unauthorized computer access by inmates, highlighting the complexities of implementing technology in a prison environment. In 2020, the institution became a COVID-19 hotspot due to factors such as crowding and delayed testing, raising concerns about inmate well-being.

History

In 1948, the State of Ohio procured 1,243 acres of land from the United States Government. This land was previously part of the Scioto Ordinance Plant and had once housed barracks used for WWII German prisoners of war. Within the current graveyard, now maintained by the prison, lies the resting place of one German POW.

Initially, Ohio planned to utilize the barracks to accommodate older youthful offenders from the Boys Industrial School. However, this strategy swiftly changed. Instead, the barracks were repurposed to house inmates transferred from the Ohio Penitentiary (OP) and the Ohio State Reformatory (OSR). The first batch of inmates arrived from the Ohio Penitentiary in June 1950 to aid in repairing existing structures on the property. Subsequently, OSR inmates joined in November of the same year. For the ensuing four years, the Reformatory inmates were incarcerated on this site.

Construction of what is now known as the Marion Correctional Institution commenced in 1952. Originally designed to include only dormitories, cellblocks were later incorporated due to the need to accommodate inmates from the overcrowded Ohio Penitentiary. (It was later discovered, around thirty years later, that the original construction lacked steel reinforcements in the concrete block exterior walls – a deficiency that was subsequently rectified.) The initial capacity of the prison was set at 1,122, and the construction expenses totaled $8 million. In October of 195, the first group of permanent inmates from the Ohio Penitentiary was relocated to Marion.

Marion Correctional Institution boasts a rich history of inventive inmate programs. In the 1970s, it hosted the unit-managed "Project Newgate" initiative, which introduced college programming for Ohio inmates. Participants in the MCI program were granted furlough release one year before their actual release, during which they pursued college courses to continue after their prison release. The prison was also home to Ohio's initial residential inmate drug rehabilitation program, "Papillon," during the same period. The institution was notable for hosting the nation's inaugural prison-sponsored AMVETS chapter, and during the 1980s, its staff organized the world's first all-inmate chapter of the Red Cross.

A pivotal legal development occurred with Taylor vs. Perini, a case filed in 1969 that marked a significant federal court intervention in Ohio's prison operations. The lawsuit alleged a range of constitutional rights violations of inmates at Marion Correctional Institution. Through negotiations, a consent decree was established, outlining various operational changes that the institution agreed to implement. Due to ongoing disputes regarding compliance with the consent decree, a "Special Master" was appointed by the Federal Court in 1975 to oversee its execution. This "Special Master," Vincent Nathan, a Toledo attorney without prior corrections experience, assumed this role. The Taylor vs. Perini case concluded in 1991.

Inmates at MCI have showcased their talents through holiday musical pageants during Christmas and Easter. The Prison News Network (PNN), an advanced television production studio (now defunct due to inmates' misuse of computers for illicit purposes), generated high-quality video content for the institution's closed-circuit television channel. MCI was also the location of the nation's inaugural interfaith housing unit (which was later closed due to a Covid outbreak at MCI), where inmates from Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths resided together and engaged in programs to deepen their religious commitments while gaining an understanding of other faiths. In 1992, the institution obtained accreditation.

Wardens

• 1954-1968: Lamoyne Green
• 1968-1986: E.P. Perini
• 1986-1992: Norris McMackin
• 1992-1996: Shirley Rogers
• 1996-2005: Christine Money
• 2005-2011: Margaret Beightler
• 2011-2016: Jason Bunting
• 2016-2021: Lyneal Wainwright
• 2021-2022: Leon Hill
• 2022-2024: Harold May
• 2024-Current: George A. Fredrick

Community engagement

Inmate catfish stocking program

Inmates at the Marion Correctional Institution have implemented a unique program where they raise catfish for the purpose of stocking ponds, like the Alder Pond in Akron. This innovative initiative has seen inmates raising catfish for six months until they reach an appropriate size for release into their new habitat. This program, unlike any other in Ohio, aims to benefit the local community by enhancing recreational fishing opportunities.

Originally, inmates at the Marion Correctional Institution were cultivating fish in an aquaponics facility on the prison premises, where water from the fish tanks was used to nourish vegetables grown in adjacent beds. The surplus vegetables were then donated to food pantries in nearby counties. The catfish raised in the facility, however, were often affected by ich, a fish parasite caused by stress. To redirect the program's benefits to the public, prison staff collaborated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local parks officials.

In cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, prison inmates successfully bred a batch of catfish, which were then transferred to Alder Pond at Goodyear Heights Metro Park. This transfer operation involved inmates capturing the catfish, placing them in tanks, and transporting them to the designated pond. This collaborative effort not only contributes to recreational fishing but also provides a sense of purpose and skill-building opportunities for inmates participating in the program.

Mike Johnson, Chief of Conservation for Summit Metro Parks, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the positive impact of stocking fish in local ponds. The program's success is reflected in the heightened interest from community members, particularly children and fishing enthusiasts, who now have better chances of catching catfish in stocked ponds.

Correctional programs

The Embark program

The Embark program at Marion Correctional Institution, operated by the non-profit ministry Kindway, celebrated its 11th graduation ceremony. The program is a faith-based reentry ministry designed to assist incarcerated individuals in successfully reintegrating into the community. During the ceremony, 19 men who completed the program shared their stories of transformation and gratitude. The program, established in 2011, involves volunteers recruited by Kindway and aims to prepare inmates for release and support them for at least a year after their release. Graduates placed puzzle pieces with their photos on a board, symbolizing their completion of the program. Alumni of the program, who were former inmates themselves, also attended to offer encouragement and emphasize the importance of giving back to the community.

Horizon Interfaith Dorm

In August 4, 2003, The Associated Press reported that under the leadership of Warden Christine Money, the Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio underwent positive changes. The prison saw a shift from rampant drugs and violence to a calmer atmosphere due to various initiatives. Warden Money introduced education and job training programs, and she also implemented programs that allowed inmates greater freedom to practice their religious beliefs. The prison's Horizon interfaith dormitory, accommodating Christians, Jews, and Muslims, received national attention for its unique setup where inmates lived in family units of six. The American Correctional Association recognized this dormitory during its meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. Additionally, the prison hosted its first-ever Promise Keepers rally, a Christian men's group, which marked a significant event for the inmates. Warden Money's efforts were recognized and appreciated, and the changes within the prison were generating a more positive and peaceful environment.

AMVETS Marion Post 42

AMVETS Post 42, located within the confines of the Marion Correctional Institution (MCI) in Marion, Ohio, is a unique and dedicated group of incarcerated veterans who continue to serve both their community and other communities throughout the state from behind bars. This post is distinctive for being the only incarcerated AMVETS post in Ohio and was established in 1974 when incarcerated individuals submitted an application to the AMVETS State Department of Ohio and the prison's warden to form the post. Their aim was to continue their service even while incarcerated.

The post operates within the prison with the support of prison administration and staff advisors. Michael Laytart and Rebecca Bauer assist the post in various administrative matters to ensure its smooth functioning and adherence to security protocols.

AMVETS Post 42 engages in various charitable activities and programs:

• Sewing therapy: Inmates participate in sewing therapy, creating blankets made from donated yarn for Ohio Veterans Homes and crafting teddy bears for local hospitals and police departments to distribute to children in need.
• Facing Yourself Program: This program encourages participants to address the underlying issues that led to their incarceration through self-reflection and self-improvement.
• Veteran Resource Fairs: The post hosts annual veteran resource fairs, inviting outside agencies and veteran groups to share resources with incarcerated veterans.
• Community support: The post actively supports its community. It donated funds to Stockhands Horses for Healing, an equine therapy farm serving veterans and children with disabilities, by providing funds for hay. They also engage in charity work such as creating teddy bears for Children's Hospital, crocheting items for veterans' homes, and providing gift bags to indigent offenders and hygiene bags for incoming veterans.
• Birthday celebrations: For incarcerated individuals aged 70 or older at MCI, the post organizes birthday celebrations, including ice cream and cake, to make their special day memorable.
• Equestrian therapy: AMVETS Post #42 initiated an equestrian therapy program in collaboration with Stockhands Horses For Healing, a non-profit organization offering therapy to veterans suffering from PTSD and other issues.
• Charitable donations: The post donates to various charities, including Toys For Tots, Wags For Warriors, Pets For Vets, and Save A Warrior.

Teaching writing in prisons

Piper Kerman, the author of "Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison," has been conducting writing classes for inmates at the Ohio Reformatory for Women and the Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio. Kerman, who also advised on the Netflix series based on her book, teaches creative nonfiction writing to prisoners as a means of helping them find a sense of freedom and self-expression through their writing. Her goal is to amplify the voices of incarcerated individuals, humanizing them and shedding light on their experiences within the criminal justice system. Kerman's writing classes aim to encourage creativity while providing inmates with a sense of control over their lives, even within the confines of prison. The classes have been praised for their impact on inmate rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Kerman's own personal experience of serving time in prison adds a unique perspective to her teaching approach, creating a connection between her and her students.

Notable inmates

• Bobby Lee Cutts Jr.
• David Allan Coe
• Don King (boxing promoter) (1967—1970s)
• John F. Boyle, Jr.
• Kevin Keith
• Sam Sheppard

Notable events

1966

A riot that occurred on August 23, 1966, at the Marion Correctional Institution in Marion, Ohio, led to significant destruction, resulting in an estimated $500,000 ($4,674,174.31 adjusted for inflation as of 2023) in damages. Approximately 900 prisoners took part in the riot, during which fires were intentionally set. The situation was brought under control by a response team of around 250 heavily armed officers.

1973

Escapes and legal injunction

The Marion Correctional Institution witnessed a series of 47 escape incidents, attributed by law enforcement to the consequences of a 13-month-old injunction. These events led Marion County Sheriff Ronald Scheiderer to advocate for a thorough investigation into the institution's operational dynamics, a proposal he publicly announced during a press conference.

The origin of these circumstances lay in a legal case initiated by two inmates who alleged violations of their civil rights. The subsequent injunction, issued in June 1972 by Federal Judge Donald J. Young in Toledo, introduced significant changes to various aspects of the prison's management. It delineated protocols for prisoner disciplinary actions and enforced their civil and constitutional rights. Additionally, the injunction dictated terms for prisoners' access to legal resources such as law books and typewriters, as well as their right to communicate through uncensored mail. Notably, the injunction stipulated that disciplinary measures required prior approval from a federal court before implementation.

Marion County Sheriff Scheiderer highlighted the profound impact of this injunction on the institution's administration and staff morale. The order effectively transferred administrative authority from the prison's guards and superintendent to Judge Young, making him the de facto administrator of the facility. This shift in control reportedly resulted in reduced morale among staff members and a perceived erosion of their authority to manage inmate behavior effectively.

The repercussions of these escape incidents reverberated beyond the prison walls, leading to increased criminal activities in the surrounding area. Incidents included break-ins, auto thefts, firearm thefts, hostage situations, and even violent crimes such as rape. Tragically, a fatal incident occurred involving Marion County Deputy William Bender, who lost his life in a collision with a truck while responding to the pursuit of escapees.

In the context of these events, the valor exhibited by Ohio Highway Patrol Capt. J. J. Fuenkamp during a particular escape incident garnered recognition. Capt. Fuenkamp's exceptional bravery was formally acknowledged through a citation, presented by Col. Robert M. Chiaramonte in an official ceremony at the Ohio Highway Patrol Academy. This commendation recognized Fuenkamp's instrumental role in successfully rescuing a mother and her five children who had been held hostage by two escaped inmates in a residence located in New Washington. Peter Perini, Superintendent of the Marion Correctional Institution, also received recognition through a certificate for his role in managing the complex situation.

1975

Involvement in David Allan Coe's music special

The Marion Correctional Institution has gained prominence in the context of a music special featuring David Allan Coe, a notable country-western artist. Scheduled as part of Channel 13's "Ten Terrific Nights," the 90-minute program, titled "The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy," blends a live in-studio concert with a documentary-style film.

David Allan Coe, recognized for his musical prowess and lyrical talents, has a unique background that includes a significant period of his 37 years spent within correctional facilities. His compositions have been embraced by renowned artists like Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, Leon Russell, and George Jones. Notably, his composition "Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)" gained immense popularity through Tanya Tucker's rendition, achieving number-one status on major country music charts and propelling Coe into a recording contract with Columbia. His impact persists with recent chart-toppers like "You Never Even Called Me By My Name" and his latest album "Once Upon a Rhyme."

The program encapsulates Coe's transformative journey from ex-prisoner to celebrated artist, employing documentary segments that chronicle his evolution. The Channel 13 film crew accompanies Coe, capturing his experiences, including a return visit to the Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio. Interviews with E.P. Perini, the institution's warden, offer insights into Coe's personal growth during his time there. Furthermore, the program delves into Coe's familial connections, his interactions within Nashville's music scene, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at his performances.

Although the live concert recording, executed at Channel 13's studio, is a pivotal element, it stirred controversy due to Coe's use of explicit language. The musical lineup for the show, intended for national broadcast via PBS, includes signature tracks such as "The Fugitive," "The 33rd of August," "Piece of Wood and Steel," "Save the Day," and "Long-Haired Redneck," underscoring Coe's artistic range.

1977

Boxing event in prison

In 1977, Don King organized a nationally televised boxing event within the walls of Marion Correctional Institution. King, who had once been an inmate at the prison, had risen to prominence as a boxing promoter after his release in 1971. He partnered with Ring Magazine to create the United States Boxing Championships, an ambitious tournament to crown undisputed American champions in all weight classes.

The tournament's unique locations included an aircraft carrier and the Naval Academy, but one of the most unusual venues was the prison itself. On March 6, 1977, a seven-fight card was set to take place, with two matches broadcast live on national television. Notably, this event marked the first time a nationally televised live program was hosted within a prison.

Howard Cosell, a prominent boxing commentator of the era, called the matches. The audience included the prison's inmates, media members, and select VIPs. Don King, wearing a distinctive gold jacket, addressed the crowd before the matches, expressing his connection to the prison and the inmates' role in his life. The event was well-received by the captive audience, with former heavyweight champion Joe Louis and other dignitaries present.

The matches included notable fighters like Art "Tap" Harris, who won a middleweight bout by TKO, and future heavyweight champion Michael Dokes, who showcased his skills in one of the undercard fights. The main event featured 18-year-old welterweight phenom Wilfredo Benitez, who was already a world champion, securing a victory in a decision.

Despite the success of the event, the United States Boxing Championships faced turmoil behind the scenes. Investigative reports uncovered issues such as fighters with false win-loss records and alleged manipulation of rankings. ABC eventually canceled the series due to these controversies, and further legal probes followed.

2014

TEDxMarionCorrectional

Marion Correctional Institution has stood as a unique platform for thought-provoking discourse through its hosting of TEDx events, featuring notable speakers including Piper Kerman. Kerman, renowned for her memoir "Orange Is the New Black," shared insights into the experiences and challenges of those incarcerated, advocating for criminal justice reform.

These TEDx events have covered a diverse array of topics, fostering discussions that transcend prison walls. Talks such as Refolding the Box?" by Dan Royston delved into reimagining incarceration approaches, suggesting that reshaping the system itself could lead to more effective rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Tim Smith's "Mentor Madness; Loss, Gain, and Other Irritating Realities" explored the dynamics of mentorship within correctional facilities, shedding light on the positive impact it can bring to both mentors and mentees.

"Demale Rogers-Bey's "P.E.A.C.E." emphasized the significance of Positive Energy Always Creates Elevation, highlighting the transformative potential of cultivating positivity within the prison environment. Additionally, Iggy's talk, "Why Teach Technology in Prison?" addressed the importance of imparting technological skills to inmates, not only for employment prospects but also for personal growth and empowerment.

"Adam Wetterhan's "Why Philosophy?" engaged with the relevance of philosophy in correctional settings, showcasing its capacity to foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and self-discovery. Furthermore, Clifford Dale Rose Jr.'s talk on "Harry Haller's Wolf" likely explored the symbolism and themes from Hermann Hesse's novel "Steppenwolf," drawing parallels between literary concepts and incarcerated individuals' personal struggles.

Finally, Stephen Johnson Grove's "Avoiding the BoX, Banning the Box, Reframing the BoX" tackled the pressing issue of solitary confinement. His talk proposed different strategies to address this issue, suggesting avoidance, banning, or reframing the practice to align with a more humane and rehabilitative approach.

2015

Inmates hack computers

In 2015, suspicious activities related to the recycling program were noticed. Computers were discovered hidden in the ceiling of the prison. These computers were connected to the prison's network, giving unauthorized access to inmates. They used this access for various purposes, including applying for credit cards using stolen identities. The scheme involved passing through multiple layers, from the prison to a community nonprofit and then to banks.

Adam Johnston, one of the inmates, was at the center of this scheme. He had technical expertise and managed to access the prison's network. He stole inmate information and engaged in credit card fraud. The investigation revealed that he even had software tools for hacking and remote access.

Investigators interviewed Johnston and eventually gained his confession, detailing how he had hidden the computers and accessed the network. The prison staff's negligence and lack of security measures contributed to the success of this scheme. The incident exposed the challenges of implementing and securing technology in a prison environment.

2016

Najmuddeen Salaam: from rehabilitation to alleged drug smuggling

Najmuddeen Salaam's (birth name was Johnny L. Clark, but he changed it after converting to Islam) took a surprising turn from serving 18 years in prison to becoming an advocate and mentor for incarcerated individuals. However, his path has taken another unexpected twist with his recent arrest and alleged involvement in drug smuggling into the Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio.

After serving his sentence for a rape conviction, Salaam emerged as a beacon of hope for prisoners at the Marion Correctional Institution. He volunteered his time, sharing insights and offering guidance to those behind bars. However, a provision within the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) enacted in 2012 deemed that individuals with sex offense charges couldn't be employed or contracted at a prison facility.

This provision led to Salaam losing his position at the Marion Correctional Institution. Despite his commendable work and positive influence on inmates, the regulations rooted in PREA forced him out of his role. His situation highlights the complexities surrounding the reintegration of ex-offenders, especially those who have shown a genuine commitment to reform and mentorship.

Salaam's efforts to challenge this predicament have taken him to Washington, D.C., where he engaged with Senators Sherrod Brown and Rob Portman. His goal was to address the section of PREA that restricts individuals like him from working within prison facilities. While Senators Brown and Portman expressed interest, Salaam's advocacy reflects a broader concern for ex-offenders who aim to make a positive impact on others.

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections Director Gary Mohr has also taken action to amend the regulations. Mohr filed an appeal with the Department of Justice, proposing that ex-offenders should be allowed to work within prisons if they've maintained a clean record for five years and exhibited a dedication to pro-social endeavors.

Unfortunately, his reputation as a mentor was tarnished when he was arrested in Delaware County, Ohio, with nearly a pound of cocaine in his possession. Salaam's arrest followed a two-month-long investigation by the Marion police, who suspected him of smuggling drugs into the prison. Despite his denial of any involvement, his arrest raised questions about his double life as an advocate and an alleged drug trafficker.

Salaam's history of mentorship and rehabilitation made his arrest all the more shocking. He had served as a counselor at the Marion Correctional Institution and had earned respect for his efforts to positively impact inmates' lives. The extent of his alleged involvement in drug trafficking, however, suggested a darker side to his activities.

His story took an even more dramatic turn when he removed his GPS ankle monitor and fled, evading a change of plea hearing for drug possession and trafficking charges. This escape marked the beginning of a year-long pursuit by law enforcement officials to locate him. The authorities believe he played a significant role in the drug trade, a stark contrast to his previous role as a rehabilitated inmate who worked to guide others away from crime.

Salaam was killed as a result of gun violence on March 28, 2018.

2020

COVID-19 response

The Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio became a major coronavirus hotspot due to a combination of factors that contributed to the rapid spread of COVID-19 among inmates. The outbreak at Marion Correctional Institution was initially driven by a high infection rate among inmates. Over 80% of the prison's population tested positive for COVID-19. Governor Mike DeWine ordered widespread testing of inmates, which uncovered a large number of asymptomatic cases that might not have been detected otherwise.

After testing, there were delays in receiving the test results. During this waiting period, inmates who had been tested were returned to their cell blocks or dorms, allowing more time for the virus to spread among the incarcerated population. Inmates reported inadequate access to cleaning supplies, such as hand sanitizers and bleach. This lack of effective cleaning products raised concerns about the cleanliness of their living spaces and the potential for the virus to persist on surfaces.

Prisons are inherently crowded places where social distancing is difficult to achieve. The close living quarters and limited ability to physically distance from others created an environment conducive to the rapid spread of the virus. The situation caused significant mental health strain on inmates. The lack of information, isolation, and anxiety about the virus's spread within the prison led to emotional distress among the incarcerated individuals. Prisons often have limited access to medical care, making it challenging to provide timely and adequate medical attention to infected individuals.

Prison authorities did not initially move to isolate sick inmates until the disease had already spread widely within the population. This likely contributed to further transmission. A large proportion of the positive cases were asymptomatic, which made it difficult to identify and isolate infected individuals early, allowing the virus to circulate more freely.