Old Colony Correctional Center

The Old Colony Correctional Center (OCCC) is a men’s prison in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Opened in 1987, it is part of the Massachusetts Department of Correction and housed within the sprawling 30-acre Bridgewater Correctional Complex. The facility is designed to accommodate both medium and minimum-security inmates, with a capacity for 597 individuals in the medium-security area and 160 in minimum-security. Its mission extends beyond incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and public safety.

The medium-security unit of OCCC operates mainly at full capacity, housing inmates serving sentences for a wide range of offenses. The minimum-security unit often has a lower occupancy rate and is a stepping stone for inmates preparing for reintegration into society. The facility is also notable for its adjacency to the Massachusetts Treatment Center and Bridgewater State Hospital, creating a multi-functional correctional hub.

Over the years, OCCC has housed several notable inmates. Among them have been Neil Entwistle, convicted for the tragic murder of his wife and daughter, and Michael McDermott, responsible for the infamous Wakefield mass shooting. These cases highlight the wide scope of the prison’s population.

Family and community ties play a significant role in inmate rehabilitation, making visitation an integral part of prison life. According to the most recent guidelines from May 2023, visitors must adhere to strict procedures, including presenting valid IDs, following a dress code, and being on an approved list. The institution also offers video visitation as an alternative, enabling families to connect with loved ones remotely while maintaining security protocols.

By blending correctional practices with opportunities for connection and rehabilitation, the Old Colony Correctional Center remains a key pillar of the Massachusetts prison system.

For further information about the Old Colony Correctional Center, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the Massachusetts Department of Correction or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of Massachusetts.