Howard R. Young Correctional Institution

The Howard R. Young Correctional Institution, often referred to as Gander Hill Prison, is a Level 5 correctional facility located in Wilmington, Delaware. First opened in 1982, the institution was originally called the Multi-Purpose Criminal Justice Facility. It was renamed in February 2004 to honor Howard R. Young, its first warden and a 33-year veteran of the Delaware Department of Correction who passed away in 2001.

Designed to process approximately 60% of all admissions into Delaware’s correctional system, the facility plays a significant role in the state’s criminal justice operations. Howard R. Young Correctional Institution is built to house both sentenced inmates and pre-trial detainees. Over the years, its capacity has grown significantly due to expansion projects, and it now accommodates up to 1,500 inmates on average.

The institution is well-known for its commitment to rehabilitation and community outreach. Programs such as “Road to Recovery,” which follows a Therapeutic Community model, help inmates prepare for life beyond incarceration. Additionally, Howard R. Young Correctional Institution partners with local schools, churches, and organizations to actively engage in charitable efforts, such as providing food and school supplies to those in need.

Visitation at the facility is carefully scheduled to maintain order and security. Visits are held daily from:

• Monday to Sunday between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
• Family members and loved ones must schedule visits one week in advance by contacting the visitation office.
• Each visit lasts for one hour, offering an opportunity for inmates to maintain meaningful connections with their support systems.

For further information about the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the Delaware State Department of Corrections or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of Delaware.