St. Clair Correctional Facility

St. Clair Correctional Facility, located in Springville, Alabama, is a state prison that houses male inmates. Opened in June 1983, the facility was designed with a capacity to accommodate 1,514 inmates. Situated on a sprawling 600-acre property, the Alabama Department of Corrections manages the facility. It is classified as a close custody prison, housing inmates requiring high security.

Throughout its history, St. Clair Correctional Facility has faced significant challenges. Just two years after opening, in 1985, the prison was the site of a major riot during which five staff members were assaulted, and 22 individuals, including the warden and deputy, were taken hostage. Over the years, the facility has earned a reputation for overcrowding and dangerous conditions, with incidents of violence and protests from inmates. The Free Alabama Movement, advocating for prison reform, staged several strikes in 2014, drawing attention to issues like inadequate education programs and harsh sentencing.

Despite these challenges, the facility has made strides in offering educational and vocational opportunities to inmates. Through a partnership with Gadsden State Community College, St. Clair provides academic and vocational training in classroom settings. Additionally, the prison operates programs like the New Outlook Therapeutic Community, which focuses on rehabilitation. The facility also features a comprehensive medical infirmary with services including cancer treatment, dialysis, full dental care, and emergency services.

For further information about the St. Clair Correctional Facility, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the Alabama Department of Corrections or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of Alabama.