My first time-I have so many questions-Going to Ohio Reformatory for Women

[jessrs0290]

I get sentenced on Sept 12 and will go to Marysville, OH (Ohio Reformatory for Women- "The Farm"). I've never been in trouble. I'm 25, have a bachelor's degree in computer science, have worked for the federal gov't for 7 years, and have nothing but good credentials. No juvenile or adult record what so ever. Unfortunately, I got into a lot of trouble in Cleveland and -- unless a miracle happens -- will be sent to prison on sept 12. I have 2 gun specifications, which each carry a 1 year mandatory prison sentence. Then if the judge wants to, she can give me more time. The mandatory time must be served day for day as I understand. That means no early release, good behavior, etc. It's sad. I'm so scared. My lawyer ended up really letting me down as well. Anyway...don't mean to bore anyone with that.
If anyone has recently (or knows someone who has) been to the women's prison in Ohio, PLEASE message me or let me know. I would appreciate it soooo much for ANY advice!

So....When I get sentenced, I'll go to the county jail first, right? And how long do you think I'll be there until I'm transported to the state penn?

+ Can I smoke in prison
+ Are calling cards used? Or are ALL calls collect?
+ How is it determined which or "area" I'll be in? (min-max security)
+ Is the "lunch/dinner" area for everyone in the whole prison? Or is it separated somehow? Is there like a common area that everyone, regardless of security level, congregates in?
+ I'm on an anti-depressant that isn't supposed to be abruptly stopped. Will they give me this med? What kind of "proof" do I need to show I'm on it?
+ How can I get involved in programs or activities (AA/NA, sports, fitness, church, etc)? Would I sign up for them when I'm first booked (intake?)?
+ Is there a list (or something) of the activities?
+ How does the job or employment work? Do inmates just kind of choose where they want to work within the prison (laundry, kitchen, etc) or does the staff decide that? Does everyone HAVE TO work? What kinds of jobs are available?
+ Do inmates get paid for the work?
+ I have a college degree. Will I be able to teach? Like teach a GED class or something, tutor people?
+ I've heard you can earn college credits in prison. Is that for a bachelors degree? Do they offer Masters or PhDs?
+ How does the visiting work? How often can family/friends come?
+ Is it true that anyone with a felony is not allowed to visit?
+ Are visits from family/friends all done over that phone with a piece of glass between us or can inmates talk face to face with family?
+ If my codefendent doesn't get any time, could she come down and visit me?
+ Are TV's allowed in the cell? If so, will I have to buy one from them?
+ How many people are in each cell? How do they determine who is with who?
+ Can I buy books to read? Where would I buy them? Can family send me books?
+ Can family send ANYTHING? Is there a list of things that can be sent to me from family or am I only allowed to receive letters?

I know this is a LOT of questions, but if anyone can help me I would GREATLY appreciate it. I'm sure the different women's prisons in different states differ a lot, but ANY help at all will be greatly appreciated!! I'm really scared and am just trying to mentally prepare myself as much as I possibly can.

[PTO-29412]

Many of these questions can only be answered by someone with Ohio DOC knowledge. Have you posted your questions in that forum?

If not I will be glad to move the thread over that way.

I know we have several ex-cons who are women around PTO, will see if a few can share their expierience.

[suzeg3]

Jess welcome to PTO Jonathan is correct, many of your questions are specific to your state. (((((HUGS)))) I know this hard