The DRC 2096 form is an essential document used by individuals wishing to become approved visitors at correctional institutions in Ohio. It serves to gather necessary information to ascertain the eligibility of a prospective visitor through a comprehensive questionnaire, ensuring a safe and orderly visiting process. Failure to complete the form accurately or truthfully can lead to disapproval.
For those looking to reconnect with loved ones or friends within the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, taking the time to fill out this form carefully is crucial. Click the button below to start the process of filling out your DRC 2096 visitor application form.
In navigating the complexities of establishing and maintaining connections with those who are incarcerated, individuals must adhere to specific processes outlined by correctional institutions. The DRC 2096 form, integral to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's visitor application process, embodies this procedural necessity. This form requires detailed personal information from potential visitors, ranging from basic identification, such as a driver's license or state ID, to more personal disclosures about relationships with the inmate and the visitor's criminal history. It also outlines specific guidelines for visiting the institution, including dress code requirements and prohibitions on certain items, to ensure the safety and security of the facility. Additionally, the form addresses the seriousness of bringing prohibited items into the facility, emphasizing the legal repercussions of such actions with a declaration that must be signed by the would-be visitor. Through this comprehensive form, the state of Ohio aims to facilitate smooth visitation experiences while upholding its commitment to institutional security and the rehabilitation of its incarcerated population, making it imperative for applicants to provide truthful and accurate information to avoid visitation approval delays or denials.
Name:
ForOfficeUseOnly
DOTS Check
Print Name:
Visitor Application
VNAMS
VOC
File Check
Unavailable
Yes
No
Co-D
(Please enter your name EXACTLY as it appears on your driver's license/state issued ID)
To:
Date:
LAST
FIRST
MIDDLE
Institution:
Street Address:
Offender's Name:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Offender's Number:
You must provide verification of address such as a copy of a utility bill.
EXPLANATION AND INSTRUCTIONS: This questionnaire will provide the institution with the information needed to determine your eligibility for approval as a visitor for the above named offender. Please answer all questions fully, truthfully and accurately. Failure to answer any question and/or falsification of any answer will result in disapproval of your application.
I am a:
Friend
Relative, specify relationship:
1.Complete the following:
Driver’s License Number/State ID:
Issuing State:
Expiration:
Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY):
Phone Number (INCLUDING AREA CODE):
Email Address:
2.If you are the parent of any child by this offender, please complete the following. You must provide verification the offender is the parent of each child such as a copy of the child’s birth certificate. If the offender is not named on the child birth certificate, you may Provide other documentation such as DNA Paternity Test Results, Court-ordered custodial papers, Affidavit of Paternity, etc.
NAME OF INMATE’S CHILD
Last
First
Middle
DOB
MM/DD/YYYY
3.Have you ever been incarcerated in a DR&C Institution in Ohio?
If yes, enclose a copy of your final release paper. Also, list:
Date of Incarceration
State
Institution(s)
Convictions/Charges
DRC 2096 (Rev. 07/2020)
4.
Are you now a party to any criminal action or proceeding?
5.
Are you currently on probation or parole?
If you answered “yes” to questions 4 or 5 attach a letter detailing any indictments, convictions, sentencing information, details of the offense, State and County involved, name and phone number of your probation/parole officer. Also include a letter from your probation/ parole officer granting permission to visit.
6. Are you now or have you ever been employed by the DR&C?
(Contract Employee, Volunteer, Intern or Unpaid Staff)
if yes,
Location/Institution:
Position/Job Title:
Dates:
7.Have you ever been an accomplice or co-defendant of any crime committed by this offender?
If yes, please explain:
8. Have you ever been the victim of any crime committed by this offender?
If your application to visit is accepted, your initial status will be tentatively approved pending verification of your identity at the time of your first visit. If accepted after this verification, your status will be changed to approved. It is the offender’s responsibility to notify you of your status.
I certify all answers to the above are true to the best of my knowledge.
Signature of Applicant:
RETURN PROMPTLY TO:
Institution Name:
Contact Person:
Address:
State of Ohio
Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
General Visiting Instructions
1.All attire worn upon entry into the facility must be worn throughout the duration of the visit, with the exception of appropriate outerwear such as a coat and gloves.
2.Appropriate undergarments must be worn (i.e., bra, slip, and underwear).
3.No additional clothing is permitted to be carried into the facility.
4.Inappropriate attire includes, but is not limited to:
a.See-through clothing of any kind.
b.Tops or dresses that expose the midriff or have open backs or open sides (such as any sleeveless clothing such as halter tops, tube tops, cropped tops, tank tops, and muscle shirts).
c.Low-cut clothing cut in a manner that exposes the chest.
d.Any clothing that inappropriately exposes undergarments.
e.Skirts, dresses, shorts, skorts, or culottes with the hem or slit above the mid-knee.
f.Wrap-around skirts/dresses or break-away type pants.
g.Clothing with any gang related markings.
h.Clothing with obscene and/or offensive pictures, slogans, language and/or gestures.
i.Form-fitted clothing made from Spandex or Lycra or other similar knit material such
as leotards, unitards, bicycle shorts, tight jeans, or tight pants.
j.Clothing with inappropriate holes/rips, including shoulder cut-outs.
5.No more than one wristwatch or pocket watch will be permitted.
6.Purses, handbags, backpacks, or similar items are not permitted. Diaper bags and infant carriers, are permitted, but are subject to regular search procedures Clear plastic bags are preferred in place of diaper bags. Diaper bags may include:
a.A reasonable number of diapers and baby wipes
b.Three plastic baby bottles
c.Three plastic containers of baby food
d.One pacifier
7)All visitors are subject to clear the metal detector. The following items often prevent clearance of the metal detector:
a.Hairpins
b.Bras with metal underwires
c.Certain boots and shoes
d.Clothing with multiple zippers
e.Excessive jewelry
Wearing inappropriate clothing may result in a
visitor not being allowed to visit or not clearing the metal detector.
For directions and other information visit our web site - http://www.drc.ohio.gov/
DRC2274 (Rev. 01/06)
Declaration of Understanding
The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction has a zero tolerance for the conveyance of drugs, alcohol, and weapons into its correctional institutions. Any such act will constitute a violation of section 2921.36 of the Ohio Revised Code which states in part that “No person shall knowingly convey, or attempt to convey, onto the grounds of a detention facility (including prisons, owned and operated by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction) or of an institution that is under the control of the department of mental health or the department of mental retardation and developmental disabilities, any of the following items:
(1)Any deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance, or any part of or ammunition for use in such deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance;
(2)Any drug of abuse, as defined in section 3719.011 of the Revised Code;
(3)Any intoxicating liquor, as defined in section 4301.01 of the Revised Code;
(4)Cash;
(5)Cellular telephone, two-way radio, or other electronic communication device.
(6)Any product that contains tobacco including but not be limited to cigarettes, loose tobacco, cigar, snuff, chewing tobacco, or any other preparation of tobacco, tobacco substitutes, smoking paraphernalia (i.e., matches, lighter, cigarette papers, and rolling machine)
Every effort will be made to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law, any person found to be in violation of this section of the Ohio Revised Code.
I have read or it has been read to me, and I understand the above declaration. I will not bring any weapon, dangerous ordnance, ammunition, drug, intoxicating liquor, cash, cellular telephone, two-way radio, or electronic communication device into the prison.
Visitor
Contractor
Volunteer
Other
Name (typed or printed):
Signature:
Witness:
DRC 2554 (rev. 07/09)
Filling out the DRC 2096 form is a crucial step towards gaining approval to visit an offender in a correctional institution. This task involves providing accurate and truthful information about your relationship with the offender, your personal background, and adherence to visiting guidelines. Once submitted, the application will undergo a review process to verify the details provided. Approval grants you the opportunity to visit, strengthening bonds and offering support to the offender. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
After your submission, the institution will review your application for approval. It's important to wait for communication regarding your status. Remember, visiting an offender not only requires passing the initial application process but also adhering to guidelines and showing respect for the institution's rules during each visit.
What is the DRC 2096 form used for?
The DRC 2096 form is utilized to apply for visitor approval at an institution under the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. It gathers information to determine an individual's eligibility to visit inmates and requires truthful responses to ensure community safety and compliance with institutional policies.
How do I correctly fill out the name section on the DRC 2096 form?
When filling out your name on the DRC 2096 form, it's crucial to enter it exactly as it appears on your driver's license or state-issued ID. This ensures accurate identification and verification during the visitor approval process.
What documents are necessary for completing the DRC 2096 form?
To complete the DRC 2096 form, you must provide verification of your address such as a copy of a utility bill. If you are a parent of a child by the inmate and the inmate is not named on the child's birth certificate, further documentation like DNA paternity test results or court-ordered custodial papers may be required.
Can previous incarcerations affect my ability to visit an inmate?
Yes, if you have previously been incarcerated in a DR&C institution in Ohio, you must enclose a copy of your final release papers. Failing to disclose such information or providing false information can affect your eligibility for approval as a visitor.
Are there specific dress code guidelines for visitors at DR&C institutions?
Yes, DR&C institutions enforce a specific dress code for visitors to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Inappropriate attire, such as see-through clothing, tops that expose the midriff, low-cut clothing, and form-fitted items, among others, are not allowed. Adherence to these guidelines is crucial for gaining and maintaining visitation privileges.
What should I do if I am currently involved in criminal proceedings or on probation or parole?
If you're involved in criminal actions or proceedings, or if you are currently on probation or parole, you must attach a letter detailing any indictments, convictions, sentencing information, details of the offense, and contact information for your probation/parole officer. Permission from your probation/parole officer may also be required to visit.
What happens after my application to visit is accepted?
After your application is accepted, you will be tentatively approved pending identity verification at the time of your first visit. Once your identity is successfully verified, your status will change to approved. It's the inmate's responsibility to inform you of your visitation status.
What items are prohibited during a visit to a DR&C institution?
Visitors are not allowed to bring a variety of items, including weapons, drugs, alcohol, cash, cellular phones, and any tobacco products, among others. Clear plastic bags are preferred for carrying permitted items, and all visitors are subject to search and metal detector clearance to ensure everyone's safety and compliance with regulations.
Filling out the DRC 2096 form correctly is vital for anyone wishing to visit an inmate, yet mistakes are common. One common error is not providing the name exactly as it appears on the driver's license or state-issued ID. This particular detail is crucial since it's used for identity verification, and any discrepancy can result in the application being rejected.
Another mistake often made is the failure to include verification of address. Applicants are required to attach a copy of a utility bill or similar document to prove their current address. Overlooking this requirement can delay the approval process significantly.
It's also not uncommon for individuals to provide insufficient details about their relationship with the offender. When specifying the relationship, it’s important to be as clear and precise as possible. The institution needs this information to process the application accurately.
Applicants frequently overlook the necessity of attaching additional documentation when answering "yes" to questions about prior incarcerations, being a party to any criminal actions, or being on probation or parole. Providing comprehensive details and relevant documents is imperative for these sections. Not doing so can lead to automatic disapproval of the visitation request.
Incorrectly answering questions regarding employment with the DR&C or involvement in crimes related to the offender can also be problematic. Honesty is paramount in these situations, and any falsification of answers, even if unintended, can result in the denial of the application.
Another aspect often missed is the need for permission from a probation or parole officer when applicable. This letter of permission is crucial for those currently under supervision and wishing to visit an inmate. Without it, the application cannot proceed.
Some applicants mistakenly think that once they submit the form, the process is out of their hands. However, following up on the status of the application is important, as sometimes additional information or clarification may be requested by the institution.
Ensuring all names—whether the applicant's, the offender’s, or any children mentioned—are filled out completely and correctly is another area where errors occur. Incomplete names or discrepancies can lead to confusion and delays in processing the application.
Lastly, a common oversight is not signing the Declaration of Understanding regarding the conveyance of prohibited items into the facility. This signature is a requirement to complete the application process, confirming the applicant's acknowledgment of the rules and regulations.
When dealing with the process outlined by the DRC 2096 form, individuals often find themselves in need of additional forms and documents to navigate the complexities of visiting an inmate within the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction facilities. Completing the initial visitor application is only a part of the preparation required. Here is a list of other forms and documents frequently used in conjunction with the DRC 2096 form that can help streamline the process and ensure all legal and procedural requirements are met.
Understanding the importance of these additional forms and documents, in relation to the DRC 2096 form, is key to ensuring a smooth visitation process. Each document plays a specific role in verifying identities, relationships, and legal statuses, thereby protecting the safety and security of all parties involved - the visitor, the inmate, and the institution. Approaching this process with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the requirements will help facilitate a meaningful and trouble-free visit.
The DRC 2096 form shares similarities with the DRC 2554 form, primarily due to their context within correctional facilities. The DRC 2554 Declaration of Understanding focuses on prohibiting the conveyance of prohibited items into a prison, similar to how the DRC 2096 form sets conditions for visiting inmates. Both forms aim to maintain security and enforce regulations within the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, ensuring visitors understand and agree to comply with rules to prevent security breaches.
Visitor background check forms, used across various institutions, resemble the DRC 2096 form because they collect personal information to assess an individual's eligibility to enter secure facilities. While the content may vary, the purpose aligns closely with the DRC 2096's objective of determining visitor suitability based on past behaviors and current legal status. Both form types are preventative measures to enhance safety and security.
Employment application forms for correctional facilities also share characteristics with the DRC 2096 form. They require detailed personal information and background checks to evaluate the suitability of candidates for employment, similar to how visitors are vetted. Both emphasize honesty and completeness of information, with an understanding that falsification can lead to disapproval or termination.
Child custody documents, such as court orders or affidavits of paternity, overlap with the DRC 2096 form in their requirement for verification. While the DRC 2096 requests this information to confirm relationships between inmates and visiting children, custody documents establish legal guardianship and parental rights. Both utilize official documentation to confirm relationships and status.
The court appearance request forms, utilized for scheduling visits to court by individuals in custody or for legal matters, are akin to the DRC 2096 form in their procedural nature. Both forms facilitate involvement in a regulated process, whether visiting an inmate or appearing in court, and require accurate personal information and adherence to guidelines.
Domestic visitation forms, which are used to arrange visits between family members in non-correctional settings, share the DRC 2096 form's intention of facilitating interpersonal connections while ensuring the safety and suitability of the visitors. Both emphasize the importance of maintaining relationships, albeit in very different contexts, and require information that helps assess the appropriateness of a visit.
Probation reporting forms, necessary for individuals on probation to provide their officers with updates on their status, echo the DRC 2096 form in their monitoring purpose. They collect information to evaluate compliance with terms of probation, similar to how the DRC 2096 assesses eligibility for visitation based on criminal history and current legal entanglements.
Volunteer application forms for non-profit organizations, especially those interacting with vulnerable populations, can be compared to the DRC 2096 form as they require background checks and personal information to protect those they serve. This mirrors the DRC 2096's intention to secure the prison environment by vetting visitors.
Lastly, school entry forms for visitors parallel the DRC 2096 form in their aim to safeguard a controlled environment by regulating who is allowed entry. These forms often require visitor identification and the purpose of the visit, similar to the verification process outlined in the DRC 2096 for ensuring the security of the facility and its occupants.
When filling out the DRC 2096 form for visitor applications to correctional institutions, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly and to increase the likelihood of approval. Here are ten key dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
By paying close attention to these dos and don'ts, applicants can navigate the DRC 2096 form more effectively and increase their chances of having a successful visitation application.
There are several misconceptions about the DRC 2096 form, which is essential for those looking to visit inmates in Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction facilities. Understanding the form's requirements and clarifying these misunderstandings can streamline the application process for visitors. The following are some of the common misconceptions:
The form is only for family members of the inmate: While it might seem geared towards relatives given its detailed questions about family connections, the DRC 2096 is actually required for all visitors, including friends and other non-relatives. It ensures that the institution has the necessary information to approve visitor requests.
Personal information is optional: Some applicants might think they can skip certain personal details. However, the form requires complete and accurate information, including driver's license or state ID details, to verify the visitor's identity and ensure the safety and security of the facility.
No need to disclose criminal history: The form specifically asks about past incarcerations, current criminal actions, and probation or parole status. Failing to provide truthful answers to these questions can result in the disapproval of the application.
Employment with the DR&C makes you ineligible to visit: This is not entirely true. Having been employed by the DR&C does not automatically disqualify someone from visiting. However, details about the employment must be disclosed for proper assessment.
Child relation verification is unnecessary: If a child is related to the inmate, verifying the relationship through birth certificates, DNA paternity test results, or court documents is mandatory. This documentation helps establish legitimate connections between the child and the inmate.
Additional documentation is rarely needed: Depending on your answers to questions about your criminal history, probation, or parole status, you might need to attach additional documents, such as release papers, sentencing information, or letters from probation officers.
The application is complete after submission: Submitting the form is only the first step. Approval is tentative until identity verification at the first visit. The inmate will inform the visitor about their approval status once finalized.
General visiting instructions are suggestions, not requirements: The visiting instructions provided at the end of the form include mandatory rules, especially regarding attire, what items are allowed, and security procedures. Ignoring these can result in being denied entry.
The declaration of understanding is a formality: This declaration, which prohibits bringing weapons, drugs, or other contraband into the facility, is a legal commitment. Violating it can lead to prosecution under Ohio law.
Understanding these points and approaching the DRC 2096 form with accurate and complete information will help ensure a smooth process for those applying to visit inmates in Ohio.
When filling out and using the DRC 2096 form for visitor applications to correctional facilities, it's essential to understand a few critical aspects to ensure your application is processed successfully. Here are four key takeaways:
By understanding these key points and preparing your application properly, you can ensure a smoother process for gaining approval to visit an inmate. Remember, the primary goal of these guidelines and requirements is to ensure the safety and security of all individuals involved.
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