Central Prison, prison in Raleigh, North Carolina
Central Prison is a correctional facility in Raleigh, North Carolina, located on Western Boulevard, that houses male inmates at varying custody levels. The complex includes specialized areas for medical care, mental health services, and other programs, with capacity for over 1,100 residents.
Central Prison opened in 1884 after about 14 years of construction as North Carolina's first state prison, built to replace county jails deemed costly and inadequate. The facility underwent major modernization efforts, including extensive renovation in the 1980s and changes following a 1968 uprising that resulted in six inmate deaths and exposed deep tensions within the institution.
The prison is named Central Prison and sits on Western Boulevard in Raleigh, reflecting its central role in the state's justice system. The facility is woven into local history and recognized by the community as an important part of how the region approaches criminal justice.
Access to the facility is restricted, and attorneys wishing to visit inmates can schedule legal visits by email. It is advisable to contact the facility in advance to learn about visiting hours and specific requirements for entry.
The facility houses North Carolina's execution chamber and death row, serving as the place where the state carries out its most severe sentences. It is one of the few locations in the country where the American justice system implements its most extreme measures.
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