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Office of the Ombuds for Corrections
Promoting the Highest Standards of Justice
Promoting the Highest Standards of Justice
The Office of the Ombuds for Corrections (OBFC) is a neutral and impartial investigator of complaints regarding Minnesota corrections agency actions and policies.
The office is separate and independent from the Department of Corrections and reports directly to the Governor.
Incarcerated people in Minnesota, corrections staff, and concerned family members and community members can file complaints with our office.
Investigate and Resolve Complaints
We provide an impartial and unbiased process for incarcerated people, staff, community members and loved ones to share concerns about corrections agency actions and policies and have them investigated.
Issue Recommendations and Publish Reports
Investigations can lead to recommendations for resolving complaints and improving corrections policies. They can also lead to public reports and recommendations to change the law.
Provide Information and Education
We connect people to resources, explain processes, and provide information to help navigate Minnesota’s corrections system.
Minnesota State Prisons
11 state correctional facilities, including 10 adult facilities and 1 juvenile facility, housing more than 8,000 incarcerated individuals.
Local Correctional Facilities
150 jails and local correctional facilities housing more than 5,900 incarcerated juveniles and adults.
This brief report highlights the need for Minnesota to update prison infrastructure and replace obsolete facilities to protect the health and safety of corrections staff and incarcerated people.