[2] There are currently 23 state correctional institutions, one motivational boot camp, one central training academy, 14 community corrections centers, 22 parole field offices, and the DOC contracts with approximately 40 contractors across the Commonwealth that provide transitional services.

William Penn initially abolished capital punishment for all crimes except murder, and established other rehabilitation reforms which were considered radical at the time.

The foundation was based on a report by Retired Army Major General Jacob L. Devers, and his special committee to investigate prison problems.

It was the committee's mission to recommend ways to improve the correctional system and reduce unrest.

The Devers Committee suggested the establishment of one agency, whose sole purpose was to manage the state prison system.

In 1980, the Bureau of Correction changed hands from the former Pennsylvania Department of Justice, to the newly created Office of General Counsel to the Governor.

Constitutional changes resulted in an elected state attorney general and the disbanding of the Justice Department.

[8] Prior to its closure, State Correctional Institution – Graterford housed male death row inmates.

[5] For a period, death penalty prisoners were housed at State Correctional Institution – Greene.

[14] It is located in Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County,[15][16] near Elizabethtown and 20 miles (32 km) southeast of Harrisburg.

Field state parole agents are armed with Glock model 45 9x19mm parabellum handguns, Taser Electronic Control Weapons, OC spray, and batons.