What type of institution detains convicted offenders for extended periods, including those awaiting a death sentence?

The correct answer is prison because it is specifically designed for the long-term incarceration of individuals who have been convicted of crimes, including those facing extended sentences. Prisons accommodate a wide range of offenders, including those serving lengthy sentences for serious offenses and those awaiting execution on death row. Unlike jails, which are typically used for short-term detainment of individuals awaiting trial or serving brief sentences, prisons provide the infrastructure and resources needed for the rehabilitation and management of inmates over longer periods. This includes housing inmates in a secure environment, facilitating programs aimed at reducing recidivism, and addressing various needs such as education and mental health services.

The other options do not fit the context of detaining convicted offenders for extended periods. A halfway house usually serves as a transitional living space for individuals coming out of prison, focused on reintegration into society. A farmhouse does not pertain to correctional settings but rather suggests a rural residence. Jails serve more for short-term detainment and generally do not handle those serving long sentences, which presents a clear distinction from prisons.