Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) - Los Angeles, California
Overview of the Facility
The Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) Los Angeles is a federal administrative detention facility operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It primarily houses pre-trial detainees and inmates awaiting sentencing or transfer to other facilities.
Contact Information
Address: 535 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 485-0439
Website: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/los/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at MDC Los Angeles, use the BOP's Inmate Locator tool available at https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/. You will need the inmate's full name and registration number or other identifying information.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the inmate's housing unit. Generally, visits are held on weekends and federal holidays. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Contact the facility directly for specific visitation schedules and procedures.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- MoneyGram: https://www.moneygram.com/mgo/us/en/send-money/corrections
- Western Union: https://www.westernunion.com/us/en/send-money/app/sendinmate
- JPAY: https://www.jpay.com/
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to telephones and can make collect calls or use their commissary account to pay for calls. Video visitation may be available, but you should contact the facility for specific information on this service.
Inmate Services and Programs
MDC Los Angeles offers various programs and services, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Recreation activities
Security and Management Information
As a federal detention center, MDC Los Angeles maintains strict security protocols. The facility is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and adheres to federal guidelines for inmate management and security procedures.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. They also have the right to receive visits from approved family members and friends, subject to facility rules and regulations.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and collecting personal information from incoming inmates. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's situation (e.g., transfer to another facility, completion of sentence, or release on bond).
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring identification, car keys, and a small amount of money for vending machines. All other items must be stored in lockers provided at the facility.
How often can inmates receive visits?
The frequency of visits depends on the inmate's custody level and housing unit. Generally, inmates can receive visits on weekends and federal holidays.
Can I send packages to an inmate?
Generally, inmates cannot receive packages from family or friends. Approved items must be purchased through authorized vendors or the facility's commissary.
What medical services are available to inmates?
MDC Los Angeles provides basic medical care, including routine check-ups, emergency care, and management of chronic conditions. Specialized care may be arranged off-site if necessary.
How can I send mail to an inmate?
You can send letters to inmates by addressing them with the inmate's full name, registration number, and the facility's address. All mail is screened for security purposes.
Famous Prisoners
As MDC Los Angeles primarily houses pre-trial detainees and short-term inmates, it does not typically hold many high-profile prisoners for extended periods. However, some notable individuals may have briefly passed through the facility during legal proceedings or transfers. Due to the transient nature of the inmate population, a specific list of famous prisoners is not available for this facility.
