United States Penitentiary (USP) Atwater - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
USP Atwater is a high-security United States federal prison for male inmates located in Atwater, California. It is part of the Atwater Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Atwater) and is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a division of the United States Department of Justice.
Contact Information
Address: 1 Federal Way, Atwater, CA 95301
Phone: (209) 386-0257
Website: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/atw/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at USP Atwater, use the Bureau of Prisons' Inmate Locator tool available at https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/. You will need the inmate's full name and registration number or age, race, and sex.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically on weekends and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Contact the facility directly for the most up-to-date visitation schedule and requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through various methods:
- Online: Use the Bureau of Prisons' Trust Fund system
- By Mail: Send a money order to Federal Bureau of Prisons, Insert Inmate Name, Insert Inmate Register Number, Post Office Box 474701, Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
- In-Person: Use the lobby kiosk at the facility during visiting hours
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to telephones and can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available, but you should check with the facility for current options and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
USP Atwater offers various programs including:
- Educational programs (GED, adult continuing education)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Recreation programs
History of the Facility
USP Atwater was opened in 2001 as part of the Atwater Federal Correctional Complex. It was built to address overcrowding in the federal prison system and to provide a high-security facility in the western United States.
Security and Management Information
As a high-security facility, USP Atwater employs strict security measures, including perimeter patrols, surveillance systems, and controlled movement of inmates. The facility is managed by a Warden and a team of correctional officers and support staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at USP Atwater have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. They also have the right to receive visits from approved family and friends, subject to prison rules and regulations.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves intake procedures, including fingerprinting, photographing, and medical screening. The release process includes pre-release programming and coordination with probation officers or community reentry centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate at USP Atwater?
Inmates can receive certain approved items through authorized channels. Generally, books and magazines must be sent directly from the publisher or a bookstore. Personal items are typically not allowed. Check with the facility for a current list of approved items and sending procedures.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Inmates at USP Atwater are typically allowed to make phone calls during designated hours. The frequency and duration of calls may be limited. Specific details should be obtained directly from the facility as policies may change.
What medical services are available to inmates?
USP Atwater provides essential medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates. The facility has medical staff on-site and can arrange for specialized care when necessary. Emergency medical services are available 24/7.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about famous prisoners at USP Atwater is limited, high-security federal prisons often house inmates convicted of serious crimes. However, for privacy and security reasons, the Bureau of Prisons does not typically disclose information about specific inmates beyond what is available in the public inmate locator.
