Inmate Guide: United States Penitentiary (USP) - Big Sandy, Kentucky
Overview of the Facility
United States Penitentiary (USP) Big Sandy is a high-security federal prison for male inmates. It is part of the Big Sandy Federal Correctional Complex, which also includes a minimum-security satellite camp.
Contact Information
Address: 1197 Airport Road, Inez, KY 41224
Phone: (606) 433-2400
Website: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/bsy/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at USP Big Sandy, use the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate Locator: https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically on weekends and federal holidays. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Contact the facility directly for specific visiting hours and procedures.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- MoneyGram: https://www.moneygram.com/mgo/us/en/
- Western Union: https://www.westernunion.com/us/en/home.html
- U.S. Postal Service money orders
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; contact the facility for more information.
Inmate Services and Programs
USP Big Sandy offers various educational, vocational, and recreational programs, including:
- GED classes
- Adult Continuing Education courses
- Vocational training
- Religious services
- Psychological counseling
History of the Facility
USP Big Sandy opened in 2003 and is one of the newer federal penitentiaries in the United States. It was built to alleviate overcrowding in other federal prisons.
Security and Management Information
As a high-security facility, USP Big Sandy employs strict security measures, including perimeter patrols, surveillance systems, and controlled movement of inmates. The facility is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
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 and friends, subject to prison regulations.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to USP Big Sandy from other facilities. Upon arrival, they undergo intake procedures, including medical screening and orientation. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's sentence and situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate at USP Big Sandy?
Inmates can receive certain approved items through authorized vendors. These may include books, magazines, and religious materials. Personal packages are generally not allowed.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Inmates are typically allowed 300 minutes of phone time per month. Calls are limited to 15 minutes each.
What medical services are available to inmates?
USP Big Sandy provides essential medical, dental, and mental health services to inmates. More specialized care may require transfer to an outside facility.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about current or former inmates is limited, some notable prisoners who have served time at USP Big Sandy include:
- Garrett Brock Trapnell - Convicted of air piracy and bank robbery in the 1970s.
- Leonard Peltier - Activist convicted of murdering two FBI agents, though his case remains controversial.
- Kaboni Savage - Philadelphia drug kingpin convicted of 12 murders.
