United States Penitentiary (USP) - Hazelton, West Virginia: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The United States Penitentiary (USP) Hazelton is a high-security federal prison for male inmates located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia. It is part of the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) Hazelton, which also includes a medium-security federal correctional institution and a secure female facility.
Contact Information
Address: 1640 Sky View Drive, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
Phone: (304) 379-5000
Website: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/haz/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at USP Hazelton, use the Federal Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) Inmate Locator tool available at https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/. You will need the inmate's name and registration number or other identifying information.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Contact the facility directly for the most up-to-date visiting schedule and requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- Online: BOP's Trust Fund system
- MoneyGram
- Western Union
- U.S. Postal Service money orders
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to telephones and may 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 Hazelton offers various programs for inmates, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Mental health services
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
Security and Management Information
As a high-security facility, USP Hazelton employs strict security measures, including perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, and controlled movement of inmates. The facility is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at USP Hazelton 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 new inmates. Upon release, inmates go through a check-out process and may be provided with release planning assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring a small clear plastic bag with identification, car keys, and a small amount of money for vending machines. All other items must be approved by staff.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Inmates typically have access to telephones during designated hours. The frequency and duration of calls may be limited based on institutional policies and inmate behavior.
Can inmates receive packages?
Generally, inmates cannot receive packages directly from family or friends. Approved items must be sent through authorized vendors or as part of specific programs.
Notable Inmates
Some notable inmates who have served time at USP Hazelton include:
- James "Whitey" Bulger - Former organized crime boss from Boston, murdered at the facility in 2018
- Kaboni Savage - Philadelphia drug kingpin and convicted murderer
- Omar Portee - Founder of the United Blood Nation gang
