Overview of Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Allenwood) is one of the largest federal prison facilities in the United States, located in Union County, Pennsylvania. Managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the complex houses male inmates at various security levels, including maximum, medium, and low-security facilities. The complex consists of three institutions: United States Penitentiary Allenwood (USP Allenwood), Federal Correctional Institution Allenwood Medium (FCI Allenwood Medium), and Federal Correctional Institution Allenwood Low (FCI Allenwood Low). Each institution is designed to house inmates based on their security needs and criminal history, making FCC Allenwood a multi-tiered facility for federal offenders.
The facility provides a range of programs, including educational courses, vocational training, drug abuse programs, and mental health services, aimed at rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Allenwood is known for housing several notorious inmates and has been in the news for various incidents involving inmate violence and staff concerns.
Contact Information for Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
Address:
Route 15, Allenwood, PA 17810
(Located in Gregg Township, Union County, Pennsylvania)Phone Numbers:
USP Allenwood: 570-547-0963
FCI Allenwood Medium: 570-547-7950
FCI Allenwood Low: 570-547-1990Fax:
USP Allenwood: 570-547-9201
FCI Allenwood Medium: 570-547-7751Email:
USP Allenwood: [email protected]
FCI Allenwood Medium: [email protected]
Visiting Information at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
Visiting hours at FCC Allenwood differ between its institutions. Typically, visits occur on weekends and federal holidays. For instance, at FCI Allenwood Medium, visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code and can expect searches upon arrival. It’s crucial to bring a valid ID and a completed visitor’s application form approved by the institution.
During visits, inmates and their loved ones are allowed physical contact at the start and end of visits, with the remainder of the time restricted to verbal communication. Visits can last up to several hours, but times may be shorter depending on crowd levels. It is recommended to arrive early due to security procedures.
What to Bring to a Prison Visit
Visitors should bring:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Cash (in small amounts for vending machines)
- Prescription glasses or essential medical devices (with prior approval)
Items such as mobile phones, bags, or recording devices are prohibited.
How to Book a Visit to Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
Booking a visit at Allenwood requires the inmate’s visitor application form, which must be filled out and approved in advance. Visitors can schedule visits via phone by contacting the respective facility. Up to four visitors can attend per inmate, but this may vary depending on the prison’s population. It’s important to plan and confirm all details ahead of time.
Directions and Parking Information at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
FCC Allenwood is conveniently located along U.S. Route 15, approximately 197 miles north of Washington, D.C., and 11 miles south of Williamsport, PA. The facility has adequate parking for visitors, and signage is available to guide you to the appropriate institution. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors drive to the complex.
What is Life Like Inside Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex?
Life inside Allenwood varies by institution. Inmates are housed in two-person cells and have access to educational and vocational programs. Recreation is available, with outdoor activities such as softball and basketball. Health services include regular check-ups, dental care, and psychological counseling. Inmates also have access to the commissary, where they can purchase items with funds sent by family members.
The complex has seen incidents of inmate violence, including a large brawl in USP Allenwood that resulted in several inmates being hospitalized. Staffing shortages have been an ongoing issue, affecting both the safety and management of the prison.
Famous Prisoners at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
Several high-profile inmates have been incarcerated at FCC Allenwood, including:
- James Eagan Holmes, the infamous Aurora theater shooter, serving multiple life sentences.
- Howard Mason, convicted of orchestrating the murder of a New York City police officer.
- Louis Daidone, former acting boss of the Lucchese crime family, serving a life sentence.
- Mahamud Salad Ali, a Somali pirate leader involved in the hijacking of a civilian yacht.
FAQs About Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex
1. What type of inmates does Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex hold?
FCC Allenwood houses male inmates across various security levels, including maximum, medium, and low-security facilities.
2. How can I contact an inmate at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex?
You can contact inmates via mail, using the inmate’s name and registration number along with the institution’s mailing address.
3. How do I send money to an inmate at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex?
Funds can be sent through Western Union, MoneyGram, or the National Lockbox system managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
4. What are the visiting hours at FCI Allenwood Medium?
Visiting hours at FCI Allenwood Medium are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.
5. Can inmates at Allenwood participate in educational programs?
Yes, inmates can engage in GED courses, vocational training, and post-secondary education.
6. Is there parking available at Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex?
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the complex.
7. What is the security level at USP Allenwood?
USP Allenwood is a high-security facility, with strict protocols for inmate management.
8. How long are prison visits at Allenwood?
Visits can last up to several hours, depending on the day’s schedule and the facility’s capacity.
9. Are there any famous inmates currently housed at Allenwood?
Yes, notable inmates include James Eagan Holmes and Louis Daidone.
10. How can I apply to visit an inmate at Allenwood?
Visitors must complete an application form, which the inmate submits for approval. Once approved, you can schedule visits by contacting the facility.
Conclusion
Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex remains one of the most well-known federal prisons in the U.S., with a mix of high, medium, and low-security institutions. Whether visiting a loved one or seeking information about the prison’s operations, FCC Allenwood offers robust programs for inmates and clear guidelines for visitors.
For more information, visit the Bureau of Prisons page on Allenwood FCC.
Sources:
Visit the Allenwood Federal Correctional Complex.