Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center: General Overview

The Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC Brooklyn) is a federal administrative facility located in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, New York. Opened in 1994, it primarily holds male and female inmates of varying security levels, most of whom are awaiting trial or sentencing in federal court. While MDC Brooklyn is not a long-term facility, it houses both pretrial detainees and those serving short sentences. It is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and provides secure confinement, healthcare, and rehabilitation services.

Inmates at MDC Brooklyn include individuals involved in federal crimes ranging from organized crime to financial misconduct. The facility has faced criticism in recent years due to overcrowding and harsh conditions, including poor heating and allegations of staff shortages. MDC Brooklyn has been the subject of legal disputes and media attention, particularly concerning its conditions and treatment of inmates.

Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

Contact Information for Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

  • Address: Metropolitan Detention Center Brooklyn, 80 29th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232
  • Telephone: (718) 840-4200
  • Fax: (718) 840-5005
  • Email: bro-execassistant-s@bop.gov
  • Mailing Address for Inmates: PO Box 329002, Brooklyn, NY 11232

Visiting Information at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

MDC Brooklyn allows visitors under strict guidelines. Visiting hours generally run on weekends and holidays, with additional weekday slots available, but it is crucial to check in advance for any schedule changes.

Visiting hours:

  • Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (sign-in typically ends at 2:00 p.m.)

What to bring: Visitors must bring a government-issued ID. Personal belongings such as cell phones and bags are prohibited inside the visiting area, and all visitors must pass through a security screening.

Duration of visits: Visits typically last for one to two hours, depending on the inmate’s classification and security level. Visiting times are subject to change, so it is advisable to check directly with the facility.

How to Book a Prison Visit at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

To schedule a visit, you must first be approved on the inmate’s visitor list. Contact the prison directly or visit the BOP website to verify your eligibility. Visitors must provide identification and adhere to strict dress codes and conduct rules during visits. Visits are often restricted to immediate family members, though others may be approved.

You will need:

  • Inmate’s full name and ID number
  • Government-issued ID
  • Prior approval on the inmate’s visiting list

How many visitors: Typically, two to three visitors are allowed per visit, but restrictions may apply based on the inmate’s security level.

Directions and Parking at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

MDC Brooklyn is located in the Sunset Park neighborhood, easily accessible via public transportation or car.

  • Public transportation: The nearest subway stations are 36th Street (D, N, R trains) and 25th Street (R train).
  • Parking: Limited on-street parking is available around the facility, but it can be challenging to find a spot. It’s advisable to use public transport when possible.

What is Life Like Inside Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center?

Life inside MDC Brooklyn has been a point of contention for years. Inmates and advocacy groups have raised concerns over overcrowding, lack of adequate heating, and medical care. In 2019, a power outage during winter led to freezing conditions within the facility, garnering national attention. Inmates have also complained about limited recreational opportunities and minimal access to education programs.

Despite these issues, the facility offers basic healthcare, psychological services, and limited educational resources such as GED classes. The psychological department also provides mental health services for inmates struggling with incarceration.

Famous Prisoners at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

MDC Brooklyn has housed several high-profile inmates, including:

  • R. Kelly: The singer was held at MDC during his trial for sexual abuse charges.
  • Ghislaine Maxwell: Convicted for her role in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, she spent time at MDC Brooklyn before her sentencing.
  • Juan Orlando Hernández: Former president of Honduras, convicted on drug trafficking charges
  • Sam Bankman-Fried: The FTX founder was held at MDC while awaiting trial on charges of fraud and money laundering​

FAQs About Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center

1. What type of inmates are held at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center?
MDC Brooklyn houses federal inmates awaiting trial, sentencing, or serving short-term sentences. The facility holds male and female inmates of all security levels.

2. How do I contact an inmate at MDC Brooklyn?
You can contact an inmate through mail or via the facility’s approved communication services like Trulincs. Mailing address: PO Box 329002, Brooklyn, NY 11232.

3. What are the visiting rules at Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center?
Visitors must be pre-approved and follow strict security protocols. Visits are typically limited to weekends and holidays, with specific rules on what you can bring.

4. Can I send money to an inmate at MDC Brooklyn?
Yes, you can send money through services like MoneyGram or Western Union. The funds are used by inmates to purchase items from the commissary.

5. How do I book a visit at MDC Brooklyn?
To book a visit, contact the prison directly or visit the BOP website. You must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list, and you’ll need to provide identification.

6. Are there parking facilities at MDC Brooklyn?
Parking is limited near MDC Brooklyn. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, as street parking can be difficult to find.

7. How are health services at MDC Brooklyn?
Inmates have access to basic healthcare, including medical, dental, and psychological services. Emergency services are available 24/7.

8. Who are some famous inmates at MDC Brooklyn?
Notable inmates include Ghislaine Maxwell, R. Kelly, and former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández.

9. What is the inmate capacity at MDC Brooklyn?
The facility holds over 1,600 inmates at maximum capacity, though it frequently experiences overcrowding issues.

10. What are the conditions like inside MDC Brooklyn?
Conditions at MDC Brooklyn have been criticized for being harsh, with past incidents of inadequate heating and overcrowding drawing attention from human rights groups.

Summary and Conclusion

Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center plays a critical role in the U.S. federal detention system, providing a secure facility for inmates awaiting trial or serving short sentences. While the facility has been home to several high-profile inmates, it has also been criticized for poor conditions and overcrowding. Despite these challenges, MDC Brooklyn remains a key institution in the federal corrections system, balancing security needs with basic inmate services.

Visit Brooklyn Detention Complex