Federal Correctional Institution Coleman Low: General Overview

The Federal Correctional Institution Coleman Low (FCI Coleman Low) is a low-security federal prison located in Sumterville, Florida. Part of the larger Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman), this facility houses male inmates and is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The prison’s low-security classification means it holds inmates convicted of federal crimes who typically have shorter sentences or are nearing the end of their incarceration. FCI Coleman Low is one of four facilities within FCC Coleman, and it has a capacity of about 2,099 inmates, offering basic educational and vocational training programs.

The prison also has a minimum-security satellite camp that holds approximately 300 inmates. These inmates usually have non-violent convictions or are close to release. The facility is well-regarded for its orderly environment but still enforces strict regulations to ensure the security and safety of both inmates and staff.

Federal Correctional Institution Coleman Low prison facility in Florida

Contact Information for FCI Coleman Low

  • Address: 846 NE 54th Terrace, Sumterville, FL 33521
  • Phone Number: (352) 689-4000
  • Fax Number: (352) 689-4008
  • Email: COA-PublicInformation-S@bop.gov
  • Mailing Address for Inmates: Inmate Name & Register Number, FCI Coleman Low, P.O. Box 1031, Coleman, FL 33521

Visiting Information for FCI Coleman Low

Visitors are welcome at FCI Coleman Low, but strict guidelines are in place to maintain the security of the facility. Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Inmates are generally allowed four hours of visitation time each month, with additional time possible depending on space availability.

What to bring:

  • A valid photo ID (driver’s license or state-issued ID).
  • Car keys and change for vending machines.
  • If visiting with an infant, clear bottles and small blankets are permitted.

Visitors must adhere to a modest dress code, avoiding revealing clothing or items associated with gang affiliation. Upon arrival, visitors sign in and go through security checks. Handshakes, hugs, or brief kisses are allowed at the beginning and end of the visit.

How to Book a Visit at FCI Coleman Low

To visit an inmate at FCI Coleman Low, you must be approved by the facility. Inmates submit an approved visitor list, which includes close family members, friends, and associates. The prison will mail visitors an application to fill out and return. The approval process may take several weeks, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Once approved, scheduling a visit is straightforward. Simply arrive during visitation hours with your ID. Up to five visitors can attend per inmate at a time, but capacity limitations on weekends may result in staggered visits based on the inmate’s last name.

How to Get to FCI Coleman Low

FCI Coleman Low is located in central Florida, approximately 50 miles northwest of Orlando and 35 miles south of Ocala. The prison’s address is easily accessible by car. Visitors can park in the designated visitor lot on the premises, which offers free parking.

Driving directions:

  • From Orlando: Take I-75 North towards Wildwood and follow signs for FCI Coleman Low.
  • From Tampa: Take I-75 North, exit at County Road 470 and follow signs to Coleman Federal Complex.

It’s advisable to call the facility at (352) 689-4000 before your visit to confirm visitation hours and parking availability, as schedules can change due to lockdowns or special events.

Life Inside FCI Coleman Low and Latest News

For inmates at FCI Coleman Low, daily life includes a mix of work assignments, educational programs, and recreational activities. The prison has various job opportunities, such as in the kitchen, facilities maintenance, or UNICOR, the federal prison industries program. Inmates can also participate in educational courses aimed at earning a GED or improving vocational skills.

Recent reports have noted a general improvement in living conditions at FCC Coleman, but challenges remain, particularly regarding overcrowding and limited access to mental health services. In 2023, several arrests were made in a DOJ investigation into corruption and contraband smuggling at FCC Coleman, showing ongoing efforts to maintain order.

 

Famous Prisoners at FCI Coleman Low

FCI Coleman Low has housed several notable inmates, including:

  • Corrine Brown, a former U.S. Representative from Florida, convicted of fraud in 2017. She served part of her sentence at FCI Coleman Low before being released early in 2020 due to health concerns related to COVID-19.
  • Michael Conahan, a former judge involved in the infamous “Kids for Cash” scandal, was sentenced to 17.5 years. He was released to home confinement in 2020.

FAQs about FCI Coleman Low

1. What is FCI Coleman Low?
FCI Coleman Low is a low-security federal prison in Florida, housing male inmates convicted of federal offenses.

2. How do I contact an inmate at FCI Coleman Low?
Inmates can be contacted via mail at the address provided. Family and friends can also send money through Western Union or the Bureau of Prisons system.

3. How do I book a visit to FCI Coleman Low?
Visitation requires approval. Once approved, visitors can attend during scheduled visiting hours on weekends and federal holidays.

4. Are there specific visiting hours at FCI Coleman Low?
Yes, visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.

5. What is life like inside FCI Coleman Low?
Inmates at FCI Coleman Low participate in work assignments, education, and recreational activities. Conditions are secure but can be challenging due to overcrowding.

6. Who are some famous inmates that served time at FCI Coleman Low?
Notable former inmates include Corrine Brown and Michael Conahan.

7. How can I send money to an inmate at FCI Coleman Low?
You can send money through the mail using a U.S. Postal Service money order or through Western Union’s Quick Collect program.

8. What can I bring to a prison visit?
Visitors should bring a photo ID, car keys, and some change. Items like baby bottles and blankets are allowed for infants.

9. Is there parking available at FCI Coleman Low?
Yes, the prison provides free parking in a designated visitor lot.

10. Can I send an email to an inmate at FCI Coleman Low?
Inmates can communicate via the Corrlinks email system, though all messages are monitored.

Conclusion

FCI Coleman Low offers a structured environment for inmates, emphasizing rehabilitation and preparation for reintegration into society. While the facility has faced challenges, ongoing reforms and strict regulations ensure the safety and security of both inmates and staff. For more information about the prison, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

Sources Used:

  1. Federal Bureau of Prisons – FCI Coleman Low Profile
  2. Wikipedia – Federal Correctional Institution, Coleman
  3. Prison Handbook – FCI Coleman Low Information

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