Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City Overview

The Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City (FCI Forrest City) is part of the Forrest City Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Forrest City) located in eastern Arkansas, approximately 85 miles from Little Rock and 45 miles from Memphis. The complex houses male inmates across three different facilities: FCI Forrest City Low (a low-security institution), FCI Forrest City Medium (a medium-security institution), and an adjacent minimum-security Satellite Prison Camp. Inmates at these facilities are typically serving sentences for federal crimes and are provided with various rehabilitation opportunities, including educational and vocational training.

Established in 1997, FCI Forrest City has been integral to the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ mission to rehabilitate and securely house federal inmates. The complex aims to support inmate reintegration into society through mental health services, residential drug abuse programs (RDAP), and religious programs. The security protocols at Forrest City, particularly at the medium-security facility, include perimeter fencing, controlled movement, and 24-hour surveillance.

Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

  • Address:
    1400 Dale Bumpers Road
    Forrest City, AR 72335

  • Phone:
    870-630-6000 (Low)
    870-494-4200 (Medium)

  • Email:
    FOR-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov (Low)
    FOM-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov (Medium)

  • Mailing Address for Inmates:
    Inmate Name and Registration Number
    FCI Forrest City Low
    P.O. Box 9000
    Forrest City, AR 72336

    Inmate Name and Registration Number
    FCI Forrest City Medium
    P.O. Box 3000
    Forrest City, AR 72336

Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

Visits to FCI Forrest City are an important part of maintaining inmate morale and support during their sentence. Visiting hours vary slightly between the low and medium-security facilities, but generally, visits are permitted on weekends and federal holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. Visitors should arrive early to go through the necessary security checks. Inmates are typically allocated a certain number of visiting points per month, and each visit deducts from this total.

What to Bring for a Prison Visit

Visitors are required to bring valid government-issued identification. Only minimal items, such as small amounts of cash for vending machines, are allowed inside the facility. Personal belongings like mobile phones and bags must be left in your vehicle or designated lockers.

Booking a Visit to Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

To book a visit, you will need to be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. Applications to be added to this list must be submitted in advance and approved by the prison administration. When scheduling your visit, you’ll need the inmate’s full name and registration number, along with your identification details.

Each visit can include up to 4 adults and 5 children per inmate. The visitation environment is structured to encourage positive interaction, though physical contact is limited to a brief embrace at the beginning and end of the visit.

Directions and Parking for Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

Driving Directions: FCI Forrest City is easily accessible from Interstate 40. Visitors traveling from Little Rock should head eastbound, while those coming from Memphis should drive westbound.

  • From Little Rock: Take I-40 E to exit 239, then follow signs to Dale Bumpers Road.
  • From Memphis: Take I-40 W to exit 239, then follow signs to the facility.

Parking: Visitor parking is available onsite at no cost. Ensure you follow the marked directions and park in designated areas to avoid complications.

What is Life Like at Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City?

Life at FCI Forrest City varies by security level. Inmates at the low-security facility typically reside in dormitory-style housing, while medium-security inmates live in more restricted cell blocks. The prison provides structured schedules that include work assignments, educational programs, and leisure time.

Programs like the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) and vocational training aim to prepare inmates for reentry into society. Despite these efforts, there have been reports of overcrowding, particularly at the low-security facility, which can affect daily life. Media reports have occasionally highlighted escapes and misconduct involving staff members, but the institution remains committed to security and rehabilitation​

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

Over the years, several notable individuals have been incarcerated at FCI Forrest City. One of the most well-known inmates was Rapper T.I., who served a brief sentence for probation violations in 2011​. Additionally, individuals involved in high-profile financial crimes and drug offenses have been held at this facility.

FAQs About Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City

  • What security levels does Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City have?
    FCI Forrest City includes low and medium-security facilities and a minimum-security satellite camp.

  • Can I send money to an inmate at FCI Forrest City?
    Yes, funds can be sent through approved methods such as MoneyGram or Western Union but cannot be sent directly to the prison.

  • What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City?
    Visits are generally allowed on weekends and federal holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

  • How do I contact an inmate at FCI Forrest City?
    You can write to inmates using their assigned P.O. Box at the facility or communicate through approved email systems.

  • What educational opportunities are available for inmates at FCI Forrest City?
    Inmates can participate in GED programs, vocational training, and various apprenticeship opportunities.

  • Are there any notorious prisoners held at FCI Forrest City?
    Yes, notable inmates have included celebrities and individuals convicted of high-profile federal crimes.

  • What is the process for booking a visit?
    You must apply to be added to the inmate’s visitation list and follow the prison’s scheduling procedure.

  • Is there a limit on how many visitors an inmate can have?
    Yes, an inmate can have up to 4 adults and 5 children per visit.

  • Are physical visits the only way to stay in touch with inmates?
    No, inmates can also make phone calls and send emails through the prison’s approved systems.

  • What kind of rehabilitation programs does FCI Forrest City offer?
    Programs like RDAP, vocational training, and mental health services are available to help inmates prepare for life after prison.

Summary and Conclusion:

Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City plays a crucial role in housing male inmates convicted of federal crimes, offering them opportunities for rehabilitation while ensuring secure custody. From its low-security dormitories to its medium-security facilities, FCI Forrest City has a structured environment that helps inmates prepare for reintegration into society. Visitors are an essential part of an inmate’s support system, and the facility provides ample opportunities for family interaction within the set guidelines.

For more detailed information, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

Sources:

  • www.bop.gov
  • en.wikipedia.org
  • federalcriminaldefenseattorney.com

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