Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer Overview

Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer (FCI Gilmer) is a medium-security federal prison located in Glenville, West Virginia. Built in 2003, it is designed to house male inmates serving federal sentences. Adjacent to the main facility is a satellite camp that accommodates minimum-security male inmates. With a current population of over 1,350 inmates at the medium-security facility and around 110 at the camp, FCI Gilmer provides a range of services and rehabilitation programs aimed at inmate reentry into society. Programs include GED education, vocational training in fields such as automotive repair and carpentry, as well as mental health and substance abuse counseling.

 

Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

  • Address: 201 FCI Lane, Glenville, West Virginia 26351

  • Phone: (304) 626-2500

  • Fax: (304) 626-2693

  • Email: gil-execassistant-s@bop.gov

  • Mailing Address:
    For FCI Inmates:
    Inmate Name, ID Number
    Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer
    P.O. Box 6000, Glenville, WV 26351

    For Camp Inmates:
    Inmate Name, ID Number
    Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer Satellite Camp
    P.O. Box 7000, Glenville, WV 26351

Visiting Information at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

Visits at FCI Gilmer are available on Fridays, weekends, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Special visits for inmates housed in the Special Housing Unit (SHU) are held on Thursdays during the same hours. Inmates can have an unlimited number of visits, but each visit may include a maximum of six people, including children. Visitors are permitted to bring a clear purse with up to $30 in small bills, jewelry, and medications. For those visiting with infants, additional items such as diapers, baby food, and bottles are allowed.

 

Booking a Visit to Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

To schedule a visit at FCI Gilmer, you must first be placed on the inmate’s approved visitation list. This requires the inmate to submit your information to the facility for clearance. On the day of the visit, you will need a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) for entry. Each inmate is permitted up to six visitors per session, and it is recommended to confirm your visit in advance to avoid any disruptions due to facility lockdowns or other restrictions.

 

How to Get to Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

FCI Gilmer is located in central West Virginia, about 85 miles northeast of Charleston. Visitors driving to the facility can follow Interstate 79 and exit at U.S. Route 33 towards Glenville. The prison is situated on FCI Lane, just off of County Route 5. Parking is available on-site, and visitors should arrive early to complete the necessary security checks before entry.

 

Life Inside Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

Inmates at FCI Gilmer live in two-person or three-person cells, while those in the adjacent camp live in open dormitory-style housing. The facility offers comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health care services. Inmates have access to educational programs, including literacy classes, GED preparation, and vocational training, particularly through the prison’s UNICOR program, which provides job skills in fields such as manufacturing and electrical work. Leisure activities include fitness programs, intramural sports, hobby crafts, and access to a well-stocked library.

Despite these programs, FCI Gilmer has experienced incidents of violence, such as the 2010 riot involving rival gangs, which resulted in injuries and a facility lockdown. Nonetheless, the institution remains focused on its mission of rehabilitation and reintegration.

Notable Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

While FCI Gilmer has not been home to many widely known prisoners, it has housed individuals convicted of serious federal offenses, including organized crime leaders and drug traffickers. For example, in 2010, the prison was involved in a violent incident between gang members, underscoring the serious nature of its inmate population.

 

FAQs about Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer

  • What type of security does Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer have?
    FCI Gilmer is a medium-security federal prison with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    Inmates can be contacted via mail at P.O. Box 6000 for FCI or P.O. Box 7000 for the satellite camp. Phone calls must be arranged through the inmate’s approved call list.

  • What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    Visits are allowed from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, weekends, and federal holidays.

  • What should I bring when visiting Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    Visitors should bring a valid photo ID and may carry a small amount of cash, jewelry, and necessary medical supplies.

  • How do I get placed on an inmate’s visiting list at FCI Gilmer?
    The inmate must submit your name to the facility for approval, after which you’ll be notified of your status.

  • What educational programs are available at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    FCI Gilmer offers GED preparation, vocational training in automotive and carpentry, and courses in parenting and wellness.

  • Are there jobs available for inmates at Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    Yes, through UNICOR, inmates can work in manufacturing and other trades to prepare for reentry.

  • What is the capacity of Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    FCI Gilmer has a capacity of about 1,650 inmates.

  • Can inmates receive books and magazines?
    Yes, inmates can receive books and magazines directly from publishers.

  • What is the address for Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer?
    The physical address is 201 FCI Lane, Glenville, West Virginia, 26351.

Conclusion

Federal Correctional Institution Gilmer provides structured programs for inmates to rehabilitate and prepare for life post-incarceration. Despite occasional incidents of violence, the institution remains committed to its mission of offering educational opportunities, healthcare services, and work programs. For more information or to arrange a visit, it is best to contact the facility directly at (304) 626-2500.

Sources:

Visit Federal Correctional Institution Englewood