Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton Overview

Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton (FCI Hazelton) is a medium-security federal prison located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia. It is part of the larger Hazelton Federal Correctional Complex, which also includes a Secure Female Facility (SFF). FCI Hazelton houses male inmates, while the adjacent SFF accommodates medium-security female inmates. Known for its strict regulations and high-security protocols, FCI Hazelton holds inmates convicted of serious federal crimes. Life inside the prison is highly regimented, with programs focusing on education, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment. However, FCI Hazelton has also garnered a reputation for violence and internal tensions, leading to it being nicknamed “Misery Mountain” by some staff members.

 

Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton building

Contact Information for FCI Hazelton

Visiting Information for FCI Hazelton

Visitation at FCI Hazelton is permitted on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Visiting hours typically range from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, though it’s important to confirm current visiting times due to potential changes in prison schedules or restrictions. Visits are conducted in a common visiting room, and guests should expect security checks before entry.
When visiting, guests must bring a government-issued ID. Children are allowed but must be supervised at all times. Visitors should avoid wearing revealing clothing or anything resembling inmate uniforms, such as khaki or camouflage. Inmates are allowed to have a limited number of visitors per session, and visiting sessions are generally capped at two hours, depending on the number of visitors on a given day.

How to Book a Visit to FCI Hazelton

To book a visit, you must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list. Visitors need to fill out a visiting application, available through the Bureau of Prisons website, and await approval. When booking a visit, you will need the inmate’s full name and registration number. You should also have valid photo identification. Each inmate is allowed a limited number of visitors at one time, and it’s advised to call ahead to confirm available slots. Visitors can bring a small amount of money for vending machines but should leave personal items like cell phones and wallets in their vehicle or lockers provided at the facility.

 

Directions and Parking for FCI Hazelton

FCI Hazelton is located in Preston County, West Virginia, near Bruceton Mills. It is approximately 35 minutes from Morgantown, WV, and about 45 minutes from both Cumberland, MD, and Uniontown, PA. Visitors driving to the facility can take I-68 and follow signs to Bruceton Mills. Parking is available on-site at no charge. There is designated visitor parking, and accessible parking is available for individuals with disabilities.

 

Life Inside FCI Hazelton and Latest News

Inmates at FCI Hazelton adhere to a strict daily routine, with designated times for work, education, and recreation. The prison offers several vocational training programs, including carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, and Microsoft Office certification. Educational programs include the General Education Development (GED) program and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. Religious services are provided, and inmates may participate in substance abuse treatment programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Despite its programs, FCI Hazelton has seen several high-profile incidents of violence, including the killing of notorious gangster James “Whitey” Bulger in 2018. These incidents have raised concerns about inmate safety and staffing shortages at the prison.

Famous Prisoners at FCI Hazelton

  • James “Whitey” Bulger: The infamous Boston crime boss was murdered at FCI Hazelton shortly after his transfer in 2018.
  • Michael Nunn: Former middleweight boxing champion, serving time for drug-related charges.
  • George Jung: A drug trafficker whose life was portrayed in the film Blow, served part of his sentence at Hazelton.

FAQs about Federal Correctional Institution Hazelton

  • What is FCI Hazelton?
    FCI Hazelton is a medium-security federal prison in West Virginia, housing male inmates, with a separate facility for female inmates.

  • How do I contact FCI Hazelton?
    You can contact FCI Hazelton at 304-379-1500 or by email at HAX-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov.

  • How do I book a visit to FCI Hazelton?
    Visitors must complete a visiting application and be on the inmate’s approved list. It’s best to call ahead to confirm visiting slots.

  • What are the visiting hours at FCI Hazelton?
    Visits are generally held on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

  • What is life like inside FCI Hazelton?
    Inmates follow a strict daily schedule with access to vocational training, educational programs, and recreational activities.

  • Where is FCI Hazelton located?
    FCI Hazelton is located at 1640 Sky View Drive, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525, in Preston County, West Virginia.

  • What types of inmates are housed at FCI Hazelton?
    FCI Hazelton houses medium-security male inmates, while the Secure Female Facility holds medium-security female inmates.

  • Are there vocational programs at FCI Hazelton?
    Yes, inmates can take part in vocational training programs, including carpentry, HVAC, and plumbing.

  • Can I send money to an inmate at FCI Hazelton?
    Yes, funds can be sent through the federal prison’s designated system, such as MoneyGram or Western Union.

  • Who are some famous prisoners at FCI Hazelton?
    Notable inmates include James “Whitey” Bulger and former boxer Michael Nunn.

Summary and Conclusion

FCI Hazelton plays a critical role in the federal prison system as a medium-security facility housing male and female inmates. While it provides educational and rehabilitative programs, the prison has struggled with violence and safety concerns. Visitors are encouraged to follow strict guidelines to ensure a smooth visiting process, and the prison remains in the public eye due to its high-profile inmate population and operational challenges.

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

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