Overview of Federal Correctional Institution McKean
The Federal Correctional Institution McKean (FCI McKean) is a medium-security federal prison located in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania. This facility, established in 1989, is part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and holds male offenders convicted of federal crimes. The prison also includes an adjacent satellite camp for minimum-security inmates. With a current capacity of around 1,500 inmates across both its main facility and the camp, FCI McKean provides various rehabilitative programs, including educational and vocational training aimed at supporting re-entry into society.
This facility is known for its focus on ensuring inmate security and offering access to health and legal services. Despite its emphasis on rehabilitation, FCI McKean has had incidents involving inmate escapes and violence, though it generally maintains a structured and safe environment.
Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution McKean
- Address: 6975 Route 59, Lewis Run, PA 16738
- Phone: (814) 362-8900
- Mailing Address: Inmate Name and ID Number, FCI McKean, P.O. Box 8000, Bradford, PA 16701
- Email: MCK-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov
For sending funds, families should utilize the Federal Bureau of Prisons centralized processing center in Des Moines, Iowa.
Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution McKean
Visits at FCI McKean are a vital way for inmates to maintain family and community ties. The visiting hours for the main facility and the camp differ slightly. Visitors should ensure they arrive early, as the facility may reduce visiting times during overcrowded sessions.
Visiting Hours (Main Facility):
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday, Sunday, and Federal Holidays: 8:15 AM – 3:00 PM
Visiting Hours (Camp):
- Saturday, Sunday, and Federal Holidays: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Inmates are allowed up to six visitors at a time, excluding children under the age of two. All visitors over the age of 16 must provide a valid photo ID. Physical contact is limited to brief embraces at the beginning and end of the visit, while holding hands is permitted throughout. No outside food is allowed, though vending machines are available on-site. Visitors are also permitted to bring essentials such as small amounts of cash, baby care items, and life-supporting medications.
How to Book a Visit at Federal Correctional Institution McKean
To schedule a visit at FCI McKean, you must be on the inmate’s approved visitors list. Visitors should call the prison at least 48 hours in advance to confirm visiting hours and approval. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID and follow the prison’s dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing.
The inmate visitation system follows a points-based system, where each visit deducts points depending on the type of inmate. Each visit typically uses one point regardless of the day, allowing families to visit multiple times per month based on availability.
Directions and Parking Information for Federal Correctional Institution McKean
Located in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, FCI McKean is situated along Route 59, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors traveling from the nearby city of Bradford can follow Route 219 South and merge onto Route 59 West. The prison provides on-site parking for visitors, though it may become limited during peak visiting hours. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and allow time for the security screening process.
What Is Life Like Inside Federal Correctional Institution McKean?
Life inside FCI McKean is generally regimented, with strict schedules that include work programs, recreational activities, and educational opportunities. The facility offers vocational training in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and electronics, which aim to equip inmates with skills they can use post-release. Educational programs focus on literacy, GED preparation, and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.
The prison is also equipped with medical and psychological services, though its limited staffing can sometimes strain access to healthcare for inmates. Over the years, incidents such as escape attempts have been reported, but these remain isolated. In general, the prison aims to maintain order while fostering rehabilitation.
Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution McKean
FCI McKean has housed several notable inmates over the years. Some of the more high-profile inmates include:
- Wesley Snipes: The famous actor served time at McKean for tax evasion in the early 2010s.
- Chaka Fattah: The former U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania reported to McKean to serve a 10-year sentence on charges of corruption.
FAQs about Federal Correctional Institution McKean
Where is Federal Correctional Institution McKean located?
FCI McKean is located in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, along Route 59.What type of prison is Federal Correctional Institution McKean?
FCI McKean is a medium-security federal prison with an adjacent minimum-security camp for male inmates.How can I contact an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution McKean?
Inmates can be contacted through mail at the address: FCI McKean, P.O. Box 8000, Bradford, PA 16701.What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution McKean?
Visiting hours are Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and weekends from 8:15 AM to 3:00 PM.How do I send money to an inmate at FCI McKean?
Funds can be sent through MoneyGram, Western Union, or by mail to the Federal Bureau of Prisons processing center in Des Moines, Iowa.What items are allowed during a visit at FCI McKean?
Visitors may bring a clear plastic bag, photo ID, life-supporting medications, and baby care items if visiting with an infant.Has anyone ever escaped from FCI McKean?
Yes, there have been escape attempts, including one in 2013 by Locksley Milwood, who was quickly recaptured.What famous inmates have served time at FCI McKean?
Wesley Snipes and Chaka Fattah are among the more famous inmates who served time at McKean.How do I get to FCI McKean?
The prison is accessible via Route 59, with parking available for visitors.What programs are available for inmates at FCI McKean?
The prison offers vocational training, educational programs, and rehabilitative services aimed at preparing inmates for life after release.
Conclusion
Federal Correctional Institution McKean plays a key role in the federal prison system, providing secure confinement while offering opportunities for rehabilitation. Despite its challenges, FCI McKean maintains a focus on preparing inmates for reintegration into society.
For more details, you can visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ official website.