Federal Correctional Institution Mendota Overview

The Federal Correctional Institution Mendota (FCI Mendota) is a medium-security federal prison located in Mendota, California. It also operates a minimum-security satellite camp nearby, housing lower-risk inmates. This facility exclusively holds male offenders and was officially opened in 2012 after construction began in 2007. Located about 36 miles west of Fresno, FCI Mendota spans a 960-acre site in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. The prison is known for prioritizing inmate rehabilitation through various educational and vocational programs while maintaining a secure environment with a 12-foot razor wire fence surrounding the main institution.

 

Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

Visits to FCI Mendota are generally held on weekends and federal holidays, allowing family and friends to maintain important bonds with inmates. Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled time and present a valid photo ID. All visitors are subject to security checks upon entering the facility.

Typical visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, but it’s important to confirm the schedule in advance as restrictions can apply due to security measures or weather conditions. Visits are usually limited to 4 hours, with the number of visitors per inmate capped at five individuals at one time, including children.

What to bring:

  • Government-issued photo ID.
  • Approved visitor list confirmation.
  • Minimal personal items—lockers are available for storage.

How to Book a Visit at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

To visit an inmate at FCI Mendota, you must first be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. To book a visit:

  1. Contact the facility to ensure approval.
  2. Bring a valid ID, and be prepared for a security screening.
  3. Up to five people may visit per session.
  4. Personal belongings should be minimal and must adhere to the facility’s security guidelines.

Pre-approval is mandatory, so family and friends should plan accordingly to avoid delays on the visitation day.

Getting to Federal Correctional Institution Mendota - Directions and Parking

FCI Mendota is located approximately 36 miles from Fresno. The most common route is via Highway 180, followed by a turn onto West California Avenue. On-site parking is available for visitors, but spaces can fill quickly on weekends. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and allow enough time for processing before the visit.

 

What is Life Like at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?

Inside FCI Mendota, inmates have access to a variety of educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation. Courses include GED classes, English as a Second Language (ESL), vocational training in trades like automotive repair and construction, and even post-secondary options for those seeking further education. Recreational facilities, both indoor and outdoor, allow inmates to participate in activities such as basketball, racquetball, and ceramics.

Healthcare services are readily available, with 24-hour emergency medical care, routine health services, and mental health counseling. Counseling focuses on crisis intervention, anger management, and other self-help programs.

Recent news has highlighted occasional infrastructure issues, such as mold, but the facility continues to provide vital services to inmates, ensuring a secure and structured environment.

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

While FCI Mendota is not known for housing many high-profile inmates, it recently became notable when Sam Bankman-Fried, the former CEO of FTX, was reported to be transferred here to serve a lengthy sentence for financial crimes. This highlights the facility’s role in housing federal offenders with significant media attention.

 

FAQs About Federal Correctional Institution Mendota

  • What security level is Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    FCI Mendota is a medium-security prison with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.

  • How can I contact an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    You can write letters following the facility’s guidelines, or send money through MoneyGram for the inmate’s commissary account. Inmate correspondence must adhere to the Bureau of Prisons policies.

  • What educational programs are available at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    FCI Mendota offers GED, ESL, and vocational programs in trades such as automotive repair and recycling.

  • How do I book a visit at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    You must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. After approval, visits can be scheduled for weekends and federal holidays.

  • What is the capacity of Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    The facility has a capacity of approximately 1,280 inmates, with an additional 128 inmates housed in the minimum-security camp.

  • What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    Visiting hours are typically 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and federal holidays. Be sure to check in advance for any changes.

  • What is the inmate commissary limit at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    Inmates can spend up to $360 per month in the commissary, purchasing items like snacks, toiletries, and clothing.

  • Is parking available at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    Yes, parking is available for visitors, but it is recommended to arrive early as spaces can fill up quickly.

  • What vocational training programs are offered at Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    Inmates can train in trades such as construction, automotive repair, warehouse operations, and computer literacy.

  • Who oversees Federal Correctional Institution Mendota?
    The prison is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, part of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Conclusion

Federal Correctional Institution Mendota focuses on both security and rehabilitation. Through its robust educational and vocational programs, it aims to equip inmates with skills that can aid their reintegration into society. Whether you’re visiting an inmate or seeking information, FCI Mendota provides a structured environment to support the well-being of inmates and their connections with the outside world.

Visit Federal Correctional Institution Manchester