Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg Overview

The Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg (FCI Petersburg) is part of a larger federal complex located in Hopewell, Virginia. The complex includes low- and medium-security facilities for male inmates, as well as a minimum-security satellite camp. FCI Petersburg houses a diverse population of offenders, including a significant number convicted of sex offenses due to the Sex Offender Management Program (SOMP) offered at the medium-security facility. This prison provides inmates with educational programs, substance abuse treatment, and vocational training, supporting their rehabilitation and reentry into society.

Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

  • Address:
    FCI Petersburg
    1060 River Road
    Hopewell, VA 23860
    Inmate Correspondence Address:
    P.O. Box 1000, Petersburg, VA 23804
  • Phone:
    Medium Security: 804-504-7200
    Low Security: 804-733-7881
  • Email:
    Medium Security: PEM-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov
    Low Security: PEX-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov

Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

Visiting Hours:
Visiting hours at FCI Petersburg vary by security level. The general schedule for both the low- and medium-security facilities includes visits on weekends and federal holidays.

  • Low Security:
    Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
  • Medium Security:
    Fridays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, weekends, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list, which is managed by the inmate’s case manager. Before visiting, you should fill out a Visitor Application and submit it for approval. Ensure you bring a valid ID and adhere to the prison’s dress code and security regulations. Personal items, including phones, are not allowed inside; lockers are available for storage.

How to Book a Prison Visit at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

To visit an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg, visitors must be pre-approved. After submitting a completed Visitor Application, and once it is approved, you can attend during the designated visiting hours. You will need to bring:

  • Valid photo identification (driver’s license, state ID)
  • Cash (for vending machines inside the visiting area)

Each inmate can have multiple visitors, though the exact number is limited by facility rules. Typically, visiting sessions last for several hours, allowing inmates to spend time with family and friends in a controlled environment. The atmosphere during visits is generally calm, providing a vital connection for the inmate’s social and emotional support.

How to Get to Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

Directions:
Located 25 miles southeast of Richmond, VA, FCI Petersburg is easily accessible via I-295 and Route 10. From I-295, take exit 9B (Hopewell) to Route 10, then follow signs to River Road. The institution’s main entrance is clearly marked.

Parking:
Visitor parking is available at the institution. Spaces are located near the entrance, but visitors should arrive early on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up quickly during peak visiting times.

What is Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg Like for Inmates?

Life inside Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg varies depending on the security level and the inmate’s classification. Inmates in the medium-security facility, which houses a large percentage of sex offenders, participate in specialized programs such as the Sex Offender Management Program (SOMP). Other services include general education classes, vocational training, and counseling for substance abuse. The environment is largely structured, with inmates adhering to a strict daily schedule.

The institution emphasizes rehabilitation, offering substance abuse and mental health programs to prepare inmates for reintegration into society. Recreational activities, such as sports, are also available, and inmates have access to a commissary to purchase everyday items.

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

Several notable inmates have been housed at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg over the years, including:

  • Bernie Madoff, who ran one of the largest Ponzi schemes in history.
  • Richard Chandler, involved in a major child pornography case.
  • David Kaye, a former rabbi caught in an internet sex sting featured on NBC’s To Catch a Predator.

These cases highlight the high-profile nature of some individuals held at the facility.

FAQs about Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg

  • What is the capacity of Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg?
    FCI Petersburg houses around 1,500 inmates in the medium-security facility and 1,300 in the low-security facility.

  • Can I send money to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg?
    Yes, money can be sent electronically through MoneyGram or Western Union. Physical cash is not accepted on-site.

  • How do I find out if an inmate is eligible for visits at FCI Petersburg?
    You need to contact the inmate’s case manager or check the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ inmate locator to confirm visitation eligibility.

  • Does Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg offer educational programs for inmates?
    Yes, the prison offers GED programs, vocational training, and apprenticeships to help inmates prepare for life after release.

  • What items can I bring when visiting Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg?
    Visitors are allowed to bring a valid ID and a small amount of cash for vending machines. All other items must be left in the car or in provided lockers.

  • Where is Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg located?
    FCI Petersburg is located at 1060 River Road, Hopewell, Virginia, about 25 miles from Richmond.

  • Are there special programs available at Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg?
    Yes, the medium-security facility offers the SOMP, substance abuse programs, and general rehabilitation services.

  • Can I contact an inmate at FCI Petersburg via email?
    Inmates at FCI Petersburg can receive monitored emails through the TRULINCS system, though only approved contacts can participate.

  • What security level is Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg?
    The facility includes both low- and medium-security levels, with separate housing for different classifications of inmates.

  • Does FCI Petersburg house transgender inmates?
    Yes, FCI Petersburg houses some transgender inmates, particularly those in need of protective custody.

Summary and Conclusion

Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg is a key federal facility in Virginia, providing a range of programs for male inmates in both low- and medium-security settings. With a focus on rehabilitation, including specialized programs for sex offenders and substance abuse, it offers inmates resources for self-improvement and successful reintegration into society. The facility’s visitation policies allow for meaningful connections with loved ones, which plays a vital role in the inmates’ rehabilitation journey.

For further details, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website or contact the institution directly.

Sources:

  1. Federal Bureau of Prisons
  2. Wikipedia – FCC Petersburg

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