Overview of Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

The Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix (FCI Phoenix) is a medium-security federal prison situated approximately 30 miles north of downtown Phoenix, Arizona. The prison primarily houses male inmates, while an adjacent satellite camp accommodates minimum-security female offenders. Operating since 1985, FCI Phoenix is part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and offers a range of educational, medical, and psychological services to its inmate population, which totals around 1,345 inmates (1,074 at the main facility and 271 at the camp)​

FCI Phoenix is known for providing Medical Care Level 2, addressing the needs of inmates with moderate medical conditions. It also maintains a Mental Health Care Level 2, serving inmates with stable mental health conditions​

Zoukis Consulting Group

. The facility has garnered attention over the years due to high-profile inmates and certain incidents involving prison staff

Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

For inquiries and correspondence, you can reach FCI Phoenix at:

Address: Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix
37900 N 45th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85086

Phone: 623-465-9757
Fax: 623-465-5199
Email: PHX-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov

For inmate mail, use the following format:

FCI Phoenix Inmate Mail: Inmate Name & Registration Number
FCI Phoenix
Federal Correctional Institution
37910 N 45th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85086

For the satellite camp, address mail as:

FCI Phoenix Camp Inmate Mail: Inmate Name & Registration Number
Satellite Prison Camp
37930 N 45th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85086

Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

Visiting inmates at FCI Phoenix requires following specific rules and regulations. Visits are held on weekends and federal holidays. Before visiting, it’s important to confirm the schedule as visiting hours can change due to security concerns or lockdowns.

  • Visiting hours:
    Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

  • What to bring:
    Visitors must bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport). Personal belongings like cell phones, cameras, and bags are not allowed inside the facility.

  • What visits are like:
    Visits are held in a common room where inmates can interact with family and friends. Visits last between 1-2 hours, depending on the inmate’s security level and other factors.

  • How to book a visit:
    Visits should be scheduled in advance by contacting the prison. The visitor must be on the inmate’s approved list. You will need the inmate’s full name, registration number, and your identification to schedule a visit.

Directions and Parking for Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

FCI Phoenix is located about 30 miles north of downtown Phoenix. To reach the facility, take exit 225 off I-17 (Black Canyon Highway) and follow Pioneer Road west directly to the prison.

  • Parking:
    Visitors can park in the designated parking area outside the facility. Ensure that you arrive early to secure a parking spot, as spaces can be limited during busy visitation days.

Life Inside Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

FCI Phoenix offers a mix of routine and structured activities for its inmates. Life inside the prison is shaped by the daily regimen, which includes mandatory work assignments, educational programs, and recreational activities. Inmates live in two- or three-person cells, while women at the satellite camp are housed in open dormitories. The prison has faced occasional disturbances, such as the 2019 lockdown after a major fight. Despite these challenges, the institution maintains tight security and focuses on rehabilitation efforts.

Inmates at FCI Phoenix have access to various services, including healthcare, religious services, and substance abuse programs. The prison also offers advanced educational programs to help inmates develop job skills before reentry into society.

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

Several notable inmates have been held at FCI Phoenix over the years, including:

  • Jerry Posin, former drummer of the band Steppenwolf, who served five years.
  • More recently, media reports have mentioned incidents involving prison staff being indicted for misconduct, reflecting ongoing concerns regarding safety and prison conditions

FAQs about Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix

  • How do I contact an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix?
    You can send letters to inmates using their name and registration number at the facility’s address. For male inmates, use the main prison address, and for female inmates, use the satellite camp address.

  • What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix?
    Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and federal holidays. Always call ahead to confirm visiting times.

  • How do I schedule a visit to Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix?
    Visits can be scheduled by contacting the facility directly. Ensure the visitor is on the inmate’s approved list and bring a valid photo ID.

  • What type of security is at FCI Phoenix?
    FCI Phoenix is a medium-security facility for male inmates, with a minimum-security satellite camp for female inmates.

  • What types of rehabilitation programs are available at FCI Phoenix?
    FCI Phoenix offers various programs, including vocational training, educational services, and drug rehabilitation programs.

  • How do I send money to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix?
    Funds for inmates must be sent via the National Lockbox in Des Moines, Iowa, or through services like Western Union or MoneyGram.

  • Can I call an inmate at FCI Phoenix?
    Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they can make outbound calls to pre-approved numbers.

  • What is the capacity of Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix?
    FCI Phoenix can house approximately 990 male inmates, with an additional 210 female inmates in the satellite camp.

  • What incidents have occurred at FCI Phoenix?
    In 2019, a significant fight led to a 12-day lockdown. The incident raised concerns among inmate families due to limited communication during the lockdown.

  • Is there a commissary at FCI Phoenix?
    Yes, inmates can purchase personal items and snacks from the commissary using funds sent by family or earned through prison jobs.

Summary and Conclusion:

Federal Correctional Institution Phoenix is a key federal prison in Arizona, housing male and female inmates across medium and minimum-security levels. Offering numerous rehabilitation programs, it remains focused on inmate reform despite occasional incidents that challenge its security protocols. For more details, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons page on FCI Phoenix.

Sources:

  • Federal Bureau of Prisons official site
  • Phoenix New Times
  • Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Visit Federal Correctional Institution Pekin