Overview of Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone, commonly known as FCI Sandstone, is a low-security federal prison located in Sandstone, Minnesota. Operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, it houses male inmates who are typically serving sentences for non-violent offenses. FCI Sandstone is known for its educational programs and vocational training, offering inmates the chance to gain valuable skills during their incarceration. The prison is designed to help inmates transition back into society by providing a structured environment with access to various resources.

FCI Sandstone accommodates up to 1,200 inmates and is part of the greater federal prison system. With its low-security designation, the prison mainly houses inmates considered to be less of a flight risk and with lower threat levels. The facility also emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration, making it a key stop in the re-entry process for many federal prisoners.

Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone Contact Information

To contact Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone, here are the details you need:

  • Address:
    Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone
    2300 County Road 29
    Sandstone, MN 55072

  • Phone Number:
    (320) 245-2262

  • Email Address:
    SNS/ExecAssistant@bop.gov

If you need to send mail to an inmate, ensure you follow the facility’s guidelines and include the inmate’s full name and registration number in the address.

Visiting Information for Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

Visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone are structured to allow inmates time with family and friends, fostering their connection with the outside world. Visitors are encouraged to check the facility’s official schedule before making plans, as visiting hours may vary depending on holidays or other circumstances.

  • Visiting Days and Hours:

    • Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
    • Weekends and Federal Holidays: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  • What to Bring to a Visit:
    Visitors should bring a valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). You are advised not to bring excessive personal belongings, as the prison enforces strict guidelines on what can be taken inside. Purses, bags, cell phones, and other electronics are prohibited inside the visiting area.

  • What Are Visits Like?
    Prison visits at FCI Sandstone are typically conducted in a supervised visiting room. Inmates and their visitors can communicate freely, though physical contact may be limited to a brief embrace or handshake at the start and end of the visit. The environment is designed to be family-friendly, with seating arrangements that allow for personal conversations. Visits generally last for about an hour, but the duration may be extended depending on the number of visitors that day.

How to Book a Visit at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

Booking a visit at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone requires following a few steps:

  1. Visitor Application: All visitors must be pre-approved by the prison. The inmate will need to send a visitor application form, which the potential visitor must complete and submit to the prison for approval.

  2. Documents Required: To book a visit, ensure you have a valid ID and any necessary paperwork completed, such as the visitor application. You’ll also need to know the inmate’s full name and registration number.

  3. Number of Visitors: In general, up to four visitors (including children) are allowed per inmate during a single visit. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and all minors require pre-approval as well.

  4. Visiting Rules: Ensure you adhere to the dress code and other rules of conduct at the facility. For example, revealing clothing or garments with offensive prints are not allowed. Visitors who fail to comply may be denied entry.

Directions to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone and Parking Information

Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone is located in a rural part of Minnesota, which means getting there requires some planning. Here’s how you can reach the prison:

  • Driving Directions:
    FCI Sandstone is situated off Interstate 35. From the Twin Cities, you would head north on I-35 and take exit 195 for Sandstone. Continue on MN-123 East and follow the signs leading to County Road 29, where the prison is located. The exact address is 2300 County Road 29, Sandstone, MN.

  • Parking Information:
    Visitors to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone will find ample parking spaces available near the facility. Ensure that your car is locked and secure, as you will not have access to the vehicle during the visit.

What Is Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone Like for a Prisoner?

Life inside Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone is generally more relaxed compared to higher-security facilities. As a low-security institution, FCI Sandstone focuses heavily on providing educational and vocational programs. Inmates have access to various resources that can help them prepare for life post-incarceration, such as GED courses, apprenticeships, and vocational training in fields like carpentry and plumbing.

There are also recreational opportunities for inmates, including sports and fitness programs. However, the facility maintains strict rules, and prisoners are expected to follow a structured schedule, including work assignments and educational programs. Inmates at FCI Sandstone are also given access to mental health services and counseling, contributing to the prison’s overall emphasis on rehabilitation.

Latest News About Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

In recent news, Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone has garnered attention for its commitment to reformative justice. The prison continues to expand its vocational programs and has introduced new mental health initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism. There have also been reports of successful re-entry programs that assist inmates in securing employment after release, showcasing FCI Sandstone as a leader in inmate rehabilitation.

 

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

Over the years, Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone has housed a few notable inmates. While the facility is mainly for non-violent offenders, some individuals with high-profile cases have served time here. For instance, Matthew Hale, a white supremacist leader, was incarcerated at FCI Sandstone. Hale was convicted of soliciting the murder of a federal judge and served a significant portion of his sentence at the facility.

Other inmates have included individuals involved in financial crimes and drug offenses, contributing to the facility’s diverse inmate population.

FAQs About Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone

1. How can I send mail to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
To send mail to an inmate, include the inmate’s full name and registration number, along with the prison’s address:
Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone,
2300 County Road 29,
Sandstone, MN 55072.

2. What type of security does Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone have?
FCI Sandstone is a low-security prison that houses male inmates serving shorter sentences or for non-violent offenses.

3. Can I send money to an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
Yes, you can send money to inmates through the Bureau of Prisons’ official payment methods, including MoneyGram and Western Union.

4. What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
Visiting hours are typically from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays, weekends, and federal holidays.

5. How do I schedule a visit to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
You must complete a visitor application form and wait for approval before scheduling a visit. You will also need a valid ID and the inmate’s information.

6. What rehabilitation programs are offered at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
The prison offers educational and vocational programs, including GED courses, apprenticeships, and training in trades like plumbing and carpentry.

7. Are there any mental health services available for inmates at FCI Sandstone?
Yes, inmates have access to counseling and mental health services to support their rehabilitation.

8. What items are prohibited during a visit to Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
Cell phones, electronic devices, large bags, and revealing clothing are prohibited in the visiting area.

9. How many visitors are allowed during a visit at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
Typically, up to four visitors (including children) are allowed during each visit.

10. Has anyone famous served time at Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone?
Yes, Matthew Hale, a white supremacist leader, was once an inmate at FCI Sandstone.

Summary:

Federal Correctional Institution Sandstone is a low-security federal prison in Minnesota, housing male inmates. The facility emphasizes rehabilitation through educational and vocational programs, providing inmates with the tools they need for successful reintegration into society. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly environments and flexible visiting hours, although pre-approval is required for entry. Life inside FCI Sandstone focuses on structure, rehabilitation, and mental health support, making it a key facility in the federal prison system.

For more detailed information on the facility and its operations, you can visit the official Bureau of Prisons website.

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