Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute Overview

Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute (FCI Terre Haute) is a medium-security federal prison located in Terre Haute, Indiana. Part of the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Terre Haute), this facility exclusively houses male inmates. In addition to the medium-security facility, there is a minimum-security satellite camp on the premises. Established in 1960, FCI Terre Haute currently houses approximately 1,210 inmates, with an additional 195 inmates in the adjacent camp. The prison offers various educational programs, recreation activities, and a notable Communication Management Unit (CMU) which restricts inmate communication for security reasons. The CMU has housed several high-profile inmates involved in terrorism-related offenses. FCI Terre Haute focuses on inmate rehabilitation, offering GED programs, vocational training, and access to psychological services.

 

Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

For any inquiries, you can contact the Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute using the following details:

Visiting Information at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

Visits at FCI Terre Haute are permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and federal holidays. Visiting hours run from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, although no visitors will be accepted after 2:00 PM. Each inmate can receive up to five visitors at a time. Before visiting, all visitors must be listed on the inmate’s approved visitor list. To gain entry, visitors are required to bring two forms of identification, one of which must include a photo.

During the visit, interactions between inmates and visitors are generally non-contact, although some limited physical contact, like a brief hug or handshake, is allowed at the beginning and end of the visit. You can expect a typical prison environment with tables set for visitors and their inmates to communicate. The length of each visit can vary based on the inmate’s status and current visiting volume but typically lasts for a few hours.

How to Book a Visit at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

To book a visit at FCI Terre Haute, you must be an approved visitor. The inmate must submit your name for approval, after which the prison staff will confirm the status. You will need the following information to book a visit:

  1. Inmate’s full name and ID number
  2. Your two forms of valid identification (one must have a photo)
  3. A completed visitor application form (if required)

Visits can be scheduled by contacting the institution ahead of time, but always check for any changes to visiting days or times, especially on federal holidays.

How to Get to Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

FCI Terre Haute is located approximately 70 miles west of Indianapolis and two miles south of downtown Terre Haute. The easiest way to get there is by car. The address is 4200 Bureau Road North, Terre Haute, Indiana 47802.

  • Driving Directions: From Indianapolis, take I-70 West to Exit 11. Turn south onto State Road 46 and continue for 2 miles until you reach Bureau Road North. Follow the signs to the prison.
  • Parking: Parking is available at the facility for visitors. Spaces can be limited, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

What is Life Like for Inmates at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute?

Life inside FCI Terre Haute offers inmates various opportunities for self-improvement and rehabilitation. Inmates have access to educational programs, including GED certification, vocational training in trades like building, computers, and mechanics, and ESL classes. The prison also provides psychological services and substance abuse programs such as the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP).

Inmates spend time in recreational activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and intramural activities. The commissary allows inmates to purchase personal items, snacks, and electronics like MP3 players.

While the general prison environment can be challenging, FCI Terre Haute focuses on maintaining order and offering programs aimed at reducing recidivism. Inmates in the CMU, however, face strict communication limits, especially those involved in serious criminal cases.

Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

FCI Terre Haute has housed several notable inmates. Some of the most infamous include:

  • Aldrich Ames: Former CIA officer convicted of espionage for the Soviet Union and Russia, serving a life sentence.
  • Matthew Hale: A white supremacist and former leader of the World Church of the Creator, serving 40 years for soliciting the murder of a federal judge.
  • John Walker Lindh: Also known as the “American Taliban,” Lindh served time for aiding the Taliban in Afghanistan.

These prisoners highlight the diverse range of high-profile individuals incarcerated at the facility over the years.

FAQs About Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute

  • Where is Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute located?
    FCI Terre Haute is located at 4200 Bureau Road North, Terre Haute, Indiana 47802.

  • What are the visiting hours at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute?
    Visits are allowed on weekends, Mondays, and federal holidays, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

  • How do I contact an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute?
    You can contact an inmate through letters, phone calls, or by visiting the institution during approved hours.

  • What types of programs are offered to inmates at FCI Terre Haute?
    Inmates can access GED and vocational training programs, as well as substance abuse counseling and recreational activities.

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

  • Can I send money to inmates at FCI Terre Haute?
    Yes, money can be sent to inmates through approved services like MoneyGram.

  • What is the CMU at FCI Terre Haute?
    The Communication Management Unit (CMU) is a highly restrictive section where inmates’ communications are closely monitored.

  • How do I get on an inmate’s visitor list?
    The inmate must submit your information to the prison, and the staff will approve or deny the request.

  • Are there educational programs at FCI Terre Haute?
    Yes, inmates can enroll in GED programs, vocational training, and other educational opportunities.

  • What is life like for inmates at Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute?
    Inmates have access to education, recreation, and psychological services, with a focus on rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Federal Correctional Institution Terre Haute offers a structured environment with opportunities for inmate rehabilitation, while its CMU remains a unique aspect of the facility. It houses several infamous prisoners and provides vital services for inmates, including education and healthcare. For those seeking to visit or contact inmates, the institution has clear processes to follow.

For more information, you can visit the official BOP page on FCI Terre Haute.

Sources:

  • Wikipedia
  • JailAid
  • InmateAid
  • BOP

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