Federal Correctional Institution Waseca Overview
Federal Correctional Institution Waseca (FCI Waseca) is a low-security federal prison located in southern Minnesota, approximately 75 miles from Minneapolis. This facility, managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, is designated exclusively for female inmates. Originally a University of Minnesota campus, FCI Waseca opened as a prison in 1995, initially housing male offenders. It was converted into an all-female institution in 2008. FCI Waseca can accommodate up to 827 inmates, with current numbers typically around 760. The facility offers various educational, vocational, and recreational programs, promoting inmate rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
Contact Information for Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
If you need to get in touch with FCI Waseca, here are the key contact details:
- Address: Federal Correctional Institution Waseca, 1000 University Drive SW, Waseca, MN 56093
- Phone: 507-835-8972
- Fax: 507-837-4547
- Email: [email protected]
For inmate correspondence, mail can be sent to:
- Inmate Name and Registration Number,
FCI Waseca,
P.O. Box 1731,
Waseca, MN 56093
Visiting Information at Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
Visitation at FCI Waseca provides inmates with opportunities to connect with loved ones. Visits take place on Fridays from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Each inmate is allowed up to five adult visitors and five children per visit. Visitors must present a valid government-issued ID upon arrival.
When visiting, it is recommended to dress conservatively and avoid bringing items such as cell phones or large bags. The visitation process typically includes a brief security screening. Visits are held in a common room, providing a calm environment for families to reconnect. Visits last up to several hours, depending on the day and circumstances.
How to Book a Visit at Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
To book a visit, you’ll need the inmate’s full name and registration number. You must schedule your visit ahead of time by contacting the facility directly or using the Bureau of Prisons’ online system. All visitors must be pre-approved, and you may need to provide personal information for a background check.
Visits are limited to immediate family members or approved visitors, and proper identification is required. Children are allowed but must be supervised at all times.
Directions and Parking at Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
FCI Waseca is located in southern Minnesota, approximately 75 miles south of Minneapolis and 13 miles west of Owatonna. To reach the prison, take Interstate 35 and head west on Highway 57 towards Waseca. The facility offers parking for visitors, including accessible spaces for individuals with disabilities.
Life Inside Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
FCI Waseca provides a structured environment aimed at reducing recidivism. Inmates live in dormitory-style housing with two- to four-person cubicles or rooms. The facility offers medical and dental care, psychological services, and a range of educational programs, including literacy courses, GED classes, and vocational training in areas such as cosmetology.
Recreational activities at FCI Waseca include indoor and outdoor sports like basketball, tennis, and racquetball, as well as arts and crafts programs. Inmates can also access a library, and the facility’s commissary allows them to purchase personal items.
In recent years, FCI Waseca has faced scrutiny due to staff shortages and infrastructural challenges. In 2023, a DOJ inspection highlighted these issues, but efforts are underway to improve conditions.
Famous Prisoners at Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
Several high-profile inmates have been housed at FCI Waseca, including:
- Catherine Greig, the longtime partner of notorious mobster James “Whitey” Bulger, convicted of aiding him while he was on the run.
- Shelly Shannon, an anti-abortion extremist who was convicted of bombing multiple clinics.
These individuals are part of the prison’s complex history, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of those incarcerated there.
FAQs About Federal Correctional Institution Waseca
What is the address of Federal Correctional Institution Waseca?
FCI Waseca is located at 1000 University Drive SW, Waseca, MN 56093.How can I contact Federal Correctional Institution Waseca?
You can call the prison at 507-835-8972 or email them at [email protected].What security level is FCI Waseca?
FCI Waseca is a low-security facility for female inmates.How can I book a visit at FCI Waseca?
To book a visit, contact the facility or use the Bureau of Prisons’ online scheduling system. You will need the inmate’s name and registration number.What are the visiting hours at FCI Waseca?
Visiting hours are Fridays from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM and weekends and holidays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.Are there recreational activities at FCI Waseca?
Yes, inmates can participate in sports like tennis and basketball, and there are also arts and crafts programs available.What medical services are offered at FCI Waseca?
The facility offers routine medical and dental care, emergency services, and mental health counseling.How many inmates are housed at FCI Waseca?
FCI Waseca has a capacity of approximately 827 inmates, with around 760 currently housed.What type of inmates does FCI Waseca house?
FCI Waseca houses low-security female inmates.Who are some famous inmates at FCI Waseca?
Notable former inmates include Catherine Greig and Shelly Shannon.
Conclusion
Federal Correctional Institution Waseca is a low-security federal prison dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of female inmates. With a wide range of educational, medical, and recreational services, the facility helps inmates prepare for reintegration into society while maintaining a safe and structured environment. Despite recent challenges, FCI Waseca remains an essential part of the federal prison system.
For more detailed information, visit the Bureau of Prisons website.
Sources:
- Federal Bureau of Prisons
- JailAid
- Zoukis Consulting Group