Federal Medical Center Devens Overview
Federal Medical Center Devens (FMC Devens) is a federal prison located in Ayer, Massachusetts. It specializes in providing medical and mental health care to male inmates requiring long-term or specialized treatments. The facility, which opened in 1999, functions as an administrative security prison, meaning it houses inmates of varying security levels, from low to high risk, including white-collar criminals, sex offenders, and those involved in organized crime. FMC Devens also includes a minimum-security satellite camp for male inmates.
FMC Devens is designed to hold 1,066 inmates, but currently houses around 1,167, making it slightly over capacity. Its services include a wide range of medical treatments, and it is particularly focused on caring for inmates with severe health conditions.
Contact Information for Federal Medical Center Devens
Address:
Federal Medical Center Devens
42 Patton Road
Ayer, MA 01432Phone: (978) 796-1000
Email: execassistant@bop.gov
For inmate correspondence, include the inmate’s name and registration number in the following address:
Medical Center Inmates:
FMC Devens
P.O. Box 879
Ayer, MA 01432Satellite Camp Inmates:
FMC Devens Satellite Camp
P.O. Box 879
Ayer, MA 01432
Visiting Information for Federal Medical Center Devens
Visiting at FMC Devens takes place on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. The standard visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. There is a points system for inmates at the main facility, with each visit deducting points from their monthly allowance—weekend visits cost 2 points, while weekday visits cost 1. Inmates are typically allowed five visitors per session, though this can be expanded with special approval.
Visitors should note that FMC Devens has strict security procedures. All visitors will pass through a metal detector, and only life-supporting medication and specific baby items are allowed inside the visiting room. The facility also reserves the right to terminate visits early if the visiting area becomes overcrowded.
How to Book a Visit at Federal Medical Center Devens
To book a visit at FMC Devens, visitors must first be on the inmate’s approved list. Inmates are responsible for submitting visitor applications. Visitors should confirm their appointment by contacting the facility directly. Bring a valid ID, and be sure to arrive early to allow time for security checks. If visiting with children, anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Directions and Parking for Federal Medical Center Devens
FMC Devens is located about 39 miles west of Boston. If driving, use the following address for navigation:
- Address:
42 Patton Road
Ayer, MA 01432
Parking is available on-site, and there is a designated visitors’ parking lot close to the entrance. For public transportation, check local bus and train schedules, with the nearest train station being the Ayer Station on the Fitchburg line.
What Is Life Like Inside Federal Medical Center Devens?
Life at FMC Devens revolves around medical care and rehabilitation programs. Inmates receive treatments based on their needs, with many focused on mental health and long-term physical conditions. The facility also offers educational and vocational programs to keep inmates engaged and support their rehabilitation.
Recent reports have raised concerns over overcrowding, particularly in light of COVID-19. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has called for a reduction in the inmate population due to the high number of elderly and medically vulnerable inmates housed at the facility.
Famous Prisoners at Federal Medical Center Devens
Over the years, FMC Devens has housed several high-profile inmates:
- Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, convicted for his role in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, was initially incarcerated at FMC Devens before being transferred to ADX Florence.
- Peter Madoff, brother of notorious Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff, served time at FMC Devens for conspiracy to commit securities fraud
- Raj Rajaratnam, a former hedge fund manager involved in a high-profile insider trading case, was also housed at FMC Devens
FAQs About Federal Medical Center Devens
What type of prisoners does Federal Medical Center Devens hold?
FMC Devens houses male inmates requiring long-term medical or mental health care, from low to high security.How can I contact an inmate at Federal Medical Center Devens?
To contact an inmate, send mail to the following address: Inmate Name, ID Number, FMC Devens, P.O. Box 879, Ayer, MA 01432.What are the visiting hours at Federal Medical Center Devens?
Visiting hours are Friday to Sunday and federal holidays, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.How do I book a visit at Federal Medical Center Devens?
Inmates must add visitors to an approved list. Confirm your visit by calling the facility and bring valid identification.What is the capacity of FMC Devens?
The facility was designed for 1,066 inmates but currently holds around 1,167.Are there any notable inmates currently or previously held at FMC Devens?
Yes, notable inmates include Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and Peter Madoff.What kind of medical care does FMC Devens provide?
The prison offers specialized medical and mental health care for inmates with serious conditions.Can I send money to an inmate at FMC Devens?
Yes, but money must be sent to a federal processing center in Des Moines, Iowa, rather than directly to the prison.Does FMC Devens have a satellite camp?
Yes, it has a minimum-security satellite camp for male inmates.What is the phone number for Federal Medical Center Devens?
The phone number for FMC Devens is (978) 796-1000.
Summary and Conclusion
Federal Medical Center Devens plays a crucial role in the U.S. federal prison system, focusing on inmates with serious medical and mental health needs. While it operates above its intended capacity, the facility continues to provide a range of rehabilitation programs. Notable for housing inmates like Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and Peter Madoff, it remains an important part of the federal justice system.
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