Hazelton Correctional Facility: Overview

Hazelton Correctional Facility, located near Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, is a federal prison complex operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It consists of multiple facilities, including the United States Penitentiary (USP) Hazelton, which is high-security and primarily houses male inmates, and the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Hazelton, a medium-security facility with a special secure section for female prisoners. Known by inmates as “Misery Mountain,” Hazelton has a reputation for its strict conditions and history of violence, including high-profile incidents involving notorious criminals.

USP Hazelton houses dangerous offenders, often serving lengthy or life sentences, while FCI Hazelton is designed for male and female inmates with medium-security classifications. The facility also includes a minimum-security satellite camp for male offenders. In total, the complex can hold over 1,600 inmates.

Hazelton Correctional Facility

Hazelton Correctional Facility Contact Information

  • Address:
    Hazelton Correctional Facility
    1640 Sky View Drive
    Bruceton Mills, WV 26525

  • Phone Number:
    USP Hazelton: (304) 379-1500
    FCI Hazelton: (304) 379-1500

  • Email:
    HAX-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov

For specific inmate information, visitation requests, or inmate services, it is advisable to contact the facility directly or visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

Hazelton Correctional Facility Visiting Information

Visiting Hours:

  • General visitation at Hazelton typically takes place on weekends and federal holidays. It is important to check the schedule directly with the prison, as visitation may be restricted based on inmate housing status, such as being placed in a special housing unit.

Visiting Times:

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

What to Bring to a Visit:

  • Valid government-issued ID for all visitors over 16.
  • Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, avoiding revealing or tight-fitting clothing.
  • You may bring a small clear bag with cash (for vending machines) and baby items if applicable.

Visiting Experience:

  • Visits are typically conducted in a large, monitored room with limited physical contact allowed, depending on the inmate’s security level.
  • Visits are structured but allow for social interaction, vending machine access, and the opportunity for inmates to spend time with loved ones.

How to Book a Visit at Hazelton Correctional Facility

Booking a Visit:

  • To schedule a visit, you must be an approved visitor on the inmate’s visitation list. You can apply through the Federal Bureau of Prisons visitation portal.
  • The application process includes a background check, and approval may take several weeks.

Requirements:

  • Approved identification documents for all visitors.
  • Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Number of Visitors:

  • Typically, no more than five visitors (including children) are allowed per visit, though this varies depending on the inmate’s status.

Directions and Parking for Hazelton Correctional Facility

Getting There:

  • By Car: Hazelton Correctional Facility is located just off I-68, about 10 miles from Bruceton Mills, WV, and close to the Maryland border. From I-68, take exit 29 (Hazelton), and follow signs to the prison.

Parking Information:

  • Visitor parking is available on-site, with designated areas for handicapped parking. Parking is free, but visitors should arrive early to ensure a space during busy visiting days.

What is Life Like for Inmates at Hazelton Correctional Facility?

Life inside Hazelton Correctional Facility is highly regimented, with strict schedules, security measures, and frequent inmate counts. Inmates are assigned to various work duties, including food service, carpentry, and general maintenance. Educational and vocational programs, such as GED preparation and trade certifications in fields like electrical work, are also available.

However, conditions at Hazelton have drawn attention for being particularly harsh. The prison has experienced outbreaks of violence, and incidents involving notorious inmates have occurred, contributing to its nickname, “Misery Mountain.” The facility’s reputation for violence, along with staffing shortages, has been highlighted in recent reports and media coverage.

Famous Prisoners at Hazelton Correctional Facility

Over the years, Hazelton has housed several high-profile inmates, including:

  • James “Whitey” Bulger: The infamous Boston mob boss was killed by fellow inmates shortly after his transfer to Hazelton in 2018.
  • Fotios “Freddy” Geas: A Mafia hitman, believed to be involved in Bulger’s death.
  • Alfredo Beltrán Leyva: A Mexican drug lord serving multiple life sentences for international drug trafficking.

These inmates, along with others involved in organized crime, terrorism, and violent offenses, have contributed to the prison’s reputation for danger and high security.

FAQs About Hazelton Correctional Facility

  • What type of inmates does Hazelton Correctional Facility hold?
    Hazelton Correctional Facility houses high-security male inmates, medium-security male and female inmates, and minimum-security male inmates.

  • How do I send mail to an inmate at Hazelton Correctional Facility?
    To send mail, use the inmate’s full name and register number, addressed to Hazelton Correctional Facility, PO Box 3000, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525.

  • Can I send money to an inmate at Hazelton Correctional Facility?
    Yes, funds can be sent through MoneyGram or Western Union using the Federal Bureau of Prisons deposit system.

  • What are the visitation rules at Hazelton Correctional Facility?
    Visitors must be on an approved list, provide valid ID, and adhere to the prison’s dress code and rules.

  • What notorious criminals have been incarcerated at Hazelton?
    Hazelton has housed infamous figures like James “Whitey” Bulger and Alfredo Beltrán Leyva.

  • What services are available for inmates at Hazelton Correctional Facility?
    Inmates can participate in educational programs, vocational training, religious services, and substance abuse programs.

  • How can I check an inmate’s status at Hazelton?
    The BOP Inmate Locator can be used to check an inmate’s location and status.

  • Are there any special rules for visiting female inmates at Hazelton?
    Visitation rules are similar for male and female inmates, but always check for specific regulations related to the Secure Female Facility.

  • Is there a minimum-security section at Hazelton?
    Yes, the facility includes a satellite camp for minimum-security male offenders.

  • What steps are taken to ensure security at Hazelton?
    The facility employs strict security measures, including frequent inmate counts, restricted movement, and high levels of surveillance.

Conclusion

Hazelton Correctional Facility is a high-security federal prison complex known for housing some of the most dangerous offenders. Despite its reputation for harsh conditions, it offers various programs to assist inmates in rehabilitation. For more information, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons official site.

References:

Visit Hays State Prison