United States Penitentiary Atwater California: An Overview

The United States Penitentiary Atwater California (USP Atwater) is a high-security federal prison located in Atwater, California. It houses primarily male inmates convicted of serious federal offenses, including violent crimes, drug trafficking, and terrorism. USP Atwater also operates a minimum-security satellite camp for less dangerous offenders. Opened in 2001, this facility, located on the grounds of the former Castle Air Force Base, is designed to handle the highest security risks and includes stringent safety protocols. The prison has seen its share of high-profile incidents, including violence among inmates and assaults on staff, making it one of the more dangerous federal penitentiaries in the U.S.

Inmates at USP Atwater are offered various rehabilitative services, such as adult education, GED programs, vocational training, and mental health counseling. The facility also has a UNICOR factory where inmates are employed in computer recycling, offering wages that range from 23 cents to $1.15 per hour.

United States Penitentiary Atwater California

Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Atwater California

  • Address:
    United States Penitentiary Atwater
    1 Federal Way
    Atwater, CA 95301

  • Phone Number:
    (209)-386-0257

  • Mailing Address for Inmates:
    Inmate Name, Register Number
    USP Atwater
    P.O. Box 019001
    Atwater, CA 95301

For more information about prison rules, regulations, or recent updates, you can visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Atwater California

Visiting an inmate at the United States Penitentiary Atwater California requires adherence to strict guidelines. Visits are permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Visitors must arrive before 2:00 PM, as processing stops an hour before visitation ends.

To visit, you must be pre-approved and on the inmate’s list of authorized visitors, with a maximum of 20 names allowed. Each visit can include three adults and three children under 16. Photo identification is required for entry, and visitors are subject to search. A small clear plastic bag with up to $30 in quarters is allowed for vending machine purchases, but inmates cannot handle money directly.

How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Atwater California

To book a visit to United States Penitentiary Atwater California, you must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list. This can be arranged by the inmate and confirmed through prison officials. On the day of your visit, bring a valid photo ID, and ensure you comply with the prison’s dress code. Inmates are allowed visits from three adults and three children at a time. The atmosphere is highly regulated, and visits typically last up to several hours, depending on availability.

For more specific inquiries about visitation, it’s best to call the facility directly at (209)-386-0257 to confirm visit schedules or any changes in rules.

Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Atwater California

The United States Penitentiary Atwater California is located approximately 120 miles southeast of San Francisco, nestled in California’s Central Valley. The prison’s address is 1 Federal Way, Atwater, CA. If driving from San Francisco, take I-580 E, followed by CA-99 S. Parking is available on-site for visitors, though spaces may be limited, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

 

Life Inside United States Penitentiary Atwater California

Life at United States Penitentiary Atwater California can be tough, as it is home to some of the most violent offenders in the federal system. The facility has dealt with multiple instances of inmate violence, including homicides and assaults on correctional officers. Due to the prison’s dangerous environment, inmates are closely monitored, and security is a top priority. However, the penitentiary offers educational and vocational programs designed to help inmates rehabilitate and reintegrate into society post-release. Despite this, overcrowding, solitary confinement, and safety issues remain significant concerns.

Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Atwater California

USP Atwater has housed several notorious criminals over the years, including inmates convicted of terrorism, organized crime, and high-profile murders. One infamous case involved the murder of Correctional Officer Jose Rivera in 2008, a tragedy that led to increased safety protocols at the facility. Other notable inmates include individuals involved in large-scale drug trafficking operations and espionage cases.

 

FAQs About United States Penitentiary Atwater California

  • What is the United States Penitentiary Atwater California?
    USP Atwater is a maximum-security federal prison located in Merced County, California, designed for high-risk male inmates.

  • When was the United States Penitentiary Atwater California established?
    The prison was opened in 2001 on the grounds of the former Castle Air Force Base.

  • How can I visit an inmate at United States Penitentiary Atwater California?
    You must be on the inmate’s approved visitation list and bring valid photo ID. Visits are allowed on weekends and federal holidays.

  • What kind of inmates are housed at USP Atwater?
    The prison primarily houses male inmates convicted of federal crimes, including violent offenses, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

  • What programs are available to inmates at USP Atwater?
    Inmates have access to educational programs, vocational training, and mental health services.

  • Has there been violence at United States Penitentiary Atwater California?
    Yes, the prison has experienced multiple incidents of inmate violence, including the killing of a correctional officer in 2008.

  • Where is United States Penitentiary Atwater California located?
    The prison is located at 1 Federal Way, Atwater, CA, approximately 120 miles southeast of San Francisco.

  • Can I send mail to an inmate at United States Penitentiary Atwater California?
    Yes, mail can be sent to inmates using their name and register number, addressed to USP Atwater, P.O. Box 019001, Atwater, CA 95301.

  • What security measures are in place at USP Atwater?
    The prison has high-security protocols, including increased staffing, body scanners, and specialized emergency response teams.

  • How large is the inmate population at United States Penitentiary Atwater California?
    As of recent counts, USP Atwater houses around 1,100 inmates.

Conclusion

The United States Penitentiary Atwater California is a high-security facility that serves a critical role in the federal prison system. Despite its challenges, including inmate violence and overcrowding, it offers a range of rehabilitation programs to help inmates. Whether you’re planning a visit or seeking more information, the penitentiary is a key part of California’s correctional landscape.

For more in-depth details, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Sources:

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