United States Penitentiary Atwater Overview
The United States Penitentiary Atwater (USP Atwater) is a high-security federal prison located in Atwater, California. Opened in 2001, this facility is designed to hold some of the most dangerous male inmates in the federal system. It also features a minimum-security satellite camp. With a capacity of over 1,100 inmates, USP Atwater houses individuals convicted of serious federal crimes, including drug trafficking, bank robbery, murder, and terrorism-related offenses. The penitentiary is known for its strict security measures and a reputation for violence, with several high-profile incidents occurring over the years. Educational programs, vocational training, and rehabilitation services are offered to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Atwater
If you need to contact USP Atwater, here are the key details:
Address:
United States Penitentiary Atwater
1 Federal Way
Atwater, CA 95301
Telephone:
Main Phone: (209) 386-0257
Inmate Mailing Address:
Inmate Name and Register Number
USP Atwater
P.O. Box 019001
Atwater, CA 95301
Email and Fax:
For specific inquiries, visit the official BOP website for more details.
Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Atwater
Visiting an inmate at USP Atwater requires following strict guidelines to ensure security. Visiting days are Saturdays, Sundays, and federally recognized holidays, with visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must be on an inmate’s pre-approved list and arrive before 2:00 PM, as no entry is allowed after this time.
What to Bring for a Visit:
- Valid government-issued photo ID.
- A clear plastic bag with up to $30 in quarters for vending machine purchases (no other currency is permitted).
- No personal belongings are allowed beyond the visitation room, except necessary items like baby formula or diapers if visiting with a child.
What Visits Are Like:
Visitors can expect strict security measures, including metal detectors and possible pat-down searches. Interactions with inmates are monitored, and physical contact is limited to brief hugs at the start and end of the visit. Each inmate can have three adult visitors and up to three children under 16 per visit.
How to Book a Visit to United States Penitentiary Atwater
To book a visit, ensure that you are on the inmate’s approved visitation list. You will need the inmate’s full name, register number, and identification to proceed. Contact the prison beforehand to confirm the inmate’s eligibility for visitation and any recent updates to the visitation schedule. Bookings do not require prior appointment scheduling, but you must ensure that the inmate has visitation privileges at the time of your visit.
Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Atwater
USP Atwater is located in California’s Central Valley, about 120 miles southeast of San Francisco. The address is 1 Federal Way, Atwater, CA 95301. The facility is accessible via major highways, and ample parking is available for visitors near the entrance.
Directions:
- From San Francisco: Take I-580 East to I-5 South, then take exit 379 onto CA-140 East toward Merced/Atwater.
- From Fresno: Head north on CA-99 to exit 188B and follow signs for Atwater.
Parking is free for visitors, but you should arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot and allow time for processing.
Life Inside United States Penitentiary Atwater
Life at USP Atwater is characterized by its maximum-security measures and violent history. The inmate population is diverse, with many individuals serving long sentences, including life imprisonment. Safety remains a concern, with incidents of violence occurring between inmates, leading the facility to implement additional security protocols such as body scanners and specialized response teams
Despite its tough environment, the prison offers various rehabilitation programs, including GED education, vocational training in trades like construction and computer repair, and substance abuse programs. The UNICOR program provides job opportunities for inmates, such as working in a computer recycling plant
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Atwater
USP Atwater has housed several high-profile prisoners over the years, including individuals involved in organized crime, terrorism, and espionage. One notable prisoner was John Anthony Walker Jr., a former U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer convicted of spying for the Soviet Union during the Cold War. He died at Atwater in 2014 while serving a life sentence
FAQs about United States Penitentiary Atwater
1. What is the United States Penitentiary Atwater?
The United States Penitentiary Atwater is a federal high-security prison for male inmates, located in Atwater, California.
2. What types of inmates are held at USP Atwater?
USP Atwater houses individuals convicted of serious federal offenses, including murder, drug trafficking, and terrorism.
3. How do I contact an inmate at United States Penitentiary Atwater?
You can send mail to inmates using their name and register number at: USP Atwater, P.O. Box 019001, Atwater, CA 95301.
4. How do I schedule a visit to United States Penitentiary Atwater?
Ensure you are on the inmate’s approved visitor list and contact the facility for the latest visitation schedule.
5. What rehabilitation programs are offered at USP Atwater?
The prison offers educational programs, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and job opportunities through the UNICOR program.
6. What security measures are in place at USP Atwater?
USP Atwater uses body scanners, increased staffing, and Special Operations Response Teams to maintain security.
7. Can children visit inmates at USP Atwater?
Yes, children under 16 can visit inmates but must be accompanied by an adult.
8. What are the visiting hours at USP Atwater?
Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and federal holidays.
9. What should I bring when visiting USP Atwater?
Bring a valid ID, up to $30 in quarters, and any necessary items for children.
10. Are there famous prisoners at USP Atwater?
Yes, notable prisoners include John Anthony Walker Jr., convicted of Cold War espionage.
For more information, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons official page on USP Atwater here.