General Overview of United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
United States Penitentiary Big Sandy (USP Big Sandy) is a high-security federal prison located in Inez, Kentucky. Established in 2003, this facility is part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and serves as a home for some of the most dangerous male offenders in the federal system. It is known for its high-security operations, housing approximately 1,125 inmates, with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp accommodating around 40 inmates.
The prison has had a reputation for violence and strict security measures, with incidents of assaults on staff and inmates throughout its history. Many of the individuals housed here have been convicted of serious crimes, including murder, conspiracy, and racketeering. USP Big Sandy plays a crucial role in managing high-profile federal inmates and offers a range of programs designed to help inmates rehabilitate, including educational services, drug rehabilitation, and mental health counseling.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
Address:
United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
1197 Airport Road,
Inez, KY 41224
Phone Number:
606-433-2400
Fax:
606-433-2577
Email:
BSY-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov
For sending inmate mail, address it to:
Inmate Name and Registration Number
USP Big Sandy
P.O. Box 2068
Inez, KY 41224
Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
Visiting an inmate at USP Big Sandy requires advance planning. Visits take place on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Inmates are allowed visits from family members and friends in line with federal regulations. All visitors must be on the approved list and will undergo background checks.
Visiting Hours:
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Federal holidays: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Visitors should arrive early to allow for security checks and ensure that they are aware of the dress code and prohibited items. Items like cell phones, cameras, and large bags are not permitted. The visitation room allows limited physical contact, like hand-holding, and visits usually last between two to three hours, depending on the day’s schedule.
How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
To book a visit, you must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. You can schedule a visit by contacting the prison directly or through the Bureau of Prisons’ online system. Make sure to provide valid identification on the day of your visit. Each inmate can typically have up to four adult visitors at a time, and children must be accompanied by a guardian.
Visitors need to bring government-issued ID, and all personal items should be left in the designated lockers outside the visitation area. The environment is controlled to ensure safety, but prison staff work to make the experience as positive as possible under the circumstances.
Directions and Parking Information for United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
USP Big Sandy is located in a remote part of eastern Kentucky, about 133 miles from the state capital, Frankfort. It is easily accessible by car. The prison is situated along Airport Road in Inez, a rural area with limited public transport options, so driving is the most practical way to get there.
Directions:
From Frankfort, take I-64 E and KY-3 S toward Airport Road in Inez. Follow signs to the prison.
The facility offers parking for visitors, but it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, as parking may fill up quickly on busy visiting days.
What is Life Like for Inmates at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy?
Life at USP Big Sandy is highly structured and disciplined due to the high-security environment. Inmates are housed in one- or two-person cells and are monitored closely. Many inmates participate in educational and wellness programs, including GED classes, substance abuse treatment, and counseling services. The prison also provides medical and mental health care consistent with community standards.
Recreational activities, such as gym sessions and outdoor sports, are available to help inmates maintain physical fitness. However, due to the prison’s history of violence, the environment can be tense, and security measures are strictly enforced to prevent incidents.
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
USP Big Sandy has housed several notorious inmates, including:
- Vincent Basciano, a former acting boss of the Bonanno crime family, is serving two life sentences for murder and racketeering.
- El Sayyid Nosair, convicted for his involvement in the 1993 New York City landmark bombing plot and the assassination of Rabbi Meir Kahane in 1990.
- Roy Belfast, Jr., also known as Chuckie Taylor, serving a 97-year sentence for his involvement in acts of torture under his father, Liberian dictator Charles Taylor.
These high-profile criminals reflect the level of security and notoriety associated with the prison.
FAQs About United States Penitentiary Big Sandy
What type of inmates are housed at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy?
USP Big Sandy houses high-security male inmates, many of whom have been convicted of serious federal crimes.How do I contact United States Penitentiary Big Sandy?
You can contact the prison by phone at 606-433-2400 or via email at BSY-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov.How do I send mail to an inmate at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy?
Send mail to the following address:
Inmate Name and Registration Number, USP Big Sandy, P.O. Box 2068, Inez, KY 41224.What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Big Sandy?
Visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.How can I book a visit at USP Big Sandy?
Visits can be scheduled through the prison’s administrative office or the Bureau of Prisons’ online system.What security level is USP Big Sandy?
It is a high-security prison, with a minimum-security satellite camp on site.Can I send money to an inmate at USP Big Sandy?
Yes, but funds must be sent through approved methods outlined by the Bureau of Prisons.Are there any educational programs available for inmates?
Yes, USP Big Sandy offers GED programs, English-as-a-Second Language classes, and advanced occupational education.What medical services are available at USP Big Sandy?
The prison provides 24-hour emergency care, regular sick calls, and access to dental and mental health services.Has USP Big Sandy had any significant security incidents?
Yes, the prison has a history of violence, including assaults on staff and inmates, though strict security measures are in place.
For more information on United States Penitentiary Big Sandy, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.