United States Penitentiary Canaan Pennsylvania Overview
The United States Penitentiary Canaan (USP Canaan), located in Waymart, Pennsylvania, is a high-security federal prison designed to hold approximately 1,340 male inmates. Opened in 2005, USP Canaan also has a minimum-security satellite camp that accommodates up to 160 additional inmates. This facility, operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, houses inmates convicted of federal crimes, including those serving long sentences for serious offenses like violent crimes and organized crime. Notably, USP Canaan has been referred to as one of the most dangerous federal prisons in the U.S. due to incidents of violence, including murders of both inmates and staff
Contact Information, Address, Email, and Telephone Number for United States Penitentiary Canaan
- Address:
3057 Eric J. Williams Memorial Drive, Waymart, PA 18472 - Phone: 570-488-8000
- Fax: 570-488-8130
- Email: CAA-ExecAssistant-S@bop.gov
For correspondence with inmates:
- USP Canaan Mailing Address:
Inmate Name & Registration Number
P.O. Box 300, Waymart, PA 18472 - Camp Mailing Address:
Inmate Name & Registration Number
P.O. Box 200, Waymart, PA 18472
Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Canaan
Visiting times at USP Canaan are structured to allow inmates to maintain connections with their families and friends. Visitors must be pre-approved, and all visitors are required to adhere to the prison’s dress code and rules.
- Visiting Hours:
- USP: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Camp: Saturday, Sunday, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Visitor Rules:
Each inmate can receive up to five visitors over the age of 16. Visitors can bring a small amount of cash (up to $25) for vending machines, photo identification, and essential baby items. All other personal items must be left in lockers or vehicles. Visitors should dress modestly and be prepared for a security screening
How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Canaan
To book a visit at USP Canaan, potential visitors must be on the inmate’s pre-approved visitation list. Inmates will submit a visitor list to prison officials, and family members must respond to the visitor invitation sent by the prison. After completing the required paperwork, the visitor can schedule their visit during approved times.
To visit, ensure you have:
- The inmate’s full name and registration number.
- Proper identification (such as a driver’s license or passport).
- A pre-scheduled visit, approved by prison staff.
Visitors must also be aware of the point system: USP Canaan assigns each inmate eight visiting points per month, with points deducted based on the day of the visit (weekends cost more points than weekdays)
Directions and Parking for United States Penitentiary Canaan
USP Canaan is located in Waymart, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 miles from Scranton and 134 miles north of Philadelphia. The address is easily accessible by car from Route 6 and nearby highways.
- Driving Directions:
From Interstate 84, take Exit 17 to Route 191 and proceed toward Waymart. Follow signs to Eric J. Williams Memorial Drive. - Parking:
Free visitor parking is available at the facility. Visitors should arrive early to secure a spot, especially on busy weekends and holidays
Life Inside United States Penitentiary Canaan and Latest News
Living conditions inside USP Canaan reflect its high-security status. Inmates are housed in single or double cells and are assigned to various work programs, including positions as orderlies, electricians, cooks, and clerks. Educational opportunities, like vocational training and the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP), are available, alongside recreational activities.
However, USP Canaan has faced multiple incidents of violence, including assaults on both inmates and staff. In 2013, a correctional officer, Eric J. Williams, was killed by an inmate. Several other incidents, including the deaths of inmates and further attacks on staff, have contributed to the prison’s reputation for being one of the more dangerous federal facilities
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Canaan
Over the years, USP Canaan has housed several high-profile inmates:
- Juan Matta-Ballesteros, a Medellin Cartel drug lord, serving a life sentence.
- Charles Carneglia, a member of the Gambino crime family, sentenced for multiple murders.
- Mohammad Shibin, a Somali pirate leader involved in hijacking ships for ransom
FAQs about United States Penitentiary Canaan
What security level is United States Penitentiary Canaan?
USP Canaan is a high-security federal prison with a minimum-security camp for less serious offenders.How do I contact an inmate at United States Penitentiary Canaan?
Inmates can receive mail at P.O. Box 300 for USP and P.O. Box 200 for the camp in Waymart, PA.What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Canaan?
Visits are allowed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.How do I send money to an inmate at USP Canaan?
Funds must be sent via MoneyGram or Western Union to a processing center in Des Moines, IowaCan I bring anything to a prison visit at USP Canaan?
Visitors may only bring essential baby items, up to $25 in cash, and necessary medications with documentation.What types of programs are available for inmates at USP Canaan?
Programs include education, vocational training, drug rehabilitation, and religious servicesHow many visitors are allowed at once?
Inmates can have up to five visitors at a time, with limits on children under 16What should I wear for a visit to USP Canaan?
Visitors should dress modestly. Clothing like halter tops, miniskirts, or revealing items may lead to denied entryHow do I get to USP Canaan?
The facility is in Waymart, Pennsylvania, and accessible from Route 6. Ample parking is provided for visitors.What is the capacity of United States Penitentiary Canaan?
USP Canaan can house approximately 1,340 inmates, with the adjacent camp holding 160
For further reading on USP Canaan, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons.