Overview of United States Penitentiary Hazelton

The United States Penitentiary Hazelton (USP Hazelton), located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, is a high-security federal prison that primarily houses male inmates. It is part of the larger Hazelton Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) and includes a satellite camp for minimum-security male inmates. Opened in 2004, the facility was built to accommodate the growing number of federal prisoners. The prison has earned the grim nickname “Misery Mountain” due to its harsh conditions, and it houses some of the most dangerous federal inmates in the country.

USP Hazelton has had a history of violence, including high-profile murders and assaults. It is infamous for the murder of Boston crime boss James “Whitey” Bulger, who was killed shortly after arriving at the prison in 2018. The penitentiary has been scrutinized for overcrowding and safety issues, with some inmates expressing fear for their lives. Despite these challenges, the facility offers various rehabilitation programs, including educational courses, vocational training, and mental health services.

United States Penitentiary Hazelton in West Virginia

Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Hazelton

  • Address:
    United States Penitentiary Hazelton
    1640 Sky View Drive,
    Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
  • Mailing Address:
    P.O. Box 2000, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
  • Telephone Number:
    (304) 379-5000
  • Email:
    haz/execassistant@bop.gov

Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Hazelton

Visiting Hours:

  • Visiting takes place on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must arrive by 2:00 PM at the latest.
  • For inmates in the Special Housing Unit (SHU), visits are limited to Fridays, with non-contact visits of no more than one hour.

Visitor Limits:

  • Up to six visitors (including children) are allowed per visit, with no more than four adults in the group.

What to Bring:

  • Visitors can bring a small wallet or clear purse, quarters for vending machines, diapers, baby food, and necessary medications like heart or epilepsy medications.

Prison Visits Experience:
Visiting at USP Hazelton involves strict security protocols. Physical contact such as brief hugs or handshakes is only permitted at the start and end of the visit. The atmosphere is heavily monitored, with limited opportunities for interaction with inmates.

How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Hazelton

To book a visit, potential visitors need to be pre-approved. This process involves filling out a visitor information form, which includes details like your full name, address, relationship to the inmate, and background check information. The inmate needs to add the visitor to their approved list before a visit can take place.

Required Documents for Booking a Visit:

  • Valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport)
  • Visitor approval from the prison
  • Visitors must adhere to the dress code and guidelines, such as avoiding revealing or inappropriate attire.

Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Hazelton

USP Hazelton is located in a remote area in Preston County, West Virginia. It can be accessed via Interstate 68 near Bruceton Mills. The prison is approximately 100 miles south of Pittsburgh, PA, and about 25 miles from Morgantown, WV.

Parking:
Parking is available at the facility, with ample space for visitors. There are designated areas for visitor parking near the entrance.

What is Life Like at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?

Life inside USP Hazelton is highly structured, with a focus on strict security and surveillance. Inmates are housed in two-person or single cells. Violence has been a recurring issue, with several notable incidents of inmate assaults and murders. The prison provides essential services such as medical care, mental health programs, and education, including GED courses and vocational training. The facility also engages inmates in manufacturing programs, producing items such as military uniforms.

The prison has faced criticism over overcrowding and dangerous conditions. Efforts have been made to address these issues, but the prison continues to have a reputation for being one of the more challenging environments in the federal system.

Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Hazelton

USP Hazelton has housed several infamous prisoners, including:

  • James “Whitey” Bulger: The notorious Boston mobster, who was killed by fellow inmates shortly after his transfer.
  • Fotios “Freddy” Geas: A Massachusetts mob hitman implicated in Bulger’s death.
  • Juan García Ábrego: Former head of the Gulf Cartel, serving multiple life sentences.

These prisoners highlight the type of high-profile, dangerous inmates held at USP Hazelton, further contributing to its grim reputation.

FAQs About United States Penitentiary Hazelton

  1. What type of prisoners does United States Penitentiary Hazelton house?
    USP Hazelton houses high-security male inmates and also has a minimum-security satellite camp for less dangerous offenders.

  2. How can I contact an inmate at USP Hazelton?
    Inmates can receive letters and packages through mail. Use the address: Inmate Name, ID Number, USP Hazelton, P.O. Box 2000, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525.

  3. What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
    Visits are allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and holidays from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

  4. How do I book a visit at USP Hazelton?
    Visitors must be on an approved list and can book visits by contacting the prison directly.

  5. Is there parking available at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
    Yes, on-site parking is available for visitors.

  6. What items can I bring to a visit at USP Hazelton?
    Visitors can bring a small wallet, up to $20 in quarters, and baby care items if applicable.

  7. Who was the most famous prisoner at USP Hazelton?
    James “Whitey” Bulger, the Boston crime boss, was perhaps the most famous inmate, murdered shortly after his transfer in 2018.

  8. What is the capacity of United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
    USP Hazelton houses around 1,446 inmates.

  9. Where is USP Hazelton located?
    The prison is located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia.

  10. Why is USP Hazelton called “Misery Mountain”?
    The nickname “Misery Mountain” refers to the harsh conditions and high rates of violence within the prison.

For further reading on USP Hazelton, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website​

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