United States Penitentiary Hazelton: Overview
United States Penitentiary Hazelton (USP Hazelton) is a high-security federal prison for male inmates located in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia. Known for its strict regulations and notorious for its violent environment, USP Hazelton has earned the nickname “Misery Mountain” due to the harsh conditions and frequent violent incidents among inmates. It also has a minimum-security satellite camp for less dangerous offenders. Opened in 2004, this facility is part of the Hazelton Federal Correctional Complex, which includes the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Hazelton.
USP Hazelton houses around 1,315 inmates in its high-security section, with approximately 60 more inmates in the camp. This penitentiary primarily holds male inmates convicted of serious crimes, making it a dangerous environment with a history of violence, including inmate deaths and altercations between staff and prisoners. The prison is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, under the Department of Justice.
Contact Information: United States Penitentiary Hazelton
- Address:
United States Penitentiary Hazelton
1640 Sky View Drive,
Bruceton Mills, WV 26525 - Phone: 304-379-5000
- Fax: 304-379-5039
- Email: haz/[email protected]
Visiting Information at United States Penitentiary Hazelton
Visiting inmates at USP Hazelton requires adherence to strict guidelines. Visits take place on weekends and federal holidays, with a visiting schedule of 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays, Mondays, and Saturdays. Visitors must be pre-approved, and a valid government-issued ID is required. Prison visits typically last a few hours, depending on the inmate’s status and behavior.
During visits, inmates and visitors are monitored closely. Physical contact is limited, and visitors should be aware of the dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing. Bringing contraband or unauthorized items is strictly forbidden. Visitors can bring a small amount of cash for vending machines but must leave personal belongings like cell phones in their vehicle or a provided locker.
How to Book a Visit to United States Penitentiary Hazelton
To book a visit to USP Hazelton, prospective visitors must complete a visitor application form, which will be reviewed by prison authorities. To book the visit, you will need:
- Inmate’s name and registration number.
- Valid government-issued ID for all visitors, including children.
- An approved visitor list submission.
Each inmate is allowed a limited number of visitors, typically close family members or attorneys. Only up to three adults and a reasonable number of children may attend each visit. Booking early is recommended due to limited availability on visiting days.
Directions and Parking Information at United States Penitentiary Hazelton
USP Hazelton is located in the mountains of Preston County, West Virginia. It is approximately 35 minutes from Morgantown, WV, 45 minutes from Uniontown, PA, and 45 minutes from Cumberland, MD. Visitors can drive to the facility using I-68 and take the Bruceton Mills exit.
There is parking available on-site, but it may become crowded on weekends or holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors drive to the facility.
Life Inside United States Penitentiary Hazelton
Life at USP Hazelton is tough. The high-security environment, coupled with overcrowding and gang affiliations, often leads to violence. Inmates are housed in either the general population or the Special Housing Unit (SHU) if they are involved in infractions or require isolation for safety reasons. The SHU offers fewer privileges and is meant to segregate dangerous individuals.
Daily life for inmates includes access to basic education, health services, and limited recreational activities. However, due to the high levels of violence, many inmates feel unsafe. The penitentiary has faced criticism for its dangerous environment, as highlighted by recent incidents involving inmate deaths and staff assaults.
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Hazelton
USP Hazelton has housed several notorious criminals, including:
- Patrick Andrews, convicted of multiple murders, including the killing of a fellow inmate at Hazelton.
- James “Whitey” Bulger, the infamous mob boss, was transferred to USP Hazelton in 2018 before being murdered shortly after his arrival()().
- Fotios “Freddy” Geas, a Mafia hitman, suspected in Bulger’s murder().
These high-profile inmates contribute to the prison’s notoriety, reinforcing its reputation as a dangerous facility.
FAQs about United States Penitentiary Hazelton
1. What security level is United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
USP Hazelton is a high-security federal prison, with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.
2. How do I contact an inmate at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
To contact an inmate, you must mail correspondence to:
Inmate Name and Registration Number
USP Hazelton
P.O. Box 2000,
Bruceton Mills, WV 26525.
3. What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays, Mondays, Saturdays, and federal holidays.
4. How do I book a visit at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
Visitors must fill out an application and be on the inmate’s approved list. Booking is done by contacting the prison and providing necessary information.
5. Is parking available at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
Yes, there is parking on-site, but it may fill up quickly on busy visiting days.
6. What is life like inside United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
Life is challenging, with frequent violence and strict controls on inmate movements and privileges.
7. How many inmates are housed at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
USP Hazelton houses approximately 1,315 inmates, with an additional 60 inmates at the satellite camp.
8. Can I send money to an inmate at United States Penitentiary Hazelton?
Yes, but all funds must be sent through the Bureau of Prisons’ processing center in Des Moines, Iowa.
9. Has United States Penitentiary Hazelton housed any famous inmates?
Yes, notable inmates include James “Whitey” Bulger and Fotios “Freddy” Geas.
10. Where is United States Penitentiary Hazelton located?
USP Hazelton is in Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, about 35 minutes from Morgantown, WV.
Conclusion
United States Penitentiary Hazelton stands as one of the most challenging federal facilities, notorious for housing dangerous inmates and enduring high levels of violence. With strict regulations and a tense atmosphere, both inmates and visitors must navigate a highly controlled environment. Whether you are visiting or researching, understanding the prison’s background and structure is essential for anyone interacting with the facility.
For more information on USP Hazelton, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ official page.
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