United States Penitentiary Lee: Overview
The United States Penitentiary Lee (USP Lee) is a high-security federal prison located in Pennington Gap, Virginia. Opened in 2002, USP Lee houses male inmates, many of whom are serving lengthy sentences due to serious federal offenses. It is known for strict security protocols, with a designated capacity for 1,626 inmates. USP Lee also includes a satellite minimum-security camp for lower-risk offenders. Both the penitentiary and camp offer basic educational, vocational, and rehabilitation programs to help inmates reintegrate into society.
USP Lee is notorious for its violent incidents and high-profile inmates. Its security measures are designed to handle individuals who require tight controls. Some inmates are housed in one or two-man cells, and movement within the prison is highly restricted. USP Lee has been on lockdown several times due to incidents, including homicides and assaults.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Lee
- Address:
Lee County Industrial Park
Hickory Flats Road
Pennington Gap, VA 24277 - Phone Number: (276) 546-0150
- Inmate Mailing Address (USP):
Inmate Name, ID Number
Lee United States Penitentiary
P.O. Box 305
Jonesville, VA 24263 - Inmate Mailing Address (Camp):
Inmate Name, ID Number
Lee United States Penitentiary Satellite Camp
P.O. Box 644
Jonesville, VA 24263
Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Lee
Visiting hours at USP Lee are available on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Specific visiting hours are as follows:
- Fridays: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Visitors must arrive before 2:00 PM on weekends/holidays or before 7:30 PM on Fridays. Each inmate can have up to three adult visitors at one time. Visitors are allowed to bring a clear plastic bag, up to $20 for vending machines, and a diaper bag for infants. All visitors over 16 must bring a valid ID. No outside food or drinks are allowed inside, but vending machines are available.
How to Book a Prison Visit at United States Penitentiary Lee
To visit an inmate at USP Lee, the inmate must first add you to their approved visitors list. They will send you a visitor information form, which you must fill out and return for processing. This process typically takes a few weeks. Once approved, you can schedule your visit according to the visiting hours. Arrive with a photo ID, and be aware that security checks are strict, so follow the dress code and other guidelines provided by the prison.
Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Lee
USP Lee is located off U.S. Route 58 at the intersection of State Route 638, approximately eight miles east of Jonesville, Virginia. The prison is situated within the Lee County Industrial Park. Visitors driving to the facility will find parking available on-site. Always check with the facility for any updates or changes in parking arrangements or visiting protocols.
What Is Life Like Inside United States Penitentiary Lee?
Inmates at USP Lee face strict daily routines due to the prison’s high-security level. The facility has experienced numerous violent incidents, including inmate-on-inmate assaults and homicides. For instance, between 2008 and 2010, several homicides occurred during disputes between inmates, leading to lockdowns. Life for inmates involves restricted movement, with many housed in one or two-man cells. Despite these restrictions, the prison offers educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation.
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Lee
USP Lee has housed several notorious inmates, including:
- Francisco Martin Duran, who attempted to assassinate President Bill Clinton in 1994 by firing 29 rounds at the White House
- Eyad Ismoil, one of the conspirators behind the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, is serving a 210-year sentence at USP Lee
FAQs About United States Penitentiary Lee
Where is United States Penitentiary Lee located?
USP Lee is located in Pennington Gap, Virginia, within the Lee County Industrial Park.What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Lee?
Visiting hours are Fridays from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM, and Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.How do I book a visit to United States Penitentiary Lee?
Visitors must be on the inmate’s approved list, and you will need to complete a visitor form sent by the inmate. Call the facility at (276) 546-0150 to confirm your visit.What is the capacity of United States Penitentiary Lee?
USP Lee has a designated capacity of 1,626 inmates.Are there any famous inmates at United States Penitentiary Lee?
Yes, notable inmates have included Francisco Martin Duran and Eyad Ismoil, among others().
What is life like inside United States Penitentiary Lee?
Life at USP Lee involves strict security measures, with inmates housed in one or two-man cells and limited movement due to the high-security level.Can I bring food when visiting an inmate at United States Penitentiary Lee?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted, but vending machines are available for visitors.What do I need to bring for a visit to USP Lee?
Visitors need a valid photo ID, and they may bring a small amount of money for vending machines. A clear plastic bag and baby items are allowed for those visiting with infants.Is there parking available at United States Penitentiary Lee?
Yes, there is on-site parking available for visitors.How do I send money to an inmate at USP Lee?
You can send money via U.S. Postal Service money orders or through Western Union using the inmate’s register number
Conclusion
United States Penitentiary Lee is a highly secure federal prison designed to house some of the most dangerous offenders in the federal system. With a history of violence and notorious inmates, the facility remains on high alert to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. Visitors must follow strict protocols, but family visits and rehabilitation programs are available to inmates.
For more detailed information on USP Lee, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.
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