United States Penitentiary Lompoc, California: Overview
The United States Penitentiary Lompoc (USP Lompoc) is a medium-security federal prison located in Lompoc, California. It is part of the larger Lompoc Federal Correctional Complex (FCC), which also includes a satellite camp for minimum-security inmates. Originally opened in 1959, this prison is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and houses male inmates. USP Lompoc has a reputation for maintaining security while offering rehabilitation programs, including educational and vocational training.
USP Lompoc is primarily known for holding male inmates in medium-security conditions, though the adjacent satellite camp provides housing for minimum-security prisoners. It currently holds over 1,400 inmates. Life at USP Lompoc is structured with various programs to help inmates with education, substance abuse recovery, and vocational skills.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Lompoc, California
- Address:
United States Penitentiary Lompoc
3901 Klein Boulevard
Lompoc, California 93436 - Telephone: (805)-735-2771
- Fax: (805)-736-1292
- Email: [email protected]
For inmate mail, include the inmate’s name and ID number.
Visiting Information at United States Penitentiary Lompoc
Visiting hours at USP Lompoc are from 8:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. Inmates are allowed up to 6 visiting points per month, with each visit deducting 2 points. A maximum of 4 visitors are allowed per visit, including children, but visitors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All visitors must bring a valid photo ID, and any items carried into the facility must follow strict regulations. Handholding is permitted, while kisses and embraces are allowed only at the beginning and end of each visit.
What to Bring to a Visit:
- Up to $20 in quarters or small bills for vending machines.
- Clear plastic bag for belongings.
- Prescription medications and infant supplies if needed.
A children’s play area is available, but parents must supervise children at all times. Any visitor may be subjected to searches, including metal detectors and pat searches.
How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Lompoc
To book a visit at USP Lompoc, you must first be on the approved visitor list. Visitors need to submit a form, which can be processed through the prison’s administrative offices. Upon approval, visits can be scheduled. Remember to have identification on hand, and only the approved number of visitors (up to four) are permitted.
Items Needed to Book a Visit:
- Approved visitor form.
- Valid photo identification.
Directions and Parking Information for United States Penitentiary Lompoc
USP Lompoc is located at 3901 Klein Boulevard, approximately 175 miles northwest of Los Angeles, and close to Vandenberg Air Force Base. Visitors traveling by car can use Highway 1 or the nearby Vandenberg Village routes for the most direct access. Parking is available at the facility for visitors. Ensure you arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly on busy visitation days.
Life Inside United States Penitentiary Lompoc
Life for inmates at USP Lompoc includes strict schedules but also opportunities for rehabilitation. Inmates can participate in education programs, vocational training, and the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP). The prison’s library services and recreational offerings allow inmates to engage in constructive activities. Like many prisons, USP Lompoc faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but outbreaks were largely controlled, reducing risks to inmates and staff
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Lompoc
Over the years, USP Lompoc has housed several notable inmates:
- H.R. Haldeman, President Nixon’s White House Chief of Staff, served 18 months for his involvement in the Watergate scandal
- Chuck Muncie, a former NFL player, served 18 months after pleading guilty to selling cocaine
- Reed Slatkin, co-founder of EarthLink, served time for operating one of the largest Ponzi schemes in U.S. history
FAQs About United States Penitentiary Lompoc, California
Where is United States Penitentiary Lompoc located?
USP Lompoc is located at 3901 Klein Boulevard, Lompoc, California, northwest of Los Angeles.What security level is United States Penitentiary Lompoc?
USP Lompoc is a medium-security facility with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.Who can visit inmates at United States Penitentiary Lompoc?
Approved visitors, up to four at a time, including minors accompanied by an adult, can visit inmates.How do I book a visit to USP Lompoc?
Visitors must be approved on the inmate’s visitation list. Visits can be scheduled once this process is complete.Are there any famous inmates who have served time at United States Penitentiary Lompoc?
Yes, notable inmates include H.R. Haldeman, Chuck Muncie, and Reed Slatkin.What are the visiting hours at USP Lompoc?
Visiting hours are 8:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. on weekends and federal holidays.Is there parking available for visitors?
Yes, parking is available at the facility for visitors.What is the inmate capacity at USP Lompoc?
USP Lompoc houses approximately 1,485 inmates.
What kind of programs are available for inmates at USP Lompoc?
Inmates can participate in educational programs, vocational training, and substance abuse recovery programs.How do I send mail to an inmate at USP Lompoc?
Address the mail to the inmate’s name and registration number, followed by the prison’s address at 3901 Klein Boulevard, Lompoc, CA 93436.
Conclusion
USP Lompoc is a significant part of the federal prison system, offering structured programs for inmates while maintaining medium-level security. With a storied history and several high-profile inmates, the prison continues to be an important federal facility on the West Coast. Whether visiting or seeking information, understanding the operations and offerings at USP Lompoc is key for families and those involved in the correctional process.
For more information, visit the Bureau of Prisons website