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 is part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and houses around 1,500 male inmates. It also has an adjacent satellite camp for minimum-security inmates. The prison is designed to handle the most dangerous and high-risk offenders, many of whom have committed severe federal crimes. Life at USP Lee is tightly controlled with numerous security measures, including restricted movement and constant surveillance. Inmates have access to various programs focused on education, rehabilitation, and vocational training, but the overall environment is strictly regulated due to the high-security classification.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Lee
- Address:
United States Penitentiary Lee
Hickory Flats Road,
Pennington Gap, Virginia, 24277 - Mailing Address (USP):
Inmate Name & Register Number
USP Lee
P.O. Box 305,
Jonesville, VA 24263 - Mailing Address (Satellite Camp):
Inmate Name & Register Number
USP Lee Satellite Camp
P.O. Box 644,
Jonesville, VA 24263 - Phone Number: (276) 546-0150
- Email: lee-execassistant-s@bop.gov
Visiting Information at United States Penitentiary Lee
Visiting hours at USP Lee are available on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. The visiting schedule is:
- Fridays: 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Visitors should arrive early, as new visitors are not permitted entry after 2:00 PM on weekends and after 7:30 PM on Fridays. Each inmate is allowed three adult visitors per visit, and visitors are advised to bring valid photo identification. Personal belongings must be stored in lockers, and clear plastic bags no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches are permitted to carry small items. Outside food and drinks are prohibited, but vending machines are available in the visiting area.
How to Book a Visit to United States Penitentiary Lee
To book a visit at USP Lee, the inmate must send a visitor’s application to the people they wish to visit. The form must be completed and approved by the prison administration, which can take a few weeks. Once approved, visitors should call ahead to confirm the visit, especially if traveling from far away. Visitors must present a government-issued ID, and it is essential to adhere to the dress code, which prohibits revealing clothing or attire with offensive imagery.
Directions and Parking Information for United States Penitentiary Lee
USP Lee is located off U.S. Route 58 in the Lee County Industrial Park, about 8 miles east of Jonesville, Virginia. If you’re driving from the surrounding area, take State Route 638 to reach the facility. Parking is available at the prison for visitors, and you are encouraged to confirm visiting hours by calling ahead before making the trip, as unexpected lockdowns or other incidents may alter the schedule.
What is Life Like at United States Penitentiary Lee?
USP Lee operates under strict conditions due to its high-security classification. Inmates experience limited freedom of movement, and many spend significant time in their cells. However, educational and vocational training programs are available for those looking to improve their skills. Security incidents, such as stabbings and inmate-on-inmate violence, have led to lockdowns in the past. USP Lee has had several violent episodes, including multiple inmate homicides and assaults, which have made it one of the more notorious federal prisons in the country.
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Lee
USP Lee has housed several notorious inmates. Eyad Ismoil, convicted for his role in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, is currently serving a 210-year sentence. Francisco Martin Duran, who attempted to assassinate President Bill Clinton in 1994, is also incarcerated here. Other notable inmates include Neftaly Platero, a soldier convicted of murdering two fellow soldiers while deployed in Iraq.
FAQs About United States Penitentiary Lee
What is United States Penitentiary Lee?
United States Penitentiary Lee is a high-security federal prison located in Pennington Gap, Virginia, housing male inmates convicted of severe federal crimes.How do I visit someone at United States Penitentiary Lee?
To visit an inmate at USP Lee, you must be on the inmate’s approved visitors list, complete the visitor application, and follow the facility’s visiting schedule. Make sure to bring a valid ID.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 holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.Can I send mail to an inmate at USP Lee?
Yes, mail should be addressed with the inmate’s full name and register number, sent to P.O. Box 305, Jonesville, VA 24263.How do I send money to an inmate at USP Lee?
You can send money via Western Union using the inmate’s register number or through postal money orders.What should I wear when visiting USP Lee?
Visitors should wear modest clothing. Revealing outfits and clothing with offensive imagery are not allowed.What kind of prisoners are housed at United States Penitentiary Lee?
USP Lee houses high-security male inmates, many of whom are convicted of violent or serious federal offenses.Are there any famous inmates at United States Penitentiary Lee?
Yes, some of the famous inmates include Eyad Ismoil, involved in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, and Francisco Martin Duran, who attempted to assassinate President Clinton.Can I bring food or drink during my visit?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed. However, vending machines are available in the visiting area.Where is United States Penitentiary Lee located?
USP Lee is located in the Lee County Industrial Park, Pennington Gap, Virginia.
For more information on USP Lee, you can visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.