United States Penitentiary Marion: History, Contact Information, Visiting Guide

United States Penitentiary Marion is a high-security federal prison located in Southern Illinois. Established in 1963, this facility was originally designed to replace Alcatraz as the most secure prison in the United States. With a current capacity of approximately 1,100 inmates, USP Marion houses some of the nation’s most dangerous criminals. This penitentiary has a storied history, including being one of the first federal prisons to implement a permanent lockdown in the 1980s, a measure that was later relaxed. The prison’s remote location and stringent security measures make it one of the most formidable correctional facilities in the U.S.

Aerial View of United States Penitentiary Marion

General Information and Contact Details for United States Penitentiary Marion

For those needing to contact United States Penitentiary Marion, here are the essential details:

  • Address: United States Penitentiary Marion, 4500 Prison Rd, Marion, IL 62959, USA
  • Phone Number: +1 (618) 964-1441
  • Email: [No publicly listed email; contact via official website or phone]
  • Directions: USP Marion is located in rural Southern Illinois, approximately 9 miles south of Marion. Visitors can reach the facility by taking I-57 to Exit 53, then following signs to Prison Road.

Parking Information: Visitor parking is available at the facility. It is advisable to arrive early as parking can be limited during peak visiting times.

How to Book a Visit to See a Prisoner in United States Penitentiary Marion

Visiting an inmate at United States Penitentiary Marion requires careful planning and adherence to the prison’s rules and regulations.

  • Booking a Visit: All visits must be scheduled in advance. Visitors can book appointments by contacting the prison’s visiting office at +1 (618) 964-1441. It’s recommended to book well in advance as visiting slots fill up quickly.

  • Visiting Times: The prison allows visits on weekends and federal holidays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors should arrive by 2:00 PM to ensure enough time for processing.

  • Getting There: Visitors should follow the directions to the facility as outlined above. There are no public transportation options directly to the prison, so private vehicle or taxi service is necessary.

  • What to Take to a Visit: Valid government-issued identification is required for all visitors. Personal belongings, such as bags or electronic devices, are not permitted inside the visiting area and should be left in your vehicle or in the provided lockers.

United States Penitentiary Marion Visiting Information

  • Visiting Information: During the visit, all individuals must adhere to the prison’s dress code and conduct rules. Physical contact is limited to a brief hug and kiss at the beginning and end of the visit. Visits are closely monitored by prison staff.

  • Number of Visitors Allowed: Up to five visitors, including children, can visit an inmate at one time. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Items for Prisoners: Visitors are generally not allowed to bring any items to give to prisoners. All items, including food and beverages, must be purchased from the prison’s vending machines in the visiting area.

  • Length of Visits: Visits typically last for up to four hours, depending on the number of visitors and prison security conditions on the day.

  • Conjugal Visits: Conjugal visits are not permitted at United States Penitentiary Marion.

Overview and Additional Information of United States Penitentiary Marion

United States Penitentiary Marion has housed several notorious prisoners over the years. Among them are Robert Hanssen, a former FBI agent convicted of espionage, and John Gotti, the infamous boss of the Gambino crime family. The prison’s high-security measures have made it a key facility in the federal correctional system, often used for inmates requiring maximum security or solitary confinement.

Noteworthy Facts:

  • The prison was the site of the first federal “Supermax” unit, designed for the most dangerous inmates.
  • USP Marion was the location of the “Marion Lockdown,” which set a precedent for long-term solitary confinement in U.S. prisons.

FAQs about United States Penitentiary Marion

1. What is the security level at United States Penitentiary Marion? USP Marion is a high-security federal prison, designed to house some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States.

2. How can I send mail to an inmate at United States Penitentiary Marion? Inmate mail should be addressed as follows: [Inmate’s Name], [Inmate’s Register Number], United States Penitentiary Marion, 4500 Prison Rd, Marion, IL 62959, USA.

3. What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Marion? Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and federal holidays.

4. Can I call an inmate at United States Penitentiary Marion? Inmates cannot receive direct phone calls. However, they have access to telephones during designated hours and can make outgoing calls.

5. Is there public transportation to United States Penitentiary Marion? No, there is no direct public transportation to the prison. Visitors must arrange for private transport to reach the facility.