Overview of the United States Penitentiary McCreary, Kentucky

The United States Penitentiary McCreary (USP McCreary) is a high-security federal prison located in Pine Knot, Kentucky. This facility is designed to house male inmates and is part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It also includes a minimum-security satellite camp adjacent to the main penitentiary, which houses male offenders. Established in 2003, USP McCreary is notorious for its high-risk inmate population, which includes individuals convicted of violent crimes, terrorism, and other serious offenses. As a high-security institution, USP McCreary has faced incidents of violence, including inmate-on-inmate and inmate-on-staff assaults.

 

United States Penitentiary McCreary in Kentucky

Contact Information for United States Penitentiary McCreary

  • Address:
    United States Penitentiary McCreary
    330 Federal Way
    Pine Knot, KY 42635

  • Phone:
    Main: 606-354-7000
    Fax: 606-354-7190

  • Inmate Correspondence:
    Inmate Name and Registration Number
    USP McCreary
    P.O. Box 3000
    Pine Knot, KY 42635

For correspondence with inmates at the satellite camp, use the same address but specify “USP McCreary Camp.”

Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary McCreary

Visiting inmates at USP McCreary requires careful planning. Visitors should be familiar with the official visiting hours, which are typically held on weekends and federal holidays. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm the schedule, as visits can be subject to change due to security measures.

  • Visiting Hours:
    Typically on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

  • What to Bring:
    Visitors must bring valid government-issued photo ID. They are also subject to security checks before entering the facility. Small lockers may be available to store personal belongings, as most items (like cell phones) are not allowed inside.

  • Duration of Visits:
    Visits usually last for several hours, but the exact duration depends on the current situation within the prison. Visits may be shortened if overcrowded or for security reasons.

How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary McCreary

To book a visit, you must be on the approved visitor list, which the inmate can arrange. Once approved, you can visit the prison during the designated visiting hours. It is essential to call in advance to confirm the visit schedule and check for any special restrictions.

  • What You Need:

    • Valid government-issued ID
    • Pre-approved visitor status
    • Comply with dress code and facility rules

  • Visitor Limits:
    Up to three adults and two children can visit at one time.

Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary McCreary

USP McCreary is located in Pine Knot, Kentucky, approximately 88 miles north of Knoxville, Tennessee. If you’re traveling by car, use Highway 27 and follow signs toward Federal Way. The facility is in a remote area, so public transportation options are limited.

  • Parking:
    Free visitor parking is available on-site, but it’s advised to arrive early, especially on weekends when visitation traffic can increase.

What Is Life Like at United States Penitentiary McCreary?

Life inside USP McCreary is highly structured, with strict security protocols in place. Inmates have access to educational programs, vocational training, and recreational activities, though these privileges depend on their behavior and security status. Despite these offerings, the prison has a history of violent incidents, including fights between inmates and assaults on staff. Media reports have highlighted concerns about the safety of both staff and inmates.

Inmates at the satellite camp have a less restrictive environment, with more access to outdoor activities and a focus on rehabilitation through work and education.

Notable Inmates at United States Penitentiary McCreary

USP McCreary has housed several high-profile criminals over the years, including individuals convicted of terrorism, violent crimes, and financial fraud.

  • Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani: Convicted for his involvement in the 1998 bombings of U.S. embassies in East Africa, Ghailani is serving a life sentence at USP McCreary after being transferred from Guantanamo Bay.
  • Chevie Kehoe: A white supremacist convicted of racketeering and multiple murders, including the killing of an entire family.

Frequently Asked Questions about United States Penitentiary McCreary

1. Where is United States Penitentiary McCreary located?
USP McCreary is located in Pine Knot, Kentucky, about 88 miles from Knoxville, Tennessee.

2. What type of inmates are housed at USP McCreary?
USP McCreary is a high-security federal prison for male inmates convicted of serious and violent crimes. The adjacent camp holds low-risk offenders.

3. How do I visit an inmate at United States Penitentiary McCreary?
Visitors must be pre-approved by the inmate, and visits occur on weekends and federal holidays. Always call ahead to confirm the visiting schedule.

4. What is the inmate capacity at USP McCreary?
The main penitentiary houses around 1,435 inmates, while the satellite camp holds approximately 75 inmates.

5. How can I send money to an inmate at USP McCreary?
Money must be sent through the Bureau of Prisons’ central processing center. Do not send funds directly to the prison.

6. Is there a minimum-security facility at USP McCreary?
Yes, USP McCreary has an adjacent minimum-security camp.

7. What are the security levels at USP McCreary?
The main penitentiary is high-security, while the camp is minimum-security.

8. How do I contact United States Penitentiary McCreary?
You can call the prison at 606-354-7000 or send mail to the P.O. Box 3000 address in Pine Knot, Kentucky.

9. What services are available for inmates at USP McCreary?
Inmates have access to education programs, vocational training, and recreational activities.

10. Who are some notable inmates at USP McCreary?
Inmates include Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani, convicted for the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings, and Chevie Kehoe, a convicted murderer and white supremacist.

Summary and Conclusion

The United States Penitentiary McCreary is a high-security federal prison in Kentucky, known for housing some of the nation’s most dangerous inmates. With strict security protocols and a range of inmate services, the facility provides a structured environment aimed at managing its complex population. If you need to visit or contact an inmate, plan ahead to navigate the stringent processes.

For more detailed information on federal prison policies, visit the Bureau of Prisons website.

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