United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana Overview

The United States Penitentiary Pollock (USP Pollock) is a high-security federal prison located in Pollock, Louisiana. It houses male inmates convicted of serious federal offenses. Operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, this penitentiary is part of the Pollock Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Pollock), which also includes a minimum-security satellite camp. With a capacity of around 1,115 inmates, USP Pollock is known for holding some of the most dangerous and notorious prisoners in the U.S. penal system.

This prison has gained a reputation for being one of the most violent facilities in the country, with numerous incidents involving inmate-on-inmate violence, assaults on staff, and even inmate murders. Despite these challenges, USP Pollock continues to serve its dual purpose of punishment and rehabilitation within the federal prison system.

United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana Contact Information

For those seeking to get in touch with United States Penitentiary Pollock, here are the essential contact details:

  • Address:
    United States Penitentiary Pollock
    1000 Airbase Road
    Pollock, LA 71467
  • Phone: 318-561-5300
  • Fax: 318-561-5391
  • Email: Available through the Bureau of Prisons contact form on their website

For inmate correspondence, use the following address:
Inmate Name & Registration Number
USP Pollock
P.O. Box 2099
Pollock, LA 71467

Visiting United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

Visiting hours at USP Pollock vary by the day and inmate housing unit. Typically, visits are permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Visitors are advised to arrive early to allow time for processing, as security checks can be thorough.

What to bring: Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID. It’s important to dress modestly and avoid wearing any revealing or offensive clothing. Personal belongings like phones, bags, and money are not permitted inside the visiting area.

Visit duration: The length of visits can vary depending on inmate status and the number of visitors, but typically last between 1 to 4 hours. You can bring up to three visitors, including children.

How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

To schedule a visit at United States Penitentiary Pollock, you must first be approved on the inmate’s visitor list. This process involves submitting personal information for a background check. Once approved, you can call the prison to confirm visiting hours and schedule your visit.

When booking, you will need the inmate’s full name and registration number. Visits are limited to a set number of visitors, so plan accordingly.

Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

USP Pollock is located in central Louisiana, approximately 12 miles north of Alexandria. The facility is accessible via Highways 165 and 167, making it easy to reach from nearby towns. The prison provides ample parking for visitors, but it’s best to arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly on busy visitation days.

What is Life Like at United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana?

Inmates at United States Penitentiary Pollock experience a highly regulated environment typical of a high-security facility. Prison life is heavily structured, with strict schedules for meals, work, recreation, and education. The prison offers educational programs, including GED classes and vocational training, as well as recreational opportunities.

However, USP Pollock is also known for its violence. In recent years, the prison has seen numerous incidents, including inmate-on-inmate violence, assaults on staff, and escapes. The prison has implemented several security measures, but the tension among the inmate population remains high.

Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

One of the most notorious prisoners housed at USP Pollock was Richard Lee McNair, who escaped from the facility in 2006 by mailing himself out of the prison. McNair was convicted of murder and robbery and later recaptured in Canada.

FAQs About United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana

  • Where is United States Penitentiary Pollock located?
    USP Pollock is in Pollock, Louisiana, about 12 miles north of Alexandria.

  • What security level is United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    USP Pollock is a high-security federal prison for male inmates.

  • How do I book a visit at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    You need to be on the inmate’s approved visitor list and contact the prison to confirm visiting times.

  • What is the population at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    USP Pollock houses approximately 1,115 inmates, while the adjacent camp holds around 140.

  • Are there educational programs available at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    Yes, inmates have access to GED classes, vocational training, and recreational activities.

  • Is there parking available for visitors at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    Yes, ample parking is available, but it can fill up quickly on busy visiting days.

  • What items can I bring to a visit at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    Visitors are allowed to bring a valid photo ID and a limited amount of change for vending machines.

  • What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    Visits are typically allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

  • Has anyone escaped from United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    Yes, Richard Lee McNair famously escaped in 2006 by mailing himself out of the prison.

  • What is the violence level like at United States Penitentiary Pollock?
    USP Pollock is considered one of the more violent federal prisons, with frequent inmate-on-inmate violence.

Conclusion

United States Penitentiary Pollock Louisiana is a high-security federal prison housing some of the most dangerous inmates in the country. Though it offers educational and recreational programs, the facility has a reputation for violence and has been the site of several high-profile incidents. Understanding the complexities of life at USP Pollock helps shed light on the broader U.S. penal system and its challenges.

For more information on USP Pollock, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

Sources:

Visit United States Penitentiary McCreary