Overview of United States Penitentiary Victorville California
The United States Penitentiary Victorville is a high-security federal prison located in Victorville, California. Known as USP Victorville, it primarily houses male inmates convicted of serious federal offenses. Opened in 2004, this facility is part of the larger Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) Victorville. The prison is designed to hold around 985 inmates, and it’s notorious for its high levels of violence, earning the informal nickname “Victimville.” It has housed several notable prisoners over the years, including members of organized crime and high-profile individuals involved in terrorism and espionage.
Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Victorville California
Address:
United States Penitentiary Victorville
13777 Air Expressway Boulevard
Victorville, CA 92394Phone: 760-530-5000
Fax: 760-530-5103
Email: vip-execassistant-s@bop.gov
Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Victorville California
Visiting at USP Victorville is allowed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. All visitors must arrive by 2:00 PM to be processed for entry. Visitors are subjected to security screenings, including metal detection and random pat searches. Each visitor must provide a valid form of photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
When visiting an inmate at USP Victorville, you’ll need to complete a visitor notification form, be listed on the inmate’s approved visitor list, and adhere to the strict dress code. The visiting room includes both indoor and outdoor sections, although outdoor access may be limited based on capacity.
Items like phones, wallets, and other personal belongings must remain in your vehicle or the provided locker area. For visitors with infants, only essential items like pre-sealed formula bottles and diapers are allowed.
What to Take to a Prison Visit
- Valid photo ID
- Up to $20 in change (for vending machines)
- Pre-approved infant care items (if applicable)
How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Victorville California
Booking a visit at USP Victorville requires that you be on the inmate’s approved visitor list. To get approved, you must submit a visitation request and be confirmed by the facility. Booking can be done by contacting the prison at their main phone number. Make sure you have the inmate’s full name and registration number when inquiring.
Visitors are allowed a maximum of three visitors per visit, including minors. Each visitor will be searched for contraband before entering. Failure to comply with the rules will result in denied entry or restricted visiting rights.
Directions and Parking Information for United States Penitentiary Victorville California
USP Victorville is located approximately 85 miles northeast of Los Angeles, near Interstate 15. If you’re driving from Los Angeles, take the I-15 North towards Victorville. Take exit 153 for Air Expressway and follow the signs to the facility. The prison offers parking for visitors, but ensure you arrive early, especially on busy visitation days, as spots can fill up quickly.
What is United States Penitentiary Victorville Like for a Prisoner?
Life at USP Victorville is challenging due to the high-security environment and the violent atmosphere, earning its reputation as a tough facility. Inmates live in one- and two-person cells, and the prison provides limited recreational and educational opportunities. USP Victorville also offers medical and psychological services, including emergency care, sick calls, and mental health programs.
Several violent incidents have occurred at the facility, including inmate assaults and the involvement of drones smuggling contraband. Despite efforts to maintain order, violence between inmates remains an ongoing issue at USP Victorville.
Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Victorville California
USP Victorville has housed a number of high-profile inmates over the years, including:
- Gerardo Hernandez – Leader of the Cuban Five spy network, convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and espionage.
- Pooh Shiesty – Rapper Lontrell Williams Jr., serving time for a 2020 robbery-related shooting.
- Tony Hernández – Former Honduran congressman and brother of the former president of Honduras, convicted on drug trafficking charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About United States Penitentiary Victorville California
1. How do I send mail to an inmate at USP Victorville?
You can send letters to inmates by addressing them to:
Inmate Name and Registration Number
USP Victorville
P.O. Box 3900
Adelanto, CA 92301
2. What are the visiting hours at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
Visiting hours are 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.
3. Can I bring money to an inmate during a visit?
No, but you can send money through the U.S. Postal Service or Western Union.
4. How many inmates are housed at USP Victorville?
USP Victorville holds approximately 985 inmates.
5. How do I find out if an inmate is at USP Victorville?
You can use the BOP Inmate Locator tool on the Bureau of Prisons website.
6. Are there educational programs available for inmates at USP Victorville?
Yes, the prison offers educational, vocational training, and occupational programs.
7. What is the security level of USP Victorville?
USP Victorville is a high-security federal prison.
8. Who manages USP Victorville?
The facility is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
9. What can visitors bring into the prison?
Visitors are limited to a small clear bag with up to $20 in change, an ID, and essential infant care items.
10. Are there any notable former inmates at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
Yes, including figures like Gerardo Hernandez and rapper Pooh Shiesty.
Summary and Conclusion
The United States Penitentiary Victorville California is a high-security facility housing some of the most notorious federal inmates. Its reputation for violence makes it a difficult environment for prisoners, though it offers some educational and rehabilitative services. Visitors must follow strict protocols, and those wishing to stay in touch with inmates can use email, postal mail, and scheduled visitation.
For more information about USP Victorville, visit the