United States Penitentiary Victorville Overview

The United States Penitentiary Victorville is a high-security federal prison located in Victorville, California. Opened in 2004, it is part of the larger Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) Victorville, which also includes medium-security facilities. USP Victorville is exclusively for male inmates, with a focus on individuals convicted of severe federal crimes, including drug trafficking, organized crime, and violent offenses. This facility houses roughly 1,500 inmates across multiple units, with stringent security protocols that include lethal fencing, perimeter walls, and constant monitoring.

USP Victorville has a reputation for its tough environment, and its security measures reflect its high-risk population. The prison offers various educational and rehabilitative programs, but the facility has been described as one of the more dangerous due to its inmate population and violent incidents over the years.

United States Penitentiary Victorville aerial view

Contact Information for United States Penitentiary Victorville

  • Address:
    United States Penitentiary Victorville
    13777 Air Expressway Boulevard
    Victorville, CA 92394

  • Phone: 760-530-5000

  • Fax: 760-530-5103

  • Email: vip-execassistant-s@bop.gov

  • Inmate Mailing Address:
    Inmate Name and Registration Number
    USP Victorville
    P.O. Box 3900
    Adelanto, CA 92301

Visiting Information for United States Penitentiary Victorville

Visitors play a crucial role in inmate rehabilitation, and USP Victorville offers designated visiting hours on weekends and federal holidays. Visits typically last for about two hours, though this may vary based on the number of visitors and security needs on the day.

  • Visiting Days: Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays.
  • Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
  • What to Bring: A valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). Minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to a modest dress code, avoiding revealing clothing, hats, or items that resemble inmate attire.

Visiting rooms are designed to provide a neutral and secure environment, with seating arrangements that prevent physical contact between inmates and visitors except for a brief greeting and farewell. You may bring a limited amount of cash for vending machines available in the visitor area.

How to Book a Visit at United States Penitentiary Victorville

To book a visit at United States Penitentiary Victorville, potential visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visitor list, which the inmate must submit to prison authorities. You will need to complete a visitor application, providing your full name, address, and photo ID. The approval process can take several weeks.

Visitors are encouraged to call the prison at 760-530-5000 to confirm their visit and to check for any last-minute changes to visiting hours or regulations.

Directions and Parking at United States Penitentiary Victorville

USP Victorville is located about 85 miles northeast of Los Angeles, near Interstate 15 in the Mojave Desert. It is easily accessible by car.

  • Driving Directions: From Los Angeles, take Interstate 15 north, exit onto Air Expressway Boulevard, and follow the signs to the penitentiary.
  • Parking: Visitor parking is available on-site. Ensure you park in the designated visitor section and do not leave any valuables in your car.

What is Life Like Inside United States Penitentiary Victorville?

Life inside United States Penitentiary Victorville is highly structured, with strict schedules for meals, recreation, and work. Inmates are housed in two-person cells, though overcrowding may lead to triple occupancy. The facility has various programs, including GED classes, English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, and vocational training in areas like automotive repair and HVAC.

Despite these educational opportunities, the prison environment is often marked by tension and violence. USP Victorville has seen several high-profile incidents, including inmate assaults and murders. Security measures are robust, with frequent inmate counts and controlled movement to minimize altercations.

Famous Prisoners at United States Penitentiary Victorville

USP Victorville has housed several notorious criminals, including:

  • Gerardo Hernandez: Leader of the Cuban Five spy network, convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and espionage.
  • Mutulu Shakur: Member of the Black Liberation Army, involved in a high-profile Brink’s robbery.
  • Lontrell Williams Jr. (Pooh Shiesty): Memphis rapper serving time for involvement in a 2020 robbery and shooting in Florida.
  • Lenny Dykstra: Former MLB player, imprisoned for grand theft auto and providing false financial statements

FAQs about United States Penitentiary Victorville

  • What type of prison is United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    United States Penitentiary Victorville is a high-security federal prison for male inmates.

  • How do I send money to an inmate at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    You can send money through approved services like Western Union or MoneyGram. Inmates cannot receive direct payments.

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

  • Can I bring my child to visit an inmate at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    Yes, children under 16 can visit but must be accompanied by an adult.

  • How do I book a visit at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    All visitors must be approved by the facility and listed on the inmate’s visitation list. Complete the application process to be approved.

  • Where is United States Penitentiary Victorville located?
    It is located in Victorville, California, about 85 miles northeast of Los Angeles.

  • What educational programs are available at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    The prison offers GED programs, ESL courses, and vocational training in areas like HVAC and automotive repair.

  • What is the capacity of United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    USP Victorville has a capacity of around 1,500 inmates​(

    Inmate Aid

    ).

  • Has United States Penitentiary Victorville had any famous inmates?
    Yes, inmates like Gerardo Hernandez and Mutulu Shakur have served time here​(

    WikiMili.com

    ).

  • Can inmates make phone calls at United States Penitentiary Victorville?
    Yes, inmates are allowed limited phone calls, restricted to 15-minute durations and a monthly limit of five hours

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