Guide for Families of Inmates at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) - San Diego, California
Overview of the Facility
The Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in San Diego, California, is a federal detention facility primarily housing male and female inmates who are pretrial detainees or serving short sentences. Managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), MCC San Diego includes various security measures to ensure the safety and security of both staff and inmates.
Contact Information
- Address: 808 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
- Phone Number: (619) 232-4311
- Website: https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/sdm/
- Email: Not publicly listed for security reasons.
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate housed at MCC San Diego, you can use the Federal Bureau of Prisons' online inmate locator service. Visit https://www.bop.gov/inmateloc/, and enter the inmate's BOP register number, DCDC number, FBI number or INS number to find their current location and status.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation at MCC San Diego is strictly regulated for security purposes. Each inmate is allowed visitation, but the times and days depend on their housing assignment. Generally, visitation hours are on weekends. It is essential for visitors to confirm the visitation schedule and strictly adhere to the institutional rules. All visitors must be approved and listed on the inmate's visitation list. For detailed information, please refer to the facility's official website or contact the administration directly.
How to Send Money
Inmates at MCC San Diego can receive funds through mail, money orders, or electronically via the National Lockbox in Des Moines, Iowa, where all funds are processed by the U.S. Treasury Department. For electronic transfers, families can use services like MoneyGram or Western Union. More specifics can be found on the BOP website under the 'Inmate Money' section: Sending Money
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates are allowed to make monitored phone calls and use a video visitation service. The use of these services requires prior registration and approval by the facility. Inmates typically have a monthly limit on how many minutes they can use. Detailed information regarding registering and the associated costs can be found on the BOP’s website.
Inmate Services and Programs
MCC San Diego offers a variety of programs designed to aid in the rehabilitation and education of inmates. These include GED programs, adult continuing education, vocational training, and personal development courses. There are also mental health services, substance abuse programs, and religious services available to help address the needs of all inmates.
History of the Facility
Opened in 1974, MCC San Diego was designed to facilitate court operations in the Southern District of California, streamlining the judicial process for both pre-trial and post-conviction cases. The facility has undergone various renovations and security upgrades over the years to maintain its functionality and integrity.
Security and Management Information
The facility employs a range of security measures, including constant surveillance, controlled movements, and a highly structured environment to maintain order and prevent escapes. The management comprises experienced BOP personnel who oversee all aspects of facility operations, from security to inmate welfare programs.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at MCC San Diego have rights to legal representation and are entitled to frequent legal visits. Access to telephones to contact attorneys is guaranteed. General visitation rights are also safeguarded, although these can be regulated for security reasons.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process at MCC San Diego involves documentation, medical screening, and property inventory. The release process, while varying slightly depending on individual cases, generally involves coordination with U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services to ensure post-release plans are in place.
