Guide to the Federal Bureau of Prisons - Central Office, District of Columbia
Overview of the Facility
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Central Office, located in Washington, D.C., is the administrative headquarters of the BOP, which is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates in the United States. It sets policies, oversees the operations of all federal prisons, and ensures the security and safety of both inmates and staff across the facilities.
Contact Information
Address: 320 First St., NW, Washington, DC 20534
Phone Number: (202) 307-3198
Website: www.bop.gov
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate within the federal prison system, use the BOP’s online inmate locator on their official website. You will need either the inmate's BOP Register Number, DCDC Number, FBI Number, or INS Number, or you can search by name.
Visitation Information and Hours
As the central office only oversees operations and does not house inmates directly, it does not offer visitation.
How to Send Money
While the Central Office does not accept money for inmates directly, you can send money to inmates through their respective facilities. Generally, this is done via MoneyGram, Western Union, or by sending a money order via mail. Instructions and links are available on the BOP website.
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates at federal prisons have access to phones and, in some cases, video visitation services. The specific offerings and restrictions are dependent upon the individual facility. Check the specific institution’s guidelines for details.
Inmate Services and Programs
The BOP offers a wide range of services and programs designed to help inmates. This includes educational programs, vocational training, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. Programs vary by facility based on resources and inmate needs.
History of the Facility
The Federal Bureau of Prisons was established to provide more progressive and humane care for federal inmates, professionalize the prison service, and ensure consistent and centralized administration of the federal prisons. This remains the foundation of the Central Office's missions and operations to this day.
Security and Management Information
Security and management protocols for federal prisons are developed at the Central Office and implemented across all facilities. This includes everything from physical security measures to procedures for handling inmate discipline and grievances.
Legal and Visitation Rights
All inmates in the BOP system are entitled to certain legal and visitation rights under federal law. Information regarding these rights are detailed on the BOP website and provided to inmates upon their induction into any facility.
Booking and Release Process
The booking and release processes vary by individual facilities and the legal circumstances surrounding the inmate’s case. Typically, this involves processing the inmate's information, determining the appropriate facility, and estimating a release date based on sentencing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send mail to an inmate in a federal prison?
You can send mail to an inmate by addressing it to the specific prison where they are held, along with their inmate identification number. Check the BOP’s website for detailed mailing instructions.
What job training programs are available for inmates?
Federal prisons offer a variety of vocational and job training programs, including carpentry, barber/beautician, HVAC, and more, depending on facility resources and inmate interests.
Recent News
No recent news available at this time regarding the Federal Bureau of Prisons - Central Office, District of Columbia.
