Written by
James Calder, Senior Lecturer of Law and Social Justice, Emerson College
Reviewed by
Rachel Steiner, Co-Founder, Coalition for Peace and Justice – Chicago
FCI Miami – A Low-Security Federal Correctional Institution with an Adjacent Minimum-Security Satellite Camp 2024
Introduction to Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) MIAMI under Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)
Located in Miami, Florida, FCI Miami is a low-security federal correctional institution managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Known for its comprehensive programs and strict adherence to federal standards, this facility also includes an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp that houses inmates requiring a lower level of supervision.
Federal Prison Information
Brief History and Purpose
FCI Miami was established as a part of the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ commitment to ensuring secure and orderly confinement for low-security male offenders. It aims to provide a structured environment for rehabilitation and reintegration.
Location and Surrounding Area of FCI Miami in downtown miami
Situated at 15801 S.W. 137th Avenue in Miami-Dade County, FCI Miami’s location offers access to various legal and rehabilitative resources in South Florida, enhancing its supportive environment for inmate services.
Facility Overview of federal correctional institution miami
Low-Security Federal Correctional Institution
FCI Miami is a low-security facility, making it suitable for inmates considered lower-risk. The primary building is secure but provides inmates with considerable opportunities for engagement in vocational and educational programs.
Adjacent Minimum-Security Satellite Camp
The satellite camp adjacent to FCI Miami operates as a minimum-security institution. Housing approximately 190 inmates, the camp allows for even greater flexibility in movement and privileges.
Population and Inmate Demographics of prison
Total Population of Inmates
FCI Miami currently holds a total inmate population of around 1,028, with approximately 838 inmates in the main facility and 190 in the satellite camp.
Gender and Offender Types
The facility is designated exclusively for male offenders, housing a mix of individuals with varied backgrounds and sentences.
Judicial and Operational Jurisdiction of facility
Judicial District and Region
Operating within the Southern Florida judicial district, FCI Miami falls under the oversight of the Southeast BOP region. Its strategic location enables it to serve the needs of inmates sentenced by the courts in this jurisdiction.
Governance by the Bureau of Prisons
FCI Miami is governed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), ensuring compliance with federal regulations and standards across all operational areas.
Visiting Information of FCI Miami
Visiting Hours and Schedule
Visiting hours are regularly scheduled, allowing family and friends to visit under specific guidelines. To maintain security, visitors must adhere to the facility’s visiting protocols, which aim to create a safe environment for both inmates and their guests.
Visitor Guidelines and Security Protocols
Visitors are required to follow a strict set of guidelines, including background checks and adherence to dress codes. These measures help maintain the security and decorum of the facility.
Inmate Communication and Mail Services
How to send things here?
Sending Mail to Inmates
FCI Miami allows mail to be sent to inmates, provided it follows the facility’s mailing regulations. The address format is essential to ensure delivery:
- For FCI inmates: P.O. Box 779800, Miami, FL 33177
- For camp inmates: P.O. Box 779800, Miami, FL 33177
Guidelines for Money and Freight Parcels
Funds cannot be sent directly to FCI Miami. All monetary transfers must be sent to a centralized processing center in Des Moines, Iowa.
Inmate Financial Management
Commissary Services
The commissary provides inmates access to personal items beyond standard issue, using funds managed in their commissary accounts.
Depositing Money for Inmates
Friends and family can deposit money into an inmate’s commissary account via the BOP’s approved channels, which are regulated for security purposes.
Inmate Orientation and Resources
Admissions and Orientation Handbook
The Admissions and Orientation (A&O) Handbook is an essential resource for newly admitted inmates, outlining institutional policies and inmate responsibilities.
Available Resources for Inmates
Inmates are given access to resources for adjusting to institutional life, including counseling, educational materials, and community support systems.
Legal Services for Inmates
Access to Legal Counsel and Documents
Inmates at FCI Miami are granted access to legal resources and counsel, ensuring their rights are protected and they have the means to manage legal matters.
Legal Rights and Protections
The facility emphasizes the legal protections offered to inmates, particularly under policies such as the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
Education and Vocational Programs
Educational Programs for Inmates
FCI Miami offers GED courses, vocational training, and college-level programs to support inmate education and personal development.
Vocational Training and Skills Development
Inmates can engage in vocational skills training, improving their chances of employment upon release.
Health and Wellness Programs
Healthcare Services and Support
Comprehensive healthcare is available to all inmates, from basic medical care to specialized services.
Recreational Activities for Inmates
Recreational programs, including sports, help maintain inmates’ physical health and morale.
Compliance with Federal Standards
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Compliance
FCI Miami upholds the PREA, with a commitment to eliminating and addressing instances of sexual misconduct within the facility.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards
The institution adheres to federal occupational health and safety standards, ensuring the well-being of both inmates and staff.
FCI Miami Educational, Library, and Recreation Offerings
Conclusion
In conclusion, FCI Miami, a federal correctional institution under the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), plays a significant role in the rehabilitation and security of inmates within its low-security prison and adjacent satellite camp. This Miami federal prison, located in Dade County, Florida, not only provides housing units and structured programs but also offers essential resources such as recreation, legal services, and visitation options for inmate families. As part of the Department of Justice, FCI Miami operates with a focus on security and rehabilitation, ensuring each prisoner has access to programs designed to prepare legal documents, pursue educational growth, and receive treatment. The institution continues to serve as a critical facility in the broader correctional system, supporting the Bureau of Prisons’ mission of secure incarceration and inmate rehabilitation.
FAQs
- What types of inmates are held at FCI Miami?
FCI Miami houses low-security male offenders with varying sentence lengths. - How can I visit an inmate at FCI Miami?
Visitors must follow scheduled hours and adhere to FCI Miami’s strict visitation protocols for security purposes. - Can I send money directly to an inmate at FCI Miami?
No, all funds must be sent to a processing center in Des Moines, Iowa. - What programs are available to help inmates at FCI Miami?
Programs include educational courses, vocational training, healthcare services, and recreational activities. - How is FCI Miami’s compliance with federal standards monitored?
FCI Miami is subject to audits, particularly under the PREA and federal occupational health standards. - Who were the famous inmates in the FCI Miami?
FCI Miami has held some notable inmates over the years. One of the most well-known was Lou Pearlman, a music producer who managed popular groups such as the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. Pearlman was convicted of orchestrating a large Ponzi scheme and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. - How many people are in the FCI camp in Miami?
The FCI Miami camp, which is an adjacent minimum-security facility, houses around 190 inmates. - How many inmates does Miami Correctional Facility hold?
FCI Miami has a total population of approximately 1,028 inmates, with 838 in the main facility and 190 in the satellite camp. - What federal prisons are in Florida?
Florida has several federal correctional facilities, including FCI Miami, FDC Miami, and FCI Coleman, among others. Each facility serves different levels of security needs within the federal system.
