FPC Alderson: A Minimum-Security Federal Prison Camp
Located in the picturesque setting of Alderson, West Virginia, the Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Alderson serves as a minimum-security facility housing female offenders. With a population of 754 inmates, FPC Alderson is recognized for its rehabilitation programs, secure environment, and adherence to federal regulations. This article explores essential details about the facility, from visiting procedures to resources available to inmates and their families.
Overview of FPC Alderson
Location and Contact Information
Situated in Greenbrier County, FPC Alderson falls under the judicial district of Southern West Virginia and is part of the Mid-Atlantic region of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The prison camp has become well-known for housing female offenders in a secure yet rehabilitative environment.
- Address: Glen Ray Rd. Box A, Alderson, WV 24910
- Phone: 304-445-3300
- Fax: 304-445-3320
- Email: [email protected]
FPC Alderson is committed to fostering a supportive community while ensuring public safety. The facility provides various resources to help inmates adjust and offers services that promote rehabilitation during confinement.
Visiting Information
Visiting an inmate at FPC Alderson is an important aspect of maintaining family bonds and support systems, which are vital to an inmate’s rehabilitation. Visitors are always welcome, but it is crucial to adhere to specific rules and guidelines set forth by the Bureau of Prisons.
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
Visiting Overview
Before planning a visit, potential visitors should familiarize themselves with the general fundamentals of inmate visitation. The BOP encourages visits but emphasizes the importance of reviewing the facility’s specific visiting regulations.
Visiting Schedule & Procedures
FPC Alderson follows strict schedules and procedures to ensure that inmate visitation runs smoothly and securely. Visitors should review the institution’s official policy on visiting an inmate and be aware of any state or local travel advisories before their trip.
For Spanish-speaking visitors, the institution provides the visiting regulations in Spanish as well: Regulaciones de Visitas.
Sending Items to Inmates
One of the essential services FPC Alderson provides is the ability to send items to inmates, which can significantly aid in their well-being and comfort.
Books
Books can be sent to inmates, but there are regulations about the types of books allowed. It’s important to verify this before sending any literature.
Inmate Mail and Money
Family and friends can send letters and money to inmates. Money is used in the prison’s commissary, where inmates can purchase items that are not provided as part of the institution’s daily administration.
Freight and Non-USPS Parcels
When sending larger items, ensure they comply with BOP regulations regarding non-postal shipments.
Resources for Inmates
FPC Alderson provides numerous resources to support inmates during their stay. From legal assistance to commissary privileges, inmates are given opportunities to manage their time productively and with a sense of normalcy.
Admissions and Orientation Handbook
Upon entering FPC Alderson, inmates receive the Admissions and Orientation (A&O) Handbook, which outlines the institution’s rules, programs, and general regulations. Familiarizing themselves with this handbook helps inmates adapt to their new environment.
The handbook is also available in Spanish: FPC Alderson Guía de Admisión y Orientación.
Commissary Services
FPC Alderson operates a commissary where inmates can purchase personal care items, snacks, and other non-regular provisions. Money deposited into an inmate’s account by family or friends can be used for commissary purchases, fostering a sense of autonomy.
Inmate Legal Activities
The institution ensures that inmates have access to legal reference materials and counsel. These services enable inmates to prepare legal documents and seek assistance in legal matters during their incarceration.
Ensuring Safety: The PREA Report
FPC Alderson, like all federal institutions, adheres to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). An audit conducted in 2024 highlights the institution’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for inmates. This report is an essential step in identifying areas of improvement and ensuring the continued protection of all inmates.
The report, posted on June 18, 2024, outlines the findings from an external audit by PREA Auditors of America. Any questions regarding the report can be directed to the independent auditor mentioned in the document.
Conclusion
FPC Alderson is more than just a correctional facility—it is a structured community that emphasizes rehabilitation, legal rights, and family connections. From the comprehensive orientation handbook to its accessible legal resources, FPC Alderson strives to provide inmates with a balanced and secure environment while maintaining public safety.
By offering opportunities for family visits, educational growth, and personal development, the facility plays a vital role in preparing inmates for their eventual return to society. Through strong adherence to federal regulations and initiatives like the PREA, FPC Alderson continues to be a model of rehabilitation-focused incarceration.
