selah7
02-23-2006, 02:33 AM
This has been updated with current information as of December 2005/January 2006
FPC Alderson
History
Opened in 1927, houses female offenders
Security Level
minimum/female
Population
As of February 2006 the FCI inmate populations was 1108. Weekly figures are available on BOP's website at www.bop.gov/locations/weekly_report.jsp (http://www.bop.gov/locations/weekly_report.jsp)
Education
The institution offers GED, ESL, adult education and correspondence courses.
Vocational/Apprenticeship
Vocational training for cosmetology, horticulture, library assistant. Additionally there are masonry, HVAC, electric and plumbing programs.
Library
Both the law library and leisure library are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 8:45 p.m. The library is open Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 pm to 8:45 pm. There are electric typewriters reserved for the preparation of legal documents. Additionally there are several other typewriters available for all other typing. A copier is also available. Copies are charged to an inmates debit card and were $.15/copy as of 12/01/05. Inmates can obtain books from the Alderson public library via an inter-library loan program.
UNICOR
They are currently trying to start a call center. As of 12/01/05 UNICOR was not operational, however, you may get put on a waiting list and begin training for the call center.
Counseling/Rehab services
The institution offers a residential drug and alcohol treatment program, a drug education program, and alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous groups. The psychology department is staffed by full time psychologists.
Health Services
The institution is staffed by a physician, 5-6 physicians assistants, a nurse, dentist and a pharmacist. Outpatient care is provided. Local hospitals are approximately 20 minutes away. The pill line is available for morning, afternoon and evening dossages, seven days a week. Sick call sign up is from 6:30 to 7 a.m. four days a week. At least one physician assistant is on duty or on call 24hours/7 days per week. There is a $2 fee for sick call unless it is a chronic care issue.
Housing
There are two buildings (A and B) that house inmates. Each building has four separate ranges (about 120 women per range). Inmates are housed in two man cells. The television viewing rooms are open daily from 6 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday, 6 am to 2 am Friday and Saturday.
Smoking Areas
Inmates are permitted to smoke in designated areas but they are phasing this out in the Spring of 2006
Fitness/Recreation
The recreation department offers a fitness area (treadmill, stair stepper, bicycles, elliptical, videos: aerobic, yoga, fitness), musical instruments, and a wellness program. The hobby craft center offers leather craft, drawing, beading, crochet, ceramics and clay.
Religious Services
The institution is staffed by one full time chaplain, Chaplain Elizabeth Walker and one volunteer service officer, Christy Ford. Additionally there are contract and volunteer staff to provide services for various religious groups.
SHOWERS/RESTROOM
The restrooms are completely private. The showers are individual stalls. There are no bathtubs. Shower shoes are a must though.
Telephone Policy
Inmates have 300 minutes per month. During November and December the minutes are increased to 400 minutes. Calls may be deducted from inmates commissary account or collect calls may be made. There are 8 - 10 telephones in each range (housing unit). Telephones are operational from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
These calls cost about $2.50 for a 15 minute call anywhere in the United States if pre-paid or call collect and it will cost $8.00 to $10.00 per 15 minute call. It is always cheaper to add funds from the commissary account to the telephone account and pre-pay the calls.
Inmate mail
INMATE NAME
REGISTER NUMBER and Building and Range (Building “A” or “B” and Range “1, 2, 3, or 4”)
FPC Alderson
PO Box A
Alderson, WV 24910
All SOFT cover books and magazines should be wrapped in brown paper or envelope (no boxes!) and should ALWAYS be labeled on the package as "BOP Approved Reading Material" or "Books/Magazines Enclosed". Hard back books must be sent directly from the distributor/publisher. Please make sure that included in the address is the Inmate Reg # along with Federal Prison Camp - Alderson. (See BOP Program Statement 5266.10, Incoming Publications: PROCEDURES § 540.71)
A calendar can be sent, wrapped in brown paper or envelope and labeled "Institution Approved/Calendar".
Photos can be sent, no Polaroids - no more than 25 total in inmate's possession. We were told that NEW soft cover books and magazines can be sent. There is a maximum number of items a person can have in their possession (5 books, 2 magazines, 25 pictures, etc).
You can't mail stamps or stamped envelopes. Nothing stapled or pasted. NO food or music of any sort is allowed. I cannot receive tapes or CD's either. For you creative types or those with kids: incoming mail can't have stickers, glue, paint, glitter, or tape. Also, make sure that cards do not have any glitter, tape or glued parts - just simple store bought cards are fine.
Always include your return address and it might be a good idea to write on the back across the flap of the envelope "contents:..." and a list of what you are sending (ie. letter, 2 pages; 3 pictures; etc.) so inmate will know if anything's been removed.
At FPC Alderson there is absolutely no access to the internet and generally no access to a computer. Thus no e-mail.
Visiting Hours
Most of this info can be found on www.bop.gov (http://www.bop.gov/) or call 304-445-2901 with questions.
Inmates are limited to 20 visitors on their visiting list. Immediate family members are usually approved promptly because they are generally on inmate’s PSI. If not automatically approved, then each visitor must complete an application for review and approval BEFORE being added to visiting list. Inmate will need to send visitor an application. The application must be sent back to the counselor NOT the inmate. BOP will do a background check and will then notify the inmate if you are approved or not. This can take several weeks depending on the counselor. If you have a prior arrest record that does not automatically mean you can not visit, this will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An inmate can have 4 adult visitors at a time, more may be allowed with prior approval through staff. You can have up to 6 children with those adults at a time.
Visiting Hours are Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Thursday – 8:15am – 3:15pm
Friday – 2:15pm – 9:30pm.
Visitor's are permitted to wear shorts (no shorter than 4" above the knee). No miniskirts, halter tops, see-through clothing, sleeveless or anything considered to be revealing. Sandals are allowed, however, house/shower shoes/flipflops are not allowed. This dress code applies to adults and children. It is best to always carry an extra set of conservative clothing in the car - in case a CO states that someone is dressed inappropriately - so that you can hurry and change before coming into the facility.
Visitors may bring the following items 1 clear plastic purse/bag, 1 lipstick, 1 facial compact, 1 comb or brush, 2 packs unopened cigarettes, 1 cigarette lighter, 3 packs matches, 2 cans/ pouches tobacco, money (change and dollar bills). Also allowed to bring INFANT baby items including diaper bag, baby carrier, food, bottles, unopened formula, lotion, powder, blanket, change of clothes, ointment, wipes, toy.
Visitors may bring prescription medicines for their use (to be left at officer station while visiting). This is right out of the handbook. This list is not all inclusive, it does not address items that are part of an individual's person such as jewelry, eye glasses, billfold, etc for which all are authorized.
Visitors need driver's license, state ID card or two forms of ID with full name and signature to be allowed to visit. Visitor must also know their license plate number, make, year and color of car driving. Also, make sure that you have current registration and insurance – as some facilities require this.
Visitors may not leave anything or exchange items with inmate. This includes letters. You cannot bring anything to show inmate at all!
Inmates are authorized to wear institution issued pants, shirt and shoes. A commissary purchased t-shirt (not sleeve-less) or sweatshirt may be worn. Inmates may take the following to the visiting room: commissary card, jewelry (will be inventoried when you enter and when you leave), picture stubs.
Cameras are prohibited as are cell phones or any electronic devices. Inmates can purchase pictures via commissary prior to visit.
Visits are seldom terminated early because of overcrowding at Alderson. They have a very nice visitation center with a special room for kids filled with toys and activities. If the weather is nice you can go outside and sit on the covered patio or tables and swings. It is an all contact visit. Spouses can kiss and hug for 3 seconds upon arrival and upon departure. Adults can also embrace for 3 seconds upon arrival and departure. Children can sit on parents laps as long as they are not creating a disturbance or spectacle. There is a fenced in area outside with picnic tables. There is also swings for the kids.
They have vending machines and a good assortment of soda, sandwiches, pizza, chips, candy and other snacks. It is best to bring rolls of quarters with you because sometimes the change machines are out. Although one and five dollar bills are taken by the vending machines - they run out of change quickly.
During the holidays (Christmas to New Year's) the visitation hours are extended. Weekdays are from 8a-3p everyday, and regular visitation hours Friday-Sunday.
Alderson Hospitality House
The Alderson Hospitality House is a ministry for the friends and relatives of the women inmates housed at FPC, Alderson, WV. It is a religious run hospitality house in Alderson where people can stay when they come to visit. The phone number there is 304.445.2980. It is best to call two weeks ahead of time if you want to stay there.
If West Virginia is a long way from home for you, but if your family is able to visit they are able to stay free of charge or offer a small donation if they would like.
Alderson Hospitality House
203 High St
PO Box 579
Alderson WV 24910
Phone: 304-445-2980
Alderson Hospitality House provides housing, meals, transportation, information, and support to families and friends of women inmates at Alderson Federal Prison Camp. And they absolutely allow children and they are wonderful with them.
Additional Hotels
There is a motel right outside the gates at Alderson. It's called the Riverview and the number is 304-445-2550
Commissary
The commissary is open for regular sales Monday through Thursday. Shopping days are assigned by an inmates register number. Each person is permitted to shop on their designated shopping day. BOP policy currently sets a monthly commissary spending limit of $290. Funds may NOT be sent directly to the prison.
Deposit Fund History
In 1930 the Department of Justice authorized and established a Commissary at each Federal institution. The Commissary was created to provide a bank type account for inmate monies and for the procurement of articles not regularly issued as part of the institution administration. The purpose of individual inmate Commissary accounts is to allow the Bureau of Prisons to maintain inmates' monies while they are incarcerated. Family, friends, or other sources may deposit funds into these accounts.
Funds may be sent to Federal inmates via the United States Postal Service (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/money.jsp#USPS) or via the Western Union Quick Collect Program (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/money.jsp#Quick_Collect). In either case, the inmate must physically be housed at a Federal Bureau of Prisons' facility before funds can be received and posted. If the inmate is not physically in a Federal Bureau of Prisons' facility, the funds cannot be posted and will be returned or rejected.
U.S. Postal Service
Inmates' families and friends choosing to send inmates funds through the mail must send those funds to the following address and in accordance with the directions provided below:
Federal Bureau of Prisons
Insert Valid Committed Inmate Name
Insert Inmate Eight Digit Register Number
Post Office Box 474701
Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
The deposit must be in the form of a money order made out to the inmate's full committed name and complete eight digit register number. The Bureau of Prisons will return funds that do not have valid inmate information to the sender provided the envelope has an adequate return address. Personal checks and cash can not be accepted for deposit.
The sender's name and return address must appear on the upper left hand corner of the envelope to ensure that the funds can be returned to the sender in the event that they can not be posted to the inmate's account. The deposit envelope must not contain any items intended for delivery to the inmate. The Bureau of Prisons shall dispose of all items included with the funds.
In the event funds have been mailed but have not been received in the inmate's account and adequate time has passed for mail service to Des Moines, Iowa, the sender must initiate a tracer with the entity who sold them the money order to resolve any issues.
Western Union Quick Collect Program
Inmates' families and friends may also send inmates funds through Western Union's Quick Collect Program. All funds sent via Western Union's Quick Collect will be posted to the inmate's account within two to four hours, when those funds are sent between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. EST (seven days per week, including holidays). Funds received after 9:00 pm EST will be posted by 7:00 am EST the following morning. Funds sent to an inmate through the Quick Collect Program may be sent via one of the following ways:
1) At an agent location with cash: The inmate's family or friends must complete a Quick Collect Form. Click here (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/qc_form_amended.pdf) to view a sample Quick Collect Form. To find the nearest agent, they may call 1-800-325-6000 or go to www.westernunion.com (http://www.bop.gov/disclaimer.jsp?url=www.westernunion.com).
2) By phone using a credit/debit card: The inmate's family or friends may simply call 1-800-634-3422 and press option 2.
3) ONLINE using a credit/debit card: The inmate's family and friends may go to www.westernunion.com (http://www.bop.gov/disclaimer.jsp?url=www.westernunion.com) and select "Quick Collect".
For each Western Union Quick Collect transaction, the following information must be provided:
1) Valid Inmate Eight Digit Register Number
2) Committed Inmate Name
3) Code City: FBOP
4) State code: DC
Please note that the inmate's committed name and eight digit register number must be entered correctly. If the sender does not provide the correct information, the transaction cannot be completed. The Code City is always FBOP and the State Code is always DC.
Each transaction is accepted or rejected at the point of sale. The sender has the sole responsibility of sending the funds to the correct inmate. If an incorrect register number and/or name are used and accepted and posted to that inmate, funds may not be returned.
Any questions or concerns regarding Western Union transfers should be directed to Western Union by the sender (general public). Questions or concerns should not be directed to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
For additional information concerning inmate Commissary account deposit procedures, please see the Bureau of Prisons Trust Fund/Warehouse/Laundry Manual (PS 4500.04) or 28 CFR Parts 506 and 540. For information concerning a specific deposit, please contact Federal Bureau of Prisons' staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.
Commissary Card
Each inmate is given an identification card which is also their commissary card. This card is utilized when inmate makes purchases at the commissary as well as debitek to be used for the washer/dryer, copier, and vending machines.
Spending Limits
There is a spending limit set by the BOP (max $290). Stamps and telephone credits are excluded from the monthly spending. There is a limit on the number of stamps you can purchase or accumulate. Overspending or signing for a withdrawal of funds when there is insufficient funds may result in disciplinary action.
A maximum of $40 can be placed on the card for debitek. There are no refunds and the vending machines do malfunction, thus use at your own risk. Lost/stolen or broken cards can be replaced for $5.
Alderson has a great commissary compared to other prisons. Available items include tennis shoes, umbrella, sweats, sweatshirt, t-shirts, hat, scarf, gloves, personal care items, food, small transistor radios, watches, craft materials including yarn, and writing materials.
Shopping when arriving:
Suggestion: Inmates should try to bring no more than $300 at self-surrender if they have resistution. This will protect you if you have FRP (restitution). Generally the first or second day of arrival, the inmate is often allowed a trip to the commissary to buy a variety of things to get them started, until their next designated shopping day.
FOR INMATE PREPARATION - Notes from various members of PTO support group
Self Surrendering
List of items allowed in during self surrender.
· cash/ money order (to be posted to your account)
· a religious medal or cross and chain (valued at no more than $100)
· a pair of earrings (they aren’t allowing big hoops anymore) (valued at no more than $100)
· wedding band (gold or silver – no jewels)
· eyeglasses (2 pairs allowed – one pair may be prescription sunglasses)
· legal documents (call ahead to see what is allowed)
· medications (again, not all will necessarily go in with you, call first)
- picture ID (to be kept on file during stay)
- Soft cover Bible is usually permitted
Photos, soft cover books (including bible) can/should be sent via mail - not taken in at self surrender, in case R&D decide to not allow it.
What I can expect when arriving:
Survival - Staying below the radar:
1. Don't complain. there are women there doing big time and they don't want to hear your complaints
2. The food is fair; like a cheap cafeteria (there is always salad)
3. It helps to be quiet for the first few weeks and watch and listen.
Your experience in prison will be what you make it. You can bemoan your fate all the time or you can use the time to reflect and work on whatever issues you feel you need to work on. You are already there and nothing will probably change that. Prison is not a fun place to be, but a positive attitude goes a long way.
Things to watch out for: groups formed for a particular reason, gossip and pettiness, relationships with other women based on favors/protection, gay sexuality (will land you in segregation (the hole)), contraband, drugs.
It has been stated often that violence is extremely rare in camps. If you stay away from the troublemakers you'll be just fine. No one will come up to you and just beat you up. No way. Most women just want to do their time. And if you do fight you will be shipped to a higher level institution. Alderson absolutely has a zero tolerance policy for violence. If you fight you get shipped. Period. If you have a history of violence you would probably not be designated to a camp. Most of the time there are just verbal arguments. Don't worry about being attacked while you are there. That is really the least of your worries. Just be respectful to others and you will find that most of the ladies are very kind.
For the most part the staff and officers are pretty cool; you respect them and generally they will respect you. Just do not try to put anything over on them; be where you are supposed to be when you are supposed to be, doing what you are supposed to be doing. NEVER make one of them look for you, and you will be fine, and NEVER screw up count. Remember to be courteous to your roommates. Clean up after yourself and do your share of the cleaning. The CO's do room inspections. Just be neat and you won't have any problems.
First 2 weeks - what it might be like:
There are anywhere 1000-1200 women at Alderson, but the compound is large and all of them are seldom in one place at one time, so it's not so noticeable. It opened in 1927, and it was modeled after a college campus in Maryland. I think you will be pleasantly surprised when you see the surroundings. There are no big fences, no barbed wire, and no locked doors.
You are not allowed to bring anything with you as far as clothing is concerned. The first thing that will do is go to R&D (receiving and discharge). This will probably take awhile. They will dress you out in a uniform. You're picture will be taken and you will meet with someone from medical to discuss any health issues that you have or any medication that you are taking. Usually whatever prescription medication you are taking they will let you keep on taking it as long as its non-narcotic. You will fill out some paperwork and they will assign you to a unit. Each place has different lay-out as far as the units go. Yes, you will be stripped searched. No cavity searches; they will do a visual search, and you will have to squat and cough; try to prepare yourself for that if you have never experienced it before.. Don't take it personal, the CO's have to do it. You will also be issued bedding, towels, and some general hygiene (soap, shampoo, tooth powder) to take with you to your unit. The next morning you will go to laundry to be issued your uniforms. They give you 3 pants, 3 shirts, 2 t-shirts, 5 underwear and 5 pairs of socks. You will also be issued black steel toed shoes (unless you have a medical restriction against steel-toes). Tennis shoes and boots are for sale at the commissary as well as extra underwear, socks, and real bras. The women in R&D aren't usually difficult, and usually the process goes smoothly.
All new commits are housed in Building A, Range 3 on the upper compound. It is a two story brick building that is less than 7 years old, and is divided into four sections; Range 1, Range 2, Range 3, and Range 4. There are about 140 women in each range, and all new commits start off in Range 3. You will be placed in the "bus stop" or in a "cube" where there is a bunk bed, two lockers, two under the bed lockers and a roommate. Each range has three TV rooms. microwaves, vending machines (snacks and pop), washers and dryers (if you don't want the laundry to do your clothes) and two large shower rooms. They even have a hair room where you can use blow dryers, curling irons and hair dryers. Range 1 and 2 are downstairs and Range 3 and 4 are upstairs.
You will spend two weeks in A & O (Admission and Orientation) learning the ins and outs of Alderson. The staff member who conducts these sessions is Darlene Johnson. She is a very nice person, but she is straight up, so don't be late for A & O. She will telll you about it in a heart beat and she will give you extra duty. So be early for A & O. It normally does not last all day, and you will have some free time during the day. After you complete A & O and are medically cleared, you will be placed in a job. Everyone works at Alderson. Usually everyone starts out in CDR (Central Dining Room). It's hard work and normally you can transfer to another position after 90 days.
Once you complete A & O, and are working you will be moved out of Range 3 into one of the other ranges because you are no longer a new commit. There are now two buildings – A building and B building. Each building has a Range 1, Range 2, Range 3 and Range 4. If you are eligible for the drug program you will end up in the B Building at some point.
Jobs
A little more detail on jobs: there are many places to work, including the kitchen, recreation, chapel, health services, landscape, education, and facilities. If you have a college degree you might want to go to education and ask about a job as a GED tutor. They can always use good tutors and it is so rewarding!! As far as how long it takes to get a job, it varies. Until you are "employed" you will probably be told by an officer to work in the unit with the orderlies cleaning. Your status will be "new commit" until you get a job. Alderson will let you actively seek a job instead of waiting to be assigned by the staff. Try landscape, education, facilities, recreation, the health services or the garage. (Don't worry, if you cannot find one - they'll give you one - - it's just better for you if you find it). Just staying in your room doing nothing is not allowed. You are required to work unless you have a medical condition that would prevent that. Usually ladies that cannot work due to their health end up going to Carswell.
Education and Recreation:
Alderson has several educational programs and recreation activities. If you don't have a GED you will be required to attend classes. There are also business classes and some college classes available. They also have the cosmetology program. This is a great program and it benefits everyone. Those being trained offer their services to inmates for hair cuts, perms, and hair dyed. They even offer facials and manicures. There is no cost to the inmates other than the cost of the perms or dyes which are purchased at commissary.
The cosmetology, course is taught by outside contractors, and classes are 5 days a week, M-F from 12 - 8 p.m. At the end of the 18 month course the inmates are tested on site, and if they pass they are licensed cosmetologists in West Virginia. Since so many states have reciprocity for cosmetologists, the inmate usually only has to apply for their license in their home state, and doesn't have to test again.
Worship/Recreation
There is a rec center, law and reading library, volleyball team, softball team, craft classes, and you are allowed to be on the compound from 6:30 am - 10 pm except during count. The chaplain is a very nice woman by the name of Rev. Elizabeth Walker, and there are many, many types of all denominational services offered. Some of the choirs will blow you away! So much talent.
Schedule (average day for inmate)
Every day is pretty much the same. Wake up at 6 a.m. and take a shower. Go to breakfast at 7 and then report to job detail by 7:30 or 8:00 for roll call. Worked until 11 a.m. Work site will release you for lunch at designated time (between 10:45 – 12:00). Lunch lasts until 12:30. Work until 3:45 in the afternoon. At 4 p.m is stand up count. After count clears the units are released for dinner. You have free time up until 10 p.m. count. After that count clears you can go watch television but are not allowed outside. Lights out at 11:00pm.
The weekends are a little different as there is brunch instead of lunch. There is also a 10:00 a.m. count on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. If you don't work your time is pretty much free. There is a stand up 4:00 count EVERY DAY. (DON’T EVER SCREW UP THEIR COUNT!!!)
[I](This information was compiled from first hand experience as well as quotes/notations by other PTO members - this is for the sole purpose of aiding those headed to Alderson as well as those amazing family/friends/loved-ones graciously supporting those in Alderson!!!:clap: )
FPC Alderson
History
Opened in 1927, houses female offenders
Security Level
minimum/female
Population
As of February 2006 the FCI inmate populations was 1108. Weekly figures are available on BOP's website at www.bop.gov/locations/weekly_report.jsp (http://www.bop.gov/locations/weekly_report.jsp)
Education
The institution offers GED, ESL, adult education and correspondence courses.
Vocational/Apprenticeship
Vocational training for cosmetology, horticulture, library assistant. Additionally there are masonry, HVAC, electric and plumbing programs.
Library
Both the law library and leisure library are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 8:45 p.m. The library is open Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 pm to 8:45 pm. There are electric typewriters reserved for the preparation of legal documents. Additionally there are several other typewriters available for all other typing. A copier is also available. Copies are charged to an inmates debit card and were $.15/copy as of 12/01/05. Inmates can obtain books from the Alderson public library via an inter-library loan program.
UNICOR
They are currently trying to start a call center. As of 12/01/05 UNICOR was not operational, however, you may get put on a waiting list and begin training for the call center.
Counseling/Rehab services
The institution offers a residential drug and alcohol treatment program, a drug education program, and alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous groups. The psychology department is staffed by full time psychologists.
Health Services
The institution is staffed by a physician, 5-6 physicians assistants, a nurse, dentist and a pharmacist. Outpatient care is provided. Local hospitals are approximately 20 minutes away. The pill line is available for morning, afternoon and evening dossages, seven days a week. Sick call sign up is from 6:30 to 7 a.m. four days a week. At least one physician assistant is on duty or on call 24hours/7 days per week. There is a $2 fee for sick call unless it is a chronic care issue.
Housing
There are two buildings (A and B) that house inmates. Each building has four separate ranges (about 120 women per range). Inmates are housed in two man cells. The television viewing rooms are open daily from 6 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday, 6 am to 2 am Friday and Saturday.
Smoking Areas
Inmates are permitted to smoke in designated areas but they are phasing this out in the Spring of 2006
Fitness/Recreation
The recreation department offers a fitness area (treadmill, stair stepper, bicycles, elliptical, videos: aerobic, yoga, fitness), musical instruments, and a wellness program. The hobby craft center offers leather craft, drawing, beading, crochet, ceramics and clay.
Religious Services
The institution is staffed by one full time chaplain, Chaplain Elizabeth Walker and one volunteer service officer, Christy Ford. Additionally there are contract and volunteer staff to provide services for various religious groups.
SHOWERS/RESTROOM
The restrooms are completely private. The showers are individual stalls. There are no bathtubs. Shower shoes are a must though.
Telephone Policy
Inmates have 300 minutes per month. During November and December the minutes are increased to 400 minutes. Calls may be deducted from inmates commissary account or collect calls may be made. There are 8 - 10 telephones in each range (housing unit). Telephones are operational from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
These calls cost about $2.50 for a 15 minute call anywhere in the United States if pre-paid or call collect and it will cost $8.00 to $10.00 per 15 minute call. It is always cheaper to add funds from the commissary account to the telephone account and pre-pay the calls.
Inmate mail
INMATE NAME
REGISTER NUMBER and Building and Range (Building “A” or “B” and Range “1, 2, 3, or 4”)
FPC Alderson
PO Box A
Alderson, WV 24910
All SOFT cover books and magazines should be wrapped in brown paper or envelope (no boxes!) and should ALWAYS be labeled on the package as "BOP Approved Reading Material" or "Books/Magazines Enclosed". Hard back books must be sent directly from the distributor/publisher. Please make sure that included in the address is the Inmate Reg # along with Federal Prison Camp - Alderson. (See BOP Program Statement 5266.10, Incoming Publications: PROCEDURES § 540.71)
A calendar can be sent, wrapped in brown paper or envelope and labeled "Institution Approved/Calendar".
Photos can be sent, no Polaroids - no more than 25 total in inmate's possession. We were told that NEW soft cover books and magazines can be sent. There is a maximum number of items a person can have in their possession (5 books, 2 magazines, 25 pictures, etc).
You can't mail stamps or stamped envelopes. Nothing stapled or pasted. NO food or music of any sort is allowed. I cannot receive tapes or CD's either. For you creative types or those with kids: incoming mail can't have stickers, glue, paint, glitter, or tape. Also, make sure that cards do not have any glitter, tape or glued parts - just simple store bought cards are fine.
Always include your return address and it might be a good idea to write on the back across the flap of the envelope "contents:..." and a list of what you are sending (ie. letter, 2 pages; 3 pictures; etc.) so inmate will know if anything's been removed.
At FPC Alderson there is absolutely no access to the internet and generally no access to a computer. Thus no e-mail.
Visiting Hours
Most of this info can be found on www.bop.gov (http://www.bop.gov/) or call 304-445-2901 with questions.
Inmates are limited to 20 visitors on their visiting list. Immediate family members are usually approved promptly because they are generally on inmate’s PSI. If not automatically approved, then each visitor must complete an application for review and approval BEFORE being added to visiting list. Inmate will need to send visitor an application. The application must be sent back to the counselor NOT the inmate. BOP will do a background check and will then notify the inmate if you are approved or not. This can take several weeks depending on the counselor. If you have a prior arrest record that does not automatically mean you can not visit, this will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An inmate can have 4 adult visitors at a time, more may be allowed with prior approval through staff. You can have up to 6 children with those adults at a time.
Visiting Hours are Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Thursday – 8:15am – 3:15pm
Friday – 2:15pm – 9:30pm.
Visitor's are permitted to wear shorts (no shorter than 4" above the knee). No miniskirts, halter tops, see-through clothing, sleeveless or anything considered to be revealing. Sandals are allowed, however, house/shower shoes/flipflops are not allowed. This dress code applies to adults and children. It is best to always carry an extra set of conservative clothing in the car - in case a CO states that someone is dressed inappropriately - so that you can hurry and change before coming into the facility.
Visitors may bring the following items 1 clear plastic purse/bag, 1 lipstick, 1 facial compact, 1 comb or brush, 2 packs unopened cigarettes, 1 cigarette lighter, 3 packs matches, 2 cans/ pouches tobacco, money (change and dollar bills). Also allowed to bring INFANT baby items including diaper bag, baby carrier, food, bottles, unopened formula, lotion, powder, blanket, change of clothes, ointment, wipes, toy.
Visitors may bring prescription medicines for their use (to be left at officer station while visiting). This is right out of the handbook. This list is not all inclusive, it does not address items that are part of an individual's person such as jewelry, eye glasses, billfold, etc for which all are authorized.
Visitors need driver's license, state ID card or two forms of ID with full name and signature to be allowed to visit. Visitor must also know their license plate number, make, year and color of car driving. Also, make sure that you have current registration and insurance – as some facilities require this.
Visitors may not leave anything or exchange items with inmate. This includes letters. You cannot bring anything to show inmate at all!
Inmates are authorized to wear institution issued pants, shirt and shoes. A commissary purchased t-shirt (not sleeve-less) or sweatshirt may be worn. Inmates may take the following to the visiting room: commissary card, jewelry (will be inventoried when you enter and when you leave), picture stubs.
Cameras are prohibited as are cell phones or any electronic devices. Inmates can purchase pictures via commissary prior to visit.
Visits are seldom terminated early because of overcrowding at Alderson. They have a very nice visitation center with a special room for kids filled with toys and activities. If the weather is nice you can go outside and sit on the covered patio or tables and swings. It is an all contact visit. Spouses can kiss and hug for 3 seconds upon arrival and upon departure. Adults can also embrace for 3 seconds upon arrival and departure. Children can sit on parents laps as long as they are not creating a disturbance or spectacle. There is a fenced in area outside with picnic tables. There is also swings for the kids.
They have vending machines and a good assortment of soda, sandwiches, pizza, chips, candy and other snacks. It is best to bring rolls of quarters with you because sometimes the change machines are out. Although one and five dollar bills are taken by the vending machines - they run out of change quickly.
During the holidays (Christmas to New Year's) the visitation hours are extended. Weekdays are from 8a-3p everyday, and regular visitation hours Friday-Sunday.
Alderson Hospitality House
The Alderson Hospitality House is a ministry for the friends and relatives of the women inmates housed at FPC, Alderson, WV. It is a religious run hospitality house in Alderson where people can stay when they come to visit. The phone number there is 304.445.2980. It is best to call two weeks ahead of time if you want to stay there.
If West Virginia is a long way from home for you, but if your family is able to visit they are able to stay free of charge or offer a small donation if they would like.
Alderson Hospitality House
203 High St
PO Box 579
Alderson WV 24910
Phone: 304-445-2980
Alderson Hospitality House provides housing, meals, transportation, information, and support to families and friends of women inmates at Alderson Federal Prison Camp. And they absolutely allow children and they are wonderful with them.
Additional Hotels
There is a motel right outside the gates at Alderson. It's called the Riverview and the number is 304-445-2550
Commissary
The commissary is open for regular sales Monday through Thursday. Shopping days are assigned by an inmates register number. Each person is permitted to shop on their designated shopping day. BOP policy currently sets a monthly commissary spending limit of $290. Funds may NOT be sent directly to the prison.
Deposit Fund History
In 1930 the Department of Justice authorized and established a Commissary at each Federal institution. The Commissary was created to provide a bank type account for inmate monies and for the procurement of articles not regularly issued as part of the institution administration. The purpose of individual inmate Commissary accounts is to allow the Bureau of Prisons to maintain inmates' monies while they are incarcerated. Family, friends, or other sources may deposit funds into these accounts.
Funds may be sent to Federal inmates via the United States Postal Service (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/money.jsp#USPS) or via the Western Union Quick Collect Program (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/money.jsp#Quick_Collect). In either case, the inmate must physically be housed at a Federal Bureau of Prisons' facility before funds can be received and posted. If the inmate is not physically in a Federal Bureau of Prisons' facility, the funds cannot be posted and will be returned or rejected.
U.S. Postal Service
Inmates' families and friends choosing to send inmates funds through the mail must send those funds to the following address and in accordance with the directions provided below:
Federal Bureau of Prisons
Insert Valid Committed Inmate Name
Insert Inmate Eight Digit Register Number
Post Office Box 474701
Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
The deposit must be in the form of a money order made out to the inmate's full committed name and complete eight digit register number. The Bureau of Prisons will return funds that do not have valid inmate information to the sender provided the envelope has an adequate return address. Personal checks and cash can not be accepted for deposit.
The sender's name and return address must appear on the upper left hand corner of the envelope to ensure that the funds can be returned to the sender in the event that they can not be posted to the inmate's account. The deposit envelope must not contain any items intended for delivery to the inmate. The Bureau of Prisons shall dispose of all items included with the funds.
In the event funds have been mailed but have not been received in the inmate's account and adequate time has passed for mail service to Des Moines, Iowa, the sender must initiate a tracer with the entity who sold them the money order to resolve any issues.
Western Union Quick Collect Program
Inmates' families and friends may also send inmates funds through Western Union's Quick Collect Program. All funds sent via Western Union's Quick Collect will be posted to the inmate's account within two to four hours, when those funds are sent between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. EST (seven days per week, including holidays). Funds received after 9:00 pm EST will be posted by 7:00 am EST the following morning. Funds sent to an inmate through the Quick Collect Program may be sent via one of the following ways:
1) At an agent location with cash: The inmate's family or friends must complete a Quick Collect Form. Click here (http://www.bop.gov/inmate_programs/qc_form_amended.pdf) to view a sample Quick Collect Form. To find the nearest agent, they may call 1-800-325-6000 or go to www.westernunion.com (http://www.bop.gov/disclaimer.jsp?url=www.westernunion.com).
2) By phone using a credit/debit card: The inmate's family or friends may simply call 1-800-634-3422 and press option 2.
3) ONLINE using a credit/debit card: The inmate's family and friends may go to www.westernunion.com (http://www.bop.gov/disclaimer.jsp?url=www.westernunion.com) and select "Quick Collect".
For each Western Union Quick Collect transaction, the following information must be provided:
1) Valid Inmate Eight Digit Register Number
2) Committed Inmate Name
3) Code City: FBOP
4) State code: DC
Please note that the inmate's committed name and eight digit register number must be entered correctly. If the sender does not provide the correct information, the transaction cannot be completed. The Code City is always FBOP and the State Code is always DC.
Each transaction is accepted or rejected at the point of sale. The sender has the sole responsibility of sending the funds to the correct inmate. If an incorrect register number and/or name are used and accepted and posted to that inmate, funds may not be returned.
Any questions or concerns regarding Western Union transfers should be directed to Western Union by the sender (general public). Questions or concerns should not be directed to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
For additional information concerning inmate Commissary account deposit procedures, please see the Bureau of Prisons Trust Fund/Warehouse/Laundry Manual (PS 4500.04) or 28 CFR Parts 506 and 540. For information concerning a specific deposit, please contact Federal Bureau of Prisons' staff at 202-307-2712 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.
Commissary Card
Each inmate is given an identification card which is also their commissary card. This card is utilized when inmate makes purchases at the commissary as well as debitek to be used for the washer/dryer, copier, and vending machines.
Spending Limits
There is a spending limit set by the BOP (max $290). Stamps and telephone credits are excluded from the monthly spending. There is a limit on the number of stamps you can purchase or accumulate. Overspending or signing for a withdrawal of funds when there is insufficient funds may result in disciplinary action.
A maximum of $40 can be placed on the card for debitek. There are no refunds and the vending machines do malfunction, thus use at your own risk. Lost/stolen or broken cards can be replaced for $5.
Alderson has a great commissary compared to other prisons. Available items include tennis shoes, umbrella, sweats, sweatshirt, t-shirts, hat, scarf, gloves, personal care items, food, small transistor radios, watches, craft materials including yarn, and writing materials.
Shopping when arriving:
Suggestion: Inmates should try to bring no more than $300 at self-surrender if they have resistution. This will protect you if you have FRP (restitution). Generally the first or second day of arrival, the inmate is often allowed a trip to the commissary to buy a variety of things to get them started, until their next designated shopping day.
FOR INMATE PREPARATION - Notes from various members of PTO support group
Self Surrendering
List of items allowed in during self surrender.
· cash/ money order (to be posted to your account)
· a religious medal or cross and chain (valued at no more than $100)
· a pair of earrings (they aren’t allowing big hoops anymore) (valued at no more than $100)
· wedding band (gold or silver – no jewels)
· eyeglasses (2 pairs allowed – one pair may be prescription sunglasses)
· legal documents (call ahead to see what is allowed)
· medications (again, not all will necessarily go in with you, call first)
- picture ID (to be kept on file during stay)
- Soft cover Bible is usually permitted
Photos, soft cover books (including bible) can/should be sent via mail - not taken in at self surrender, in case R&D decide to not allow it.
What I can expect when arriving:
Survival - Staying below the radar:
1. Don't complain. there are women there doing big time and they don't want to hear your complaints
2. The food is fair; like a cheap cafeteria (there is always salad)
3. It helps to be quiet for the first few weeks and watch and listen.
Your experience in prison will be what you make it. You can bemoan your fate all the time or you can use the time to reflect and work on whatever issues you feel you need to work on. You are already there and nothing will probably change that. Prison is not a fun place to be, but a positive attitude goes a long way.
Things to watch out for: groups formed for a particular reason, gossip and pettiness, relationships with other women based on favors/protection, gay sexuality (will land you in segregation (the hole)), contraband, drugs.
It has been stated often that violence is extremely rare in camps. If you stay away from the troublemakers you'll be just fine. No one will come up to you and just beat you up. No way. Most women just want to do their time. And if you do fight you will be shipped to a higher level institution. Alderson absolutely has a zero tolerance policy for violence. If you fight you get shipped. Period. If you have a history of violence you would probably not be designated to a camp. Most of the time there are just verbal arguments. Don't worry about being attacked while you are there. That is really the least of your worries. Just be respectful to others and you will find that most of the ladies are very kind.
For the most part the staff and officers are pretty cool; you respect them and generally they will respect you. Just do not try to put anything over on them; be where you are supposed to be when you are supposed to be, doing what you are supposed to be doing. NEVER make one of them look for you, and you will be fine, and NEVER screw up count. Remember to be courteous to your roommates. Clean up after yourself and do your share of the cleaning. The CO's do room inspections. Just be neat and you won't have any problems.
First 2 weeks - what it might be like:
There are anywhere 1000-1200 women at Alderson, but the compound is large and all of them are seldom in one place at one time, so it's not so noticeable. It opened in 1927, and it was modeled after a college campus in Maryland. I think you will be pleasantly surprised when you see the surroundings. There are no big fences, no barbed wire, and no locked doors.
You are not allowed to bring anything with you as far as clothing is concerned. The first thing that will do is go to R&D (receiving and discharge). This will probably take awhile. They will dress you out in a uniform. You're picture will be taken and you will meet with someone from medical to discuss any health issues that you have or any medication that you are taking. Usually whatever prescription medication you are taking they will let you keep on taking it as long as its non-narcotic. You will fill out some paperwork and they will assign you to a unit. Each place has different lay-out as far as the units go. Yes, you will be stripped searched. No cavity searches; they will do a visual search, and you will have to squat and cough; try to prepare yourself for that if you have never experienced it before.. Don't take it personal, the CO's have to do it. You will also be issued bedding, towels, and some general hygiene (soap, shampoo, tooth powder) to take with you to your unit. The next morning you will go to laundry to be issued your uniforms. They give you 3 pants, 3 shirts, 2 t-shirts, 5 underwear and 5 pairs of socks. You will also be issued black steel toed shoes (unless you have a medical restriction against steel-toes). Tennis shoes and boots are for sale at the commissary as well as extra underwear, socks, and real bras. The women in R&D aren't usually difficult, and usually the process goes smoothly.
All new commits are housed in Building A, Range 3 on the upper compound. It is a two story brick building that is less than 7 years old, and is divided into four sections; Range 1, Range 2, Range 3, and Range 4. There are about 140 women in each range, and all new commits start off in Range 3. You will be placed in the "bus stop" or in a "cube" where there is a bunk bed, two lockers, two under the bed lockers and a roommate. Each range has three TV rooms. microwaves, vending machines (snacks and pop), washers and dryers (if you don't want the laundry to do your clothes) and two large shower rooms. They even have a hair room where you can use blow dryers, curling irons and hair dryers. Range 1 and 2 are downstairs and Range 3 and 4 are upstairs.
You will spend two weeks in A & O (Admission and Orientation) learning the ins and outs of Alderson. The staff member who conducts these sessions is Darlene Johnson. She is a very nice person, but she is straight up, so don't be late for A & O. She will telll you about it in a heart beat and she will give you extra duty. So be early for A & O. It normally does not last all day, and you will have some free time during the day. After you complete A & O and are medically cleared, you will be placed in a job. Everyone works at Alderson. Usually everyone starts out in CDR (Central Dining Room). It's hard work and normally you can transfer to another position after 90 days.
Once you complete A & O, and are working you will be moved out of Range 3 into one of the other ranges because you are no longer a new commit. There are now two buildings – A building and B building. Each building has a Range 1, Range 2, Range 3 and Range 4. If you are eligible for the drug program you will end up in the B Building at some point.
Jobs
A little more detail on jobs: there are many places to work, including the kitchen, recreation, chapel, health services, landscape, education, and facilities. If you have a college degree you might want to go to education and ask about a job as a GED tutor. They can always use good tutors and it is so rewarding!! As far as how long it takes to get a job, it varies. Until you are "employed" you will probably be told by an officer to work in the unit with the orderlies cleaning. Your status will be "new commit" until you get a job. Alderson will let you actively seek a job instead of waiting to be assigned by the staff. Try landscape, education, facilities, recreation, the health services or the garage. (Don't worry, if you cannot find one - they'll give you one - - it's just better for you if you find it). Just staying in your room doing nothing is not allowed. You are required to work unless you have a medical condition that would prevent that. Usually ladies that cannot work due to their health end up going to Carswell.
Education and Recreation:
Alderson has several educational programs and recreation activities. If you don't have a GED you will be required to attend classes. There are also business classes and some college classes available. They also have the cosmetology program. This is a great program and it benefits everyone. Those being trained offer their services to inmates for hair cuts, perms, and hair dyed. They even offer facials and manicures. There is no cost to the inmates other than the cost of the perms or dyes which are purchased at commissary.
The cosmetology, course is taught by outside contractors, and classes are 5 days a week, M-F from 12 - 8 p.m. At the end of the 18 month course the inmates are tested on site, and if they pass they are licensed cosmetologists in West Virginia. Since so many states have reciprocity for cosmetologists, the inmate usually only has to apply for their license in their home state, and doesn't have to test again.
Worship/Recreation
There is a rec center, law and reading library, volleyball team, softball team, craft classes, and you are allowed to be on the compound from 6:30 am - 10 pm except during count. The chaplain is a very nice woman by the name of Rev. Elizabeth Walker, and there are many, many types of all denominational services offered. Some of the choirs will blow you away! So much talent.
Schedule (average day for inmate)
Every day is pretty much the same. Wake up at 6 a.m. and take a shower. Go to breakfast at 7 and then report to job detail by 7:30 or 8:00 for roll call. Worked until 11 a.m. Work site will release you for lunch at designated time (between 10:45 – 12:00). Lunch lasts until 12:30. Work until 3:45 in the afternoon. At 4 p.m is stand up count. After count clears the units are released for dinner. You have free time up until 10 p.m. count. After that count clears you can go watch television but are not allowed outside. Lights out at 11:00pm.
The weekends are a little different as there is brunch instead of lunch. There is also a 10:00 a.m. count on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. If you don't work your time is pretty much free. There is a stand up 4:00 count EVERY DAY. (DON’T EVER SCREW UP THEIR COUNT!!!)
[I](This information was compiled from first hand experience as well as quotes/notations by other PTO members - this is for the sole purpose of aiding those headed to Alderson as well as those amazing family/friends/loved-ones graciously supporting those in Alderson!!!:clap: )