Hello everyone,
Yes, I am a former prison inmate and I know you have a lot of question regarding time and life in a federal prison camp.
I want to put your mind at ease and make you aware of things to come and what to expect because what you think about is worse than what actually is or happens.
I will share with you my experience and answer any question you may have about going to prison or about loved ones who are in prison. I will provide you with detailed accounts from the first day to the day you leave.
My goal is to help you overcome your fears of the federal prison system and be at peace. Trust me it is not like the movies or what you read or hear about in the news. Prison is actually about how you look at it and how you adapt to changes.
Please contact me with your questions and comments at rickey@formerprisoninmate.com and I will help you with the facts about life in a federal prison camp.
Thank you and God Bless,
Rickey
Comment: The information I am sharing with you is based on 2 years incarceration at one federal prison camp in the United States.
what prison or s” did you go to
I was in only one Federal Prison Camp, Pollock, Louisiana.
is there music equipment in camps ?? been a musician my whole life??
Yes, the prison camp I was in had a piano, a keyboard, 2 guitars, 1 electric guitar, and sound equipment which were kept in the chapel or recreation room.
How long does it take before you can use the commissary
make a phone call
have a visitor
Use of commissary, phone and having visitors happen within a week.
For example, I self surrendered on a Monday, purchased items in the commissary on Tuesday, called my wife on Thursday and she was able to visit on Saturday.
Thank you so so much for your site.
Your “words of wisdom” are just that - wisdom, and very valuable, thank you, thank you for sharing!
One question:
Is there a difference between federal prison and a federal prison camp?
Thanks
Yes, there is a difference but also some similarities.
I know someone currently in Pollock. He said its very violent. Beatings and stabbings daily. Murders. Said he’s just trying to make it out alive.
Tilly, thanks for your comment and let me clarify a few things.
Yes, you heard correctly, fact is there were numerous stabbings and violent gang fights while I was there but not every day.
The clarification is that Pollock is a high security federal prison and a federal prison camp next door. The camp was not violent and that’s where I was.
The camp inmates had work details to maintain the grounds, vehicles and buildings around the high security prison.
I also wanted to ask…. My frieind was told the feds would be taking 50% of any money’s sent into him after 60 days. That means all his freinds and family will be paying for his restitution??? That is wrong…but it may well be true… DianeO
Diane, very good question, yes it is true.
Let me explain, if their is restitution to be paid, usually 25% is taken out of the inmates funds (and that is only a start). If the funds are increased for any reason, the prison system re-evaluates and increases the percentage of taking out of the inmates account. It’ best to have little or nothing. I learned this through my own experience. The prison’s primary goal while inmates are incarcerated is to make sure they pay every dime while they are there.
This is a very good thing you have created Ricky. Their is not many forums to discuss this kind of “life altering’ events. I do appreciate it.
what kind of items were available in the commisary? kind of food, magazines, toiletries, , hobby materials, etc. Also, was their a limit on purchases in the commisary and phone time?
Hello Chance,
Thank you for your words of appreciation, my goal is to help in any way possible because there are so many innocent people going to prison.
Regarding the commissary, the best way to describe it is that it’s like one of those gas station convenient stores but on a smaller scale with not the large selection.
There was no limit on buying things except for buying stamps and I think that was because the inmates used it as currency (check out to post on currency).
*Magazines and newspapers were delivered with the mail because inmates were allowed to subscribe to magazines. The camp did get local and national newspapers which were displayed in the library daily for inmates. Inmates also shared there magazines with others.
*Hobby materials were purchased a little different. they had to be ordered through the recreational department with approval.
*Phone time was regulated as well. At the time I was in from 04 and 05, each inmate was allowed 300 minutes a month and 400 on November and December (holidays). We were also limited to 15 minutes per call and then had to wait an hour before the next call, although I think they now changed that to a 30 minute wait now. The phone calls are also monitored so inmates have to be discreet.
Rickey,
Are you from louisiana? The last name looks cajun.
Chance,
Yes, I am from Louisiana, Lafouche Parish and the last name is cajun.
hello rickey,
i was just wondering, what was the majority of race in the prison that you were in?
PS: I am doing a reasearh paper on prisons and if there was anything that you could tell me that would help me finish it?
thank you,
jerod
Jerod,
My percentages are based on one federal prison camp during 2005 and 06 with an inmate population of about 90 people average.
35% Black, 35% Mexican, 20% White, 8% Asian and 2% American Indian
rickey
i have another question, so….what were the typical crimes that the inmates commited to go to jail???
thank you
jerod
Jerod,
The majority of inmates in the federal prison camp I was in were drug related. What you don’t here about is that most all inmates are in prison because of conspiracy, intimidation, and even threats if they don’t cooperate or plead guilty.
Rickey,
Thanks for the your postings. The information is very helpful for someone new to all of this. I just found out that I am self surrending to Pollock Camp on 8/20. Do you have any special advise on what to expect. Also, anything about the facility would be great. Like internet access to email my family out of state. Also, any expectations around visitation. -Thanks so much!
Kevin,
I am glad that my site is helpful to you. My goal is to help anyone who is facing a federal prison camp.
Pollock is where I was for 2004 and 05. So all the information I have posted is based on my experience there.
I’m sorry to say but there was no email access while I was there. Inmates were not allowed to touch a computer unless they used one for their work detail.
what about furloughs?
Furloughs are becoming a thing of the past. I say that because even though the BOP has some guidelines on the subject, it’s all up to the personal rules and approval of the camp administrator and Warden.
how do you calculate the halfway house time?
thanks for your help
I don’t know exactly but I have noticed based on people in half way houses and those going that it typically works out to be one month for each year an inmate is incarcerated.
do you have any info on oakdale camp?
The only information I know about Oakdale camp is that it was about an hour or so drive from Pollock camp where I was and that Oakdale was established before Pollock.
My husband reports tomorrow Aug 22 08 to serve a 6 mth sentence @ the Federal Prison Camp @ Pollock - He also is someone that has never been in trouble with the law - This is very intimidating for all involved - What is everyday life like in the FPC & what priveleges do people have - Like Karey asked above about musical instruments, are there sports options , tennis etc.. & what are the limitations on your activities - Also, what should he expect , I think the not knowing is the worst for all of us , including my husband ! Thanks for the insight that i’ve already read , it has answered a few questions for us already !
I did forget to ask this also, but did you witness anyone or know of anyone who were able to get things pertaining to there business from people on the outside - Not necessarily completely conduct business, but my husband was told he would possibly still be able to receive plans from me for him to still bid jobs - Do you know of this or know where I could find this out ?
Hi Nelly,
There are a lot of sports activities available, when I left there was a basketball court, baseball field, handball court, volleyball, open field for soccer and flag football, and a walking track.
The best way to describe life on a prison camp quickly is to imagine being on your own property for 6 months and not being able to leave it.
The thoughts in your mind of the prison camp is worst than the camp itself.
So have your husband focus on the situation as him being on a job sight where the BOP leads the project. That’s what I did.
To answer the second part of your comment the answer is yes, he can still do his work because I have actually seen a tax accountant do peoples taxes which I consider it to be similar in receiving and mailing work.
Your site has been very helpful. My brother just left for a five month sentence for Pollock Camp on Monday of this week. How much money will he need while he is there. What do you buy with your money. Can he smoke there?
Thank you Dianne, five months will fly by quickly for him. The biggest cost in a camp is the use of phone, I use to spend at least $60 on just phone calls. Commissary was about $10 to $20 depending on the amount of items someone enjoys. The biggest cost in commissary goods is the first couple of weeks because your getting one time items like a padlock, radio, good razor and toothbrush, watch and toiletries which cost me about $50.
Items available in the commissary is pretty much like the items in a convenient store when you stop for gas. Lots of junk food, basic over the counter medication and vitamins, stamps, underwear and sweats, a selection of radios and basic toiletries. Again, like a small convenient store.
I believe smoking is now prohibited, I say that because at the time I was in Pollock in 04 and 05, smoking was still allowed but the BOP was in the transition of eliminating tobacco products and going to a smoke free facility.
My friends son is in Pollock for life. I was wondering if you may have met him in the place, nice to know if someone met him and he was okay, he says he is but then would he say he wasn’t( don’t want anyone to worry about him). His name is Dan Wert. Any info would be great. Also do you know if there is a way to request someone be moved closer to his family, as it is a hardship being 13 hrs from him? Thanks
Hello KC, let me first clarify something about Pollock. It’s a high security prison and a prison camp adjacent to it. Sorry but I have not met Dan because he is probably in the high security prison area and not the camp where I was. I’m sure Dan has already put in the paper work needed to transfer closer to home but it’s up to the BOP to decide his case and availability. Pray and hope for the best.
hey man im bout to self serrender september 15th i got a lil time to do i was sentenced to misprison felon and considered a non violent offender and this is my first offense which i thinks bullshit and a bullshit charge that i got… but i been reading alot of stuff on pollock and im suppost to be going to the camp not the hard core jail with lifers… and my parents are going nutts reading about all these killings and stuff and i dont want her to worrie and im just looking to hear how is the camp and is there anything i should know not to do and that i dont know…. and i was wondering they dont have boxing in there? im just trying to do my time get in get out im not looking for friends are to talk to anyone in there bc haft my familys been to prison but in state prisons and they filled me in on somethings and im just seeing what its like… thanks for your help
Kevin, yes there is a lot of issues wrong with our justice system. Now regarding Pollock, the camp is safe and those who do cause trouble are quickly removed and disceplined. No boxing, fighting is strictly prohibited and those caught are taken out of the camp.
Rest assured that life in a camp is better than what you think it might be. You will be fine, just keep to yourself and always be honest because your word is your honor and respect among the inmates. Don’t volunteer information, just answer questions with simple answers and be on your best behavior around correctional officers.
yea i just want to get in get out im far from a trouble maker and i just dont want to get caught up in any of other peoples stuff thats why i said i dont want to be all buddy buddy with someone i dont know because you cant trust noone….and i know one thing never let noone know your real time that you have bc the simple fact when somone that dosnt care and knows your about to get out may try to plant something on you and keep you there you know like my cuzins said just be you and and honor your word… that sux they dont have a boxing program i would def like to have been still doing what i do but i guess ill have to wait for that a couple of years.. sux but ya man thanks for the info and the info on this jail help out alot and helps the rents to calm down… as for me im good it hasnt hit me yet but im sure it will but i dont have problems with noone and i def.. dont want no trouble while im in there i just dont want noone to think they can walk on me are anything are try testing me hope its nothing like that and have no problems but i guess ill find out…. hope all is well for you and thanks again man
Two years went by fast for me, just find something to keep you busy and it will go by quickly. Let me suggest playing handball, great for hand eye coordination and speed.
Regarding the inmates, you will quickly spot the trouble makers and the rat by observation, then just stay away from them.
yea i understand on that part thats why im in the mess im in bc of rats but ya i draw real good and got a big background of diffrent talents so ill keep bizy and keep my head in books and stay away from trouble… thanks for all the information on this camp and the federal prison life its a big help and god bless i wish the best for you and your family….
Thanks for the blessing I receive it and the kind words. Glad to be of help.
I am glad you mention drawing because I like to draw as well. I was able to buy a sketch pad, colored pencils and a calligraphy pen throught the recreational department. Buying art supplies will require filling out some paperwork but it was simple to do. There is also Leather craft classes available. Take care Kevin, you will be just fine.
Are there any drug programs to help reduce time?
Yes there are drug programs available but that’s something inmates have to discuss with the case manager and camp administration at their team meeting while incarcerated. I remember inmates being transfered to other camps for that very issue and their sentence were reduced by a few months to a year. These programs have a waiting list because of curriculum schedules and prison population.
Rickey,
My brother is being transfered to Pollock camp from oakdale min after serving about 3 yrs there. He was wondering more about the music equipment and the ability to order something music related if he wanted it. Did you know of or happen to see anyone get new music equipment in there during your stay? Also you didnt mention a drum kit or bass guitar(4 larger strings). Were they there at all? Did some of the inmates acctually form bands and have shows?
Also, How are the radio stations there?
Did you have the ability to come and go from the yard whenever you wanted to? I am sure not after 10:30 lights out but how about during the day?
Ever have any problems with the inmates from the USP pollock or worry for your safty while serving time at the camp and working at the max? Work inside the max? What jobs are available and what did you do? Anything with automotive available?
I know this is a lot of questions. But this is my brother here and I want to get him as much info as I can. Thanks for your time! You are to be saluted for your work here helping the future inmates, transfering inmates and their families understand the issues they face and answering their questions!
Finally, my brother heard that the food was better there at the max than at oakdale because those guys “stand up and get what they want more often”. How is the chow?
Playin bass in Houston Texas and missing my brother,
Mark
Everyone check out FAMM (families against mandatory minimums)
We can all work to change this seriously flawed system!
I was not too sure that i made myself clear that he is going to the camp after my comments about the food at the max. But I think he was assuming that you would eat the same chow. Do you guys have your own kitchen?
Mark
Hello Mark, Now to answer your questions.
The music equipment available when I left was a keyboard, piano 2 guitars and 1 electric guitar with amplifier, no bass guitar or drums. About the only thing you could order would be sheet music. Any new instrument would have to be coordinated with camp administration.
There was one instance where a group of guys got together to sing as a group for the camp staff and inmates during Christmas visitation.
The radio station were ok but I didn’t listen to then much and the quality of radio made a big difference based on the inmates.
Yes, you can go in and out of the building as you want until lights out.
No problem with inmates, they usually keep to themselves, you quickly learn who to stay away from.
Yes, there are times when the campers have to work in the max, this only occurs when the max is under lock down and the campers are brought in to help with the food service.
Jobs range from food service, orderlies, education, landscape, welding, warehouse, unicor and garage. I worked in the garage as the clerk. They are always on the lookout for mechanics in the garage.
The food was pretty good, I compared it to the same quality as a college cafeteria. There is some repeat items you will get tired of but the holidays bring out the best foods and make up for it.
Thanks Rickey,
I will relay this information to my brother.
Thanks!
Mark
hey rickey i was given 10 months hopefully in texas well i was charged with tranporting elegals further in to texas this was the first time and i dont have a bad record at all only one moving violation (traffic ticket) well do you think i will be sent ta a camp ps. I have medical problams and the juge said she was going to recamend a medical facilaty . what are those like and what are my chances
one more thing my brother was cought with me we both been on bond for about 8 months now and we were finally give a date an we have to self serrender in januarry will it be possable we will go to the same place he also has a clean record like mine thanks
Alex, with a first time offense, only ten months and self-surrender. Yes, you can pretty much expect to be in a camp providing this is a federal offense. Unsure about you and your brother being in the same place, never heard of that one before but again with a minor offense it’s possible.
Now regarding the medical condition, they will provide for your medication but as for a special facility, hard to say, there are some but usually there is a waiting list of openings. Wish I had better answers but the BOP is so unpredictable.
well, i use a c-pap machine and a oxagen tank to sleep its mandatory due to a stroke i had last december of 07 will they let me have that in there with me and tons of medacation my weight is 450+ so hope thats almost a garantee another stroke soon
Alex, your medical needs will be a special case for the BOP and they will have to deal with it and yes I believe they will let you have it as long as it’s approved by a doctor. Again, you will be a special case.
I too spent the better part of two years in a federal prison camp. I tried to research everything I could prior to reporting, but the information that was available was scarce, dated, and mostly inaccurate. So much so, I wrote and published my own website when I got out (www.FederalPrisonCampTour.com). I have received mostly very flattering reviews about the site. It’s more than 300 pages with text, PDF forms, and photographs. No scare tactics about “surviving” or other misinformation, but instead relevant information and guidance for those people with no prior “experience” in the federal penal system who simply want to do their time with the least amount of anxiety.
Hi Rickey, Your site is very informative and insightful. I have been convicted of a drug conspiracy and sentenced to serve 27 months. I have a question for you. I noticed that you said an inmate is often judged on his honesty. I received a 5k1 departure for cooperating with the investigation. What do I say to other inmates if I am asked about this? Do I lie and say that I didn’t cooperate or should I be honest? I don’t consider myself to be a “rat” by any means, however I was facing 60 months to 40 years if I didn’t cooperate. While I am incarcerated, I would never dream of snitching on a fellow inmate. Any insights that you may have for me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Brian, thank you for the kind words and visiting my site. Now to your question. Based on what you mention it’s a reasonable conclusion that you will be in a camp. A lot of inmates are in similar situation of drug conspiracy, so you will not be the only one in that status. Yes, be honest and just say it was a drug conviction and leave it at that and don’t volunteer any other information. Inmates do not usually pry in other inmates business and they will respect your silence. If someone does continue to ask you for further details then it’s best to keep away from them.
My man just got transferred to fci elkton in ohio. When he got locked up, he used his new jersey address. I live in miami and we recently found each other again and the sparks were still there. Our plans are for him to come home to me to miami. How do we get a transfer? I don’t want him to have to go to a hwh in jersey. Can he change his address to mine or will he have to keep that address? His son lives there. Thanx for the info. GOD BLESS YOU!
Liz, glad to hear that the romance is still alive and well. Now regarding transfer, first there has to be room available, usually towards the end of a sentence, inmates are transfered close to their home address or where family lives and then to a half way house close by. The situation you mention is basically starting a new life somewhere else. He will just have to ask the case manager, apply for transfer and explain the reasons why. The BOP questions everything that is not in the guidelines of normal operations but they do bend the rules. Pray and hope for the best. God bless!
Thanxxx, got another question for you. How much money does he need monthly? He doesn’t want to ask me and I did send him some he was grateful but he felt bad…his tone was sad. He never asks me for anything. I want to take care of him but I heard that if you put too much money in the BOP takes some of it away. I just want to put enough for him. Can he find out it’s me putting money in? His mom sends him $$$ but I want to alleviate her too. Thank you again and may God bless you greatly…this site helps us so much!
Liz, thank you for the caring words, my goal is to help and it motivates me to hear when I do. Now to answer your question. Yes, you are right about sending to much money because if he has restitution to pay the BOP will take it out. Sounds like you have a good man to take care of and support is everything so write to him a lot (mail call is the highlight of each day).
Regarding the amount of money, I remember being comfortable with $125/month which covered restitution, minutes for phone calls and commissary items (2004 and 05). He is probably getting some finances through a work detail as I did and that helps him some. It’s best to ask him because he knows the financial need best but do it in writing. He does get a report that says how much was deposited into his account but not from who.
Thanks for the blessing and may God bless you also, take care.
Out of curiosity, how does one get approved by the BOP for calls and visits? I called the other place he was at and just asked the girl to add my number. They were giving him a hard time when we got together. They told him that he had to wait a few months to make changes to his lists. Once my number was added, I sent him a letter and he was able to call me. He didn’t add me then for visits because we were waiting on his transfer. Does he have to do a list all over again or just add me? Do they check background? Do they ask me directly by mail? He just got transfered and I called Elkton and they said he couldn’t call anyone from 2 to 4 weeks time. So…..I have insomnia…he used to call me right before I went to sleep. I loved that his was the last voice I heard ever night. Never in my life have I ever paid so much attention to time. I complain that 300 minutes isn”t enough time….and that time doesn’t go fast enough when you’re waiting for your love ones to come home. We fell in love when we were kids in high school. Our moms separated us and it has been 15 years since we’ve seen each other. But once we found each other…it didn’t matter where he was….just that we were together somehow. We always say…”NOR TIME OR DISTANCE CAN EVER TRULY SEPARATE US….IT COULDN’T BEFORE…IT WON’T NOW”. True Love Last Forever!! Sorry that I got sentimental…I just miss him so much.
Liz, adding a new number is done by the inmate through a simple form request. Adding a visitor is a form that is sent to you to fill out and then sent back to the BOP for approval. I’ll agree they don’t move very fast. I don’t know what takes place during transfer with records but I do know that each institution has different rules. I don’t think the list is re-done, they are just processing, again they are not in a hurry. Focus on the love you cherish with him, worry and frustration does not accomplish anything. The best therapy is to write a letter and carry on a conversation as though he were there.
I agree, LOVE can not be stopped because it does last forever.
Rickey
Wondering if you could shed some light on my situation based on your observations. My plea deal was a split 5-n-5, 5 months in, 5 months home detention. Judge instead sentenced me to 1 year and 1 day, which may fit with the luck I’ve had in life. My lawyer tells me its not all bad b/c I’m eligible for parole the minute I hit the door at the institution (wanted Morgantown, but am going to Lewisburg Camp). My question is: In your experience, am I going to do 2 days, 2 weeks, 2 months, or the full tilt? I was told the 1 day had significance, that it was a message that the Judge really didn’t want me there to begin with, but had to send me. As an Attorney myself, I find this hard to believe, but then again, I never did do much criminal (defense) work.
Like all the other posts, thanks for your comments. They help take the fear out of this process. Not sure who your forum is more cathartic for, you or us. Thanks again,
dug
Dug, based on what I have observed you will probably serve 11 months in camp and one month in the halfway house. The 1 day simply just puts you in another set of guideline rules of the BOP.
Yes, there is a lot of talk about parole and second chance but the fact is that it’s talk and the BOP operates on facts and written law guidelines.
Thanks for liking the posts, the blog is to help you.
Rickey,
Wonderful site. I am self surrendering on 12/9/08. No criminal history, mail fraud - 1st time offense. I am sentenced to 15 months. My questions: (1) Prior to turning myself in, is there a way to find out from my P.O or lawyer whether I will be in the prison or the camp? (2) Also, should I take a money order for commissary or should i have a family member standing by to add money to my account via Western Union? (3) For a 15 month sentence, how much time will I actually serve? I am hearing 13 months. If you could provide clarification, please let me know. May God bless you.
dasmith7, you will be recieving a letter or some notice from the BOP as to where and yes, it will be a camp. Take a money order with you, makes things easier to start (be sure to get clear direction for wiring money later). You are also correct about not serving the whole 15 months, it’s more like 14, possibly 13 and about one months halfway house time.
When you receive the BOP letter, you or have a family member call the institution and ask about items to bring and money order (filling it out).
God bless you as well and always trust in Him!
my friend has less than 3 months left in federal prison and has already turned in his halfway papers does this mean he’ll be coming home soon? how long before you actually go to the halfway house and how long is the stay there?
Janet, yes, it does mean he is coming home soon. In 3 months he will transfer from prison to a halfway house. As to how much time he spends in a halfway house depends on how many years he was in prison. Roughly speaking, it’s about 30 to 45 days for each year.