Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring is a low-security prison located in Big Spring, Texas. It is one of the many facilities operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The prison houses male inmates and has a capacity of 883.
Established in 1930, the prison has undergone several changes over the years. In addition to housing inmates, it also provides vocational training and educational programs to help inmates prepare for their release. The prison has a commissary that provides a bank-type account for the inmates’ money and for the procurement of articles not issued regularly as part of the institution’s administration.
FCI Big Spring is part of the Federal Correctional Complex in Big Spring, which also includes a low-security prison, a detention center, and a satellite camp. The complex is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates from Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Colorado. The prison has faced criticism for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, with reports of inadequate medical care and unsanitary conditions.
| Security | Low |
| Capacity | 883 |
| Physical Address | 1900 Simler Ave Big Spring, TX 79720 |
| Mailing Address | 1900 Simler Ave Big Spring, TX 79720 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Saturday, Sunday, and federal holidays: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 432-466-2300 |
| Jurisdiction | Federal |
Overview of Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring
Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring (FCI Big Spring) is a low-security federal prison located in Big Spring, Texas. It is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a division of the United States Department of Justice. The facility houses male inmates who have been convicted of federal crimes.
The facility has a capacity of 883 inmates and primarily houses non-violent offenders. Inmates at FCI Big Spring have access to a variety of programs and services, including educational and vocational training, drug treatment, and religious services.
Overall, FCI Big Spring is designed to provide a safe and secure environment for federal inmates while also offering opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
History and Location
Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring (FCI Big Spring) is a low-security federal prison located in Big Spring, Texas, United States. The facility is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and was opened in 2000. FCI Big Spring is situated on the former Webb Air Force Base, which was closed in 1977.
The city of Big Spring is located in Howard County, Texas, and has a population of approximately 28,000 people. The city is situated between Dallas and El Paso and is easily accessible by car or plane. The closest airport to FCI Big Spring is the Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport, also known as the Airpark.
The location of FCI Big Spring on the former Webb Air Force Base was chosen due to its remote location and the availability of existing infrastructure. The site was also chosen because it was far enough away from the city of Big Spring to minimize any potential security risks.
The history of FCI Big Spring is relatively short, as the facility was opened in 2000. However, the history of the site goes back much further. The Webb Air Force Base was established in 1952 and was used as a pilot training facility until it was closed in 1977. After the base was closed, the site was used for various purposes until it was eventually chosen as the location for FCI Big Spring.
In summary, FCI Big Spring is a low-security federal prison located in Big Spring, Texas, on the former Webb Air Force Base. The prison was opened in 2000 and is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The location of the prison was chosen due to its remote location and the availability of existing infrastructure.
Facilities and Housing Units
Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring is a low-security prison located in Texas. It is part of the Federal Correctional Complex, Big Spring, which includes a low-security prison, a detention center, and a satellite prison camp. The facility has a total capacity of 883 inmates.
The housing units at FCI Big Spring are designed to provide a safe and secure living environment for inmates. The facility has several housing units, including general population units, special housing units, and a detention center. Inmates are housed in dormitories or cells depending on their classification and behavior.
The general population units at FCI Big Spring are designed to house inmates who do not require special management. Inmates in these units are housed in dormitories and have access to common areas, such as dayrooms and recreation yards. The dormitories are designed to accommodate multiple inmates and are equipped with bunk beds, lockers, and other basic furnishings.
The special housing units at FCI Big Spring are designed to house inmates who require additional management and supervision. Inmates in these units may be housed in single cells or in cells with one other inmate. These units are designed to provide a secure and safe environment for inmates who may pose a threat to themselves or others.
The detention center at FCI Big Spring is designed to house inmates who are awaiting trial or sentencing. Inmates in the detention center are housed in single cells and have limited access to common areas. The detention center is designed to provide a secure and safe environment for inmates who are awaiting court proceedings.
Overall, the housing units at FCI Big Spring are designed to provide a safe and secure living environment for inmates. The facility has a range of housing options to accommodate different inmate classifications and behavior.
Population and Inmate Classification
The Federal Bureau of Prisons has a classification system for inmates that determines their security level and the type of facility they will be housed in. The system takes into account various factors, such as the inmate’s criminal history, offense severity, and escape risk. Inmates are classified into one of five security levels: minimum, low, medium, high, and administrative.
At FCI Big Spring, inmates are classified using the BOP’s Inmate Security Designation and Custody Classification program statement. The program statement outlines the procedures for inmate classification and explains the different security levels. Inmates are assigned to a security level based on their custody and security needs, and they are housed in facilities that correspond to their security level.
Inmates at FCI Big Spring receive regular reviews of their classification status to ensure that they are housed in the appropriate facility. The BOP also provides programs and services to inmates to help them prepare for reentry into society, such as education and job training programs.
Visitation Procedures
Visiting an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring requires following certain procedures. Visitors need to make sure they comply with the rules and regulations set by the facility to ensure a smooth visitation process.
Visiting Hours
Visiting hours at FCI Big Spring are Saturday, Sunday, and federal holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Visitors should contact the facility to confirm the visiting hours before visiting. Visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid delays and long waiting times.
Visitors
All visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visiting list to be allowed to visit. Inmates are responsible for submitting the visitor form to the facility. Visitors must be at least 18 years old and have a valid identification card.
Security Factors
Visitors are subject to pat search and metal detector screening before entering the facility. Visitors are not allowed to bring any items, including cell phones, into the visiting area. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing that covers their entire body, including arms and legs.
Release Day Clothing
Visitors are allowed to bring release day clothing for the inmate. The clothing must be new and in its original packaging. Visitors are not allowed to bring any other items for the inmate on release day.
Authorized Visitors
Authorized visitors include immediate family members, relatives, and friends. Visitors who are not on the approved visiting list will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Background Check
All visitors are subject to a background check before being allowed to visit. Visitors with a criminal record may not be allowed to visit the facility.
In summary, visiting an inmate at FCI Big Spring requires following specific procedures. Visitors should ensure they comply with the rules and regulations set by the facility to avoid any delays or issues during the visitation process.
Inmate Communication and Mail
Inmates at FCI Big Spring have access to various forms of communication with the outside world. However, all communication is monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Inmates can send and receive mail at FCI Big Spring. The institution has established at least one mail depository within the institution for an inmate to place outgoing correspondence. The Warden may establish a separate mail depository for outgoing special mail. Each item placed in a mail depository must contain a return address.
- Inmate Name & Register Number
- FCI Big Spring
- Federal Correctional Institution
- 1900 Simler Ave
- Big Spring, TX 79720
All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and may be read by staff for security reasons. Inmates are not allowed to receive packages from home, but they can receive letters, photos, and money orders.
Phone Calls
Inmates at FCI Big Spring are allowed to make outbound calls to approved numbers. Inmates are not allowed to receive inbound calls, but they can set up a pre-paid account to receive calls from friends and family. All calls are monitored and recorded for security reasons.
Contact Information
Inmates at FCI Big Spring can be contacted by mail at the following address:
- Inmate Name & Register Number
- FCI Big Spring
- Federal Correctional Institution
- 1900 Simler Ave
- Big Spring, TX 79720
Friends and family can also set up a pre-paid account to receive calls from inmates by visiting the Federal Bureau of Prisons website or calling 1-800-483-8314.
Overall, while inmates at FCI Big Spring have limited communication with the outside world, the institution provides various options for inmates to stay in touch with loved ones.
Educational and Vocational Training
Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring offers a variety of educational and vocational training programs to inmates to help them acquire marketable skills, obtain employment after release, and reduce their chances of recidivism. These programs include literacy classes, English as a Second Language, parenting classes, wellness education, adult continuing education, and instruction in leisure-time activities.
In addition to basic education programs, FCI Big Spring offers vocational training programs that provide specific job skills and certification. These programs are instructor-led with hands-on skill building, as well as live-work projects. A variety of skilled trades are offered, including building trades, welding, heating ventilation and refrigeration (HVAC), highway construction, food service management, computer skills/desktop publishing, and more.
The institution also offers advanced occupational education programs, such as green insulation technology, masonry trades, plumbing trades, and wind energy technicians. These programs provide inmates with the opportunity to learn advanced skills that can lead to higher-paying jobs upon release.
FCI Big Spring’s library services are also available to inmates, providing access to a wide range of reading materials and resources to support their education and personal growth. Additionally, UNICOR, a government corporation that provides job training and employment opportunities to inmates, operates at FCI Big Spring, offering vocational training in commercial maintenance and other industries.
Overall, FCI Big Spring’s educational and vocational training programs aim to equip inmates with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully re-enter society and lead productive lives.
Medical and Psychology Services
As with any correctional facility, Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring, provides medical and psychological services to its inmates. These services are crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of the inmates while they serve their sentences.
Medical services at FCI Big Spring include sick calls, emergency care, and medication management. Inmates can request medical attention through the sick call process, which involves filling out a request form and being seen by a medical professional. Emergency care is available 24/7 for serious medical issues. Medication management is also provided to ensure that inmates receive their prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosage.
Psychology services at FCI Big Spring include evaluation and treatment for mental health issues. Inmates can request an evaluation if they are experiencing mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
The Psychology Services Manual at FCI Big Spring outlines the various tasks that are essential to the safety and security of staff and inmates. These tasks include the Inmate Suicide Prevention Program, which involves risk assessment, intervention, and staff training.
Overall, the medical and psychological services provided at FCI Big Spring are designed to meet the needs of the inmate population and ensure that they receive the care they require.