Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Waseca is a low-security female prison located in southern Minnesota that has been the subject of recent scrutiny. The prison, which was established in 1995, has a capacity of 712 inmates and provides a variety of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their release and reentry into society.
In May 2023, the Department of Justice’s Inspector General released a report on their inspection of FCI Waseca. The report highlighted several areas of concern, including inadequate medical care, understaffing, and a lack of access to educational and vocational training programs. The report also noted that the prison had experienced a significant increase in violence and use of force incidents in recent years.
Despite these challenges, FCI Waseca remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for its inmates. The prison offers a range of programs and services, including drug treatment, mental health counseling, and job training, to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society upon their release.
| Security | Low |
| Capacity | 712 |
| Physical Address | 1000 University Dr, Sw Waseca, MN 56093 |
| Mailing Address | P. O. Box 1731 Waseca, MN 56093 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Sunday, Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Friday: 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 507-835-8972 |
| Jurisdiction | Federal |
History and Overview
Federal Correctional Institution Waseca is a low-security female institution located in Waseca, Minnesota. The facility was established in 1995 and is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). FCI Waseca is situated on a 43-acre site and has a capacity of 712 inmates. The facility houses female offenders who are convicted of federal crimes.
FCI Waseca provides a range of programs and services to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. These programs include education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Inmates can also participate in various recreational activities, such as sports and fitness programs.
The facility has faced several challenges in recent years. In 2020, FCI Waseca experienced a COVID-19 outbreak that affected many inmates and staff members. The BOP implemented various measures to contain the spread of the virus, including suspending visitation and providing personal protective equipment to staff and inmates.
In 2023, the DOJ Office of the Inspector General conducted an unannounced inspection of FCI Waseca and found that the facility faced several critical challenges, despite being scored as a lower risk on the OIG’s pilot risk assessment model. The report highlighted that while FCI Waseca is generally well-run and both inmates and staff reported feeling safe, the facility faces challenges such as staffing shortages, inadequate medical care, and limited access to programming. The BOP has since taken steps to address these issues and improve conditions at FCI Waseca.
Security Measures
The Federal Correctional Institution Waseca takes security measures seriously to ensure the safety and security of staff, inmates, and visitors. As a low-security women’s prison, FCI Waseca has implemented various security measures to prevent escapes, contraband smuggling, and other security breaches.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has established security protocols that FCI Waseca follows to ensure compliance with federal regulations. The BOP conducts regular inspections to ensure that all security measures are up-to-date and effective.
Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining security at FCI Waseca. They are responsible for conducting regular patrols, monitoring inmate activities, and responding to emergencies. The institution has implemented a staffing plan that ensures adequate staffing levels to maintain safety and security.
In addition to correctional officers, FCI Waseca has implemented various technological security measures. The institution has installed surveillance cameras in strategic locations to monitor inmate activities. The cameras are monitored by trained staff who can quickly respond to any suspicious activity.
Furthermore, FCI Waseca has implemented a comprehensive contraband control program to prevent the smuggling of illegal items into the institution. The program includes regular searches of inmates, visitors, and staff to prevent the introduction of contraband.
Overall, FCI Waseca has implemented various security measures to ensure the safety and security of all individuals within the institution. The BOP conducts regular inspections to ensure that all security measures are up-to-date and effective.
Facilities and Operations
Federal Correctional Institution Waseca is a low-security federal prison located in Waseca, Minnesota. The facility is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and houses female inmates. FCI Waseca has a capacity of 712 inmates. The facility has a Special Housing Unit (SHU) for inmates that BOP staff has determined need to be separated from the general population for security reasons.
FCI Waseca has a variety of facilities and programs for inmates. The facility has a medical department, dental services, a psychology department, and a recreation department. Inmates also have access to educational programs, including GED classes and vocational training. The facility has a library, and inmates can also participate in religious services.
Operations at FCI Waseca are conducted in accordance with BOP policies and procedures. The facility has a staff of correctional officers who are responsible for maintaining order and security within the facility. FCI Waseca also has administrative staff who oversee the day-to-day operations of the facility.
Due to the nature of the facility, there are strict procedures in place for visitors. Visiting hours are limited, and visitors must be on an approved list. Additionally, visitors are subject to search and must adhere to a dress code. The facility may restrict or cancel visiting for safety and security reasons, such as severe weather or other incidents that will impact normal operations at the facility. Therefore, it is recommended that visitors call the facility to confirm the visiting schedule before departing for their visit.
In conclusion, FCI Waseca is a well-equipped facility that provides a variety of programs and services for its inmates. The facility operates in accordance with BOP policies and procedures, and visitors must adhere to strict procedures to ensure the safety and security of the facility.
Inmate Life
Inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca have access to a range of services and resources that help them maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity during their incarceration.
Food
Inmates are provided with three meals a day, which are prepared by the facility’s kitchen staff. The food is nutritionally balanced and meets the dietary needs of the inmates. The menu is rotated on a regular basis, and special diets are provided to inmates with specific medical or religious needs.
Commissary
Inmates are allowed to purchase additional items from the commissary, which is a store located within the facility. The commissary carries a variety of items, including food, personal hygiene products, clothing, and electronics. Inmates are allowed to spend up to $360 per month at the commissary.
Clothing
Inmates are provided with basic clothing items, including underwear, socks, and jumpsuits. Inmates may also receive release clothing 30 days prior to their release date or transfer to a Residential Reentry Center (RRC). Inmates must contact their Correctional Counselor 45 days prior to their release to get an Authorization to Receive Package Request form, which allows them to receive these items.
Responsibilities
Inmates are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their living areas and participating in institutional programs and activities. Inmates are also responsible for following all institutional rules and regulations, which are designed to promote safety and security within the facility.
Orientation
New inmates receive an orientation that includes information about the facility’s rules and regulations, as well as information about the programs and services that are available to them. The orientation is designed to help inmates adjust to their new surroundings and understand what is expected of them during their incarceration.
Disciplinary Action
Inmates who violate institutional rules and regulations may be subject to disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may include loss of privileges, placement in segregation, or transfer to another facility. Inmates have the right to due process and may appeal disciplinary decisions.
Communication and Mail
Communication with inmates at Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca is limited, but it is allowed. The facility has strict rules and regulations regarding communication and mail. Inmates are allowed to send and receive letters, but they are subject to inspection and monitoring by the staff. Phone calls are also allowed, but inmates must use a phone card purchased from the commissary.
To send letters to an inmate, the U.S. Postal Service is the only acceptable method. The inmate’s full name and registration number must be included in the address:
- Inmate Name & Register Number
- FCI Waseca
- Federal Correctional Institution
- P.O. Box 1731
- Waseca, MN 56093
All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection and may be read by the staff. Stationery and envelopes are available for purchase from the commissary.
Inmate mail is an important part of their communication with the outside world. It is subject to the same rules and regulations as regular mail. Inmates are allowed to receive letters, photographs, and certain publications, but they are not allowed to receive packages. Any unauthorized items will be returned to the sender or confiscated.
Electronic devices are not allowed in the facility, and therefore, email communication is not possible. Inmates are not allowed to access the internet or use social media.
Overall, communication and mail at Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca are limited but allowed. Inmates are allowed to send and receive letters, but they are subject to inspection and monitoring by the staff. Phone calls are also allowed, but inmates must use a phone card purchased from the commissary.
Visitation Rules
Visiting an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca, Minnesota, is permitted only in the designated visiting areas during specified visiting hours. The visiting schedule for the institution, including all of its components, is available on the official website of the Federal Bureau of Prisons WAS-5267.08e.
Visitors should note that visiting hours and days may vary depending on the inmate’s housing unit and custody level. Visitation hours are as follows: On Fridays, visiting will begin at approximately 4:30 p.m., and conclude at 8:30 p.m. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays, visiting will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. No visitors will be processed after 7:30 p.m. on Fridays or after 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays. Visitors will be prohibited from entering on institution grounds prior to 8:15 a.m. and between the hours of 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., on weekends and holidays. On Fridays, visitors may not enter the institution grounds prior to 4:15 p.m.
To visit an inmate, visitors must be on the inmate’s approved visiting list. Before visiting, visitors should confirm the whereabouts of the inmate they would like to visit. They can do this by contacting the institution or visiting the BOP Inmate Locator.
Visitors must comply with the visiting regulations established by FCI Waseca. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and security of the institution, staff, inmates, and visitors. Visitors who fail to comply with the regulations may be denied visiting privileges or face other disciplinary measures.
Visitors are not allowed to bring any items into the visiting area, except for a valid photo identification card and a small amount of money for vending machines. Visitors must pass through a metal detector and undergo a search of their person and belongings before entering the visiting area.
In conclusion, visiting an inmate at FCI Waseca is subject to specific rules and regulations. Visitors are advised to check the official website of the Federal Bureau of Prisons for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours, regulations, and travel advisories.
Education and Rehabilitation Programs
Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca, offers a range of education and rehabilitation programs to its inmates. These programs aim to equip inmates with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead law-abiding lives after their release.
One of the key education programs offered at FCI Waseca is the General Educational Development (GED) program. The GED program provides inmates the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency diploma. This program is designed to help inmates improve their literacy and numeracy skills, which can be crucial in finding employment after their release.
In addition to the GED program, FCI Waseca also provides access to a library. The library has a wide range of books and other educational materials that inmates can use to further their education. Inmates can also request specific books or other materials through the facility’s staff.
FCI Waseca also has a team of dedicated staff members who work with inmates to develop individualized education plans. These plans take into account each inmate’s unique needs and goals and provide a roadmap for achieving them.
The facility’s correctional counselors also play a critical role in the education and rehabilitation of inmates. Correctional counselors work with inmates to identify areas where they need help and provide them with the support and resources necessary to make positive changes in their lives.
Overall, FCI Waseca’s education and rehabilitation programs are designed to help inmates develop the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful lives after their release.
Contraband and Disciplinary Action
Contraband is a significant challenge in the Federal Correctional Institution Waseca, limiting the amount of contraband in the institution is a constant battle. The DOJ OIG report released in 2023 found that the institution’s management and staff were frustrated by the amount of contraband found in the facility. The report also highlighted the need for more staff to help combat the issue.
The FCI Waseca has strict rules and regulations in place to prevent contraband from entering the institution. Any item that is not authorized can be considered contraband. The institution has a package policy that allows inmates to receive packages from authorized sources. Inmates must contact their Correctional Counselor 45 days before their release to get an Authorization to Receive Package Request form. This form allows the inmate to receive authorized items like clothing, books, and personal hygiene products.
The unauthorized possession of contraband can result in disciplinary action. According to the DOJ OIG report, the institution’s staff has a significant challenge limiting the amount of contraband in the institution, and the possession of contraband can lead to disciplinary action. The report also found that the staff does not have enough time to close staff misconduct investigations, which can lead to frustration and a lack of discipline.
The FCI Waseca takes disciplinary action seriously, and any violation of the institution’s rules and regulations can result in disciplinary action. Any inmate found to be in possession of contraband can face disciplinary action, which can include loss of privileges, segregation, or even criminal charges. The institution also has a disciplinary process in place for staff who violate the rules and regulations. The disciplinary process can include suspension, termination, or even criminal charges.
In conclusion, the FCI Waseca faces a significant challenge in limiting the amount of contraband in the institution. The possession of contraband can lead to disciplinary action, and the institution takes disciplinary action seriously. The FCI Waseca has strict rules and regulations in place to prevent contraband from entering the institution, and any violation of these rules can result in disciplinary action.
Release and Aftercare
When a federal inmate is approaching their release date from Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca, they must contact their Correctional Counselor 45 days prior to their release to get an Authorization to Receive Package Request form. This form allows them to receive release clothing and other approved items by the facility.
The release date for inmates is determined by the Good Conduct Time (GCT) and/or Federal Time (FT) earned during their incarceration. The date can be adjusted due to disciplinary actions or other factors, such as medical issues. Inmates are provided with information on their release date and time, as well as transportation arrangements.
Upon release, inmates are provided with a bus ticket or other transportation to their designated destination. They are also given a small amount of money, typically around $50, to help them with initial expenses. Inmates are encouraged to have a plan for their release and to have a support system in place to help them reintegrate into society.
FCI Waseca also offers a range of aftercare programs for inmates who have been released. These programs include job placement assistance, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Inmates are encouraged to take advantage of these programs to help them successfully transition back into society.
Overall, FCI Waseca has a strong focus on preparing inmates for release and providing them with the necessary resources to help them reintegrate into society. By offering a range of aftercare programs and support services, FCI Waseca aims to reduce recidivism rates and help former inmates successfully transition back into their communities.
Notable Inmates
Federal Correctional Institution, Waseca, has housed several notable inmates over the years. Here are some of the most high-profile cases:
- Catherine Greig: The longtime girlfriend and accomplice of Boston mobster James “Whitey” Bulger, Greig was convicted of harboring a fugitive and identity fraud. She was sentenced to eight years in prison and was transferred to FCI Waseca in 2012.
- Shelley Shannon: A member of the Army of God, a militant anti-abortion group, Shannon was convicted of several crimes, including the attempted murder of an abortion provider and arson. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison and was held at FCI Waseca for part of her sentence.
These are just a few examples of the high-profile inmates who have been held at FCI Waseca. While the prison primarily houses female inmates, it has also held some male inmates in the past.
It’s worth noting that FCI Waseca has faced criticism in recent years for its staffing shortages and other issues. In a 2023 report, the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General noted that the prison has had to rely heavily on overtime and temporary reassignments due to a shortage of correctional officers. This has raised concerns about safety and security at the facility.