The United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth, commonly known as USP Leavenworth, is a medium-security federal prison located in Leavenworth, Kansas. It is one of the oldest and most well-known federal prisons in the United States. USP Leavenworth has a rich history dating back to 1895 when it was first established as a military prison. Over the years, it has housed some of the most notorious criminals in American history, including Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and Robert Stroud, also known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz.”
The prison is known for its strict security measures and high level of surveillance, making it one of the most secure prisons in the country. USP Leavenworth houses male inmates who are serving long-term sentences for federal crimes, including drug trafficking, murder, and white-collar crimes. The facility has a maximum capacity of 1,506 inmates and employs over 500 staff members.
USP Leavenworth has been the subject of controversy over the years, with some critics arguing that the prison’s strict security measures and harsh living conditions are inhumane. However, supporters of the prison argue that it is necessary to maintain the safety and security of both staff and inmates. Despite the controversy, USP Leavenworth remains an important part of the federal prison system and continues to house some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States.
| Security | Medium |
| Capacity | 1,506 |
| Physical Address | 1300 Metropolitan Leavenworth, KS 66048 |
| Mailing Address | P.O. Box 1000 Leavenworth, KS 66048 |
| Can You Send Gifts? | No |
| Visitation Hours | Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Dress Code | Yes |
| Phone Number | 913-682-8700 |
| Jurisdiction | Federal |
Background and History
United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth (USP Leavenworth) is a medium-security federal prison located in Leavenworth County, Kansas. Established in 1895, it is the oldest of the three federal prisons that were built on the grounds of Fort Leavenworth. The prison is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and has a capacity of 1506 inmates.
USP Leavenworth has a rich history and has been the subject of several books, movies, and documentaries. The prison has housed some of the most notorious criminals in American history, including Al Capone, Robert Stroud (the “Birdman of Alcatraz”), and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. The prison has also been home to several high-profile political prisoners, including former Congressman Dan Rostenkowski and former CIA agent Aldrich Ames.
Over the years, USP Leavenworth has undergone several renovations and expansions to keep up with the changing needs of the prison system. In 1930, a new cell house was built to accommodate the increasing number of inmates. In the 1950s, a new maximum-security unit was added to house the most dangerous criminals. In 2005, a new Federal Satellite Low (FSL) was built adjacent to the main prison to house low-security inmates.
USP Leavenworth has been the site of several riots and disturbances over the years. In 1959, a riot broke out that lasted for several days and resulted in the death of one inmate and the injury of several others. In 1985, a riot broke out that resulted in the death of two inmates and the injury of several others. The prison has also been the site of several high-profile escapes, including the 1910 escape of seven inmates who tunneled their way out of the prison.
Despite its troubled history, USP Leavenworth remains an important part of the federal prison system. The prison continues to house some of the most dangerous and high-profile criminals in the country and plays a critical role in maintaining law and order.
Facility Description
United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth is a medium-security prison located in Leavenworth, Kansas. The facility is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and was established in 1895. It has a capacity of 1506 inmates and is one of the oldest and most well-known federal prisons in the United States.
The facility is designed to house male inmates who have been convicted of federal crimes. It has two-person cells and open dormitories, which can accommodate different security levels of inmates. The facility also has a Special Housing Unit (SHU) for inmates who require more restrictive housing due to disciplinary or security reasons.
USP Leavenworth is known for its unique architecture, which features a series of cell blocks arranged in a “wagon wheel” formation. The cell blocks are connected by a central rotunda, which allows staff to monitor inmate movement and activities.
The facility has a range of vocational and educational programs available to inmates, including adult continuing education, apprenticeships, and vocational training. Inmates can also participate in drug and alcohol treatment programs, mental health services, and religious services.
Overall, USP Leavenworth is a well-maintained and secure facility that provides a range of services and programs to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society upon release.
Inmate Profile
United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth, has housed many notable inmates throughout its history. The facility primarily houses male inmates who have been sentenced to more than 10 years in prison. Inmates at Leavenworth are assigned to different security levels based on their criminal history, behavior, and other factors.
One of the most notorious inmates to have served time at Leavenworth was Carl Panzram, a serial killer and rapist who was executed in 1930. Another notable inmate was Michael Vick, a former NFL quarterback who served time at Leavenworth for his involvement in a dogfighting ring. James Earl Ray, the convicted assassin of Martin Luther King Jr., also served time at Leavenworth.
Some of the other notable inmates who have served time at Leavenworth include Machine Gun Kelly, a notorious gangster who was convicted of kidnapping; Tom Pendergast, a political boss who was convicted of tax evasion; George Moran, a gangster who was involved in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre; and Robert Stroud, also known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz,” who was a convicted murderer and bird expert.
In addition to these high-profile inmates, Leavenworth has also housed many other individuals who have committed a wide range of crimes. Some of the most common crimes committed by inmates at Leavenworth include drug offenses, white-collar crimes, and violent crimes.
Regardless of their crime, all inmates at Leavenworth are subject to strict rules and regulations. Inmates are required to follow a daily schedule that includes work assignments, educational programs, and recreational activities. They are also subject to regular searches and drug testing.
Overall, United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth, has a long history of housing some of the most notorious and dangerous criminals in the country. Despite the strict rules and regulations, the facility has seen its fair share of escapes and other security breaches over the years.
Programs and Services
USP Leavenworth offers a variety of programs and services to its inmates. These programs are designed to help inmates develop new skills, improve their education, and prepare them for re-entry into society.
One of the most popular programs at USP Leavenworth is the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP). This program is designed to help inmates who have a history of drug abuse overcome their addiction and learn new coping skills. The program includes both group and individual therapy sessions, as well as education on addiction and relapse prevention.
The USP Leavenworth library provides inmates with access to a wide range of reading materials, including books, magazines, and newspapers. Inmates can also use the library to improve their education by studying for their GED or taking college courses.
Inmates at USP Leavenworth can also participate in UNICOR, a government-run program that provides job training and employment opportunities to inmates. UNICOR offers a variety of jobs, including manufacturing, textiles, and electronics. Inmates who participate in UNICOR can earn a salary and gain valuable work experience that can help them find employment after their release.
Overall, these programs and services are designed to help inmates develop new skills, improve their education, and prepare them for re-entry into society. By participating in these programs, inmates can increase their chances of success once they are released from prison.
Visiting Information
Visiting an inmate at the United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth can be a complex process. Here is what you need to know to make sure your visit is a success.
Visiting Hours
The visiting hours at USP Leavenworth are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., four days a week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday). Visitors should plan to arrive as early as possible to ensure they have enough time to complete the check-in process.
Visiting Procedures
Before visiting an inmate at USP Leavenworth, visitors must be placed on the inmate’s approved visiting list. To do this, the inmate must submit a Visitor Request Form (BP-A0749) to the Visiting Room Officer. The form must include the visitor’s full name, date of birth and social security number. Visitors must complete the form in full and return it to the inmate for submission. Once approved, visitors will be notified in writing.
Visiting Regulations
Visitors must follow all regulations when visiting an inmate at USP Leavenworth. This includes dress codes, prohibited items, and behavior guidelines. Visitors must also present a valid government-issued photo identification card, such as a driver’s license or passport, and be subject to a search of their person and belongings.
Visiting Schedule
Visiting schedules may be subject to change due to institutional needs or emergencies. Visitors should check with the institution before making travel arrangements to confirm the visiting schedule.
State and Local Travel Advisories
Visitors should also be aware of any state or local travel advisories that may affect their travel plans to USP Leavenworth. For example, during inclement weather, visitors should check road conditions and plan accordingly. Visitors should also be aware of any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements related to COVID-19.
Overall, visitors should plan ahead, follow the regulations, and be prepared for a thorough screening process when visiting an inmate at USP Leavenworth.
Correspondence and Commissary
Inmates at the United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth can send and receive mail, subject to certain restrictions. Inmate mail is subject to inspection for contraband and content. The staff may also read the mail to ensure it does not contain any illegal or prohibited content. The correspondence must be addressed:
- Inmate Name & Register Number
- USP Leavenworth
- U.S. Penitentiary
- P.O. Box 1000
- Leavenworth, KS 66048
The staff mail address is different from the inmate mail address, and it is advisable to use the correct address to avoid delays and misdirection.
Inmates can also receive funds at a BOP-managed facility, which are deposited into their commissary accounts. The commissary is a store within the institution that sells various items such as food, clothing, hygiene products, and electronics. The institution releases a commissary list to the inmates, which contains the available items and their prices. Inmates can purchase items from the commissary using the funds in their account.
To send funds to an inmate, one can use the MoneyGram’s ExpressPayment Program. Funds are received and processed seven days per week, including holidays. Funds sent between 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. EST are posted within 2-4 hours. The sender must provide the inmate’s full committed name, register number, and the correct BOP facility name and address. The sender must also provide their name and address and pay a fee for the transaction.
It is important to note that inmates cannot receive cash, personal checks, or money orders. The funds must be sent electronically through MoneyGram. Inmates can also withdraw funds from their commissary account to pay for approved legal expenses, court fees, and restitution. The institution may also deduct up to 50% of the inmate’s earnings for court-ordered obligations such as child support or victim restitution.
In summary, correspondence and commissary are essential aspects of an inmate’s life at the United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth. Inmates can send and receive mail, subject to certain restrictions, and receive funds in their commissary account to purchase various items. The correct address and information must be used when sending mail or funds to avoid delays and misdirection.
Safety and Security
United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth, prioritizes the safety and security of its staff, inmates, and visitors. The institution enforces strict rules and regulations to maintain a secure environment.
The Federal Correctional Complex, which houses USP Leavenworth, has a comprehensive security system that includes electronic detection systems, surveillance cameras, and a secure perimeter. The institution also has a team of highly trained correctional officers who are responsible for maintaining order and security within the facility.
In compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), USP Leavenworth has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual abuse and assault. The institution has a PREA Coordinator who oversees the implementation of the PREA standards and ensures that all staff and inmates are aware of their rights and responsibilities under the law. The PREA Report for USP Leavenworth is available on the Bureau of Prisons website.
USP Leavenworth also has a comprehensive set of rules and regulations that govern the conduct of staff, inmates, and visitors. These rules are designed to maintain a safe and secure environment and to prevent disruptive behavior. Violations of these rules can result in disciplinary action, including loss of privileges, transfer to another facility, or criminal prosecution.
In conclusion, USP Leavenworth places a high priority on safety and security. The institution has a comprehensive security system, highly trained staff, and strict rules and regulations to maintain order and prevent disruptive behavior. The institution is also committed to preventing sexual abuse and assault in compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act.
Notable Events and Individuals
United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth has seen its fair share of notable events and individuals throughout its history. From high-profile inmates to riots and Ponzi schemes, here are a few noteworthy examples.
Notable Inmates
The prison has housed many high-profile inmates over the years, including gangsters, spies, and terrorists. Some of the most notable inmates include:
- Al Capone: The infamous gangster was imprisoned at Leavenworth in 1934 for tax evasion.
- Robert Stroud: Also known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz,” Stroud spent 17 years at Leavenworth for murder before being transferred to Alcatraz.
- Timothy McVeigh: The Oklahoma City bomber was executed at the USP Leavenworth in 2001.
Notable Events
The USP Leavenworth has also been the site of several notable events throughout its history, including:
- Riots: The prison has seen several riots over the years, including a 1980 riot at the United States Disciplinary Barracks, which resulted in the deaths of 33 inmates and injuries to over 200 others.
- Ponzi Scheme: In 2011, former Leavenworth inmate Edward J. Okun was sentenced to 100 years in prison for running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded investors out of millions of dollars.
- Audit: In 2016, the Office of the Inspector General conducted an audit of the USP Leavenworth and found several issues, including inadequate staffing levels and a lack of training for staff.
Overall, the USP Leavenworth has a storied history filled with notable events and individuals. While the prison continues to operate today, it remains an important part of the history of corrections in America.