After reviewing the information given below you may wish to refer to a section of this website entitled
“Bureau of Prisons” for fuller information provided by that agency.
How can I find out what prison I will be sent to? If you are in custody after sentencing the U.S. Marshal will receive instructions where you are to be sent and will provide transportation. If you are allowed to self-surrender you will receive notice of the institution at which you are to appear and the date and time to do so. A more permanent place of incarceration will be determined by the BOP at that time.
Can I report to the prison on my own? At the time of sentencing the judge will decide whether you are to be in custody of the U.S. Marshal or allowed to self-surrender. If allowed to self-surrender a date and place of designation will be determined by the BOP and you will be notified. You may wish to visit the BOP website for information on each federal facility. www.bop.gov
What can I take with me? The BOP website indicated above gives specifics for each institution. Generally speaking the clothing and shoes you are wearing when you arrive will be sent back home. The prison will provide what you are to wear. You can retain legal paperwork, a plain wedding band, educational transcripts and identification. Bring copies of your medical prescriptions with you. If you are sending items in advance be sure to make reference to your register number which will be found on the designation notice you receive. Prescription eye-glass and contact lenses are allowed but no replacements will be provided by the BOP.
What personal needs should I take care of before reporting? Former inmates have told us it is important to have your teeth cleaned and necessary dental work done. You should take care of all your financial needs and obligations. Renew your driver’s license or have it suspended by the Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles, and pay all outstanding travel tickets.
How much “good time” can I get? This is information the probation officer will not be able to provide because it is computed by the Bureau Of Prisons. You will be able to request this information during your orientation when you arrive at the designated facility.
Who can visit me while I am in prison? There will be a delay, perhaps up to two weeks, before your family hears from you or can visit. Because of the differing classification of institutions visitation rules differ. For most facilities these rules can be found by logging on to the GOP website. You will be given full information during the orientation process so you can advise family and others how and when they can visit.
How much money can I take with me? Once you are in a BOP facility funds can be sent to you via USPS or the Western Union Quick Collect Program so long as you are in that facility. These funds are deposited in a special commissary fund which serves as a bank type account. You will be advised about the amount allowed during your orientation. These funds will be available to you to purchase articles not regularly issued by the institution.
What can I expect if I have health problems? In addition to the comprehensive healthcare services that the Bureau Of Prisons provides to all inmates, special needs will be attended to. The BOP will have access to all health information you have made available to the probation officer. Be sure to advise the BOP of health issues that may not have been provided the probation officer. Do this upon admission.
Is there any treatment provided for alcohol, drug, eating, or sex addiction? Special treatment is offered for all these addictions. Be sure to make the condition known during orientation so you can receive appropriate attention.
What is the procedure if I am remanded to custody at the time of sentencing? Within a very short time the U.S. Marshal is notified of the institution to which you are to be sent and will arrange transportation from the local facility at which you are housed. Upon entering the designated prison the procedure will be identical to those who are allowed to self-surrender as indicated above.