Philadelphia Federal Department of Corrections – Philadelphia, PA

FDC Philadelphia Overview

The Federal Detention Center (FDC) Philadelphia is a key administrative security facility operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Located in the heart of Center City, this facility primarily houses male and female pre-trial detainees for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, as well as for the Districts of New Jersey and Delaware 🏛️. A notable architectural feature is the secure tunnel connecting the detention center directly to the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse, allowing for the safe transfer of defendants for court appearances. The facility also holds inmates serving brief sentences and serves as a revocation site for the U.S. Parole Commission.

Visiting and Inmate Contact

Visitation at FDC Philadelphia is strictly controlled and operates on a rotating schedule based on the inmate’s assigned unit. All social visits must be prescheduled via email; walk-in visits are not permitted. 📅 Attorneys generally have access Monday through Friday from 6:15 AM to 8:00 PM and limited weekend hours, though they should verify specific requirements. Inmates cannot receive incoming phone calls, but they can make outgoing calls to approved numbers. Mail must be sent to the specific P.O. Box 562 mailing address, not the physical street address.

Sending Money

Funds cannot be dropped off at the lobby. Money must be sent to inmates via Western Union, MoneyGram, or by mailing a money order to the National Lockbox in Des Moines, Iowa 💸. Electronic deposits are the fastest method to credit an inmate’s commissary account.

Security and Dress Code

Security is rigorous. All visitors must pass through airport-style screening. 📵 Strict Prohibitions: No cell phones, smartwatches, cameras, or recording devices are allowed. The dress code is strictly enforced: visitors should dress modestly and avoid wearing clothing that resembles inmate uniforms (such as khaki, green, or camouflage) or staff uniforms. Revealing clothing, hats, and open-toed shoes may result in denial of entry.