Cumberland Federal Penitentiary Bars Visits | Local News

CUMBERLAND – All visits to FCI Cumberland have been suspended until further notice, but facility officials did not give a reason.

In response to a request from the Cumberland Times-News for information on a report about a prison curfew, the Federal Bureau of Prisons stated that it does not comment on the conditions of inmates “for privacy and security reasons.”

However, the BOP confirmed that FCI Cumberland initiated a modified operating status on August 16.

“Modified operations refers to a temporary change in the operation of some facilities, which may include movements, programs and/or services,” said Emery Nelson of the BOP's Office of Public Affairs.

“Directors may implement controls or take temporary security measures to ensure the order and safety of their facility,” he said. “Typically, facilities remain in modified operations to thoroughly investigate an incident and ensure the safety of employees and persons in our care.”

The BOP does not discuss internal policies or safety practices, such as reasons for suspending visits or changes to exercise schedules at a particular facility, Nelson said.

“We can say that the decision to restrict or suspend visits for various reasons is made by the directors of each facility on a case-by-case basis,” he said. “The facility will return to normal operations, including visits, as soon as possible.”

Phones at the facility are answered by the entrance officer, who performs several duties during his shift, including responsibility for the proper processing of people at the prison's main entrance and exit, Nelson said.

“Family members can communicate with their loved ones through the U.S. Postal Service,” he said. “Mail is picked up and delivered to individuals every day, Monday through Friday.”

To communicate with inmates and their families during a curfew, the prison system posts a notice on FCI Cumberland's public website to inform the public that visits to the facility are suspended until further notice, Nelson said.

He recommends that visitors check the local facility's public website for the latest updates.

“In addition, incarcerated individuals continue to have the opportunity to communicate with their loved ones by sending and receiving mail through the U.S. Postal Service,” Nelson said.

Teresa McMinn is a reporter for the Cumberland Times-News. Reach her at 304-639-2371 or [email protected].