Can you transfer an inmate closer to home

If your loved one was moved to Oklahoma, especially to a federal transfer hub like Federal Transfer Center, Oklahoma City, it is usually temporary.

This facility is used by the United States Marshals Service to move inmates between locations. Many people refer to this process as “Con Air.”

What this means for you:

• Oklahoma is likely not his final destination
• He is in transit while the Federal Bureau of Prisons decides where he will serve his sentence

About getting him back to California:

• Once in BOP custody, placement decisions are final
• Even the judge can only recommend, not decide, location
• Family hardship is considered, but not guaranteed

After he reaches his designated prison:

• He must usually stay there about 18 months before requesting a transfer
• Transfers are more likely if he:
  • Stays out of trouble
  • Participates in programs
  • Maintains good conduct

Important perspective:
Right now, movement to Oklahoma is part of the normal intake and transfer process, not a permanent placement.

Once he arrives at his final facility, he can begin working toward a transfer closer to home, but it takes time and good institutional behavior.