Metropolitan Detention Center, Los Angeles

Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)

Last Updated: March 15, 2024
Address
535 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Beds
885
County
Los Angeles
Phone
213-485-0439
Fax
213-253-9510
Email
los-execassistant-s@bop.gov
Mailing Address
PO Box 1500, Los Angeles, CA 90053

MDC Los Angeles is for Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) offenders found guilty of a federal crime and sentenced to incarceration in accordance with the Department of Justice Sentencing Guidelines.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for federal high facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are seeking to send your inmate money for commissary, one recommended for this facility is MoneyGram There is a fee for sending money, see their rates and limitations.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of Metropolitan Detention Center, Los Angeles

You can support your loved ones at MDC Los Angeles on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 213-485-0439.

When a loved one is in federal prison, they need more than just visits or calls due to their generally longer sentences. This webpage offers insights into MDC Los Angeles procedures, helping you provide the best support possible. From sending magazines to exploring distance learning options, this guide has all you need to assist your loved one effectively.

The Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Los Angeles is a downtown high-security federal prison facility that primarily functions as a pre-trial detention facility housing both male and female inmates awaiting court appearances. Additionally, it houses individuals serving short sentences.

MDC Los Angeles stands out for its unique architectural design. In contrast to conventional prison facilities, housing units are referred to as "rooms" and lack the standard iron bars on cell doors. Instead, the design incorporates features like plate glass windows, balconies, and atriums, fostering a less institutional atmosphere.

This central location offers significant logistical and financial benefits. The facility's proximity, just two blocks away from the U.S. District Courthouse, allows for efficient court proceedings by eliminating the daily transportation of inmates between locations. This translates to substantial cost savings for both the U.S. Marshal's Service, responsible for inmate transport and the federal public defender's office.

Women in prison are often the primary or sole caregivers of children before incarceration. For offenders who will give birth during their incarceration, there are two programs offered to assist these mothers before, during, and after childbirth; these include Mothers and Infants Together (MINT) and the Residential Parenting Program (RPP). The Program Statement, Female Offender Manual, is the agency's primary policy addressing the management of incarcerated women. The agency also issued an Operations Memorandum requiring all female sites to provide five types of feminine hygiene products to inmates free of charge.

Several notable individuals, including gang leaders and those convicted of murder, have been held at MDC Los Angeles. The facility recognizes the importance of rehabilitation and offers various programs and services to support the incarcerated population. Addressing substance abuse is a primary focus, with programs specifically designed to combat drug and alcohol addiction.

Inmates also have the opportunity to pursue educational advancement. They can work towards obtaining a GED or acquire English language skills through ESL classes. For those seeking to further their education, college courses are available through paid correspondence programs. Recognizing the significance of spiritual well-being, chaplains and priests are available to offer religious guidance upon request.

MDC Los Angeles provides comprehensive healthcare services to the inmate population. Upon arrival, each inmate undergoes intake screening, which includes necessary medical assessments and testing. Routine checkups, along with essential services like dental care, are also offered. In the case of emergencies, inmates have access to 24-hour medical care.

Mental health services are another crucial aspect of inmate well-being. Services address various needs, encompassing crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and both individual and group therapy sessions, though limited in scope. Additionally, medication management is available for those requiring it.

Inmates also have access to legal resources. An electronic law library is available within the facility's Education Department, providing them with essential legal materials and the ability to prepare legal documents. A copying machine allows inmates to reproduce necessary research materials, and electric typewriters are available for their use.

To cater to basic needs and promote a sense of normalcy, MDC Los Angeles operates a commissary. Inmates can purchase a variety of approved items within a designated monthly spending limit.

Recreational activities play a vital role in promoting physical and mental well-being. The facility offers access to both indoor and outdoor recreational areas. Inmates can engage in various activities such as ping-pong, pool, and board games within the designated recreation areas.

In conclusion, MDC Los Angeles plays a multifaceted role within the federal prison system. It functions as a pre-trial detention center and houses those serving short sentences. The facility's unique design and focus on rehabilitation programs aim to create a more conducive environment while offering essential services to support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the inmate population.

Important links to refer to if you are looking for further explanations on current policies




Inmate Locator

Metropolitan Detention Center, Los Angeles is a facility in the federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) that publishes the names of the inmates currently in one of their locations nationwide. To begin your search, simply input the exact first and last name of the individual you are looking for. Alternatively, if you possess an eight-digit BOP Inmate ID number (xxxxx-xxx), you can use that for quicker results.

If your search within the federal system proves unsuccessful, InmateAid Inmate Search provides an additional avenue. This database encompasses inmates currently incarcerated in various prisons, jails, and detention centers nationwide. Utilizing this free inmate locator doesn't require any sign-up process, ensuring convenient access for users. This free inmate locator.

If you are looking for someone who has been recently taken into custody, you may access the Arrest Record Search feature, there is a cost for this fresh information

Visitation Information

The visiting schedule at the Los Angeles Metropolitan Detention Center is based on the floor level that the inmate lives on.

Visiting hours:

  • Sundays: 5 North from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
  • Mondays: 6th floor from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M
  • Tuesdays: 7th floor from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
  • Wednesdays: 9 South & 5 South from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
  • Thursdays: Inter-floor from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Special Housing Unit from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
  • Fridays: Annex & 9 North from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
  • Saturdays: 5 North from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
  • Visits can last up to 90 minutes.
  • An inmate can have up to 3 visitors at a given time.
  • All visitors ages 16 and older must have valid government photo identification.
  • Visits may be terminated as the visiting room becomes overcrowded.

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Visiting Schedule & Procedures - The official policy at MDC Los Angeles that outlines the specific regulations and procedures for visiting an inmate at this facility is available in Spanish: Regulaciones de Visitas, too.

Ask The Inmate

Ask a former inmate questions at no charge. The inmate answering has spent considerable time in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and in a prison that was run by the private prison entity CCA. Ask your question or browse previous questions in response to comments or further questions of members of the InmateAid community.