What to Expect When You Arrive: Search and Check-In at USP Coleman 1
Your first trip to USP Coleman 1 can feel stressful—mostly because you don't know what happens at the gate. Here's the key thing: searches are part of entry. Planning ahead, especially knowing what to leave at home, makes check-in much smoother.
Search procedures at USP Coleman 1 start with one simple rule: by entering - or even attempting to enter - Bureau of Prisons grounds, you're consenting to a search under Bureau policy and federal regulations (28 C.F.R. Part 511). Staff may search you and your belongings before entry, and they can search you again while you're on the grounds or inside the facility. This includes bags, containers, your vehicle, and anything inside it.
Note: If you refuse a search, you can be prohibited from entering Bureau grounds or facilities.
Prohibited Objects
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Explosives
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Intoxicants
- ✓ Currency
- ✓ Cameras of any type
- ✓ Recording equipment
- ✓ Telephones
- ✓ Radios
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Other electronic devices
Staff enforce these restrictions through the search process. The simplest way to avoid delays - or bigger problems - is to treat the prohibited list as a "don't bring it onto the grounds" list. That goes for your pockets, your bag, and your car.
Refuse a search, and staff can deny you entry. Bring prohibited objects onto Bureau grounds, and the consequences can go beyond simply being turned away. The safest approach: assume anything on the prohibited list will be treated seriously, and keep it off the grounds entirely.
Important: Bringing prohibited items onto Bureau grounds can create consequences that are much more serious than a delayed visit.
- Strip down what you bring - Leave prohibited items at home, or secured away before you enter Bureau grounds (including phones and other electronics, cameras/recording devices, and currency).
- Plan your transportation ahead of time - You’ll need to arrange your own ride to and from USP Coleman 1.
- Call the facility if you’re unsure about directions - Staff can help with directions, including how to get there by public transportation when available.
- Expect screening on entry - Because consent to search applies when you enter or attempt to enter, build in extra time so you’re not rushing through check-in.
Reminder: There’s no government payment or reimbursement for transportation to USP Coleman 1, so plan for travel costs up front.
If anything about arrival, check-in, or searches feels unclear, call USP Coleman 1 before you travel. Staff can help with directions and answer questions - better to clear things up ahead of time than at the gate. Remember: entering or attempting to enter means you're consenting to search under Bureau policy and 28 C.F.R. Part 511.
Find an Inmate at FCI Coleman Low, FL
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
