How Phone Calls Work at Petersburg Low FCI: Monitoring, Costs, and Attorney Calls

Yes, inmate phone calls are monitored. The Bureau of Prisons posts a notice next to each telephone advising inmates that calls are monitored, so there's no expectation of privacy on regular calls. If you're planning to discuss something sensitive, assume it can be listened to.

Third-party calling and other alternative call arrangements aren't allowed. The BOP prohibits setups that route calls through someone else or use workarounds. Attempting to get around the phone system can jeopardize the inmate's phone privileges.

Usually, the inmate pays for calls. In some cases, the receiving party pays instead. If you're trying to plan for phone expenses, ask the inmate which payment option their account uses.

Most inmate calls are monitored, and the phones are labeled to remind inmates of that. Attorney calls are different. The BOP allows unmonitored (privileged) calls to attorneys in certain circumstances. This is the main exception families should know about when thinking about call privacy.

TRUFONE call recordings are stored temporarily and deleted after 180 days, or sooner if they're no longer needed for legal or administrative purposes.

This guide covers the core rules affecting privacy and allowed call setups, but doesn't include per-minute rates, vendor details, or Petersburg-specific billing arrangements. For current pricing and exact billing options, check the facility's information or contact the institution directly.

• ✓ Check Petersburg Low FCI’s posted communications and telephone information for the most current instructions
• ✓ Call the institution to confirm current pricing, billing options, and any account setup steps
• ✓ Review BOP phone policy for the broader rules that apply across federal facilities