FCI Cumberland, Maryland: A Comprehensive Guide to the Federal Correctional Institution

FCI Cumberland is a medium-security federal correctional institution located in Cumberland, Allegany County, Maryland. It is operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a division of the United States Department of Justice. FCI Cumberland houses approximately 1,200 male inmates and employs over 300 staff members.

History of FCI Cumberland

FCI Cumberland was established in 1990 and was originally known as the Cumberland Federal Prison Camp. In 2001, the facility was expanded and upgraded to a medium-security prison. FCI Cumberland has a long history of providing safe and secure confinement for federal inmates.

Inmate Population

FCI Cumberland houses a diverse population of inmates with varying security levels. The majority of inmates are serving sentences for nonviolent offenses, such as drug offenses, fraud, and white-collar crimes. However, there are also a significant number of inmates serving sentences for violent crimes, such as assault, robbery, and homicide.

Programs and Services

FCI Cumberland offers a wide range of programs and services designed to help inmates prepare for their release and reintegration into society. These programs include:

• Educational programs: FCI Cumberland offers a variety of educational programs, including GED classes, college courses, and vocational training programs.
• Job training programs: FCI Cumberland offers a variety of job training programs, such as carpentry, welding, and automotive repair.
• Counseling programs: FCI Cumberland offers a variety of counseling programs, including individual counseling, group counseling, and substance abuse treatment.
• Religious programs: FCI Cumberland offers a variety of religious programs, including Bible studies, religious services, and chaplaincy services.
• Medical and dental care: FCI Cumberland offers a variety of medical and dental care services, including primary care, sick call, and emergency care.

Security Measures

FCI Cumberland is a secure facility and employs a variety of security measures to ensure the safety of inmates and staff. These measures include:

• Perimeter fencing: FCI Cumberland is surrounded by a high perimeter fence topped with razor wire.
• Guard towers: FCI Cumberland has guard towers located throughout the facility that are manned by armed guards.
• Electronic surveillance: FCI Cumberland uses a variety of electronic surveillance systems, such as cameras and motion detectors, to monitor the facility.
• K-9 units: FCI Cumberland uses K-9 units to search for contraband and to deter escape attempts.

Challenges and Controversies

FCI Cumberland has faced a number of challenges and controversies over the years. These challenges and controversies include:

• Overcrowding: FCI Cumberland has been overcrowded for many years, which has led to a number of problems, such as increased violence and poor living conditions.
• Staff shortages: FCI Cumberland has been plagued by staff shortages for many years, which has made it difficult to provide adequate security and services to inmates.
• Inmate lawsuits: FCI Cumberland has been the subject of a number of inmate lawsuits alleging mistreatment and neglect.

Conclusion

FCI Cumberland is a medium-security federal correctional institution that houses approximately 1,200 male inmates. The facility offers a variety of programs and services designed to help inmates prepare for their release and reintegration into society. However, FCI Cumberland has faced a number of challenges and controversies over the years, including overcrowding, staff shortages, and inmate lawsuits.