PHILADELPHIA, PA Philadelphia Detention Center View

Federal Detention Center Philadelphia is a federal detention facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It primarily houses federal pretrial detainees, holdover inmates awaiting transfer, and some sentenced inmates serving short terms or awaiting designation to another federal facility. The facility supports the federal courts and law enforcement agencies in the Philadelphia area by providing secure custody for people involved in federal criminal proceedings or other federal custody matters.

Contact and Location Information

Jail Name: Philadelphia Detention Center
Type: Federal Prison
Security Level: Administrative facility (all security levels)
Address: 8201 State Road
City: PHILADELPHIA
Zip: 19136
Phone: 215-685-8436
Philadelphia Detention Center Contact Details

How to Find an Inmate at Philadelphia Detention Center

To find someone held here, use the official inmate search link on this page for the facility’s roster or locator. Inmate records typically list the person’s name, register or booking number, booking or custody date, charges or case information when available, and custody status. New records may take several hours to appear because intake, identity checks, and processing must be completed first, so a person booked recently may not be searchable right away. If no result appears, check spelling, try again later, or contact the facility or the Federal Bureau of Prisons for guidance.

FAQs

How do I visit an inmate at Federal Detention Center Philadelphia?

Visits are usually scheduled according to the facility’s rules, and visitors may need to be approved before entering. Check the current visiting schedule and procedures before traveling, because times and requirements can change.

What do I need to bring when visiting Federal Detention Center Philadelphia?

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. Follow the facility’s dress code and leave restricted items, including phones and bags, outside or in your vehicle if required.

How do I make phone or video calls with an inmate?

Inmates generally cannot receive incoming calls, but they may place approved outgoing calls through the facility’s phone system. Video or electronic communication options, if available, must be set up through the approved service provider.

How do I send mail to an inmate?

Use the inmate’s full committed name and register number, and follow the facility’s mailing instructions exactly. Mail is inspected for safety, and items such as cash, prohibited materials, or packages sent without approval may be rejected.

How does the commissary work?

Commissary allows inmates to buy approved items such as snacks, hygiene products, and writing supplies. Family or friends may be able to deposit funds through the approved federal deposit system, and spending limits may apply.

How is bail set and how do I post bond at Federal Detention Center Philadelphia?

For federal cases, release conditions or detention are decided by a federal judge or magistrate, not by the facility. If bond is allowed, payment and paperwork are usually handled through the court or clerk’s office, so contact the court handling the case for instructions.

What happens during the intake process at Federal Detention Center Philadelphia and when will the inmate appear in the system?

During intake, staff verify identity, review custody paperwork, conduct screening, assign housing, and enter information into the system. This can take several hours, so the inmate may not appear in the locator immediately after arrival.

Other Jails in Philadelphia County

How to Send Money to Philadelphia Detention Center

Family and friends can send money to inmates at Philadelphia Detention Center through approved methods to help them purchase essential items from the commissary.