how do you know already that it will be a low level security facility?? I'm in a similar situation and have no idea what's coming down the pike...

I am not as familiar with the federal system as I am the state systems of security levels, but I believe that a low in the federal system roughly equates to a minimum security in the state system.

There are some guys here that did federal time that can correct me if I am wrong.

These lower security facilities are filled with first time, non violent offenders with short sentences. You don't see the harder convicts, the really bad guys with violent offenses at a lower security or at a minimum.

I saw many fights, beat downs, and some stabbings when I was at the medium, but I never once saw or heard of a stabbing or severe beating when I was at the minimum. About the worst that happens is two guys getting mad at each other culminating in a 30 second "fight" with maybe a bloody nose---at worst.

The difference between medium or high and minimum or low is like night and day.

Anybody with any common sense can serve time at a minimum without any problems.

Hope this helps.

rewdiazepam

I was in a Federal Low for 2 years. Minimums are "Camps". The chance of a SO going there is minimal to none.
Most in a Low are short timers or illegals. All are considered non-violent. Interesting since when he gets out, all RFSOs are considered violent. Even those that pee off heir deck when drunk.
The whole time I was in I saw one fist fight. It was two punches and broken nose. Loud talking is what caused it.
Regardless, he should keep his head down. Make up some story like internet or mortgage/banking fraud and stick to it. Any story he comes up with, he should have knowledge of the crime. Make it believable. He should also chose his associations with care.
Respect for others is the biggest thing in Prison.
Like Rew said. Common sense will get you through.

Thank you for the info everyone!

If you have a any specific questions about the Federal system, ask me. It was 14 years ago when I got out. It hasn't changed except for longer sentences.

Oh thank you so much Coolrich!!!

We were told anything over 10 years could not be in low security unless there was no placement in the entire quarter of the country.....and that because of the high CP conviction rates of late that it often means they cannot place you within the 500 mile minimum that they "attempt" to place you of your family. We were told that it would probably mean medium security and 8 to 10 hour drive away.

I've done my best to prepare myself for the worst, so I'm afraid to get my hopes up that it might be closer (since most of the closer ones are low with camps onsite as well).