BOP Program Statement 5265.14 § 12

MEDIA

§ 540.20 Inmate correspondence with representatives of the news media.

(a) An inmate may write through “special mail” to representatives of the news

media specified by name or title (see § 540.2(b)).

28 CFR § 540.2(b) refers to Section 2.b. of this Program Statement.

Properly identified and labeled correspondence from an inmate who is not on restricted mail

status to qualifying news media representatives is sealed and forwarded without inspection,

directly and promptly. Properly identified and labeled correspondence from an inmate on

restricted special mail status is also sealed and forwarded promptly, but may be subject to

inspection per procedures in Section 10. If there is doubt whether a representative qualifies,

contact the Public Information Officer in the Central Office.

P5265.14 4/5/2011 Federal Regulations are shown in this type. Implementing instructions: this type. 17

(b) The inmate may not receive compensation or anything of value for

correspondence with the news media. The inmate may not act as reporter.

(c) Representatives of the news media may initiate correspondence with an

inmate. Staff shall open incoming correspondence from representatives of the

media and inspect for contraband, for its qualification as media correspondence,

and for content which is likely to promote either illegal activity or conduct

contrary to Bureau regulations.

See the Program Statement News Media Contacts on other aspects of contact with news media.