“There is no specific information that led to this decision,” the statement said. “This action is a precautionary measure and is not a response to major events within our facilities.”
Security measures are stepped up ahead of Inauguration Day as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies prepare for the possibility of more violence after rioters storm the Capitol on Jan.6, killing five people, including a Capitol Police officer.
Shane Fausey, chairman of the Council of Prison Locals, told CNN in a statement that he supports the national lockdown.
“In consultation with the Council of Prison Locals, and from a plethora of precautions, I can only applaud the leadership of the Federal Bureau of Prisons for initiating this national lockdown,” he said. “With the patience and support of the American people, I am confident that the Bureau of Prisons and our excellent staff will return to normal business.”
Detainees will be given limited access to phones and email to keep in touch with their families, the BOP said. The agency added that it hopes to lift the blockage after a short time and that operations will be restored “as soon as practicable”.