Our Blog

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently experiencing significant upheaval, with a wave of leadership departures leaving the agency without clear direction during a critical time. Acting Director William Lathrop, who stepped into the role on January 20, 2025, after former Director Colette Peters was reportedly fired, has now announced his retirement, effective February 28. Lathrop’s statement acknowledged the gravity of the situation, saying, “We are in unprecedented times as an Agency.” His departure is accompanied by the resignations of five other senior leaders, including General Counsel James Wills and two regional directors.

Over the years, federal prison camps have evolved, but chronic staffing shortages, insufficient funding for facility repairs, and limited programming have made life inside increasingly challenging. These camps, the least restrictive within the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), are paradoxically among the most expensive to operate. The BOP recently announced the closure of seven prison camps, yet there are strong arguments for shutting down more. One viable alternative is expanding prerelease custody—such as halfway houses and home confinement—which provides greater oversight of minimum-security prisoners while significantly reducing costs.