Colette Peters has stepped down as the director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP).
According to Fox News, The leadership change at the Federal Bureau of Prisons overlaps with President Donald Trump’s decision to end restrictions on the use of private prisons.
Colette Peters' resignation comes after serving since August 2022, a period marked by significant challenges, including staff shortages and systemic issues within the institution she managed. Her replacement, William Lothrop, was the former deputy director.
William Lothrop announced his position as acting director right after President Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025. Under new leadership, the BOP aims to address ongoing challenges and improve conditions for both staff and the inmate population.
The departure of Ms. Peters coincides with the Trump administration repealing a Biden-era executive order that had aimed to phase out the government’s reliance on private prisons. This pivotal move allows the U.S. Marshals Service to enter new contracts with private prison corporations.
During her tenure, Peters addressed issues such as corruption and abuse. She managed the closure of federal prison camps, including the notorious Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California, referred to as the "rape club."
William Lothrop commended Peters' efforts and stated his commitment to continuing necessary reforms. His approach focuses on collaboration with law enforcement partners and maintaining robust inmate programs.
The BOP oversees a staggering 155,000 federal inmates and nearly 36,000 employees. The vast agency operates under intense scrutiny and pressure to meet both security needs and humane treatment standards. Addressing the Senate’s previous concerns, notably from Senators Tom Cotton and Mike Lee, will be a significant aspect of Lothrop’s tasks. He inherits challenges like providing detailed operational responses which had been a contentious issue for Ms. Peters.
Here is William Lothrop's statement following his appointment:
"On Jan. 20, 2025, Director Peters separated from the Federal Bureau of Prisons and I will be serving as the Acting Director. As we face ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and operational issues, I am committed to working alongside you to find real solutions that strengthen our facilities. We will continue collaborating with our law enforcement partners and stakeholders to maintain robust programming and support services for inmates. Our mission remains clear: to provide a safe, secure and humane environment, ensure public safety, and prepare those in our custody for successful reentry into society."
The transition of leadership in the BOP also reflects broader policy shifts under the Trump administration, impacting federal incarceration strategies and the use of private facilities.
Under Peters’ direction, the BOP was part of the enforcement of new standards such as the Federal Prison Oversight Law signed by then-President Biden in 2024. However, this law's effectiveness has been limited by a lack of funding despite its promise of increased inspections. Peters' initiatives included addressing egregious examples of misconduct, such as the situation at FCI Dublin, where the former warden Ray Garcia and several others were imprisoned due to their abuse toward inmates.
The recent repeals and policy adjustments are likely to steer future BOP operations towards alternative management strategies, including a possibly increased role for private prisons.
In reflection, the developments underscore a significant reshaping of federal prison administration driven by political changes. The administration aims to address longstanding issues within the system while implementing new mandates through these transitions.
