"So we’ll be paying for this Afghan ‘refugee’ to remain in prison, at a cost of six figures a year, until he finally dies of old age."
That's barely a rounding error.
AI Overview
As of a data snapshot on November 22, 2025, there are
3,574 federal prisoners serving life sentences within the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). This accounts for approximately 2.5% of the total federal inmate population.
Overview of Life Sentences in Federal Prison
- Total Number: 3,574 inmates were serving official "life" sentences.
- Total Population: The total federal inmate population was approximately 155,328 as of November 6, 2025.
- "Virtual" Life Sentences: An additional number of inmates are serving "virtual life" sentences, which are defined as sentences of 50 years or more that extend beyond a typical lifespan. A 2022 report noted there were 799 federal offenders sentenced to de facto life imprisonment at that time.
- Parole Abolished: Under the federal criminal code, parole has been abolished for all offenses committed after December 1, 1987. A federal life sentence results in imprisonment for the defendant's natural life, unless a presidential pardon, successful appeal, or compassionate release is granted.
- Common Offenses: Inmates sentenced to life imprisonment in the federal system are often convicted of serious crimes such as murder, or offenses involving the use or possession of a firearm in furtherance of a violent or drug trafficking crime.
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