An ongoing Associated Press investigation has uncovered deep, previously unreported flaws within the Bureau of Prisons over the last few years, including widespread criminal activity by employees, dozens of escapes, the free flow of guns, drugs and other contraband, and severe understaffing that has hampered responses to emergencies.

The island that once housed some of the country's most notorious names has been a popular tourist draw for decades. Rebuilding a prison there would be costly, experts say.