San Diego County - Central Jail (SDCJ) California: Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The San Diego County Central Jail (SDCJ) is a maximum-security detention facility located in downtown San Diego, California. It primarily houses adult male inmates awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor and felony offenses.
Contact Information
Address: 1173 Front Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 610-1647
Website: San Diego Sheriff's Department - Jail Facilities
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate at SDCJ, use the San Diego County Sheriff's Department's online Who's in Jail search tool. You can search by name or booking number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visits are conducted via video visitation. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance through the GTL VisitMe website. On-site video visits are free, while remote video visits have a fee.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through several methods:
- Online: Jail ATM
- Kiosk: Available in the jail lobby
- Phone: Call 1-888-288-9835
- Mail: Send money orders to the inmate's name and booking number
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through GTL. Video visitation is available as mentioned in the visitation section.
Inmate Services and Programs
SDCJ offers various programs including:
- Educational classes
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Vocational training
- Mental health services
History of the Facility
The San Diego Central Jail was opened in 1998 as part of a modernization effort of the county's detention facilities. It replaced an older jail that had been in use since the 1960s.
Security and Management Information
SDCJ is operated by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. As a maximum-security facility, it employs advanced security measures and technology to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. These visits are separate from regular visitation and are not limited by normal visiting hours.
Booking and Release Process
Upon arrival, inmates go through a booking process that includes fingerprinting, photographing, and a medical screening. Release times vary depending on the completion of necessary paperwork and the inmate's specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to visitation?
For on-site video visitation, you are not allowed to bring any items into the visitation area except for your identification. All personal belongings must be stored in lockers provided in the lobby.
How often can an inmate receive visits?
Inmates are typically allowed two 30-minute video visits per week. However, this may vary based on the inmate's classification and behavior.
Can I send books or magazines to an inmate?
Books and magazines must be sent directly from the publisher or an approved vendor. Personal packages are not accepted.
Famous Prisoners
While specific information about famous prisoners at SDCJ is limited, some notable individuals who have been held there include:
- Andrew Cunanan - Serial killer known for the murder of fashion designer Gianni Versace
- Ricky Davis - Former NBA player, held on drug charges
- Kellen Winslow II - Former NFL player, held on various sexual offense charges
