California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is the state agency responsible for operating the California state prison system. It oversees various correctional facilities throughout the state, including prisons, rehabilitation centers, and juvenile facilities.
Contact Information
Address: 1515 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: (916) 445-7688
Website: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/
Email: CDCR_Webmaster@cdcr.ca.gov
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate in the CDCR system, use the online Inmate Locator tool: https://inmatelocator.cdcr.ca.gov/
Visitation Information
Visitation policies vary by facility. Check the specific institution's website for details. General visiting hours are typically on weekends and holidays. Visitors must be approved and follow dress code and conduct guidelines.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates through various methods:
- Online: JPay
- Phone: 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use Receive Code 1750
- Western Union: Use Code CDCR
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation is available at some facilities through GTL VisMobile.
Inmate Services and Programs
CDCR offers various rehabilitation programs, including:
- Education and vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Re-entry programs
History of the Facility
The CDCR was established in 1851 as the California Department of Corrections. In 2005, it was reorganized and renamed to emphasize its focus on rehabilitation.
Security and Management Information
CDCR operates various security levels, from minimum to maximum-security facilities. Each institution has its own management team and follows strict security protocols.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal representation and visitation. Specific rights may vary based on security level and individual circumstances.
Booking and Release Process
Booking involves intake, classification, and assignment to a facility. Release may include parole or discharge, depending on the sentence and behavior while incarcerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send mail to an inmate?
Address the envelope with the inmate's full name, CDCR number, and the full name and address of the institution. Do not include stickers, perfume, or any prohibited items.
Can I send packages to inmates?
Packages must be sent through approved vendors. Check the CDCR website for a list of authorized package vendors and allowed items.
How can I apply for visitation?
Submit a Visitor Questionnaire (Form 106) to the institution where the inmate is housed. Once approved, you'll be added to the inmate's approved visitor list.
Famous Prisoners
- Charles Manson - Convicted for his role in the Tate-LaBianca murders
- Sirhan Sirhan - Assassin of Robert F. Kennedy
- Scott Peterson - Convicted of murdering his pregnant wife
- Richard Ramirez - Known as the "Night Stalker" serial killer
- Rodney Alcala - The "Dating Game Killer"
- Phil Spector - Music producer convicted of murder
- Erik Menendez - Convicted with his brother Lyle for murdering their parents
- Tex Watson - Member of the Manson Family involved in murders
- Juan Corona - Serial killer known as the "Machete Murderer"
- William Bonin - The "Freeway Killer" convicted of multiple murders
