California Institution for Women (CIW) Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The California Institution for Women (CIW) is a state prison for female inmates located in Corona, California. It is operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and houses inmates of various security levels.
Contact Information
Address: 16756 Chino Corona Rd, Corona, CA 92880
Phone: (909) 597-1771
Website: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/ciw/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at CIW, use the CDCR Inmate Locator tool available at https://inmatelocator.cdcr.ca.gov/. You will need the inmate's name and CDCR number or date of birth.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must be approved and on the inmate's visiting list. Check the CDCR website for current visiting procedures and any restrictions.
How to Send Money
There are several ways to send money to inmates at CIW:
- Online: Use JPay or ConnectNetwork
- By phone: Call 1-800-387-1311 (JPay)
- By mail: Send a money order to J-Pay, PO Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Family and friends can set up accounts through Global Tel Link (GTL). Video visitation may be available through the same provider.
Inmate Services and Programs
CIW offers various programs including:
- Educational programs (GED, college courses)
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
- Recreation activities
History of the Facility
CIW was established in 1952 as the first women's prison in California. It has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate the growing female inmate population.
Security and Management Information
CIW is a multi-level security institution housing minimum to maximum-security inmates. The facility is managed by a Warden and a team of correctional officers and staff members.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal representation and can receive visits from their attorneys. They also have the right to receive visits from approved family and friends, subject to prison regulations and security considerations.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to CIW from county jails after sentencing. Upon arrival, they undergo intake processing, including medical screening and classification. Release procedures vary depending on the type of release (e.g., parole, completion of sentence).
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate at CIW?
Inmates can receive approved items through authorized vendors only. These may include books, magazines, and personal care items. Check the CDCR website for a list of approved items and vendors.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Inmates can typically make phone calls during designated times, which may vary depending on their housing unit and security level. There are usually limits on call duration and frequency.
Can I email an inmate at CIW?
Direct email is not available, but you can send electronic messages through the JPay system. These messages are printed and delivered to the inmate.
Famous Prisoners
Some notable inmates who have served time at CIW include:
- Patricia Krenwinkel - Convicted for her involvement in the Manson Family murders
- Susan Atkins - Also convicted for her role in the Manson Family murders
- Betty Lou Beets - Convicted of murdering her fifth husband
- Brenda Ann Spencer - Known for the Cleveland Elementary School shooting in 1979
- Cathy Evelyn Smith - Convicted for her involvement in John Belushi's death
- Dorothea Puente - Serial killer known as the "Death House Landlady"
- Leslie Van Houten - Another member of the Manson Family convicted of murder
- Theresa Knorr - Convicted of torturing and murdering her children
- Stephanie Lazarus - Former LAPD detective convicted of murder
- Barbara Graham - Executed for murder, subject of the film "I Want to Live!"
