Central California Women's Facility (CCWF) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Central California Women's Facility (CCWF) is the largest female correctional facility in the United States. Located in Chowchilla, California, it houses female inmates of all security levels.
Contact Information
Address: 23370 Road 22, Chowchilla, CA 93610
Phone: (559) 665-5531
Website: CDCR - CCWF
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at CCWF, use the CDCR Inmate Locator. You'll need the inmate's full 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 on the inmate's approved visitor list. Check the CDCR visiting schedule for up-to-date information.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates through several methods:
- JPay
- GTL ConnectNetwork
- Money order by mail
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available through GTL ViaPath Technologies.
Inmate Services and Programs
CCWF offers various programs including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health services
- Religious services
History of the Facility
CCWF opened in 1990 and was designed to house 2,004 inmates. However, due to overcrowding in California's prison system, it has often housed many more.
Security and Management Information
CCWF is a multi-level security institution, housing inmates from minimum to maximum security levels. It is managed by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be on the approved visitor list to visit.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are typically transferred to CCWF from county jails after sentencing. Upon arrival, they go through intake processing. 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 CCWF?
Inmates can receive approved items through authorized vendors only. These may include books, magazines, and approved personal care items. Check the CDCR website for a current list of approved items and vendors.
How often can inmates make phone calls?
Inmates typically have access to phones during designated times, which can vary depending on their housing unit and security level. There may be limits on call duration and frequency.
Are there medical facilities at CCWF?
Yes, CCWF has on-site medical facilities to provide basic healthcare to inmates. For more specialized care, inmates may be transferred to outside hospitals or medical centers.
Famous Prisoners at CCWF
- Susan Atkins - Member of the Manson Family, convicted for her involvement in the Tate-LaBianca murders.
- Diane Downs - Convicted of attempting to murder her three children in 1983.
- Cathy Evelyn Smith - Convicted for her involvement in the drug-related death of comedian John Belushi.
- Theresa Knorr - Convicted of torturing and murdering two of her children in the 1980s.
- Dorothea Puente - Known as the "Death House Landlady," convicted of murdering her tenants for their Social Security checks.
