San Quentin State Prison (SQ) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
San Quentin State Prison is California's oldest correctional institution, located in San Quentin, Marin County. It houses both male and female inmates and is the state's only death row for male inmates.
Contact Information
- Address: San Quentin State Prison, San Quentin, CA 94964
- Phone: (415) 454-1460
- Website: CDCR San Quentin
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at San Quentin, use the CDCR Inmate Locator: CDCR Inmate Locator
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list. Check the official website for current visiting schedules and requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through various methods:
- Online: JPay
- Phone: 1-800-574-5729
- MoneyGram: Use Receive Code 1750
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available for certain inmates. Contact the facility for more information.
Inmate Services and Programs
- Education programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Religious services
- Arts programs, including the San Quentin News
History of the Facility
San Quentin State Prison was established in July 1852, making it the oldest prison in California. It has played a significant role in the state's correctional system and has undergone various reforms and expansions over the years.
Security and Management Information
San Quentin is a multi-security level institution, housing minimum, medium, and maximum-security inmates. It is managed by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal representation and visits from attorneys. Family and friends must be on the approved visitor list to visit. All visits are subject to prison regulations and security procedures.
Booking and Release Process
Booking and release processes are handled by the CDCR. Inmates are typically transferred to San Quentin from county jails or other state facilities. Release procedures vary depending on the inmate's sentence and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of inmates are housed at San Quentin?
San Quentin houses male inmates of various security levels, including those on death row. It also has a small unit for female inmates.
Are there any unique programs at San Quentin?
Yes, San Quentin is known for its innovative programs, including the San Quentin News (a prisoner-produced newspaper), various arts programs, and the Prison University Project.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Visiting hours are typically on weekends, but the frequency of visits can vary depending on the inmate's status and prison regulations. Always check current policies before planning a visit.
Famous Prisoners
- Charles Manson - Convicted for his role in the Tate-LaBianca murders
- Sirhan Sirhan - Assassin of Robert F. Kennedy
- Richard Ramirez - Serial killer known as the "Night Stalker"
- Scott Peterson - Convicted of murdering his pregnant wife
- William Bonin - Serial killer known as the "Freeway Killer"
- Eldridge Cleaver - Black Panther Party leader
- Merle Haggard - Country music legend, incarcerated for attempted robbery
- Danny Trejo - Actor, incarcerated for drug and robbery charges before his acting career
- Stanley "Tookie" Williams - Co-founder of the Crips gang, later nominated for Nobel Peace Prize
- Juan Corona - Serial killer convicted of murdering 25 farm workers
