Inmate Guide: Sylvester Carraway Ventura Public Service and Fire Center
Overview of the Facility
The Sylvester Carraway Ventura Public Service and Fire Center is a minimum-security conservation camp located in Ventura County, California. It is operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) in partnership with CAL FIRE. The facility houses low-risk inmates who are trained to assist in fighting wildfires and perform other public service work.
Contact Information
Address: 2800 Wright Road, Camarillo, CA 93010
Phone: (805) 389-9384
Website: CDCR Conservation Camps
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at the Sylvester Carraway Ventura Public Service and Fire Center, use the CDCR Inmate Locator tool available on the CDCR website. You will need the inmate's full name and CDCR number or date of birth.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours are typically on weekends and holidays. Due to the nature of the facility and its firefighting mission, visitation may be restricted during fire season or emergencies. Contact the facility directly for current visitation schedules and policies.
How to Send Money
Funds can be sent to inmates through the following methods:
- Online: JPay
- Mail: Send a money order to the inmate's name and CDCR number at the facility address
- In-person: Kiosks are available at some CDCR facilities
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates have access to pay phones for collect calls or calls using pre-paid phone accounts. Video visitation is not typically available at conservation camps due to their remote locations and primary mission.
Inmate Services and Programs
The primary program at this facility is firefighting training and wildland fire suppression. Inmates may also participate in other conservation and community service projects. Limited educational and vocational programs may be available.
History of the Facility
The Sylvester Carraway Ventura Public Service and Fire Center was established as part of California's Conservation Camp Program, which began in the 1940s. It is named after Sylvester Carraway, though specific details about the namesake are not readily available.
Security and Management Information
As a minimum-security facility, inmates at this center are considered low-risk and are carefully screened before placement. The camp is jointly managed by CDCR and CAL FIRE staff, with CDCR handling custody and CAL FIRE overseeing the work projects and firefighting operations.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates retain their legal rights, including access to legal materials and attorney visits. Family visitation is permitted within the guidelines set by CDCR, though it may be more limited compared to traditional prison facilities due to the camp's operational nature.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are not directly booked into this facility. They are transferred from other CDCR institutions after meeting eligibility criteria. Upon completion of their sentence or if they become ineligible for the program, inmates are transferred back to a traditional CDCR facility for processing or release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of inmates are housed at the Sylvester Carraway Ventura Public Service and Fire Center?
The facility houses minimum-security inmates who have been carefully screened and deemed low-risk. These inmates are trained to assist in firefighting and other public service work.
Can inmates at this facility earn time off their sentences?
Yes, inmates who participate in firefighting and other approved work programs may be eligible for additional time credits, potentially reducing their overall sentence.
Are inmates paid for their work at the fire center?
Inmates receive a small wage for their work, which is significantly higher when they are actively fighting fires. The exact amount may vary based on their role and the current CDCR pay scales.
