Valley State Prison (VSP) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Valley State Prison (VSP) is a state prison for men located in Chowchilla, California. The facility was originally opened in 1995 as Valley State Prison for Women but was converted to a men's prison in 2013.
Contact Information
Address: 21633 Avenue 24, Chowchilla, CA 93610
Phone: (559) 665-6100
Website: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/vsp/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Valley State Prison, you can use the CDCR Inmate Locator tool available on the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation website. 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. However, it's recommended to check the CDCR website or call the facility for the most up-to-date information and to schedule a visit in advance.
How to Send Money
You can send money to inmates at Valley State Prison through several methods:
- Online: Through JPay
- Phone: Call 1-800-574-5729
- Mail: Send a money order to JPay, P.O. Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available, but you should check with the facility for current options and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
Valley State Prison offers various rehabilitative programs, including:
- Educational programs
- Vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Religious services
Security and Management Information
Valley State Prison is a medium-security facility operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal visits from attorneys and legal representatives. These visits are typically not counted against regular visitation hours and may occur on non-visiting days.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process involves intake procedures, including photographing, fingerprinting, and medical screening. Release procedures vary depending on the type of release (e.g., parole, completed sentence) and may involve pre-release programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visit?
Visitors are typically allowed to bring a small clear plastic bag with identification, car keys, and a small amount of money for vending machines. All other items must be left in lockers or your vehicle.
How often can inmates receive visits?
Inmates are usually allowed visits every weekend, but this may vary depending on their security level and behavior. It's best to check with the facility for specific visiting schedules.
Can I send packages to inmates?
Packages can typically only be sent through approved vendors. Check with the facility for a list of approved vendors and allowable items.
