Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP) - Inmate Guide
Overview of the Facility
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP) is a state prison for men located in Wasco, California. It serves as both a reception center for incoming inmates and a general population institution. The facility has a capacity for approximately 5,000 inmates and operates at various security levels.
Contact Information
Address: 701 Scofield Avenue, Wasco, CA 93280
Phone: (661) 758-8400
Website: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/wsp/
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center, you can use the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Inmate Locator tool available at https://inmatelocator.cdcr.ca.gov/. You will need the inmate's full name and CDCR number or date of birth.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visiting hours are typically on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must be approved and on the inmate's visiting list. It's recommended to call the facility beforehand to confirm visiting hours and any specific requirements.
How to Send Money
Money can be sent to inmates through various methods:
- Online: Through JPay
- In-person: At kiosks located in the prison lobby
- Mail: Send a money order to the inmate's name and CDCR number
Phone Calls and Video Options
Inmates can make collect calls or use pre-paid phone accounts. Video visitation may be available, but it's best to check with the facility for current options and procedures.
Inmate Services and Programs
WSP offers various rehabilitative programs including:
- Education and vocational training
- Substance abuse treatment
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Re-entry programs
History of the Facility
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center opened in 1991. It was designed to serve as a reception center for incoming inmates in the central California area and has since expanded to include general population housing units.
Security and Management Information
WSP operates at multiple security levels, from minimum to maximum. The facility employs correctional officers, medical staff, and various support personnel to manage and secure the prison population.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from their attorneys. Family and friends must be approved for visitation and follow all facility rules and regulations during visits.
Booking and Release Process
As a reception center, WSP processes incoming inmates, conducting medical and mental health screenings, risk assessments, and determining appropriate housing placements within the CDCR system. Upon release, inmates go through a pre-release program to prepare for re-entry into society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I send to an inmate at Wasco State Prison?
Inmates can receive approved items such as letters, photos, and books directly from approved vendors. Personal packages are generally not allowed. Check with the facility for a current list of approved items and vendors.
How long do inmates typically stay at the reception center?
The reception process usually takes 60 to 90 days, during which time inmates undergo various assessments before being transferred to their assigned institutions. Some inmates may remain at WSP if classified for general population housing there.
Can I email an inmate at Wasco State Prison?
Direct email to inmates is not available. However, some services like JPay offer a way to send electronic messages that are printed and delivered to inmates. Check with the facility for current communication options.
Notable Former Inmates
While specific information about famous prisoners at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center is limited, it's important to note that as a reception center, many inmates pass through this facility briefly before being transferred to other institutions. Therefore, it may not have a long list of notable long-term inmates.
