Corcoran State Prison, CA Inmate Search

Corcoran State Prison, located in Corcoran, California, is a male-only state prison and part of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) system. Established in 1988, the prison has gained notoriety for housing some of the most dangerous and high-profile inmates in the state. To learn more about the facility's history and its mission, visit the official CDCR website.

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Overview of units, security levels, and State Department of Corrections

The detention facility is divided into different units based on the inmates' security levels and specific needs. In addition, the California State Department of Corrections oversees the management and operation of Corcoran State Prison.

Units and Security Levels

Description of various units within the prison

General population units: These units house inmates who can be safely managed in a standard prison environment. Inmates have access to various programs and services, such as education, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment.
Administrative segregation units: Inmates placed in these units are separated from the general population for various reasons, including disciplinary infractions, pending investigation, or their own protection.
Protective housing units: These units are designed to accommodate inmates who need protection from other prisoners due to their status or the nature of their crimes. Inmates in these units are typically housed in single cells with limited interaction with others.

Security levels

Minimum-security level: Inmates at this level pose the lowest risk to public safety and are housed in dormitory-style settings with more privileges and freedom of movement.
Medium-security level: Inmates at this level require a higher degree of supervision and are housed in cells with controlled movement throughout the facility.
Maximum-security level: Inmates at this level pose a significant threat to public safety and are housed in single cells with limited movement and access to programs.
Supermax-security level: Reserved for the most dangerous and high-profile inmates, these prisoners are housed in single cells with very limited interaction with staff or other inmates.

California State Department of Corrections

Role and responsibilities

The California State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is a state agency responsible for the management and administration of the state's adult and juvenile correctional facilities, as well as the supervision and rehabilitation of offenders within the California criminal justice system. Its primary roles and responsibilities include the following:

Inmate custody and care: The CDCR is responsible for providing safe and secure confinement for adult and juvenile offenders who have been sentenced to state prison or a juvenile facility. This includes ensuring adequate housing, food, medical care, and other basic needs.

Rehabilitation programs: The CDCR offers a range of rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism and facilitating the successful reintegration of offenders into society. These programs include educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and other life-skills development opportunities.

Parole supervision: The CDCR oversees the parole process for eligible offenders who have completed a portion of their sentence and are released into the community under supervision. Parole officers monitor and provide support to these individuals, ensuring they abide by the conditions of their release and continue to participate in rehabilitation programs.

Juvenile justice: The CDCR manages the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), which operates juvenile correctional facilities and provides education, vocational training, mental health, and substance abuse treatment services for youth offenders.

Community partnerships: The CDCR works closely with community organizations, local law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to address public safety concerns and promote collaboration in the rehabilitation and reentry process.

Administration and support: The CDCR oversees the hiring, training, and management of correctional staff, as well as the maintenance and operation of correctional facilities. The department also manages budgeting, policy development, research, and data analysis related to corrections in the state.

Public safety and victim services: The CDCR is dedicated to maintaining public safety by effectively managing the state's correctional system. The department also provides support and resources to crime victims, including notification services, restitution, and assistance in navigating the criminal justice process.

Corcoran State Prison Inmate Search

Inmate locator tools and databases

To search for an inmate at the Corcoran State Prison, you can use the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Locator. This lookup tool allows you to find inmates within the state prison system by entering specific search criteria.

Search criteria

Inmate number
Last name
First name
Date of birth

Information obtained

Release date
Criminal charges
Incarceration records

Contacting Inmates

Visitation guidelines

Scheduling visits: To visit an inmate, you must schedule a visit in advance through the CDCR Visitor Processing Appointment Scheduling System (VPASS).
Approved visitor lists: Inmates must have visitors on their approved visitor list before scheduling a visit.
Identification requirements: Visitors must provide valid government-issued photo identification upon arrival at the facility.

Visiting hours by unit

General population units: Visiting hours vary by unit and may be subject to change. Consult the official CDCR website for the most current information. 2. Administrative segregation units: Visiting hours for these units may be more restrictive and depend on the specific circumstances of the inmate.

Protective housing units: Visiting hours for protective housing units may also be limited and subject to change. Check with the facility for specific visiting hours.

Contact information

Corcoran State Prison, CA

Address: 4001 King Ave, Corcoran, CA 93212
Phone: (559) 992-8800

Mailing address: To send mail to an inmate, use the following address format: Inmate Name, CDCR Number, Facility Name, P.O. Box or Street Address, City, State, ZIP Code.

Phone number: To contact the prison directly, call (559) 992-8800.

Commissary and Inmate Finances

Purchasing items from the commissary

Inmates can purchase items such as hygiene products, food, and clothing from the prison commissary using funds from their inmate trust accounts.

Inmate trust accounts

Family and friends can deposit funds into an inmate's trust account using one of the approved methods, such as electronic transfer, money order, or cashier's check.

Sending money to inmates

Approved methods: Funds can be sent through JPay, Access Corrections, or by mailing a money order or cashier's check.

Fees and processing times: Fees and processing times vary depending on the method used. Consult the service provider's website for more information.

Inmate Communication

Inmate mail

Addressing envelopes: Use the appropriate facility mailing address format, as mentioned above in the "Contacting Inmates" section.

Allowed content and materials: Letters, cards, and photographs are typically allowed. However, some restrictions apply, such as no explicit content, gang-related materials, or items that could pose a security risk.

Mail inspection and restrictions: All incoming mail is subject to inspection by prison staff for contraband and content that violates facility rules.

Inmate phone calls

Types of phone calls: Inmates can make collect calls, prepaid calls, or use a debit calling account.

Setting up a phone account: To set up a phone account, use the Global Tel*Link (GTL) service or another approved service provider.

Call restrictions and monitoring: Calls may be monitored or recorded, and the duration of calls may be limited.

Death Row

Overview of death row at Corcoran State Prison

Corcoran State Prison is one of the facilities in California that houses death row inmates. These inmates are held in the highest security level and are subject to more restrictive conditions.

Inmate demographics

Death row inmates come from various backgrounds and have been convicted of capital crimes, such as murder with special circumstances. Demographic information on death row inmates can be found on the CDCR Condemned Inmate List.

Execution procedures and protocols

In California, executions are carried out by lethal injection. However, as of the knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, there has been a moratorium on executions in the state. This moratorium may still be in place, so it's important to check for the most current information on California's execution policies and protocols.

Rehabilitation Programs and Services

Educational and vocational programs

Corcoran State Prison offers various educational and vocational programs to help inmates develop essential skills and increase their chances of successful reintegration into society upon release. These programs may include:

Adult Basic Education (ABE): This program focuses on improving inmates' reading, writing, and math skills.

General Educational Development (GED) or High School Equivalency (HSE) preparation: Inmates can work towards obtaining their GED or HSE diploma, which is equivalent to a high school diploma.

Vocational training: Inmates can enroll in vocational training programs, such as carpentry, plumbing, or culinary arts, to gain valuable job skills and increase employability upon release.

Substance abuse treatment programs

Corcoran State Prison offers substance abuse treatment programs to help inmates overcome addiction and reduce the risk of recidivism. These programs may include individual and group counseling, educational sessions, and relapse prevention strategies.

Mental health services

The facility provides mental health services to inmates who require support, therapy, or medication to address mental health concerns. These services may include psychiatric evaluation, individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and case management.

Recreational and leisure activities

Inmates at Corcoran State Prison have access to various recreational and leisure activities, which can contribute to their overall well-being and personal growth. These activities may include sports, arts and crafts, music, or access to the prison library.

Parole and Release Process

Inmates who are eligible for parole may go through a hearing process to determine their suitability for release. The Board of Parole Hearings, a division of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, conducts these hearings and considers factors such as the inmate's criminal history, behavior in prison, and rehabilitation efforts.

If granted parole, inmates will be supervised by a parole agent and must comply with specific conditions to maintain their release status. Failure to adhere to these conditions may result in the revocation of parole and a return to custody.

For those not eligible for parole, the release process begins when the inmate's sentence is nearing completion. In preparation for release, the prison staff will assist in developing a re-entry plan, which may include referrals to community-based resources, such as housing, employment, and support services.

Frequently Asked Questions

State Inmate Search

Q1.1: How can I search for an inmate in a state prison?

To search for an inmate in a state prison, visit the Department of Corrections website for the respective state. Most states have an inmate locator tool that allows you to search for inmates using their full name, date of birth, or inmate identification number. You may also call or visit the state prison's administration office to request information about an inmate.

Q1.2: Are there any fees for using the state inmate search service?

Generally, there are no fees for using the state inmate search service online or through the state Department of Corrections. However, some third-party websites may charge a fee for providing inmate search services.

Q1.3: What information do I need to provide to locate an inmate?

To locate an inmate, you will need to provide their full name and date of birth, or their inmate identification number. Providing additional information, such as the facility they are housed in or the crime they were convicted of, may help narrow down search results.

Inmate Calls

Q2.1: How can I set up an account to receive calls from an inmate?

To receive calls from an inmate, you will need to create an account with the prison's authorized telephone service provider. This may involve providing personal information, setting up a prepaid account, or establishing a billing arrangement with the provider. Once your account is set up, the inmate can add your phone number to their approved call list.

Q2.2: What are the fees associated with inmate calls?

Fees associated with inmate calls vary depending on the facility and the telephone service provider. Some providers charge per-minute rates, while others offer prepaid plans or monthly subscriptions. Additional fees, such as connection fees or taxes, may also apply.

Q2.3: Can I block or unblock inmate calls?

Yes, you can block or unblock inmate calls. To block calls, contact the prison's authorized telephone service provider and request that your number be blocked from receiving calls. To unblock calls, you may need to follow a similar process, requesting that your number be removed from the blocked list.

Visitation

Q3.1: What is the process for scheduling a visit with an inmate?

To schedule a visit with an inmate, follow the specific guidelines set by the facility where the inmate is housed. This may involve submitting a visitor application, being added to the inmate's approved visitor list, and scheduling a visit through the facility's online booking system or by calling the visitation office.

Q3.2: Are there any restrictions on who can visit an inmate?

There may be restrictions on who can visit an inmate, depending on the facility and the inmate's custody level. Some common restrictions include limitations on age, criminal history, and relationship to the inmate. Visitors may also be subject to background checks and approval by the facility.

Q3.3: What are the rules and regulations for visiting a state prison?

Rules and regulations for visiting a state prison vary by facility but generally include the following:

Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
Visitors must follow the facility's dress code.
Visitors are subject to search upon entering the facility.
Visitors may only bring approved items into the facility.
Physical contact between visitors and inmates may be limited.
Visitors must adhere to the facility's behavioral guidelines.

Sending Mail

Q4.1: How do I send mail to an inmate?

To send mail to an inmate, address the envelope with the inmate's full name, inmate identification number, and the facility's mailing address. Include your name and return address on the envelope. Be sure to follow the facility's guidelines on mail content and approved items. It is recommended to use standard envelopes and paper, and avoid using any decorative elements, such as stickers or glitter.

Q4.2: Are there any restrictions on the content of mail sent to inmates?

Yes, there are restrictions on the content of mail sent to inmates. Each facility has its own guidelines, but common restrictions include:

No sexually explicit or offensive material.
No information about illegal activities or encouraging criminal behavior.
No materials that may compromise the security of the facility or the safety of inmates and staff.
No materials that promote hate speech, discrimination, or violence.

Q4.3: How can I ensure my mail reaches the inmate?

To ensure your mail reaches the inmate, follow these guidelines:

Use the inmate's full name and inmate identification number on the envelope.
Include your name and return address.
Adhere to the facility's guidelines on mail content and approved items.
Use standard envelopes and paper, avoiding any decorative elements.
Be patient, as mail processing times may vary depending on the facility.

Care Packages

Q5.1: Can I send care packages to an inmate?

Yes, you can send care packages to an inmate, but you must follow the facility's guidelines on approved items and vendors. Some facilities only accept care packages from pre-approved vendors, while others allow family and friends to send packages directly.

Q5.2: What items are allowed in care packages for inmates?

Allowed items in care packages vary by facility, but common items include:

Non-perishable food and snacks.
Toiletries and personal hygiene items.
Stationery and writing materials.
Clothing and footwear.
Reading materials, such as books and magazines.

Always check the facility's guidelines for a complete list of approved items and any restrictions.

Q5.3: Are there any restrictions on the size or weight of care packages?

Yes, there may be restrictions on the size and weight of care packages. Each facility has its own guidelines, which may limit the dimensions, weight, or quantity of packages an inmate can receive. Check with the specific facility for their rules and regulations.

Sending Money

Q6.1: How can I send money to an inmate's account?

To send money to an inmate's account, use the facility's approved methods, such as electronic transfers, money orders, or cashier's checks. Some facilities partner with third-party money transfer services, like JPay or GTL, to facilitate electronic transfers. Be sure to include the inmate's full name and inmate identification number when sending money.

Q6.2: Are there any fees for sending money to an inmate?

Yes, there may be fees associated with sending money to an inmate. Fees vary depending on the method used and the service provider. Electronic transfers through third-party services often have fees, while money orders or cashier's checks may have lower or no fees.

Q6.3: What are the restrictions on the amount of money I can send?

Restrictions on the amount of money you can send to an inmate vary by facility and the inmate's custody level. Some facilities may impose daily, weekly, or monthly limits on the amount an inmate can receive. Check with the specific facility for their rules and regulations.

Prison Roster

Q7.1: How can I access the prison roster?

To access the prison roster, visit the facility's website or the state Department of Corrections website. Some facilities provide online access to their rosters, while others may require you to call or visit the facility's administration office to request roster information.

Q7.2: How often is the prison roster updated?

The frequency of updates to the prison roster varies by facility. Some facilities update their rosters daily, while others may update them weekly or monthly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the facility's administration office.

Q7.3: What information is available on the prison roster?

The information available on the prison roster varies by facility but may include:

Inmate's full name
Inmate identification number
Date of birth
Gender
Race
Custody level
Housing location
Offense(s) and sentence length
Tentative release date

Keep in mind that the availability of this information may vary due to privacy concerns or facility policies.

Legal Assistance for Inmates

Q8.1: How can I help an inmate access legal assistance?

To help an inmate access legal assistance, you can:

Research and provide information on legal services, such as public defenders, legal aid organizations, or private attorneys.
Help the inmate make contact with legal service providers by providing their contact information or facilitating phone calls or visits.
Provide financial assistance, if needed, for hiring a private attorney or accessing legal resources.

Q8.2: Are there free legal services available for inmates?

Yes, free legal services are available for inmates who cannot afford private representation. Public defenders are appointed to represent indigent defendants in criminal cases. Additionally, some legal aid organizations provide free or low-cost legal assistance to inmates in matters related to their incarceration, such as appeals, parole hearings, or civil rights issues.

Q8.3: How can an inmate request a change in their legal representation?

An inmate can request a change in their legal representation by:

Contacting their current attorney or public defender and discussing their concerns.
Filing a motion with the court to request new representation, citing the reasons for the change.
If granted, working with the court-appointed attorney or finding a new private attorney.

Medical Assistance

Q9.1: How can I ensure an inmate receives necessary medical care?

To ensure an inmate receives necessary medical care:

Communicate with the inmate about their medical needs and concerns.
Contact the facility's medical staff or administration office to discuss the inmate's health issues and request appropriate care.
Follow up with the facility and the inmate to ensure the medical needs are being addressed.

Q9.2: What medical services are available to inmates?

Medical services available to inmates vary by facility but generally include:

Routine medical, dental, and vision care.
Emergency medical care.
Mental health services.
Medication management.
Chronic disease management.
Substance abuse treatment.

Q9.3: Can an inmate request a specific doctor or medical specialist?

In most cases, inmates cannot request a specific doctor or medical specialist. However, if an inmate has a unique or specialized medical need, the facility may arrange for a consultation or referral to an appropriate medical professional.

Inmate Programs

Q10.1: What educational and vocational programs are available to inmates?

Educational and vocational programs available to inmates vary by facility but may include:

Basic education and GED preparation.
College courses and degree programs.
Vocational and technical training.
Work programs and job training.
Life skills and financial literacy courses.

Q10.2: Are there any rehabilitation or mental health programs for inmates?

Yes, many facilities offer rehabilitation and mental health programs for inmates. These may include:

Substance abuse treatment and counseling.
Anger management and conflict resolution programs.
Mental health counseling and therapy.
Trauma-informed care and support groups.

Q10.3: How can an inmate enroll in available programs?

To enroll in available programs, an inmate can:

Contact the facility's educational or program coordinator to express interest in participating in a specific program.
Complete any required assessments or evaluations to determine eligibility and appropriate placement.
Attend scheduled classes or sessions, demonstrating commitment and progress in the program.

Release

Q11.1: How can I find out the release date of an inmate?

To find out the release date of an inmate, you can:

Use the inmate search tool on the state Department of Corrections website, which may provide tentative release dates.
Contact the facility's administration office and request the release date information, providing the inmate's full name and inmate identification number.
Speak directly with the inmate, as they may have received information about their release date from prison staff or their attorney.

Q11.2: What is the process for parole hearings and decisions?

The process for parole hearings and decisions varies by jurisdiction but generally involves the following steps:

Inmate becomes eligible for parole consideration based on their sentence and time served.
Inmate's case is reviewed by the parole board, which considers factors such as behavior, program participation, and victim impact statements.
A parole hearing is scheduled, during which the inmate, their attorney, and any victims or their representatives may present information.
The parole board makes a decision, either granting or denying parole based on the hearing and case review.
If parole is granted, the inmate is released under supervision with specific conditions they must follow.
If parole is denied, the inmate remains in custody and may be eligible for a future parole hearing.

Q11.3: Are there any resources available to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release?

Yes, there are resources available to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release. These may include:

Reentry programs and transitional housing, which provide support and assistance with housing, employment, and life skills.
Probation or parole officers, who help supervise and guide released inmates in meeting the conditions of their release.
Community-based organizations and nonprofits that offer support services, such as job training, education, and counseling.
State and federal benefits programs, which may provide financial assistance, healthcare, and other resources for eligible individuals.
Family and friends, who can offer emotional support, encouragement, and practical assistance during the reintegration process.

It is important for released inmates to actively engage with these resources and develop a strong support network to increase their chances of successful reintegration and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.

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