:confused: :( Does anyone know how safe Wasco is for the inmates? I'm worried my friend, who I love to death will be mixed up in prison "drama." I know he can handle his own, and he knows what prison is like because his brother, father and uncle have all been in there and have told him what to expect. I just don't want him to get to cold on the inside (I know he will change emotionally, but I don't want to completely lose him). He's not in there for violent offenses or anything. Is Wasco known for anything like riots, fights, gangs, etc.....Please help me, I'm losing my mind. I want to see him so bad, and give him a hug. I just found out that reception visits are behind glass and Im totally bummed about that. I want to hug him so bad. Oh and phone calls; how do they work? What are the times they are allowed to call, is there any way for him to use a phone card? Is it like 1(800)COLLECT? Thank you -Jenn

Hi Jenn

Wasco is about 80% devoted to housing reception center inmates, it also houses level III inmates and then the permanent work crew level I inmates. Reception centers are highly controlled enviroments where inmates are locked down 23 hours a day 7 days a week. Within about 3-4 weeks they are given more yard time, access to showers and time in the chow hall. As such there is not a lot of oppertunity for new inmates to get into too much trouble. Now don't get me wrong, It does happen but, fights in a reception center are knocked down real quick.

As to phone calls, reception center inmates cannot make phone calls. He has to wait to be mainlined before he can call you. At that time it's done through MCI and is a pretty expensive collect call the average 15 minute call is about $17.00 ($3.95 connect fee and .89 cents a minute) The best thing you can do for both of you right now is get those letters going. He will undoubtedly be sharing his experiences of Wasco with you.

You may say the visits behind glass suck and yes they do. But I assure you the first time you get to see him and talk to him the last thing on your mind will be the 1 inch thick piece of glass between you. :D

If you want to send him some paper and stamps, he would welcome anything from the outside. Stamps and Envelopes also give him something to barter for food, books and magazines.

Here's a thread that will give you a lot of information about CA prisons.

The CA CDCR Handbook For Family and Friends of Inmates (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=96977)

Best of luck

Richard