Hi folks some people are wondering about this facility, so I thought if we started a thread here hopefully everything can be put into it and we help our those that need it.

You are aware there are *two* facilities in Chowchilla, right? CCWF and VSPW.

Yes, I was aware but was just trying to get something posted for one of our members that her daughter was there. I'm not sure which one it was so let's just post about both in this forum and hopefully our member will have someone to connect with :) But, thank you for stating that as well as I neglected to state which one.

My sweetheart is at CCWF, has been for five years. Thanks for the the direct avenue to all things concerned there, and across the street of course. I do have some issues that I would like to address, if anyone else is interested in sharing info. I would be very interested.

Roxy's Man -- shoot. What's on your mind?

I think the thing that bothers me the most is the male c/o disrespect of the inmates. I don't know if you are aware that I am not an outsider looking in, I have way too many years under my belt looking out from the other side. I know that in the mens institutions the female c/os don't have a problem checking out the shower situation but for the most part, pat downs and body searches are performed by male staff. When I go to visit my Lady, we talk about the inner workings and I'll tell you what, I don't know who gets more POd. Some of those clowns are way out of line. If it was just the way they talk to the inmates-"B****S"- I could almost laugh it off, almost. When I hear about the aggressive pat downs that just straight gets my blood boiling. In my opinion they are about one step away from a molester. It blew me away the first time I walked into that visiting room and saw how many young girls, and I mean girls not women, are imprisoned there. It makes me wonder what really goes on there that doesn't get reported out of fear. I guess it's that with my personal knowledge of how the system really works I have to ask "what's really going on"? Does anybody elses wife/girlfriend ever talk about this?

Male COs have been banned from doing pat-down searches on female inmates for over a year now ( http://www.prisons.org/dignity/times.htm ), and I've heard from several women in both facilities that this is being adhered to... Do you have information to the contrary?

Also, if you don't mind my asking -- how were you able to get visiting approval with a felony record?

Situations occur, where for reasons of "security", it isn't always as it should be. In times of high tension, fights etc., rules have a way of being overlooked. To a small extent I can understand this because I know that their mission is to gain control ASAP. that being said, don't use this as an opportunity to disrespect, degrade somebody. I will be down there again very shortly and will make a point of getting as much info as possible to pass along. If anyone has questions they would like me to ask, feel free to post them. As for my approval- I was denied on my first request, it happened so fast that I firmly believe somebody just looked at it and said " I don't think so". I made sure that they had every last shred of info about me so that ommisions wouldn't be an issue, but of course that very info was what was used against me. So, I did my homework, wrote a letter to the warden challenging the validity of the reason for denial. I included a brief history of myself since my last release, work, successes on a personal level etc.. I took the approach that this could be my only chance to defend myself and just laid it all out there. Three weeks later I got the good news-"You're good to go"-. From what I understand, CCWF is pretty good about allowing ex-offenders visits, so for anyone having a problem I would say "don't give up".

Situations occur, where for reasons of "security", it isn't always as it should be. In times of high tension, fights etc., rules have a way of being overlooked. To a small extent I can understand this because I know that their mission is to gain control ASAP. that being said, don't use this as an opportunity to disrespect, degrade somebody. I will be down there again very shortly and will make a point of getting as much info as possible to pass along. If anyone has questions they would like me to ask, feel free to post them. As for my approval- I was denied on my first request, it happened so fast that I firmly believe somebody just looked at it and said " I don't think so". I made sure that they had every last shred of info about me so that ommisions wouldn't be an issue, but of course that very info was what was used against me. So, I did my homework, wrote a letter to the warden challenging the validity of the reason for denial. I included a brief history of myself since my last release, work, successes on a personal level etc.. I took the approach that this could be my only chance to defend myself and just laid it all out there. Three weeks later I got the good news-"You're good to go"-. From what I understand, CCWF is pretty good about allowing ex-offenders visits, so for anyone having a problem I would say "don't give up".

I have a daughter in law at CCWF and she really hates it. Everytime that she signs up for a class it is cancelled. She says it is so inefficient. She was supposed to be transferred to Live Oaks but she is held up because of a medical hold. She saw an opthomologist many mos.ago and he ordered reading glasses but they are forever getting to her. Now she fears that she may have to wait until May to get out of there. She says that every thing there is very inefficient and you can't get information from anyone as to your status etc. I will be so glad when she is on her way to Live Oaks. She was just supposed to be at Chowchilla for processing. We just wait and pray. She will be released for good in July of this year so it is doable.

Where is Live Oaks?

I believe it is in So. CA. I am not sure exactly where. I will find out.

Does anyone know the phone number for the mail room at CCWF? I would really appreciate it.

(559) 665-5531, and ask for the mail room. AFAIK there's no direct line.

Strasse,

Thanks so much for the phone number. I cannot access any of the CA Prison sites. I don't know if they are re-structuring them or what. This site is great and I appreciate the help.

Has anyone been having problems getting calls after 6:30pm because of IST? Which is in service training, but in reality, the fact of the matter is that it's an excuse to lock everyone down early so that staff can sit around and bs. I guess the thing that really irratates me is that they will watch you sign up for a 7:00 or later call knowing full well that it won't be possible.

What dorm is she in? I just got a call at 7:30pm on Friday from my daughter in law who is in dorm 509. She usually calls at that time. Them not telling her and watching her sign up would really anger me.

She is in 517, I got a call tonight at 6:15 but only because she jumped on an empty phone to let me know what's up. She said she would call back at 7:00 because she was signed up for that time. The phone never rang. I'll be seeing her Sat/Sun so I'll let you know if I hear anything new.

Thanks. Have a great visit...

Hi, I'm really glad to finally find a thread on Chowchilla (CCWF for me). I did two terms at CCWF in 1198 and 2000. I was last released on 10/27/2000 - funny how I still remember the exact date over 5 years later, huh - lol
So even though it has been 5 years, I still remember most information regarding being incarcerated there. Not to mention that I still write to 3 women I left behind, one a LWOP (Life without parole) who really changed my attitude and taught me to respect my freedom. I credit her with my decision to get clean and straighten up my act.
My first time home, I played the system. It took 18 mos for them to bust me. The second time home, I cut all ties with people places and things and got the job done. I was off parole in 13 months.
Now I'm in school with a Criminal Justice and Substance Abuse studies major. My goal is to go back into the prison to spread the word that women do recover and become successful and productive members of society.
That said, I would like to comment on some of the issues raised here. Perhaps things got worse since I was there, but I don't remember having any issues with male c/o's searching or being housing staff. In fact, my 3rd watch housing staff was one of the nicest men I've ever known and a very smart c/o - betcha didn't think there was ever one of those! He would make bed moves real easy for us, logically realizing that if we were happy in our rooms, there would be less trouble. He always used the gentler kinder way - once again knowing a happy inmate was a compliant inmate. I told him when I was getting ready to leave that he took better care of me than my people back home. Sad, isn't it? Anyway, as the convicts we were, we tried to actually take advantage of male c/o's searching, knowing there were some places they would gloss over in their search. It worked most times. Then female c/o's weren't that difficult to get one over on either. Smuggling succeeded around 85% of the time. Even if they found something you only got a minor write up - if even that.
Okay this is probably long enough for now. Let me know if you have any specific questions and feel free to email me privately as I am new to this forum and may forget to check on it - not to mention there are SO many subject threads! I could lost in here for DAYS - lol
Last but not least, Roxysman - are you sure your woman is in 517??? Lst time I was there there was no Unit 517. There are four housing buildings on each yard.
A yard (reception) has 501-504, 501 being death row and ad seg.
B yard has 505-508
C yard has 509-512 mostly PIA workers
D yard has 513-516 used to be the psych yard, but now is just about the coolest yard to be on due to a more layed back attitude.
The only thing I can think of is that they opened the gym as a huge dorm. They haven't done that for years and years. Not the best atmosphere i heard. Seems like they would call it something different than 517. Well, I can always ask my friends and let you know.
Just my opinion.
That's it for now, hope some of this info helps.

A yard (reception) has 501-504, 501 being death row and ad seg.

501 and 502 are both "regular" units.
503 is reception, cells.
504 is AdSeg/DR.

It's a mirror image of VSPW, where A4 is AdSeg and the SHU, A3 is reception and AdSeg/SHU overflow, and A1/A2 are "regular" units.

you are absolutely right - my bad after being home so long!

That you forgot is a good thing! :) Congrats on your personal victory over The System.

you are so right ImTrixKat, I meant 513, thanks. From what she tells me, there are male staff in her unit with attitude. You know the program, some alright, some need help. Congrats on your success and keep up the good work, outside is so much better. Take care

Hi, This is my first time on this website but i have girl friend who is in VSPW Chowchilla and scared and pregnant. They just sent me paperwork saying I wasn't approved because of Jail. I was only in Jail for three days back in 2003. I was wondering how my letter to Warden should be formatted in order to get approval. My life has taken a three sixty since that time in my life and I need the Warden to realize that i am one of the only good influence this girl has. Anything to help I would greatly appreciate. THank you, Mrs. Johnson

your friend can 602 the decision. it also depends on what you were in custody for. an when you filled out the visitors form did you put on it that you were in jail? even if it was a misdeanmor( forgot how its spelled) but if you didn't list it they won't allow it. the reason why should be appealed but again it depends on the reason for you being in there.

mrs.johnson, I was denied from CCWF, [across the street] reason being, security risk. I have three prior prison terms. From what I gathered from their list of explanations was that they want three years to elapse from the last conviction. I do beleive though, that is for a felony. I wrote a letter to the warden explaining my life since my release in 2001, work history, success in overcoming substance abuse etc., just basically laid it all out there. I got approved three weeks later. I think sometimes that your fate lies in the hands of whoever opens the visiting request and if they don't feel like doing any background, well that's it. You do have the right to appeal and I would strongly reccomend that you exercise that right. Good luck!

I'm curious to know if anyone lives relatively close to VSPW/CCWF or knows how much people who live locally pay per call. I live in the L.A. area and pay $5.30 for my 15 minutes of happiness. I'm just interested in knowing what the long distance markup is.

Thanks.

I am new to PTO and am happy to have found you. I want information on VSPW chowchilla CA. I have a friend there who has an eleven year old son and no family to support her thru this. right now I am wondering if you know how many books she can get and if they are a special purchase. does anyone know how we can donate books to the prison ? thanks in advance , bookbabe

I want information on VSPW chowchilla CA. I have a friend there who has an eleven year old son and no family to support her thru this. right now I am wondering if you know how many books she can get and if they are a special purchase. does anyone know how we can donate books to the prison ?

Depending on her privilege group and classificaiton, she can have 5 or 10 books in her property at any one time. Any surplus books must be sent out to a third party at her cost, or donated to the library. If she's in reception, AdSeg, or the SHU, or if she's on C status ("c over c"), it's 5 books; if she's in group A or B (A1A, A2B, etc) it's 10 books. ref. (http://www.cdc.state.ca.us/budgetregs/docs/DOM/NCDOM/2005NCDOM/05_08/Sec_%2054030.17-54030.19.pdf) Books must be softcover and sent in from a mail-order publisher or book vendor (e.g., Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, etc). ref. (http://www.cdc.state.ca.us/budgetregs/docs/DOM/NCDOM/2005NCDOM/05_08/Sec_%2054030.1-54030.16.pdf)

Books can be received at any time, and do not count as a quarterly package or special purchase; no approval is needed, etc. Oh, and, books can't describe the making of explosives or weapons, or depict sexual assualts on custodial staff, etc.
No idea on donating to the library, sorry!

Bookbabe, you can find information on VSPW and how to donate to a book drive at the VSPW Inmate Family Council website -- www.vspw-ifc.com (http://www.vspw-ifc.com/). If you have any more questions please feel free to ask...my Girlfriend is there, so if I don't know the answer I can always ask her.

I was wondering if anybody has thoughts about why men are housed according to their custody levels, 1-4, yet women are housed together regardless of their level of security or length of term. Just something that I've been thinking about and curious to know if others have opinons or are even aware of that.

Funny you mention that! When I was there, they told my mom that we women were housed with women that had similar crimes! HA! This was yet another lesson to mom that "cops" lie. While I don't have an answer to your question, I can say that women are racially desegregated also and men are not. This speaks either to higher intelligence (did I say that?),:p an ability to adapt, a lower level of aggression - or perhaps a good illustration of how things would be if women were in charge! :D ( since we seem to adapt to high stress situations and still find ways to be happy and make friends)

At any rate, I belong to more than one prison reform listserv, and I must say I'm almost embarrassed about how much better it seems at women's prison - enough food, ability to have a group of friends, grass and flowers . . . I mean, it doesn't beat being free, but there is quite a desparity between the two types of prisons.

So I guess what I'm trying to say in a very round about way, is that in may opinion we are mixed like we are because we can be. The death row inmates are kept separate, and trouble makers end up in as-seg. Then again, during the few large scale fights I witnessed, half the cops acted like they didn't know what to do - now that was scary! After I finished laughing my ass off.

Another reason is probably the fact that there are only two large women prisons. It's not like we have enough inmates to fill up separate yards by level. Many, many, many are Level 1 (me included - 9 pts) and aren't even supposed to be housed in a Level 4 prison. Live Oaks ( community based prison) couldn't hold us all - I hear it's nice - never been there -always kicked "over the wall". then again, I'm not sure there would be enough level 3 & 4 to fill up one yard together. Maybe I'm wrong. I can say that the lifers and LWOP's I knew were some of the nicest and well adjusted women there.

Well, it's obviously been awhile since I've checked in here, hence the yakkity yak! So anyway, gotta go. If you have any further questions, you can email off list if you want - I forgot to check here for several months!

my girl is in ciw and while in chowchilla they denyed my visitation due to a failure to appear on a trafik violation i didnt even know had been a warrant for over a year , it never came up when i got pulled over last time andv they did a search , they never notified me at all about being denied and after she trasnsfered to ciw after reception in ccwf she wrote me saying they denied me up in chjowchilla , i sent another form to ciw and still havent gotten a reply and am in the prosess of moving to a diferent location in the city , so if they do send me a notice denying me as well i wont beable to get it because of the new address , she is hardtimeing it baddkly now not having seen eachother sinse november of 2005 and she transfered to ciw because i live only 20 miles away and we both thought i would be able to visit unaware of the fact i had already been turned down , on the app i sent to ciw i didnt meaantion anything about being turned down by ccwf and not sure if i shouldve mentioned it or just hope they dont let such a petty thing as a fta on a trafik ticket keep me from seeing her , and how do i write to the warden to apeal it if im denied again , she is not doing well because of this and im all she has out here taking care of her and the diference seeing me would make for her is what matters , im just not sure what to do about it ,

live oaks is way up north and is very nice about 250 women....i did 3 years at chowchilla i just got out.........i hated every minute...........if i can help in any way just ask...............good luck................cynthia

I would like to get information on our sober living home into the women's prisons.
We are located in bakersfield. we have 11 beds and we are faith based.

Any ideas on how to let the girls know about our facility?

Does anyone know why visiting was cancelled at both VSPW and CCWF this weekend? When I called the 800 number, it just said "extenuating circumstances" and "unforeseen events" so that doesn't tell me anything. Since it is a 300 mile round trip for me, I'd at least like to know what was going on. It seemed like all other prisons were on regular visiting, so it's not like when the whole state was on lockdown 2 weeks ago. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

It appears to be "Campylobacter" bacteria. Here is the news brief (http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060520/NEWS01/605200318/1001) I found on the situation.

Thanks very much for the info, never would have guessed something like that. Thanks again.

It appears to be "Campylobacter" bacteria. Here is the news brief (http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060520/NEWS01/605200318/1001) I found on the situation.

Well that is great. My wife has been told she is scheduled to go to VSP tomorrow.

Last info I have is that a total of 1,300 inmates and 14 staff members have become ill all throughout the system. Last known numbers at VSPW - 400; CCWF - 94. They think it was the milk. Im interested in knowing if your wife was actually sent, because many institutions locked down their receiving yards - no new inmates until it became contained. At any rate, from what i understand, it's being handled better than usual. I belong to the yahoo group PrisonMovement and CDC-in and they have pretty much up to date info, if anyone is interested. If I get anymore VSP/CCWF specific info, i'll try to remember to come back and post it. I'm also waiting to hear from some of my friends inside.

Im interested in knowing if your wife was actually sent, because many institutions locked down their receiving yards - no new inmates until it became contained.

Yeah she got sent last Tuesday, the 22nd I believe, and I just got a letter today. Said she was given some huge rule book, has been refused the visitation form to send me and requested me to send a "Prisoners Package" from the Post Office. I have scoured the internet resources I have and can not find anything about this package. Maybe i am not looking in the right places.

I have read on here that we are not allowed to send stamps there. I have also read in some CDCR book that I am not allowed to send blank paper or writing items. The envelope her letter came in says that no envelopes are allowed but says I can send stamps...so WTF can I send? I know she is not eligable for a quarterly package as of yet....or so I have been told and have read.

I will keep scouring the net for any info regarding VSPW, but if someone has some recent info and things I would appreciate it.
Thanks.

I have read on here that we are not allowed to send stamps there. I have also read in some CDCR book that I am not allowed to send blank paper or writing items. The envelope her letter came in says that no envelopes are allowed but says I can send stamps...so WTF can I send? I know she is not eligable for a quarterly package as of yet....or so I have been told and have read.

You can send stamps to CIW, VSPW, and CCWF, know this from first-hand experience.

If she's still on reception (an A-yard), she can't receive a package yet, nor have much property at all. Once she mainlines (goes "over the wall" to B, C, or D yards) she'll be able to call, have a lot more property, and receive packages, assuming she's not C/C status (not programming).

terri she is in ccwf she will be out soon. she is lucky this time, she did only 2 weeks. but it will be only time she will be back. i love her mom:)

Can somebody explain something to me. My soon to be wife is in VSPW on a parole violation. i visited her last Saturday and she seemed sort of distant to me. She told me that her "wife" had just got back in the previous week on a violation also. I didn't know what to say because she had told me months ago that she never got involved with any females while she served her original 11 month sentence. She sort of explained what it meant to have a "wife" in prison but I not sure she is being completely honest. I feel like I'm being cheated on...I'm actually thinking of leaving her now because I'm not sure what the hell it means to be in prison and have a wife. I do know that she said once you take a wife it's for life. There is no divorce or having any other spouse. Does that me me also ??? Can some one please give me the "real" explination and what should I do ? :angry:

Is it Leo chesney CCF located in Live Oaks, (northern calif)??If it is, I have the info if you need it. Also, you can still send reading glasses to loved ones through a quarterly package, might not be exact perscription, but it will help.

terri she is in ccwf she will be out soon. she is lucky this time, she did only 2 weeks. but it will be only time she will be back. i love her mom:)

Kimerberly good luck hun, and your more than welcome!!! Sorry took so long to reply, not sure what I was thinking when I read it the first time :(

Pleasi in need of a person that doesn't need a heartache when she gets out..

im looking for a girl in building 503, room142 upper A YARD


What dorm is she in? I just got a call at 7:30pm on Friday from my daughter in law who is in dorm 509. She usually calls at that time. Them not telling her and watching her sign up would really anger me.

How long does an inmate at CCWF have to wait, to qualify to receive a quarterly package (10/1-12/31) ?

There's no wait, once they're out of reception. The only caveat is that they have to be A or B privilege group, that is, programming half- or full-time, or on the waiting list for a class / job assignment. If they're C/C status they're not eligible for a box, and they also can't get a box if they're in AdSeg or the SHU. But once they're over the wall (out of reception), normally they can get boxes.

hello everyone,
i

Hello everyone,
I

I hope you found it's location by now and/or that issue has passed but I know of a women's facility in Live Oak, CA which is located approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Sacramento via State Hwy 99.

This is my first post here. My cousin was transferred a couple of weeks ago to VSPW in Chowchilla (I used to write to her in Corcoron). She has written twice to tell me that she is now at VSPW and I have replied twice but it looks like she has never received a letter from me yet. In my letter, I sent her my new phone number but she has not called me yet. Any idea why she has not received my letters yet? Is the mail slow there?
She wants me to visit her now that she is only a few miles from where I live. I want to visit her, although I am a little nervous about visiting a prison.
Thanks

On the letter I recommend that you place the date on the front of the envolpe in big letters. It must should be big for the officers to read the envolpe. It really works. Tell your people inside to do like wise.

This is my first post here. My cousin was transferred a couple of weeks ago to VSPW in Chowchilla (I used to write to her in Corcoron). She has written twice to tell me that she is now at VSPW and I have replied twice but it looks like she has never received a letter from me yet. In my letter, I sent her my new phone number but she has not called me yet. Any idea why she has not received my letters yet? Is the mail slow there?
She wants me to visit her now that she is only a few miles from where I live. I want to visit her, although I am a little nervous about visiting a prison.
Thanks

Hi Cinz, mail is slow there! It's been taking about two weeks for my fiancee to get my letters there, and I'm in Fresno, so it doesn't take long for the mail to actually get there.

Don't be nervous about visiting there. It's not bad at all. I'm there both days every weekend. If you ever need any info just PM, I'd be happy to help you out.

My daughter will most likely be speding some time in Chowchilla. Can someone tell me what type of mail/packages she is allowed to receive? She is has been in county jail for over a year and the is only allowed letter and very few photos. All hygine, mail supplies, food, etc. has to be purchased through Canteen services and books must be paperback and come directly from the book vendor (Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Noble). Any information or a link where I could go would be great.

Is it horrible there? I've heard Prison is much better than County. I'm scared for her.

Thanks,
Marmie

My daughter will most likely be speding some time in Chowchilla. Can someone tell me what type of mail/packages she is allowed to receive? She is has been in county jail for over a year and the is only allowed letter and very few photos. All hygine, mail supplies, food, etc. has to be purchased through Canteen services and books must be paperback and come directly from the book vendor (Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Noble). Any information or a link where I could go would be great.

Is it horrible there? I've heard Prison is much better than County. I'm scared for her.


Once she's out of reception (a month or three), assuming she's privilege group A or B, she'll be able to get a quarterly package from an approved vendor (e.g., http://www.vspw-ifc.com/Boxes.html ). You can send hygeine, etc., that way. They either have or will be changing the regulations regarding stamps, but you should be able to still send embossed envelopes. Books must still be paperback and from the seller (e.g., Amazon.com).

Remember there are two prisons in Chowchilla, VSPW and CCWF, but most of the information for one will be true for the other. Read http://www.vspw-ifc.com for some good info.

It it horrible there? I don't think it's anything nice; how long will she be serving? They closed the women's side of CRC and shipped everyone up to what used to be the gyms and dayrooms at CCWF and VSPW, so in terms of crowding it's about as bad as the mens' facilities now. (Even the cells are really small dorms, with 8 women per cell.) I expect programming will have suffered, probably medical care too, so make sure she's on top of herself; what's a small ache today may become worse and if she waits until its bad she may not get timely attention. :( Probably still better than county (county facilities are horrible, unless you're Paris and get brand new scrubs and use of a cell phone, and even then...), though.

Thank you Strausse

Is will get 3 years on a violent charge but she's been at County "Hilton Towers" for a little over a year. Yes, she was there while the whole Paris hoopla was going on. The only daylight she's seen has been bus rides between the facility and court. The estimation is that she will spend 16 more months and most of that in Prison.

Thanks for the information . . .

The overcrowding is horrible right now at both prisons. I can only speak for what it's like at VSPW, but it's not good. It's a very dangerous place. I know that you mention that she hasn't seen daylight in some time, but the yard there is a very bad place to be. My fiancee has been there 8 yrs and avoids it like the plague. She has lost three women she was friendly with on that yard over the years.

Strasse, the programs were practically non existent before the over crowding, so I wouldn't expect a thing in that area.

Thanks so much for the replies. It's so weird because I have not seen my cousin in over 30 years and I will be going to visit her in prison as soon as she gets my letters. We were very close girl cousins when we were children but then dirfted apart. Now she has been transferred to a prison near me and I will be able to visit her. I believe she has 2 years left before she gets out.

Hey folks,

I got a letter today(yesterday) from my writing partner on DR there in Chowchilla. She appears to be a little excited. I know Chowchilla is in the middle of nowhere. Can any of you outstanding individuals tell me what to expect when I arrive at CCWF. Example the buying of the duckets. Where do I buy them in there?

I’ll be visiting her in October. I will be taking a tour of Southern Cal and be heading to LA afterwards to pick up some writing stuff for my screenwriting. Can anyone recommend a hotel in the Chowchilla area?:)

Thanks for any info that can get me going.

if anyone has any questions ive been to Chowchill reception and then did the rest of my time down in CIW.. heree to help if needed..


Sarah

I'm new here and I have been looking around reading the posts, and it's amazing how wonderfully supportive people are to their wives, husbands, fiancees, lovers, friends and family while they are in prison. You are doing the right thing, standing by them. I just wanted to share this Scripture from the Bible that I love, where Jesus talks about prison. Jesus said:

When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in prison, you visited me."
Then the Apostles asked, "When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in prison?"
Jesus answered, "Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me." Matthew 25:35

Don't ever give up or let others tell you that you should give up on that person that needs you in prison. Hope this blesses you today.

I'm new here and I have been looking around reading the posts, and it's amazing how wonderfully supportive people are to their wives, husbands, fiancees, lovers, friends and family while they are in prison. You are doing the right thing, standing by them. I just wanted to share this Scripture from the Bible that I love, where Jesus talks about prison. Jesus said:

When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in prison, you visited me."
Then the Apostles asked, "When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in prison?"
Jesus answered, "Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me." Matthew 25:35

Don't ever give up or let others tell you that you should give up on that person that needs you in prison. Hope this blesses you today.

Amen to that Cinz!

Can I take my Bible into VSPW?

Can I take my Bible into VSPW?

As a visitor? No. Possibly if you're clergy, but even then I doubt it.

If I recall correctly (I've never visited at VSPW, but CCWF is very much the same), there should be bibles, along with board games, playing cards, etc., in a cabinet near the guards' table that you can take out to use during the visit.

As a visitor? No. Possibly if you're clergy, but even then I doubt it.

If I recall correctly (I've never visited at VSPW, but CCWF is very much the same), there should be bibles, along with board games, playing cards, etc., in a cabinet near the guards' table that you can take out to use during the visit.

No, I'm not clergy. Hopefully there will be a Bible in the waiting room, there's just some scripture that I want to share with my cousin.

This is my first post here. My cousin was transferred a couple of weeks ago to VSPW in Chowchilla (I used to write to her in Corcoron). She has written twice to tell me that she is now at VSPW and I have replied twice but it looks like she has never received a letter from me yet. In my letter, I sent her my new phone number but she has not called me yet. Any idea why she has not received my letters yet? Is the mail slow there?
She wants me to visit her now that she is only a few miles from where I live. I want to visit her, although I am a little nervous about visiting a prison.
Thanks

Oops, I meant Corona prison, not Corcoron!

Yeah that'd be C.I.W. in Corona. I have a pen pal there. The mailroom of C.I.W. is pretty fast normally, but from what I've heard the mailroom at VSPW is pretty slow. Or was that CCWF? Oh well, I'm sure the people here can tell =)

I hope your cousin will get your mail soon!

Amen to that.

I'm new here and I have been looking around reading the posts, and it's amazing how wonderfully supportive people are to their wives, husbands, fiancees, lovers, friends and family while they are in prison. You are doing the right thing, standing by them. I just wanted to share this Scripture from the Bible that I love, where Jesus talks about prison. Jesus said:

When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in prison, you visited me."
Then the Apostles asked, "When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in prison?"
Jesus answered, "Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me." Matthew 25:35

Don't ever give up or let others tell you that you should give up on that person that needs you in prison. Hope this blesses you today.

hey guyz my girlfriend is at Valley state prison in chowchilla.. wells hes being transfered in a few days.. and has 16 months there.. sighhh.. well how is it? she has never been to prison.. shes small and gay. white.. im so worried for her.. just wanna know what to expect i guess.. shes in my prayers thats all i know..

As a former Corrections Officer I can say a few things you can tell your friend. There are “fake non-heteros” as well as real ones. She needs to keep to herself. There are no friends in prison. Never barrow anything because that can be used to get her to do something’s that she may not want to do. Tell her to be a ice cube. Take classes and be like a Church mouse.

If you have any more questions just PM me and not PMS me please….did I just write that? Opps..

The Q! :thumbsup:

Hi, I have been at both VSPW and CCWF, the first in 2004 and the second in 2007. I spent 8 1/2 months at VSPW and didn't have any problems, the co's were cool and so were the other prisioners AS LONG AS you mind your own business and keep your nose clean. After 2 years on parole with no issues I violated for a plastic pellet gun and had to go back for 4 months. they sent me to CCWF, boy that was a different story, it looked the same as VSPW but run a totally different way and dirty and rundown as hell. Thank God after 5 weeks I was transfered to Live Oak, which is in northern california right outside of Marysville/Yuba City. Live Oak is a community correctional facility and is run by "rent a cops". For the most part it's great there but real petty but if your not a trouble maker and just want to do what you need to do and then get out its great.
But no matter where you are you need to stay out of the mix, there are so many inmates that are trouble and dont think twice of getting others into trouble even if it's just for the fun of it.

Hello everyone.
I have been writing back and forth to an inmate in CCWF for over a year now. She is in 510, and has never had trouble getting letters and or money orders from me. I tend to send her $20 every 3 months or so to help her out with the postage as I live in Toronto. Is there an issue with her receiving letters etc in Fed Ex style hard envelopes? I usually send the letter stuffed in one of those on a 3-5-business mail from Canada post. I sent her one three weeks ago and she apparently has not received it yet. Also, her birthday is coming up in December... I wanted to send her a CD player or something. Can she have one of those? Are they allowed to have batteries?
Finally, I would not mind hearing from her now and then. Can I give her my phone # and she can call me collect?
She is in for 7-Life for aggravated mayhem, sorry... I don't know her classification.

Any help would be appreciated.
Cheers
Bill
:)

I wanted to send her a CD player or something. Can she have one of those? Are they allowed to have batteries?

You'll need to send this from an approved package vendor, such as Access Securepak (http://www.californiaqp.com/main.html?view=category&CatID=1616&show=expand&ViewID=1616&theParent=0&sid=0.502417001190147710&cid=&tid=&ProgramID=3&Language=0&FacilityID=1662) or California Inmate Packages (https://www.californiainmatepackage.com//site/department.cfm?id=4F094685-9027-B241-3B6B127A911D6B41&categoryID=4F083052-9027-B241-3B9D0DB0D13C9CFA) (not an endorsement, just an example; google for 'California Prison Package' for other options). Make sure she's privilege group A or B though, and that no one else has sent her a package. They can have a limited number of batteries (https://www.californiainmatepackage.com//site/department.cfm?id=DDA03212-F437-47AC-B3214234E36036CF&categoryID=FE0BB5B8-AE76-4E5D-BC1B89A3B4AC5B09).



Finally, I would not mind hearing from her now and then. Can I give her my phone # and she can call me collect?

Yes; if she's group A she can call pretty much whenever she can sign up for a time. If she's group B she can make one 15 minute call a month.

I've been dealing with some women that were just transferred from CCWF over to VSPW, based on 'enemy concerns'. There is some scamming involved, too, which goes on at both prisons, and crosses the street faster than the inmates do!! Anyhow, I keep hearing the same thing -- even though both prisons are bad, CCWF is worse. I agree with the ex CO who posted in this column earlier, who suggests keeping to oneself, keeping quiet, listening and not talking much, and not borrowing anything. Borrowing and tobacco are huge problems, and the ladies who want to stay out of trouble stay away from both of these things.

live oak is the womens facility in northern cal. about 1 1/2 hrs outside of
sacramento ca. up highway 99 north.. nice small town.

Umm Does Any Of Yall Know A Gurll Name Nita In Therrr?? She Mah Sis And Im Lookin Fo Her!!!!

Umm Does Any Of Yall Know A Gurll Name Nita In Therrr?? She Mah Sis And Im Lookin Fo Her!!!!

Hello Qu33nt33:
I copied, then pasted the following from CDC website

Identification Unit/Inmate Locator


To locate an offender within the jurisdiction of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation you can call the Identification Unit at (916) 445-6713.

You must provide the full name and the month, day and year of birth or CDC identification number for the subject of your inquiry. This unit can only provide you with the current location and CDC identification number for the offender. The Identification Unit does not have and will not provide any future release date information. This service is available only Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. excluding state holidays. You may also fax your inquiry to the Identification Unit at (916) 322-0500. Please note that information for offenders recently admitted into or transferred between state prisons may not be available for 7 business days.

I think a friend of mine is in Chowchilla but I don't know her booking number. All I know is her full name and her age. How can i find out her booking # so I can write to her? Thank you! I know my friend could use some letters :)

You can call the inmate locator line at (916) 445-6713. Be prepared to call a bunch of times before you get through and even after you get through you are on hold forever before you get to talk to someone. You will need to know the inmate's birthdate. You can only call Mon-Fri 8am-5pm pacific time.

For Information regarding VSPW, I suggest trying the website of the Inmate Family Council. Since I apparently cannot post an outside website, suggest you "Google" VSPW-IFC.
Hope that helps.
Vic

There is an Inmate Family Council (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=360221) <--click here) sticky at the top of this Forum. There is lots of useful info on their site. :thumbsup: