Welcome to the Centinela State Prison Guide. Here you will find comprehensive information specifically for the CEN. I’ve separated the categories to assist those in need of contact information for CEN, visiting information, lodging, and dining near CEN, etc...

Centinela State Prison (CEN), History (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1777945&postcount=3)

Centinela State Prison Contact Information (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782222&postcount=4)

CEN Approved Vendors For Special and Quarterly Packages (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782236&postcount=5)

Items You CAN and CANNOT Send to Inmates at CEN (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782260&postcount=6)

Centinela State Prison Visiting Information (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782286&postcount=7)

Centinela State Prison Family Visiting Information (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782331&postcount=8)

Hotels & Motels Near Centinela State Prison (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782391&postcount=9)

Place to Eat Near Centinela State Prison (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782438&postcount=10)

Driving Directions to Centinela State Prison (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782593&postcount=11)

Additional Information on CEN (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782660&postcount=12)

Link to Title 15 (http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Regulations/Adult_Operations/docs/Title15-2007.pdf)

California State Prison, Centinela (CEN)


http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Visitors/images/CEN.jpg (http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Visitors/images/aerialShots/CEN_8x10.jpg)


http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Visitors/images/CEN-Warden_Michael_Smelosky.JPG
Michael A. Smelosky, Warden (A)


Physical Address:
2302 Brown Road
Imperial, CA 92251

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 731
Imperial, CA 92251-0731
(760) 337-7900



California State Prison, Centinela - Mission Statement

The mission of Centinela State Prison is to provide long-term confinement to men who have been convicted of felonious crimes and remanded to the State of California for incarceration. Inmate productivity and self improvement are considered integral components to Centinela’s overall objective to reduce recidivism among those inmates incarcerated at our institution.

Institution Details

Centinela State Prison attempts to achieve inmate productivity and self improvement by providing legally mandated work and study opportunities for all inmates (AB 1403-Chapter One, Statutes of 1982). This goal is accomplished through the development of support services, academic education, vocational instruction, and the availability of self-help programming.

Centinela also has an Institutional Hearing Program (IHP) which prepares inmates who are illegal immigrants for release back to their native lands through the US Immigration and Naturalization Services.

Institution Statistics

Centinela State Prison was opened in October 1993, and covers 2,000 acres. As of Fiscal Year 2007/2008, the following statistics apply:

Number of custody staff:
805

Number of support services staff:
461

Total number of staff:
1,266

Annual operating budget:

Institution:
$125.6 million

Medical:
$29.1 million

Education:
$6.3 million

Designed Bedspace & Count

Facility Level - Level I and Firehouse
Design Capacity - 208
Count - 408

Facility Level - Level III and CTC
Design Capacity - 2,000
Count - 4,339

Facility Level - ADSEG
Design Capacity - 175
Count - 350

Total 2,383
5,097

Special Historical Notes

The institution, originally referred to as California State Prison-Imperial South, was renamed Centinela State Prison by the Imperial County Board of Supervisors.

Centinela State Prison was named for Mount Signal, the mountain located on the US Mexico international line once used to watch over the state's borders to prevent unauthorized passage into the US. Centinela is the Spanish word for "Sentinel" or signal.


http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Visitors/images/mount_signal1.jpg
Mount Signal / El Centinela
(c) Photograph by Anastasia Vellas

Inmate Programs


Vocational: Air conditioning and refrigeration, auto body repair and refinishing, auto mechanics, carpentry, computer and related technology, computer technician, dry cleaning, drywall, electrical electronics, garment making, graphic arts and printing, landscaping and gardening, maintenance, masonry, mechanical drawing, mill and cabinet, office machine repair, office services, plumbing, small engine repair.
Academic: Adult Basic Education, High School/GED, Pre-Release, English as a Second Language, Literacy Program and College Correspondence.
Other: Community Service Crews, Youth Diversion, Religious, Arts in Corrections, Victim Awareness, Bicycle Refurbishing, Alternatives to Violence Workshops, Parenting classes, Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous, Creative Conflict Resolution Workshops, Victim Offender Reconciliation Program, Life Without a Crutch Curriculum, Lifer Programming, Kairos Christian Fellowship and Prison Fellowship Transitional Discipleship Program.

Family Reunification Liaison:
CDCR provides through a contract with a community-based organization an on-site Case Manager as a family reunification liaison for inmates and family members, to assist with an inmate’s pre release preparation; and conduct Parenting and Creative Conflict Resolution classes for inmates.

Visiting Assistance:
A CDCR funded Visitor Center is at the institution operated by a community-based organization under contract to CDCR. The Visitor Center provides visiting assistance to family members and friends including a sheltered place to wait before and after visits, transportation to and from local transit terminals, childcare, clothing appropriate for visits on loan, and information about local resources, visiting rules and regulations.



** Thanks to Butrfly420 for updates 08/08**

:) To write to an inmate on Yard A:

Inmate Name, CDC #
Housing assignment
CEN
P.O. Box 901
Imperial, CA 92251

:) To write to an inmate on Yard B:

Inmate Name, CDC #
Housing assignment
CEN
P.O. Box 911
Imperial, CA 92251


:) To write to an inmate on Yard C:

Inmate Name, CDC #
Housing assignment
CEN
P.O. Box 921
Imperial, CA 92251


:) To write to an inmate on Yard D:

Inmate Name, CDC #
Housing assignment
CEN
P.O. Box 931
Imperial, CA 92251


:) To write to an inmate on Yard E:

Inmate Name, CDC #
Housing assignment
CEN
P.O. Box 1011
Imperial, CA 92251

:) For general prison business:

CEN
P.O. Box 731
Imperial, CA 92251-0731
(ATTN: Warden George J. Giurbino, Visiting Sergeant, etc. )

:) The physical address is:

Centinela State Prison
2302 Brown Road
Imperial, CA 92251

************************************************** ********

:idea: Various phone numbers and contacts for CEN:

Main Number- (760) 337-7900
Visiting Department - extension 5806
Visiting Information (to schedule a non-contact visit) - extension 5888

:idea: You can also dial the main number and press:

1- Visiting
2- Institution Services
(after pressing 2, for Institution Services, you may choose from the following options)
1- Personnel
2- Business Services
3- Inmate Services
4- Administrative Services


************************************************** ********

:help:Useful Miscellaneous Phone Numbers::help:

Inmate Locator = (916) 445-6713

Visiting Hotline = (800) 374-8474

Here is a list of CEN approved vendors for Special Purchases and Quarterly Packages:

APPROVED INMATE PACKAGE VENDORS
Calendar Year 2008
(Revised 2/5/08)


Access Securepak
P. O. Box 50028
Sparks, NV 89435-0028
(800) 546-6283
www.californiaqp.com (http://www.californiaqp.com/)


Ezee Paks Catalog
P.O. Box 1541
Santa Cruz, CA 95061
Toll Free: (888) 909-3933
Local: (831) 469-7257
Fax: (831) 469-7250
www.ezeepaks.com (http://www.ezeepaks.com/)


Impackt
4909 Stockdale Hwy, Suite 253
Bakersfield, CA 93309
(866) 736-3487


Jack L. Marcus
5300 West Fond du Lac
Milwaukee, WI 53216-1348
(800) 236-2611
www.JLMarcusCatalog.com (http://www.jlmarcuscatalog.com/)


Jenny Quarterly Package Service
P.O. Box 3323
Sparks, Nevada 89432-3323
Ph: (877) 358-8696
www.jennypackage.com (http://www.jennypackage.com/)


Mikes Better Shoes
1252 Berlin-Haddonfield Road
Voorhees, NJ 08043
(800) 431-1911
www.mikesbettershoes.com (http://www.mikesbettershoes.com/)


MGM Packages
P.O. Box 304
Chico, CA 95327
(530) 566-9878
www.mgmpackages.com (http://www.mgmpackages.com/)


Music by Mail
129 31st Street
Brooklyn, NY 11232
(718) 369-6982


Packages R Us
2648 East Workman Ave. #424
West Covina, CA 91791
Ph: (866) 303-7787
www.packagesrus.com (http://www.packagesrus.com/)


Security Packaging
PO. Box 1420
Paradise, CA 95967
Ph: (800) 891-1351


Union Supply Direct
P.O. Box 7006
Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220-7006
Ph: (866) 404-8989
www.CaliforniaInmatePackage.com (http://www.californiainmatepackage.com/)


U.S. Care Packages/Jpay
P.O. Box 260996
Encino, CA 91426-0996
Ph: (800) 574-5729
www.jpay.com (http://www.jpay.com/)

The Vitamin Outlet
Fitness Systems Mfg. Corp.
P.O. Box 2073
Sinking Spring, PA 19608
(800) 822-9995


Walkenhorst’s
1774 Industrial Way
Napa CA 94558
(800) 660-9255
https://walkenhorsts.com (https://walkenhorsts.com/)


Yellow Ribbon Online
580 N. Beach Street
Fort Worth, TX 76111
Ph: (866) 959-7426
www.yellowribbononline.com (http://www.yellowribbononline.com/)

Barnes & Noble
www.barnesandnoble.com (http://www.barnesandnoble.com)

*** If you order CD's from Barnes and Noble, they will count as a Quarterly Package.

:help:***The mailing address for quarterly packages and special purchases is the same address as the one you would use for inmate mail. (See CEN Contact Information (http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1782222&postcount=5) above for more information on inmate mailing addresses.)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

:) Quarterly Packages:

The California Inmate Quarterly Package system allows you to send much-desired items to your incarcerated loved one. Each institution sets it’s own rules as to what items are allowed and prohibited and items vary by privilege groups. As a result, vendors therefore provide services to a limited amount of Facilities, Camps, CCF’s or the LA County Jail System. All Quarterly Packages are limited to a maximum weight of 30 Lbs. Nor can they exceed dimensions of 24” x 24” x 24”. All vendors list those institutions for which they provide goods and services and what privilege groups.

:) Special Packages:

Special Packages allow for the purchase of Electronics, Accessories, Musical Instruments, Under Garments and Clothing, Correspondence Courses, Legal Material and Faith Based Items. That would otherwise crowd a quarterly package beyond its allowed weight or dimensions. There is no limit to the amount of special packages allowed in a calendar year.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Quarter = January 1st - March 31st

2nd Quarter = April 1st - June 30th

3rd Quarter = July 1st - September 30th

4th Quarter = October 1st - December 31st

Items you CAN send to CEN:

:) Binder Paper (no more than 50 sheets at a time)
:) Pre-Stamped Envelopes (limit 20)
:) Photos- only 10 (no larger than 8x10)
:) Greeting cards (plain, no foil, glitter, metal springs, etc.)
:) Letters
:) Money Orders- (with the inmates name and CDC # listed, U.S. Postal money orders are the best)
:) Anything on the “Approved” vendor list, on each vendor’s website (for quarterly/special purchases, CEN specificly)


Items you CANNOT send to CEN:

:( Pens/Pencils
:( Frontal Nudity Photos
:( Phone Calling Cards
:( Stickers, Tape, or Glue- None on/inside ANYWHERE
:( Glitter
:( Anything Wire, Metal, or Plastic
:( “Spiral” Notebooks
:( Cash/Checks
:( Photos larger than 8x10

Before you can visit an inmate, you will need to be approved. Your inmate must send you a visiting form (CDC 106). This form MUST be signed by your inmate before he sends it you you. Once you receive your visiting questionnaire, fill it out TRUTHFULLY and don't leave any questions blank. Then, once you are finished, send your completed questionnaire to:

Attn: Visiting
CEN
P.O. Box 731
Imperial, CA 92251-0731

The average wait for a response is 4-8 weeks, from the time your application is received by the visiting staff. In some cases, it takes longer than 8 weeks. I suggest calling the visiting department if your wait is longer than 8 weeks, and find out if your application has been received. They will NOT tell you if you have been approved or disapproved over the phone. It is the responsibility of the inmate to relay that information to you. If you are APPROVED, the inmate will be notified. If you are DISAPPROVED, the inmate will be notified AND you will be mailed a written response with details of the denial.

Reasons for DISAPPROVAL include (but are not limited to):

:( Lying on your application
:( Being a Convicted Felon (you must have prior written approval from the warden before stepping on prison grounds)
:( Leaving Questions Blank
:( Having UNPAID tickets (of ANY kind)
:( Having Outstanding Warrants
:( Being on Active Parole/Probation (you will need prior approval from the Warden)

************************************************** ***************************************

You’re Approved!! It’s time to visit your inmate. Here’s what you need to know:

Visiting Days: Saturday, Sunday and designated holidays
Visiting Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.


:help:Ad Seg inmates are allowed non-contact (behind glass) visits only. These visits are one hour in length and require a scheduled appointment. Call the Visiting department at extension 5888 (7 days prior to your desired visit), to schedule an appointment.

Main Phone # (760) 337-7900


************************************************** ***************************************

Here is some additional information (taken directly from the CDC Inmate Visiting Guidelines) :


Visiting On Five Major Holidays

Each Institution shall have visiting scheduled on the following Holidays. The five major holidays may or
may not be on a regularly scheduled visiting day.

• New Year’s Day
• July 4 (Independence Day)
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Visitor Questionnaire Process

The inmate should sign a Visitor Questionnaire (CDC Form 106) and send it to family members and
friends to visit. All adult visitors must complete the questionnaire and return it to the Visiting Sergeant by
mail. The Visiting staff must approve the questionnaire before the person may visit. This should take
approximately 30 working days. The CDC Form 106 must be filled out completely and accurately.
Failure to provide all requested information might result in the request being either denied or delayed.

Adult Visitors

The inmate will let each visitor know that they are approved. Any visitor approved at one institution shall
be approved to visit the same inmate upon transfer to another institution. A visitor may be required to
update the Visitor Questionnaire after 24 months.

Acceptable Identification

• A valid state driver's license with picture (not laminated).
• A valid state Department of Motor Vehicles Identification Card with picture (not laminated).
• A valid Armed Forces Identification Card with picture.
• Identification Card issued by the United States Department of Justice Immigration and
Naturalization Services with picture.
• Picture Passport.
• Picture identification Matricula Consular De Alta Seguridad (MCAS) issued by the
Mexican Consulate.

Visitor Attire

It is recommended that visitors dress conservatively and with the following guidelines in mind.
Inappropriate attire will be reason to deny a visit. Any alteration to clothing once a visitor is inside the
visiting area will be grounds for terminating the visit.

Prohibited Attire

• Clothing which, in any combination of shades or types of material/fabric, resembles California
State-issued inmate clothing, blue denim or chambray shirts and blue denim pants.
• Clothing that resembles law enforcement or military-type clothing, including rain gear.
• Hats, wigs or hairpieces (except with prior written approval of the Visiting Sergeant).
• Clothing that exposes the breast/chest area, genital area, or buttocks.
• Dresses, skirts, pants, and shorts exposing more than two inches above the knee, including slits
when standing.
• Sheer or transparent garments.
• Strapless or "spaghetti” strap tops.
• Clothing exposing the midriff area.
• Clothing or accessories displaying obscene or offensive language or drawings.
• Brassieres with metal underwires or any other detectable metal are not permitted.

Allowable items:

• Identification Card.
• One Handkerchief, no bandannas.
• Tissue Pack, unopened.
• Clear Change Purse.
• $50 Per Adult and $20.00 Per Minor Visitor, in Coin or One Dollar Bills Only.
• Comb or Brush.
• Two Keys On A Ring with No Attachments.
• 10 Photographs.
• Indian Medicine Bag, upon inspection and approval.
• Two small (less than 12 inches in length) solid toys.
• One Infant Carrier.
• Six Disposable Diapers.
• Factory-Sealed Baby Wipes.
• Two Transparent Plastic Baby Bottles of Pre-Mixed Formula/Milk/Juice Per Baby.
• One Transparent Pacifier.
• Three Jars of Factory Sealed Baby Food and One Plastic Baby Spoon.
• One Single-Layer Baby Blanket.
• One Transparent Diaper Bag.
• One Change of Baby Clothing.
• One Single-Layer Burp Cloth.

Visitors may retain only life-sustaining, condition-stabilizing medication with the prescribing
physician's written statement of its immediate need, and only in the physician's prescribed amount
immediately required to sustain or stabilize the condition during the visit. The physician’s written
statement shall include the physician’s medical license number, address, and phone number.

All medication shall be in its original pharmacy container with the patient's name, pharmacy, name of
medication, prescribed dosage, and the physician's name indicated on the container's label.
Nonprescription medicine is not permitted.

Prohibited Items

• All tobacco and tobacco products.
• Food. All refreshments are to be purchased from the vending machines located in the visiting
room, except Camps and Ranches.
• Chewing gum.
• Purses.
• Cameras.
• Pagers.
• Cell phones.
• Writing materials or books, unless approved prior to entering the Visiting Room.

Visiting Room Procedures

Each visitor and inmate is responsible for his or her own conduct while visiting. Violation of the rules
and regulations may result in termination, restriction, suspension, or denial of visits. Additionally,
disciplinary action may be taken against the inmate. An inmate and his/her visitor(s) are allowed to
briefly embrace and kiss at the beginning and end of their visit. An inmate may hold his or her minor
children. Inmates may also hold minor children accompanied by an adult. Children are to remain
under the direct supervision and control of the visiting parent or guardian at all times. Holding hands
on top of the table in plain view is permitted, with no other physical contact. Excessive contact,
(kissing, massaging, stroking, and sitting with legs intertwined or sitting on laps) could result in
termination of the visit. Nursing mothers shall be discreet and covered when breast-feeding their baby
in the visiting area. Failure to do so may result in termination of visiting for that day. Inmates cannot
receive any items, gifts, money, jewelry, or documents during a visit. However, the adult visitor may
ask for a pencil and notebook paper as needed. Smoking is not allowed in the visiting rooms or
outside patios in the institutions at any time

Some prisons are different, but here is some information that pertains to most California Prisons:

The visitor(s) shall adhere to all institutional procedures and departmental regulations while on institutions grounds. Participation in the Family Visiting Program is restricted to immediate family members, unless a legal foster relationship exists. Immediate family members are defined as legal spouse of the inmate and the inmate's legal stepchildren.

Required Documentation Needed for Each Family Visit:

Proof of marriage shall be established by the inmate’s assigned Correctional Counselor, prior to a family visit being approved. A certified marriage certificate shall be required and presented to the Family Visiting Officer prior to each visit. A marriage certificate is required for both stepparents and the inmate’s wife. No Photostat copies will be accepted.

You must bring positive identification showing a photo for every visitor 18 years of age or over. Positive valid identification shall be one of the following. Drivers license, DMV Identification Card, passport, USINS card, military I.D. or other piece of governmental identification. The inmate's brother, sister, children and grandchildren (minors and adults) must present birth certificates prior to each family visit. Grandparents must bring verification of relationship prior to the family visit. This can be done presenting the inmate's birth certificate and the inmate's parent's certified birth certificate (the grandparent's child) to show family lineage. An inmate’s minor children visiting without their natural mother, must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor. Who must present a written notarized approval from the minor child's natural parent or legal guardian.
All certificates must be obtained through the county recorder's office and must be embossed or have inked county seat.

Authorized Property for Family Visits:

Visitors are authorized to possess the following items while participating in the family visiting program:

* One bag of clothing per visitor in paper, plastic or canvas duffel type bags. No suitcases are permitted.

* Soft bound books and magazines only (not to exceed ten)

* The visitor must provide washcloths and dishtowels. Bath towels will be provided by the institution.

Visitors with Children:
Disposable diapers only, baby powder, baby food, and formula may be brought into the institution in factory-sealed containers only. Children's toys shall be simple games, coloring books, colored or regular pencils, or crayons. Only searchable toys will be allowed in.

Food for Family Visits:
The inmate, through the institution, purchases all of the food for the family visits. All food items not consumed on the visit must be taken home with the visitor or disposed of in an approved manner. Nothing may be taken back into the institution by the inmate.

Special Note: Only prescribed medication will be allowed. All medication must be accompanied by the current prescription and is subject to prior approval by the Chief medical Officer (CMO). A letter from your doctor listing your medication must be returned with your confirmation. Any person(s) visiting Centinela State Prison (CEN), on a family visit, who needs narcotic medication, or life sustaining medication(s) or life sustaining apparatus, must have prior approval to participate in the family visiting program. Approval can be obtained by having your physician submit a letter to the CMO or CEN to explain the extent of your medical problem and be in approval of your overnight visit to the prison. Failure to have prior written approval will result in your visit being denied upon arrival at the institution.



A REMINDER: IT IS ILLEGAL TO BRING WEAPONS, AMMUNITION, TEARGAS, ALCOHOL, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES OR NARCOTICS INTO A PENAL INSTITUTION. NO SMOKING ALLOWED.

Clothing:

The same dress code applies for family visitors as regular visitors when entering and exiting the institution. Undergarments must be gender specific.

The following items are NOT allowed:
Clothing for inmates, garment bags, or hangers, blue denim jeans or jackets (male or female), sweats or jogging suits.

Cosmetics and basic hygiene:

The following cosmetic items listed are limited in quantity as to what is necessary for the duration of the visit. All items must be able to be searched with a limit of (5)

1. Makeup foundation 2. Blush 3. Eyeliner 4. Mascara 5. Lipstick

A spouse shall be permitted to bring into the institution a maximum of (10) commercially sealed condoms. All unused condoms shall be retained in their sealed containers and taken out of the institution by the visiting spouse. Under no circumstances shall an inmate be permitted to possess condoms outside of the family visiting quarters.

***NO ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES AND NO AEROSOL CONTAINERS***

The following items must be factory sealed or in clear containers with clear contents (one of each) and must not contain alcohol and cannot be flammable:

1. Shampoo 2. Conditioner 3. Facial Cleanser 4. Toothpaste 5. Toothbrush 6. Bath Soap 7. Deodorant 8. Feminine hygiene 9. Lotion

All the items listed above depict those items that are authorized. Any items not listed above shall be considered unauthorized and will not be admitted into the institution.

CONFIRMATION

ALL PAPERWORK MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE FAMILY VISITING COORDINATOR AT LEAST 21 DAYS PRIOR TO THE VISIT. PLEASE NOTE: WE WILL ONLY ACCEPT CASHIER'S CHECKS OR MONEY ORDERS. ALL FUNDS SUBMITTED FOR FAMILY VISITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. MAKE CHECKS OR MONEY ORDERS PAYABLE TO THE INMATE.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From our PTO member Cysreese:

My husband sends me the food list just in case I want to add or change something and so that I can send all paperwork together.

He sends the Exemption Of Family Visit/Temporary Community Leave Funds from Restitution Fines/Orders. It has the amount of money you will send for the family visit, put an x where is states "these funds are to pay for food during a Family visit (FV) At the bottom you will sign and date it.

Family visit menu order form for the food. Then there is a white slip that has your husband's/son's name and CDC number and all those that will be visiting. It has the dates of the family visit. It also has on the paper two boxes for you to check. The first one says you will arrive as schedule between whatever times is on the paper and the second box says you will not arrive and to please cancel the visit.

He also sends a pink form which is his trust account withdrawal order form with his info and he signs and dates it. When I am done looking over everything I send it back to the address provided on the paper with all visitors names on it.

White form- Names with visitors on it and if you will be attending the FV.
Pink form-Trust fund paper
Yellow paper- Exemption Of Family Visit/Temporary Community Leave Funds from Restitution Fines/Orders.
White paper- Food menu



Information Compiled by Cysreese 01/07/2006

Here are several hotels/motels near Centinela State Prison:

Imperial Valley Inn (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AosL152.JR6.hBy78iK98buHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20916972&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 355-4500
1093 Airport Rd
Imperial, CA
1.31miles

Brunners Inn Suites (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AnfZXc__OOywRzAGVbLWetyHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20916838&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-6431
215 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.67 miles

Days Inn El Centro Ca (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AnlQ0JQCFUEU7UzluH13QneHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20914816&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-5511
1425 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.54miles

Super 8 Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AnnrMNSA6vvMMRoTUqQFk2GHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20914820&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-0715
611 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.48 miles

Del Coronado Crown Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Auf3bKbCTgVsy0GgN0qDugGHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20918954&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-0030
330 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.54 miles

Kon Tiki Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=ArthopgPUGjRmKsZAvOyTjiHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20909513&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-8631
1226 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.60 miles

LA Siesta Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AoS8hSsVUyBHrO6BeLImt3KHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=26415591&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-1650
1256 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.60miles

Budget Inn & Suites (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AroH3Nkc6WsfaTPQzdQ9PXyHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20905460&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-9600
1212 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.60 miles

Golden Market (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Ar_T5wks6WCDMaOZIuQJ1fiHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20912685&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 337-8956
1080 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.60 miles

Coronado Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AhEniLTgnaC3KSTSH84InQ6HNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20918924&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-1501
1021 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.67 miles

Premier Inn (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Au3FZbrmesTbVmStmwP4z5qHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20903265&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-3781
788 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.73 miles

Ranch House Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AiItancKKdaUwIgrb_zH1bWHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20912655&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-5571
808 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.73miles

Desert Star Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AiBpeTZYNthCb1AjI69XP3yHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20905415&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-7900
850 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.67 miles

El Patio Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AkXXItx9j8eniqqUeTu5kuaHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20904314&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-1028
670 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.79 miles

Ramada Inn (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AjqqQvNM00j74eRbdCrWCyWHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20913707&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-5152
1455 Ocotillo Dr
El Centro, CA
4.72 miles

Relax Inn (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AgqkJQ6aPCF5x308QfL3LWiHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20915898&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-4585
526 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.85 miles

Park Inn Motel (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AiRH_bnmFCuIppAl2Ot1RmaHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=26415588&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 353-4585
526 Adams Ave
El Centro, CA
3.85miles

Cottage Motel-Apartments (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AozSnvhayZ.H.RcK7.BIq8OHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20918925&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-4956
473 W State St
El Centro, CA
4.16 miles

Best Western John Jay Inn (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AsrI0a_61Muo9tS8z3TxvhCHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20916920&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 337-8677
2352 S 4th St
El Centro, CA
5.10 miles

New Esquire (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Aukmz6hV0o7eRV5Dv_hSd2qHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20903347&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=hotels&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=omLpxK131DxPM4c.rVDqy9v98ci7ONkL8c8nsTCs0LBPkZ2 .Ru5t&lcscb=)
(760) 352-6191
467 W Main St
El Centro, CA
4.16 miles

Here is a wide variety of places to eat near Centinela State Prison:

Sonic Drive-In (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AswJaDe5nFvQbBkXsLEpL4iHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=28386564&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-0042
2299 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
1.86 miles

Taco Bell (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Agp6qWd_5kvnN0H33dS1um6HNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20906425&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 352-7639
1990 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
2.05 miles

Subway Sandwiches & Salads (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AgxyfScNioQgbFDwRf8GcZ6HNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20912684&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-5310
1702 N Imperial Ave # 8a
El Centro, CA
2.30 miles

Rally's Hamburgers Incorporated (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Ar8KwJGRHu.wSUEKUHBt6zaHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20918960&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 337-6419
1820 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
2.18 miles

Jack in the Box (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Aoh8fGBF64l8BiGwsblO4VmHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20908468&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-4462
666 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.11 miles

Wendy's (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AtTWLaMRSoVER7TPqqHOnQKHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20907532&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 352-3102
740 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.11 miles

McDonald's (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AoD3hQIPN_4MfjwVmupSw0yHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20910561&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-0446
345 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.29 miles

Church's Chicken (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AmJC.YtkEjN4zEcrGUZgz32HNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20917877&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(619) 353-3810
480 N Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.29 miles

Burger King (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AtxxBdEuCewOiCIlZReLBjmHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20916839&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-0525
130 S Imperial Ave
El Centro, CA
3.48 miles

Jack in the Box (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AjcfvTg1o7_mvQXcH13x0VOHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20908469&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=fast+food&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 353-2790
2100 S 4th St
El Centro, CA
4.60 miles

La Fuente Restaurant (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=ArQomyefjP.vVS5txES.fquHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20918015&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=restaurant&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 355-0891
416 S J St
Imperial, CA
0.25 miles

Imperial Burger (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=Ag8YxBjpszxBM8Vx_7Rq.USHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=20905493&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=restaurant&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 355-1843
219 W Barioni Blvd
Imperial, CA
0.12 miles

Airporter Grill (http://local.yahoo.com/details;_ylt=AuDD2UPe6MQunh1BBvLYnbyHNcIF;_ylu=X3o DMTBpZzIyMjd0BF9zAzk2NjEzNzY5BHNlYwNzcg--?id=28730489&state=CA&city=Imperial&stx=restaurant&csz=Imperial%2C+CA+92251&fr=zerorp-local-srchweb&ed=h1F_pa131Dx_t8N6Smm6JftlpAe92GXLxEJ5NHjUzi7z3gv 1GZxhpuTD&lcscb=)
(760) 355-8401
1093 Airport Rd
Imperial, CA 92251
0.81 miles

Planning on driving to Centinela? This info should help:

From San Diego:

:thumbsup: Start out turning RIGHT onto BROADWAY. <0.1 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto 10TH AVE. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto G ST. 0.4 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-94 E. 8.2 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-125 N via the exit on the LEFT. 2.2 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-8 E. 96.9 miles
:thumbsup: Take the FORRESTER RD exit- EXIT 111. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto FORRESTER RD / CR-S30. 5.1 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto W WORTHINGTON RD / CR-S28. 1.9 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto NANCE RD. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: End at Imperial, CA 92251, US

From Los Angeles:

:thumbsup: Start out going SOUTHEAST on E 1ST ST toward S LOS ANGELES ST. <0.1 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto N LOS ANGELES ST. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: Take the US-101 S ramp. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-10 E. 127.7 miles
:thumbsup: Take CA-86 SPUR S toward BRAWLEY / EL CENTRO. 19.9 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-86 S. 50.2 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto CA-86 S / S 1ST ST. Continue to follow CA-86 S. 9.3 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto E 15TH ST. 0.5 miles
:thumbsup: E 15TH ST becomes W MURPHY RD. 0.4 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto NANCE RD / WESTERN AVE. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: End at Imperial, CA 92251, US

From Sacramento:

:thumbsup: Start out merging onto I-5 S. 359.1 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-210 E toward PASADENA. 44.3 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-57 S via EXIT 45 toward SANTA ANA. 4.2 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-10 E toward SAN BERNARDINO. 102.8 miles
:thumbsup: Take CA-86 SPUR S toward BRAWLEY / EL CENTRO. 19.9 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-86 S. 50.2 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto CA-86 S / S 1ST ST. Continue to follow CA-86 S. 9.3 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto E 15TH ST. 0.5 miles
:thumbsup: E 15TH ST becomes W MURPHY RD. 0.4 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto NANCE RD / WESTERN AVE. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: End at Imperial, CA 92251, US

From San Francisco:

:thumbsup: Start out merging onto I-80 E via the ramp on the LEFT toward OAKLAND. 6.9 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-580 E toward CA-24 / DOWNTOWN OAKLAND / HAYWARD-STOCKTON. 63.3 miles
:thumbsup: I-580 E becomes I-5 S. 285.1 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-210 E toward PASADENA. 44.3 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-57 S via EXIT 45 toward SANTA ANA. 4.2 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto I-10 E toward SAN BERNARDINO. 102.8 miles
:thumbsup: Take CA-86 SPUR S toward BRAWLEY / EL CENTRO. 19.9 miles
:thumbsup: Merge onto CA-86 S. 50.2 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto CA-86 S / S 1ST ST. Continue to follow CA-86 S. 9.3 miles
:thumbsup: Turn RIGHT onto E 15TH ST. 0.5 miles
:thumbsup: E 15TH ST becomes W MURPHY RD. 0.4 miles
:thumbsup: Turn LEFT onto NANCE RD / WESTERN AVE. 0.2 miles
:thumbsup: End at Imperial, CA 92251, US
************************************************** ********

:help:For more driving directions, visit MapQuest (http://www.mapquest.com/)

The following information was submitted by johnnyangelo1, loved one of a Centinela inmate. (Thank You :) )

"Centinela was the 27th Prison built in the State of California, and is the second Prison built in the Imperial California. Centinela and Calipatria State Prison are both located in Imperial County. Centinela gains its name from a near by Mountain you can see from the prison, "Mount Signal" which is essentially what Centinela means in Spanish. The prison is located about 15 miles north of Mexicali, Mexico.

Centinela was "activated" and received its first inmates on October 1, 1993. Centinela is primarily a Level III institution with four (4) Level III housing units: Facilities A, B, C, and D. Although each yard was built by design to house 500 inmates each, all inmates are double-celled, and there is an over-crowding gym on each of the four yards that currently holds 120 Level II/III inmates.

The institution, like may, has a Minimum Support Facility (MSF) outside the secure perimeter of the electrified fence, which was designed to house 200 Level I inmates. however, due to current population pressures, the Level I MSF houses about 350 inmates at 175% over-crowding.

The Prison is located about 100 miles east of San Diego, and about 230 miles southeast of Los Angeles. The drive from San Diego is about 1 3/4 hours traveling the speed limit of 65 on the 8 Freeway.

The Imperial County is naturally hot by climate. The weather is beautiful between October to May. However, from June through most of September the temperature varies between 95-115 degrees. It is not uncommon to have temperatures exceeding 120 degrees during July and August. I always recommend driving a well running car and carrying a cell phone and a minimum of one gallon of water per traveler when traveling through the Imperial Valley.

The institution follows the Statewide Mail room processing procedures. There is one address to the institution; however, each yard has a separate PO Box to aid in the distribution of mail before it arrives to the prison. Book shipments do not count as quarterly packages, and may be shipped "new" directly from a licenced vendor.

The institution has both family and regular visiting areas. Like most prisons, the visiting is only on Saturdays and Sundays. Usually visitors begin lining up very early Saturday morning, where they park off the side of the road on the Prison Access Road, Brown Road. The Sergeant brings you up through the gate house at about 7:15 am. You are not given a number at the Gate House, and must get into the processing line to mark your place in line."

Information compiled by johnnyangelo1 3/5/06