Posted on Sun, Dec. 05, 2004
Two inmates reported missing from minimum-security prison in Wasco


Associated Press

WASCO, Calif. - Two inmates were discovered missing from their bunks at the Wasco State Prison-Reception Center and are believed to have walked away from the minimum- security institution near Bakersfield, authorities said Sunday.

The prisoners were discovered missing during a routine check at about 9:30 p.m. Saturday, said prison spokesman Brian Parriott.

They were identified as Elias Villagrino Diaz, 39, of Santa Ana, and Rogelio Garibay, 21, of Avenal.

Parriott said Diaz was serving a two-year sentence for stalking and Garibay was serving a three-year term for making a terrorist threat. Both had arrived at the prison in June.

Local law enforcement agencies have been told of the escape and are trying to help find the inmates, Parriott said.

I read the thread regarding the two men missing. My husband is in Wasco now. He was in reception but, just received a letter from him dated 11/30 that they were moving him. Where? I do not know. I called his counselor and was treated very rudely and told that he could not give any information about where they were transferring him or any info period for that matter. I left a polite message for his supervisor but, no return call. I thought if the main lined my husband he would have been able to call home by now. Does anyone know of status if wasco or part of it is on lock down now? I am not really familiar with the system but, I would think that they would (or should) be able to tell me where my husband is atleast. I am concerned and worried.

Try calling the Inmate Locater line. IF he hasnt called since then.

When I was at CMC in San Luis Obispo on Camp/West, they had a inmate escaped on West, and although we were on locked down status, we were still

able to having visiting. Usually a lockdown on an escape lasts a day or so, until the prison has the prison secured and everyone else is accounted for. Activities
are limited tho. As far as your questions in reference to him transferring, they
will not tell you when why or where he has been transferred too. That is strictly
enforced by all prisons. Safety reasons. Inmates and guards. I suggest you just
hang tight, I am sure that your husband will call you as soon as he is situated.
Inmate Locator will not have any new information on him for 7 days or until they
update there system. I know it is nerve racking, but he will be able to call or
at least write to you and let you know where they sent him. Eric

The inmates escaped from the level I yard. It is separate from the actual prison and is not within the secured fence line. I would be very surprised if their escape caused any changes in visiting for the rest of the prison.

Ya beat me to it, Sgt!

I was gonna say that they were prob. Level 1's because I have seen the Level 1 yard over there and there is very little restriction.

...Good to have the inside scoop!

My Fiance Is At Wasco Reception And He Passed Out And Hit His Head And Was Taken To The Medical Building. They Wont Give Me Any Info On What Is Going On. What Do I Do.

BEANS GIRL, I am so sorry that happened to your fiance i would call the inmate info. line to find out anything but usually they hold them for 3 to 5 days if it is not a serious medical problem I know that when my fiance broke his hand they held him for that ammount of time so hopefully they will put him back soon good luck on figuring it out just stay calm and at least you know that he is extremely safe in the medical ward !

thank you for your input hopefully hes going to be ok. good luck! too