Guide for Family and Friends of Inmates at San Diego County - Vista Detention Facility (VDF), California
Overview of the Facility
The Vista Detention Facility (VDF) is located in Vista, California, and operates as a key custody facility under the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. It primarily houses inmates awaiting trial or sentencing as well as those serving short sentences in San Diego County.
Contact Information
Address: 325 S. Melrose Dr, Ste 200, Vista, CA 92081, USA
Phone Number: (760) 936-0014
Website: San Diego Sheriff's Department
How to Locate an Inmate
To find an inmate held at the Vista Detention Facility, you can visit the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department website and use their "Who's in Jail" online tool which allows for searches based on name or booking number.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitors must register online through the sheriff's department website and schedule their visit in advance. Visitation is available on Tuesday through Saturday, with the schedule varying depending on the inmate’s housing unit. All visitors are required to follow the facility's dress code and conduct rules during their visits.
How to Send Money
Inmates at VDF can receive money into their accounts through a service provided by ‘Access Corrections’. Payments can be made online at Access Corrections. Money can also be sent by visiting a local MoneyGram location with the facility code and inmate’s booking number.
Phone Calls and Video Visitation Options
Inmates cannot receive incoming calls but can make outgoing calls once they have a funded phone account. Video visits can also be scheduled and conducted via the ‘GettingOut’ service at GettingOut.
Inmate Services and Programs
VDF offers a variety of programs aimed at rehabilitation and education, including GED preparation, substance abuse programs, and vocational training to help inmates gain skills useful for reintegration into society.
Security and Management Information
The facility is a maximum-security jail that is managed by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. It emphasizes both the safety of the inmates and the public, using high-level security measures and continuous monitoring.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Family members and legal representatives have the right to visit inmates under the guidelines set by the facility. These rights are protected under state and federal laws, aiming to maintain family and community ties, which are essential for inmate rehabilitation.
Booking and Release Process
Inmates are booked upon arrest and provided with essential processing information. Release timing can vary based on the decision of the court or completion of their sentence term. Family members can get release information through the VDF public information officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find out if someone is detained at VDF?
Use the "Who's in Jail" tool on the San Diego Sheriff's Department website to locate inmates by name or booking number.
What items can I bring to an inmate at VDF?
You are not allowed to bring personal items for inmates. Instead, you can send money through Access Corrections for them to purchase items from the commissary.
