Guide for Family Members: California State Prison - Centinela (CEN)
Overview of California State Prison - Centinela (CEN)
California State Prison, Centinela (CEN) is a male-only state prison located in Imperial County, California. The facility focuses on providing educational and vocational training to inmates to aid in their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society upon release.
Contact Information
- Address: 2302 Brown Road, Imperial, CA, 92251, USA
- Phone Number: (760) 337-7900
- Website: Visit CEN Website
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at CEN, you can use the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s inmate locator. You will need the inmate’s CDCR number or full name and date of birth to perform a search.
Visitation Information
Visiting hours at CEN typically are on weekends and holidays. Due to COVID-19 protocols, visiting schedules can be subject to changes. It is essential to confirm the visiting hours by contacting the facility directly or checking the CDCR Visitation Page.
How to Send Money
Family members can send money to an inmate via ConnectNetwork, JPay, or by using the lockbox service provided by Bank of America. These services may require setting up an account.
Phone Calls and Video Options
California State Prison - Centinela provides phone and video visitation options through approved vendors. Registrations and scheduling can be done through the Global Tel Link (GTL) website.
Inmate Services and Programs
CEN offers various programs including academic education, job training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health care. These services are aimed at rehabilitating inmates and preparing them for a successful reentry into society.
History of the Facility
California State Prison - Centinela was opened in 1993 and has been operational since, serving as a medium-security correctional facility. It was built as part of a statewide effort to manage overpopulation in urban prisons.
Security and Management Information
The prison is a Level III medium-security facility, featuring a secure perimeter with armed coverage and an array of security measures aimed at maintaining safety and order within the prison environment.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at CEN have rights to visitation under California law, which include the right to visit from family, legal representatives, and community organizations, subject to security and administrative constraints.
Booking and Release Process
The booking process includes documentation, personal search, and assignment to a housing unit. Release processes are planned with the inmate’s parole officer and involve preparation for reintegration, like obtaining proper identification and participating in community-based programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can I check if a visitation has been cancelled?
A: Visit the CDCR official website or contact the facility's administration directly at (760) 337-7900 to confirm any changes to visitation schedules.
Q: What items are inmates allowed to receive?
A: Inmates can receive letters, photos, and approved packages from approved vendors. Certain restrictions apply, and it is best to check with the facility for the most current list.
