Guide for Family Members of Inmates at San Quentin State Prison, California
Overview of San Quentin State Prison
San Quentin State Prison (SQ) is California's oldest correctional institution. Located in Marin County, north of San Francisco, it houses male inmates. San Quentin not only serves as a medium and maximum-security facility but also hosts California's only death row for male inmates.
Contact Information
Address: San Quentin State Prison, San Quentin, CA 94964
Phone Number: (415) 454-1460
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate an inmate at San Quentin, use the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Inmate Locator. Enter the inmate's CDCR number or last name to find detailed information.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation is strictly regulated. It is typically allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, and designated holidays. To visit, you must be approved in advance following a background check. For detailed visitation hours and to schedule a visit, check the official website or call the prison.
Sending Money to Inmates
Family and friends can send money to inmates via electronic services such as JPay. For more details and to send money online, visit JPay’s website.
Phone Calls and Video Visitation
Inmates are allowed to make outgoing calls but cannot receive calls. For video visitation, San Quentin utilizes approved third-party vendors. Please consult the prison’s website for the most current service providers and guidelines.
Inmate Services and Programs
San Quentin offers various educational and vocational training programs, including but not limited to high school equivalency courses, college degree programs, and job training. It is also known for its rehabilitation programs such as the "San Quentin News," a newspaper produced by inmates.
History of the Facility
Opened in July 1852, San Quentin is one of the oldest prisons in California. It was established to meet the demands of a rapidly increasing population due to the Gold Rush.
Security and Management Information
The prison is operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and it houses death row inmates, which necessitates maximum security measures.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Inmates at San Quentin are entitled to regular visits. Legal representatives have more flexible visiting rights. Specific rights and regulations can be accessed on the CDCR’s official website.
Booking and Release Process
The process involves initial intake, recording of the inmate’s personal information, and assignment to appropriate housing based on a security level assessment. Release processes vary by the inmate's serving terms and parole eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I send letters to an inmate in San Quentin?
Letters should be addressed using the inmate’s full name and CDCR number, following the guidelines on the CDCR’s official website to ensure they reach the inmate.
What items are inmates allowed to receive from outside?
Inmates can receive letters, approved books, and photographs. For security reasons, all items are inspected. Refer to the official guidelines for prohibited items.
Famous Inmates
- Charles Manson - Notorious cult leader serving a life sentence until his death in 2017.
- Sirhan Sirhan - Convicted for the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
- Scott Peterson - Convicted for the murder of his wife and unborn child.
