California Rehabilitation Center: General Overview

The California Rehabilitation Center (CRC), located in Norco, Riverside County, California, is a medium-security prison designed primarily for male inmates. Established in 1962, it is well-known for its emphasis on substance abuse rehabilitation and various vocational programs. Initially designed as a narcotics treatment center, CRC now houses approximately 3,000 inmates, exceeding its original capacity of 1,822. Despite challenges like overcrowding, CRC continues to offer educational, vocational, and cognitive-behavioral therapy programs aimed at helping inmates reintegrate into society.

Originally opened as the luxurious Lake Norconian Club in 1928, the facility was converted into a naval hospital during World War II before being repurposed as a state prison. The sprawling 98-acre facility includes conservation camps and provides inmates with opportunities to work in fire suppression crews, which can lead to sentence reductions. CRC is unique in its historical evolution and remains one of the state’s central prisons for rehabilitation-focused incarceration.

California Rehabilitation Center in Norco, California

California Rehabilitation Center Contact Information

  • Address: California Rehabilitation Center, 5th Street & Western Avenue, Norco, CA 92860
  • Mailing Address (Inmate Mail): P.O. Box 3535, Norco, CA 92860
  • Phone: (951) 737-2683
  • Warden: Glen E. Pratt (appointed March 2022)

Visiting Information at California Rehabilitation Center

Visiting inmates at CRC is allowed on weekends and holidays, providing families with an essential connection to their loved ones. Visitation days are typically on Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitors are required to adhere to a strict dress code and should expect to go through security checks.

Visits usually last several hours, and CRC offers family visitation programs in designated units, allowing extended time for eligible inmates and their immediate family members. Visitors should bring government-issued photo identification and follow all the rules laid out by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). To ensure a smooth visit, it’s recommended to book visits in advance via the CDCR’s visitation website.

How to Book a Visit at California Rehabilitation Center

Booking a visit at CRC involves using the Visitation Scheduling Application (VSA) on the CDCR website. You’ll need the inmate’s CDCR number, the desired visiting date, and visitor details. Once scheduled, visitors are required to check in early on the day of the visit. A maximum of three people, including children, can attend each visit. Visitors must bring identification, and it is advised to check specific rules on items permitted during visits.

 

Directions and Parking at California Rehabilitation Center

The California Rehabilitation Center is conveniently located near several major freeways, including Interstates 15, 10, 60, and 91, making it accessible for visitors traveling from various parts of Southern California. Upon arriving, visitors will find ample parking available at the facility. The surrounding city of Norco is known for its equestrian lifestyle, often referred to as “Horsetown USA,” adding a distinctive rural charm to the area.

 

What is Life Like Inside California Rehabilitation Center?

Inmates at CRC live in dormitory-style housing rather than individual cells, which fosters a more communal environment. Despite being overcrowded and occasionally under lockdown due to fights, CRC emphasizes rehabilitation. Inmates have access to substance abuse treatment, educational programs, and vocational training in areas like auto repair, carpentry, and computer skills. The prison also offers cognitive-behavioral programs aimed at addressing behavioral issues linked to criminality.

However, overcrowding has led to significant strain on resources, including long waiting lists for some rehabilitation programs. Recent investments in programs like the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) are steps towards improving conditions. Inmates can also join firefighting crews, contributing to public safety during fire season.

Famous Prisoners at California Rehabilitation Center

Several notable inmates have served time at CRC, including Kellen Winslow II, a former NFL player who was sentenced to 14 years in 2021 for sexual assault charges. Other infamous inmates include Tim Lambesis, lead singer of the band As I Lay Dying, who was convicted of attempting to hire a hitman, and Archie Bryant, involved in a conspiracy to commit murder case.

 

FAQs About California Rehabilitation Center

  • Where is the California Rehabilitation Center located?
    The California Rehabilitation Center is located in Norco, Riverside County, California, near major freeways for easy access.

  • How do I schedule a visit at California Rehabilitation Center?
    Visits can be scheduled online through the CDCR’s Visitation Scheduling Application (VSA). You’ll need the inmate’s CDCR number to complete the process.

  • What programs are offered at California Rehabilitation Center?
    CRC offers a wide range of rehabilitation programs, including substance abuse treatment, vocational training, and educational opportunities like GED programs.

  • What are the visiting hours at California Rehabilitation Center?
    Visiting hours are Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on weekends from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

  • Can inmates earn sentence reductions at CRC?
    Yes, inmates who participate in the fire suppression crews or complete rehabilitation programs can earn sentence reductions.

  • How many inmates does the California Rehabilitation Center hold?
    The facility holds around 3,000 inmates, despite having a capacity for only 1,822.

  • What type of inmates are housed at CRC?
    CRC houses medium-security male inmates, many of whom are serving time for drug-related offenses.

  • Does California Rehabilitation Center have a family visiting program?
    Yes, CRC offers a family visiting program for eligible inmates, allowing extended visits with immediate family members.

  • What was the original purpose of the California Rehabilitation Center?
    CRC was originally the Lake Norconian Club, a luxury hotel and resort. It was later converted into a naval hospital before becoming a prison in 1962.

  • Who are some famous inmates who have been held at CRC?
    Notable inmates include NFL player Kellen Winslow II and musician Tim Lambesis, among others.

References