Pleasant Valley State Prison Overview

Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP) is a correctional facility in Coalinga, California, known for housing male inmates of varying security levels, ranging from minimum to maximum. The prison, which opened in 1994, has a capacity of 2,308 inmates, but currently holds over 3,100, reflecting the state’s overcrowding challenges. PVSP offers a range of educational, vocational, and rehabilitation programs to help inmates develop skills for reintegration into society, including substance use treatment and behavioral therapy. The prison is also known for its Valley Fever outbreak in the early 2010s, which affected hundreds of inmates due to the area’s high risk for this fungal infection.

 

Pleasant Valley State Prison in Coalinga, California

Contact Information for Pleasant Valley State Prison

  • Address: 24863 West Jayne Avenue, Coalinga, CA 93210
  • Mailing Address for Inmates: PO Box 8500, Coalinga, CA 93210
  • Phone Number: (559) 935-4900
  • Email: Visit the official CDCR website for specific inmate services contacts.

Visiting Pleasant Valley State Prison

Visiting hours at PVSP are on Saturdays, Sundays, and designated holidays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Visitors must follow strict guidelines regarding dress code and identification requirements. All visitors are required to show a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID card. It is essential to be on the inmate’s approved visiting list before scheduling a visit. Visitors can bring minimal personal items like car keys, but items such as cell phones and excessive jewelry are prohibited. Each visit typically lasts several hours, depending on the prison’s schedule and capacity.

 

How to Book a Visit at Pleasant Valley State Prison

Booking a visit at PVSP requires advance planning. Visitors must register online through the CDCR’s visitor reservation system or call the prison’s visitation line at (800) 374-8474 to confirm visiting times and requirements. You will need the inmate’s full name, CDCR number, and valid identification for each visitor. Up to four visitors are allowed per inmate, but regulations may vary based on the prison’s policies. The visiting experience includes waiting periods for security checks and ID verification, so plan to arrive early.

 

Directions and Parking for Pleasant Valley State Prison

Pleasant Valley State Prison is located off Highway 33 in Coalinga, Fresno County, California. For those driving, parking is available on-site, and there is no fee for visitor parking. From Fresno, take Interstate 5, then follow signs for Coalinga, which is approximately 60 miles west. The prison is located in a relatively remote area, so it’s recommended to have a GPS device or detailed map when traveling.

 

Life Inside Pleasant Valley State Prison

Inmates at Pleasant Valley State Prison have access to a variety of programs designed to support rehabilitation, including educational courses like GED preparation, vocational training, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The prison also offers substance abuse treatment and mental health services. Despite these resources, PVSP has been in the spotlight due to an outbreak of Valley Fever in the early 2010s, which raised concerns about health and safety conditions. Valley Fever is a fungal infection endemic to the region, and hundreds of inmates were affected, with some filing lawsuits against the state.

 

Famous Prisoners at Pleasant Valley State Prison

Pleasant Valley State Prison has housed several notorious inmates, including convicted killers Erik Menendez, who is serving a life sentence for the murder of his parents, and Hans Reiser, the software developer convicted of murdering his wife. These high-profile cases have brought national attention to the prison over the years.

 

FAQs About Pleasant Valley State Prison

  • What is the security level at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    PVSP houses inmates at minimum, medium, and maximum security levels, offering a range of rehabilitative programs for all.

  • How can I send money to an inmate at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    Family and friends can send money via U.S. Postal Service or through services like Western Union, using the inmate’s full name and ID number.

  • What are the visiting hours at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    Visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends and designated holidays. Be sure to confirm current visiting times by calling the prison.

  • Can I bring children to visit an inmate at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    Yes, children are allowed, but special rules apply. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian and listed on the approved visitor’s form.

  • What programs are available for inmates at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    PVSP offers various programs, including adult education, vocational training, substance use treatment, and mental health services.

  • What caused the Valley Fever outbreak at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    Valley Fever, caused by a fungus found in soil, affected many inmates due to the prison’s location in an endemic area. The prison has since implemented preventive measures.

  • How do I find an inmate at Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    You can locate an inmate by using the CDCR inmate locator online, where you’ll need the inmate’s name or CDCR number.

  • Who is the warden of Pleasant Valley State Prison?
    As of 2024, the acting warden is Steve Smith, who has over 25 years of experience within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

  • Is Pleasant Valley State Prison overcrowded?
    Yes, PVSP is currently operating over capacity, housing more than 3,100 inmates in a facility designed for 2,308.

  • What precautions are in place to prevent future Valley Fever outbreaks?
    Measures include limiting outdoor exposure during dust storms and providing medical assessments for at-risk inmates.

Conclusion

Pleasant Valley State Prison serves a significant role in California’s correctional system, providing rehabilitation services for a diverse inmate population. While the prison has faced challenges, particularly with health concerns like Valley Fever, it continues to implement programs designed to prepare inmates for eventual reintegration into society. For more detailed information on Pleasant Valley State Prison, including the latest news and updates, visit the CDCR official site.


Sources:

  • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR)
  • Prison Handbook
  • KQED News

Visit Pinckneyville Correctional Center