Riverside County Jail Overview

The Riverside County Jail, more commonly known as the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC), is a significant detention facility located in Riverside, California. This jail, first opened in 1933 and later modernized in 1989, now has a capacity of over 4,000 inmates, making it one of Southern California’s largest detention centers. The facility houses both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates, offering various rehabilitation and education programs. Operated by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the jail serves as a central holding facility, with inmates awaiting trial or serving sentences for various offenses​

Riverside County Jail

Riverside County Jail Contact Information

  • Address:
    Riverside County Jail – Robert Presley Detention Center
    4000 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501
  • Phone: (951) 955-4500
  • Visitation Scheduling: (951) 341-8888 (call between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.)
  • Mailing Address:
    [Inmate’s Full Name & Booking Number]
    P.O. Box 710, Riverside, CA 92501

Visiting Information for Riverside County Jail

To visit an inmate at the Robert Presley Detention Center, visitors must first schedule an appointment by calling (951) 341-8888 the day before the visit. Each inmate is allowed two 45-minute visits per week, with a maximum of two visitors per session. Visitors must bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, and adhere to a strict dress code that prohibits provocative or gang-related clothing. It is important to check the jail’s visitation policies regularly as they may change​

What to Bring for a Visit

  • Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID).
  • Face mask (as required by current health guidelines).
  • Visitors must be 18 years or older unless accompanied by an adult.
  • No food, drink, or electronic devices are allowed during the visit

How to Book a Visit at Riverside County Jail

To book a visit at the Riverside County Jail, call (951) 341-8888. You will need the inmate’s name, booking number, and your personal details for verification. Ensure you schedule your visit in advance as visits are first-come, first-served. You are allowed to bring up to two visitors per session, including children​

Directions and Parking Information for Riverside County Jail

The Robert Presley Detention Center is located at 4000 Orange Street in downtown Riverside. Metered parking is available on surrounding streets, and there are two public parking structures nearby, at the corner of Lemon and 12th Streets. The jail is accessible via Interstate 91 or Highway 60, with easy access from Riverside’s downtown area​

What is Riverside County Jail Like for Inmates?

Life at the Riverside County Jail varies depending on an inmate’s classification and sentence. Inmates have access to education programs, including GED completion and vocational training in trades like carpentry and welding. Substance abuse treatment and mental health services are also provided for those who qualify. However, overcrowding remains a significant issue, and the jail has been criticized for inadequate medical care and high inmate violence rates​

The jail offers recreational yard time, religious services, and a library. Inmates can make phone calls but only through collect calls or pre-paid phone accounts​

Famous Inmates at Riverside County Jail

The Robert Presley Detention Center has housed several notable inmates over the years. One of the most infamous was crime figure Raymond Chow, also known as “Shrimp Boy,” who was involved in organized crime in California. The jail has also temporarily held individuals involved in high-profile cases awaiting trial​

FAQs About Riverside County Jail

  • What are the visiting hours at Riverside County Jail?
    Visiting hours at the jail vary, but you can book an appointment by calling (951) 341-8888 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

  • How do I send mail to an inmate at Riverside County Jail?
    Send mail to the following address:
    [Inmate’s Full Name & Booking Number],
    Riverside County Jail – Robert Presley Detention Center,
    P.O. Box 710, Riverside, CA 92501.

  • What is the capacity of Riverside County Jail?
    The jail can house over 4,000 inmates, making it one of the largest in California​

  • Can I bring items for the inmate?
    No personal items are allowed during visits. However, you can deposit money into an inmate’s account online or through a kiosk at the jail​

  • What programs are offered to inmates?
    Inmates have access to GED programs, vocational training, and substance abuse treatment​

  • How do I schedule a visit?
    Call (951) 341-8888 one day before your desired visit during operating hours.

  • What should I wear when visiting?
    Visitors must adhere to a dress code that prohibits offensive clothing and gang-related attire. Clothing must cover all upper and lower body parts

  • How do inmates make phone calls?
    Inmates can make collect calls or use prepaid calling cards to contact loved ones​

  • Is there parking available at Riverside County Jail?
    Yes, there are metered parking spaces and public parking structures near the jail​

  • What security measures are in place for visitors?
    All visitors are subject to searches and background checks before entering the facility. No contraband, including weapons or drugs, is allowed​

Conclusion

The Riverside County Jail, also known as the Robert Presley Detention Center, is a key part of Riverside County’s correctional system, housing thousands of inmates. It offers a variety of rehabilitation programs but faces challenges with overcrowding and inmate safety. With detailed visitation protocols and strict regulations, it ensures security while accommodating inmate-family interactions.

For more details on the jail’s facilities and services, you can visit the Riverside County Sheriff’s official page.

External Resource: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

Visit Richland County Jail