Valley State Prison Overview

Valley State Prison (VSP) is located in Chowchilla, California, and serves as a medium-security prison for male inmates. Originally opened as a women’s facility in 1995, it transitioned to an all-male prison in 2013. The facility houses a variety of offenders, with an emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration programs aimed at helping inmates transition back into society. Valley State Prison offers educational opportunities, vocational training, and mental health services, ensuring a structured environment focused on inmate development.

Valley State Prison can hold approximately 3,000 male inmates and is known for its progressive rehabilitation programs, including substance abuse treatment, anger management, and self-help groups. These programs are designed to help reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community.

Valley State Prison in California

Contact Information for Valley State Prison

For anyone needing to contact Valley State Prison, below is the essential contact information:

Visiting Information for Valley State Prison

Valley State Prison allows for in-person visitation, following strict guidelines to ensure the safety and security of inmates, visitors, and staff. Visiting hours typically occur on Saturdays and Sundays between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM, but it’s important to confirm the specific hours through the prison’s website or by calling ahead.

  • What to Bring to a Visit: Visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Minors must be accompanied by an adult, and all personal items, including cell phones and bags, are restricted. You’re encouraged to dress conservatively, avoiding any provocative or gang-affiliated attire.

  • What to Expect at a Visit: Visits at Valley State Prison are closely monitored, and visitors can expect to undergo a search before entering the facility. Visits typically last between 1-2 hours, but time limits may vary depending on the number of visitors and the day’s schedule. The visiting environment is structured, and all interactions are conducted under the supervision of staff. Inmates are allowed physical contact (e.g., hugs) upon greeting and saying goodbye, but otherwise, physical contact is limited.

How to Book a Visit at Valley State Prison

Booking a visit at Valley State Prison requires pre-approval. Visitors must fill out the necessary application through the CDCR’s Visitor Approval Process. The application must be submitted well in advance of the intended visit, as processing times may vary.

  • What You Need to Book a Visit: To book a visit, visitors will need to provide a valid form of identification, personal information, and any required supporting documents (especially for minors). After approval, visitors are assigned an inmate visitation schedule. Up to three visitors, including children, can visit an inmate at a time.

  • Booking Process: Appointments can be made through the CDCR’s Visiting Scheduling Application (VSA), which allows visitors to schedule and confirm visitation dates. It’s recommended to book early to ensure you get a desired slot, as availability may be limited, especially during holidays.

Directions to Valley State Prison and Parking Information

Valley State Prison is located in the Central Valley of California, approximately 120 miles south of Sacramento and 40 miles north of Fresno. The facility’s remote location means that driving is the most practical way to reach the prison.

  • Directions by Car:
    • From Sacramento: Take CA-99 South, exit onto Avenue 24, and follow signs to the facility.
    • From Fresno: Take CA-99 North, exit onto Avenue 24, and continue straight to Valley State Prison.
  • Parking Information: There is ample parking available at Valley State Prison, with designated visitor parking areas near the entrance. Be sure to arrive early to find parking and ensure timely entry into the facility. Parking is free, but visitors should lock their vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in sight.

What is Valley State Prison Like for Inmates?

Life inside Valley State Prison focuses heavily on rehabilitation and personal development. The facility is equipped with various programs that target inmate education, employment skills, and personal growth. Inmates can take part in GED programs, vocational training in fields such as carpentry and electrical work, and even participate in creative arts and music programs.

In addition to the focus on rehabilitation, inmates receive medical and mental health services, ensuring they have the necessary support while incarcerated. The environment is generally structured, with a daily routine of work, recreation, and educational sessions. While discipline and security are a high priority, the focus on rehabilitation helps to create a sense of purpose and direction for inmates.

In recent news, Valley State Prison has received recognition for its focus on inmate education and rehabilitation programs. The prison has been part of several pilot programs designed to reduce recidivism, and it continues to explore innovative ways to support inmate development.

Famous Prisoners at Valley State Prison

Valley State Prison has housed several high-profile inmates since it transitioned to a male-only facility in 2013. While most of the prison population consists of non-violent offenders, some individuals with more notorious backgrounds have served time at Valley State Prison. These include inmates involved in white-collar crimes and others who have gained media attention due to their criminal cases. However, the prison’s focus remains on rehabilitation and reintegration, regardless of an inmate’s background.

 

FAQs About Valley State Prison

  1. Where is Valley State Prison located?
    Valley State Prison is located in Chowchilla, California, approximately 120 miles south of Sacramento.

  2. What type of inmates does Valley State Prison house?
    Valley State Prison is a medium-security facility that houses male inmates, with a strong emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration programs.

  3. How do I book a visit to Valley State Prison?
    To book a visit, you need to apply through the CDCR’s Visiting Scheduling Application (VSA). Approved visitors can then schedule an appointment online.

  4. What are the visiting hours at Valley State Prison?
    Visiting hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s advised to check with the prison for up-to-date scheduling.

  5. How can I contact Valley State Prison?
    You can contact Valley State Prison by calling (559) 665-6100. More information can also be found on the CDCR website.

  6. What is the capacity of Valley State Prison?
    Valley State Prison can hold approximately 3,000 inmates.

  7. Can minors visit inmates at Valley State Prison?
    Yes, minors are allowed to visit but must be accompanied by an adult. The accompanying adult must be an approved visitor.

  8. What rehabilitation programs does Valley State Prison offer?
    Valley State Prison offers a variety of rehabilitation programs, including vocational training, education, and substance abuse treatment.

  9. Is there parking available at Valley State Prison?
    Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the prison, and it is free of charge.

  10. Has Valley State Prison housed any famous inmates?
    While Valley State Prison has housed some high-profile individuals, the prison focuses primarily on rehabilitation rather than notoriety.

Summary:

Valley State Prison is a medium-security men’s facility in Chowchilla, California, with a capacity of about 3,000 inmates. The prison places a strong focus on rehabilitation, offering various educational, vocational, and mental health programs. With visitation available on weekends, Valley State Prison is dedicated to fostering inmate development and reintegration into society.

For more information, visit the official California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation website here.

Sources:

  • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
  • Valley State Prison Official Site
  • Local News Articles on Valley State Prison

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