California Institution for Women (CIW)

Dawn Davison, Warden

California Institution for Women - Mission Statement

The primary mission of the California Institution for Woman is to provide a safe and secure environment for Level I/III female offenders.  This mission is further defined by our responsibility to provide quality health care and institution programs specifically geared to meet the special needs of female offenders.  Specialized programs include academic and vocational programs, pre-release and substance abuse programming, pre-forestry and camp training, an arts in corrections program and a wide variety of inmate self-help groups and community betterment projects.

Institution Details

The California Institution for Women accommodates all custody levels of female inmates and functions as a reception/processing center for incoming female inmates.  In addition to its large general population, CIW houses inmates with special needs such as pregnancy, psychiatric care, methadone, and medical problems such as HIV infection.

CIW serves as a hub institution for the selection and physical fitness training of female firefighters selected for conservation camp placement.  The institution also serves as a higher security facility for female inmates in Administrative Segregation.

Institution Statistics

California Institution for Women opened in 1952, and covers  120 acres.  As of Fiscal Year 2005/2006, the following statistics apply:

Special Historical Notes

Until 1987, CIW was California's only prison for female felons.  It was originally called "Frontera," a feminine derivative of the word frontier - a new beginning.  The campus-like design was in keeping with the 1950's progressive notion of rehabilitation.

Inmate Programs

Visiting Hours and Directions

Directions

CIW is located 37 miles east of Los Angeles; 90 miles northwest of San Diego. Visit this link  to customize your driving directions.