For CDCR and CCHCS, 2023 was the year of innovative rehabilitative programming, big changes and remarkable heroes. The department unveiled new initiatives, celebrated employee accomplishments, and gave back to California communities in many meaningful ways. We asked leadership to share what they consider to be the top accomplishments for 2023.
Top accomplishments
- Launched the California Model initiative to improve public safety by transforming culture, language, and communication, and prioritizing critical initiatives. This effort includes the development of critical trainings such as Active Bystandership and becoming a Trauma Informed Organization. Additionally, 600 incarcerated individuals applied to take part in Medi-Cal’s Peer Support Specialist program, California’s first correctional approved training entity.
- Enhanced access to care by implementing streamlined processes, which successfully reduced specialty backlogs statewide by 51% in 2023, improved timeliness of Reception Center health screenings by more than 40% points, increased timeliness of urgent referrals 10% from 2022, and expanded the use of telehealth services.
- Launched the innovative Youth Offender Program (YOP) Camp Pilot Program at Growlersburg Conservation Camp. This program expands opportunities to volunteer for the Conservation Camp Program and encourages self-improvement and rehabilitation. Camp participants have the opportunity to receive wildland firefighting training, which enhances their opportunities for future firefighting careers.
- Transitioned Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp from a Division of Juvenile Justice program to one that serves youths age 18 and older from counties that contract with CDCR. Pine Grove participants train and work as paid fire crew members with CAL FIRE, while receiving trauma-informed treatment and educational rehabilitation programming. (Learn more about Pine Grove.)
- Activated a 35-bed Memory Care Unit at the California Medical Facility in July, in alignment with care needs for the aging population.
- In October, CDCR announced it filed an emergency regulation package that would allow it to almost immediately overhaul its use of restricted housing. Units were consolidated from six to three, and RHU-eligible offenses were reduced by half. Non-violent offenders will now remain with the general population and continue to participate in self-help programs, mental health treatment, rehabilitative programs, and other health care programs. Media who covered the emergency regulations included CapRadio. Read CDCR’s press release.
- Increased participation in the Returning Home Well program by creating a pathway for incarcerated individuals at risk for homelessness to be placed directly into housing upon release to parole supervision.
- Increased communications with incarcerated people to identify high-priority areas for improvement in the overall health care system through a variety of tools including a region-wide quarterly meeting with Inmate Advisory Councils hosted remotely via Teams, surveys, in-person discussions/town halls, newsletter correspondence and more, resulting in numerous improvements such as a program that trains incarcerated people in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and modifications to COVID guidelines to allow people more consistent access to family visiting.
- Protected incarcerated people from contagious disease by administering more than 100,000 doses of vaccines in 2023, with a 74% compliance rate on the Adult Immunizations Dashboard measure for diseases like hepatitis B and tetanus, an improvement of 10% over last year for some vaccines.
Please enjoy this recap of 2023’s best moments.
JANUARY
New ‘Freedom Libraries’ empower incarcerated people
The national non-profit Freedom Reads partnered with CDCR to open Freedom Libraries at Valley State Prison and Central California Women’s Facility.
A carefully curated, 500-book collection was installed at each institution. Each bookshelf is handcrafted out of maple, walnut or cherry and is curved to contrast the straight lines and bars of prisons, as well as to evoke Martin Luther King Jr.’s line about the “arc of the universe” bending “toward justice.”
(Read more about Freedom Libraries.)
CDCR submits regulations for the transfer of condemned incarcerated people
In January, the CDCR submitted a proposal to make the Condemned Inmate Transfer Program (CITP) permanent. Under the CITP, everyone is housed according to their individual case factors in appropriate prisons, granting better access to programming and rehabilitative services. This allows CDCR to continue the process of closing death row.
Read the press release. Several outlets covered the issue, including NPR and the Bakersfield Californian.
FEBRUARY
DJJ holds final high school graduation
The final Division of Juvenile Justice high school graduations were held at N.A. Chaderjian High School in Stockton and Ventura Youth Correctional Facility’s Mary B. Perry High School.
A graduation and Certification Luncheon Program was held to commemorate important academic and certification achievements for youth. During the ceremonies, 11 youth received high school diplomas, four received Ethnic Studies certification from San Francisco State University and 14 received athletic training certificates.
Read more about DJJ’s graduation ceremony.
Formerly incarcerated trainees prepare for fire careers
Sixteen previously incarcerated individuals participated in a graduation ceremony for their completion of the Firefighter Training and Reentry Program at the Ventura Training Center. Family and friends of the trainees were able to attend and share in this celebratory achievement.
This 18-month voluntary program promotes rehabilitation, life skills, and job readiness through advanced firefighter certification and training courses. Since Ventura Training Center opened in 2018, more than 100 participants have graduated from the program, with many accepting employment with CAL FIRE and other fire service entities.
MARCH
Governor Newsom announces historic transformation of San Quentin
Joined by CDCR officials, heads of state agencies, formerly incarcerated people and community members committed to criminal justice reform, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled the state’s vision for the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
“California is transforming San Quentin – the state’s most notorious prison with a dark past – into the nation’s most innovative rehabilitation facility focused on building a brighter and safer future,” said Governor Newsom. “Today, we take the next step in our pursuit of true rehabilitation, justice, and safer communities through this evidenced-backed investment, creating a new model for safety and justice — the California Model — that will lead the nation.”
With input from criminal justice experts from across the world, community leaders and program providers, and those who live and work in the prison, an Advisory Council, announced in May, will provide recommendations and a plan to bring transformational programmatic, cultural and physical change that can be scaled to other institutions across the state.
Learn more about San Quentin’s transformation.
CDCR takes the plunge for Special Olympics
Heroes of all shapes and sizes dipped or dove into Folsom Lake on a rainy morning for the 2023 Polar Plunge, raising over $100,000 for Special Olympics of Northern California.
CDCR’s Polar Plunge teams joined other law enforcement agencies from the greater Sacramento area at Brown’s Ravine on March 11, raising over $18,000 for the cause.
The Polar Plunge is an annual tradition in which brave supporters take a chilly winter dip to show their dedication to Special Olympics athletes. All proceeds benefit SONC. The organization provides sports, education, leadership and health programs to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Learn more about CDCR’s support of Special Olympics.
Learn more about Special Olympics of Northern California.
Ironwood employees recognized with statewide award
The Governor’s Medal of Valor was presented to three CDCR employees from Ironwood State Prison. An earlier virtual ceremony had been held, but the ceremony in March was a way to honor the employees at their place of work, with family in attendance.
Receiving the award were Lt. Heriberto Mora, Sgt. John Bradley and Registered Nurse Mayra Mora.
In February 2021, while on their way to work, the Moras came across a serious accident on the freeway. They immediately stopped and ran across the highway to help.
(Visit Inside CDCR to learn more.)
Welcome, Undersecretary Foss!
Tammy Foss was appointed Undersecretary of Operations for CDCR.
Prior to her appointment as Undersecretary, Foss served as the Director of Corrections Services at California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS). Foss has extensive experience within the department to include Associate Director of Female Offender Programs and Services, Associate Director of Reception Center Missions and Chief of Reception Center Missions and Program Support Unit for the Division of Adult Institutions.
She served as Warden and Chief Deputy Warden at Salinas Valley State Prison and Chief Deputy Administrator at High Desert State Prison. Undersecretary Foss also served as Community Resources Manager and Business Manager at San Quentin State Prison. Additionally, she held multiple positions at Pelican Bay State Prison including Procurement & Services Officer II, Budget Analyst and Correctional Officer.
APRIL
CDCR observes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
CDCR and CCHCS joined communities throughout the country in commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week April 23-29.
This year’s theme was: “Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.” This theme reminds us of the importance of hearing and amplifying victims’ voices in all we do as corrections professionals.
2023 marked 35 years for CDCR’s Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services. Chief Katie James joined the CDCR Unlocked podcast to discuss the many services offered, including collecting restitution and being notified of changes in an incarcerated person’s sentence. The office also makes possible restorative justice programs designed to bring healing to communities harmed by crime as well as hold responsible parties accountable in meaningful ways.
(Listen to the CDCR Unlocked episode.)
Easter activities delight at visiting events statewide
Institutions throughout the state hosted Easter-themed visitation events. These fun-filled days provided quality time for families, fun activities for children, and brought a sense of normalcy to the weekend. Families visiting their incarcerated loved ones were treated to egg hunts, activities and treats, including the Easter Bunny, pictured here stopping by California Institution for Men.
(Read more about Easter visiting events.)
CDCR issues recidivism reports
CDCR published two reports examining the recidivism outcomes of formerly incarcerated individuals released in Fiscal Years (FY) 2016-2017 and 2017-2018. The 2017/18 report is the first CDCR data available examining the recidivism among those impacted by Proposition 57, overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2016.
(Read the full press release.)
In the first report, which examines recidivism data prior to Prop 57, of the 31,792 total persons released in FY 2016-2017, 52.4% successfully reentered their communities and did not receive any additional convictions. This is a 3% decrease from FY 2015-2016. Of the 15,123 who received convictions, 51.4% were misdemeanor convictions, primarily for drug/alcohol crimes.
For FY 2017-2018, of the 35,447 persons released, 55.4% (19,643 persons) successfully reentered their communities and did not receive any additional convictions, showing a lower recidivism rate than the year prior. Of the 15,804 formerly incarcerated persons who did receive additional convictions, 53.1% were for misdemeanor convictions, primarily for drug/alcohol crimes (21.6%).
MAY
CDCR, CCHCS applaud employees’ service
Several national recognition weeks honor employees in May, including nurses, correctional officers, teachers and all who work in public service. CDCR leaders made sure to share their appreciation in several messages thanking employees.
(Read the letters of appreciation.)
Secretary Macomber confirmed by Senate
The Senate voted 35-0 May 8 to confirm Jeff Macomber, Secretary, CDCR. Macomber’s career at CDCR has spanned nearly three decades, beginning as a Correctional Officer at Ironwood State Prison in 1993. Most recently, he served as Undersecretary of Operations from 2020 to 2022. He has diverse experience at CDCR, including leadership roles in custody, administration, and health care.
JUNE
End of an era – CDCR ceases Division of Juvenile Justice operations
On June 30, the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) officially closed and the remaining youths were transferred to counties, completing juvenile justice realignment as required under Senate Bill 823.
DJJ began as the California Youth Authority in 1942, but rehabilitation of youth in California dates to the beginning of statehood in the 1850s. At its height, DJJ operated 11 facilities and numerous fire camps and housed more than 10,000 youth. Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp remains open; however, crewmembers are contracted to serve their time at the camp through their county of commitment.
Media who covered the story included Prism and Axios.
Luis Cardenas receives Governor’s Gold Star
In June, Governor Gavin Newsom honored retired Parole Agent Luis Cardenas with the Gold Star at the State Employee Medal of Valor ceremony, praising his efforts to stop a shooter in Bakersfield.
The award is the highest state award presented to a public safety officer. Stories appeared in Telemundo Bakersfield and ABC Bakersfield. CDCR awarded Luis the 2021 Medal of Valor for his efforts in protecting the public.
“We take pride in Agent Cardenas’ actions, which exemplify the CDCR employees’ commitment to prioritizing the welfare of their community,” said Secretary Jeff Macomber. “Thanks to his bravery, the shooter surrendered without any fatalities or injuries. We need more people like Luis Cardenas in our communities.”
(Read the full Inside CDCR article.)
Looking forward – reimagining San Quentin
The Governor’s Office and CDCR hosted media agencies at San Quentin in June to showcase the facility’s education and rehabilitation programs that enhance public safety.
Media representatives from 13 media outlets received a tour of the chapel, the Last Mile computer coding program, education department, Media Center, and recreation yard. The tour included the warehouse that will become the site of the new education and vocation center. Media had the opportunity to interview incarcerated individuals and staff at San Quentin to learn about the prison’s rehabilitation programs and career preparation services.
Stories appeared in Telemundo and the San Francisco Chronicle.
JULY
Harvest of the Month brings local produce to institutions
To celebrate the Sacramento region’s 10-year anniversary as America’s Farm-to-Fork capital, CDCR, in collaboration with Impact Justice’s Food in Prison program, unveiled a new initiative to bring locally grown produce to its institutions.
CDCR’s commitment to promoting local agriculture and culinary excellence is an achievement worth celebrating. “Harvest of the Month” (HOTM) showcases the department’s dedication to sustainable food practices and supporting local farmers and food hubs.
The program began in July 2023 with three institutions and will increase by three institutions quarterly until all institutions are involved. HOTM allows CDCR to work with local food hubs who unite small farmers to feed incarcerated individuals in CDCR prisons.
Visiting expands to three days at all institutions
In line with the Legislature’s intent to expand in-person visitation, institutions statewide moved to three days of in-person weekend visiting on July 7, 2023.
“The expansion of three in-person visiting days a week, while offering free transportation statewide, will allow us to meet demand at our busier institutions and provide more opportunities for people to see their loved ones — enhancing public safety by promoting successful community reintegration,” CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber said.
Incarcerated students become eligible for federal Pell Grants
This year college-going was made more accessible through a major initiative as federal Pell Grants expanded to include incarcerated students.
Federal Pell Grants are education grants that can be used by eligible students (incarcerated or not) enrolled in an accredited college or university. The Associated Press wrote a national story about the change, focusing on students at Folsom State Prison, to explore the rehabilitative power of education.
Comprehensive institution data dashboard unveiled
CDCR released a new data dashboard providing detailed information about California’s state prisons. The dashboard provides current and historical data for all prisons in one environment.
View the SB 601 Dashboard on the CDCR website.
Senate Bill (SB) 601 was signed into law in 2015. This bill requires the department to publish a quarterly report outlining each institution’s budget, expenditures, security level, rehabilitative programs, staff vacancies, overtime/sick leave use, and the number of use-of-force incidents, among other data points. Data is compiled from several sources, including the law enforcement data tool COMPSTAT.
AUGUST
San Francisco Giants, Pollen Initiative support San Quentin baseball team
Pollen Initiative – an organization dedicated to cultivating rehabilitative programs inside prisons across the U.S. – announced a new partnership with the San Francisco Giants to provide philanthropic support to San Quentin Baseball, the official baseball team of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC). In an effort to support meaningful prison reform initiatives and powerful rehabilitation programs, the program will strengthen one of the prison’s longest running and most successful restorative initiatives. As part of the partnership, the team will also be renamed the San Quentin Giants.
For more than 70 years, the San Quentin Baseball team has helped the incarcerated population develop valuable skills, including teamwork, discipline, and effective communication – crucial tools for success inside prison walls and upon reentry into the broader society.
‘Grade School to Grad School’ commitment
Throughout the year, CDCR demonstrated its commitment to supporting and expanding a wide range of educational opportunities with events and new initiatives. CDCR in August announced an historic collaboration with California State University Dominguez Hills to offer a Master’s Degree program to incarcerated students.
This was yet another example of CDCR’s national leadership in higher education. Several media organizations picked up the story, including the Los Angeles Times, Ed Source, BestColleges.com, KTLA 5, the Daily Breeze and Spectrum News. Given the popularity of CDCR’s face-to-face community college and bachelor’s degree programs, the graduate degree opportunity was an important addition. The program furthered the Department’s “grade school to grad school” commitment and allowed incarcerated students to continue on their rehabilitative paths.
“CDCR is proud to partner with CSUDH to further the Department’s commitment in expanding ‘grade school to grad school’ opportunities and also strengthen collaborative efforts with California’s public higher education system,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “These efforts are vital, as education serves as a powerful rehabilitative tool – studies show that incarcerated individuals who participate in correctional education are 48% less likely to return to prison within three years than those who didn’t take advantage of these opportunities.”
Staff showcase impacts of ISUDT at state conference
California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) hosted a Substance Use Disorder Integrated Care Conference Aug. 15-17 in Long Beach. The event gathered professionals, experts, and stakeholders from across the state.
The groups discussed and explored innovative approaches to care and showcased a diverse range of insights, discussions, and strategies. The conference aimed to transform the landscape of SUD treatment. The Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program jointly operated by CCHCS and CDCR had an integral role. ISUDT leadership hosted a special workshop. People representing ISUDT included:
- Lisa Heintz, CCHCS Director of Legislation and Special Projects
- Dr. Renee Kanan, Deputy Director of Medical Services.
Their session showed data on impacts of ISUDT in CDCR prisons and practices that drive program implementation and growth. Several department staffers attended the event and learned trends and strategies in workshops hosted by CDCR/CCHCS partners and fellow innovators.
2023 medical care delegations begin with Ironwood
With an updated internal process to assist the Receiver in determining institution readiness for delegation, medical care at three prisons was returned to state oversight: Ironwood State Prison (August 2, 2023), Central California Women’s Facility (October 18, 2023), and Mule Creek State Prison (December 8, 2023), bringing the total to 23 institutions (out of 32).
CCI mental health program honored
California Correctional Institution announced a monumental achievement in its commitment to delivering exceptional mental health care. As of June 27, 2023, the Tehachapi institution has become the pioneering state prison mental health program in the United States to attain National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) accreditation, signifying its dedication to adhering to NCCHC’s nationally acclaimed standards of care for correctional health services.
Leading this remarkable endeavor was Dr. Kelly Nesson, Senior Psychologist Supervisor, whose leadership and dedication propelled the two-year collaborative effort. The Mental Health, Medical, Nursing, and Custodial teams worked together to prepare for this milestone review, exemplifying their collective commitment to elevating the quality of care California Correctional Institution provides.
SEPTEMBER
Employees honored at Medal of Valor ceremony
CDCR’s 38th annual Medal of Valor ceremony was held in September, honoring 27 extraordinary employees from across California for their bravery, service and exemplary work conduct benefitting the department and the public.
Read CDCR’s press release. Stories ran on NBC 7, and Inside CDCR.
The Medal of Valor, CDCR’s highest award, is presented to employees who display conspicuous bravery or heroism far beyond the normal demands of correctional service. This year’s recipient was Lieutenant Larry Faria from the Office of Peace Officer Selection in Fresno.
On July 7, 2022, Lt. Faria witnessed a dramatic collision between a vehicle and a semi-tractor trailer while on his way to work. Lt. Faria ran to the scene and used a fire extinguisher to dampen the flames. When the fire persisted, he smashed the car’s window and pulled a young girl from the wreckage. His immediate and selfless actions saved her life.
Parole employees honored at statewide awards ceremony
The California Probation, Parole and Correctional Association (CPPCA) recognized Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) employees for their work in helping formerly incarcerated people successfully reenter communities and enhancing public safety.
DAPO’s South Coast District, led by Parole Administrator Rajesh Talwar, received the John B. Clark award for outstanding contributions to the field of corrections. Staff at DAPO’s South Coast District, which covers Orange County, were recognized for their effective engagement with formerly incarcerated people and connecting them with community partners and resources to help ensure their successful reentry into the community.
Parole agent Ricardo Bautista earned the Ruth Rushen Award, which is awarded to a person working in CDCR who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, and who has significantly contributed to make a difference in the field of corrections. Bautista was honored for his contributions and leadership throughout the unprecedented challenges faced by CDCR during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Central District Parole Agent Juan Rendon was named the Parole Agent of the Year, which is awarded to a parole agent, state or county, working with adults or juveniles, who has made a significant contribution to the field of corrections and/or has exhibited exemplary job performance. Rendon’s efforts include helping to establish a community partnership with UEI College in Fresno, which has resulted in UEI representatives participating in Parole and Community Team orientation meetings, where they have successfully enrolled recently released paroled individuals into a UEI certification program.
Prison Palooza 2.0 celebrates unity
On Sept. 29, California Medical Facility (CMF) hosted Prison Palooza 2.0, a sequel to the original event held before the pandemic. The gathering brought together staff, community members, and incarcerated people for a day of celebration.
The event featured chalk art, cornhole, horseshoes, and a car/motorcycle show. Program and vendor booths added depth to the experience.
The day’s rhythm was set by multiple bands, including a special performance by Warden (A) Daniel Cueva’s family. Iconic figures Jello Biafra from the Dead Kennedys and Wayne Kramer from MC5 joined incarcerated musicians on stage.
CDCR launches women recruitment initiative
CDCR Secretary Jeffrey Macomber endorsed the “30×30” pledge in September, aiming to achieve a 30% representation of women among correctional officer cadets by 2030. This initiative involves bolstering recruitment, retention, and promotion efforts for women in law enforcement.
CDCR is actively working to enhance gender equity, ensuring the department mirrors the diversity of the jurisdictions it serves through strategic measures to advance women within the organization.
“CDCR recognizes the importance of focusing on the underrepresentation of women in corrections. We are proud to join the 30×30 pledge,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “CDCR is already taking steps to fulfill our commitment by establishing a strategic campaign to achieve our goal.”
Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.
OCTOBER
Positive ISUDT impacts continue
The Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program continues to save lives and improve health outcomes among participants. with data showing a 54% reduction in CDCR’s total overdose death rate, a 50% reduction in the opioid overdose death rate, a 30% reduction of overdose-related community hospitalizations and emergency department visits among those on Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT), and a 60% reduction in hepatitis C virus reinfections among those on MAT.
(Read the ISUDT Program Annual Report, released in October.)
Additionally, nearly 6,000 people left CDCR with naloxone in hand to mitigate the very high risk of overdose upon release. 2023 showed a 70% decrease in chronic Hepatitis C (HCV) infection prevalence (from 14% in 2018 compared to 4% in 2023) due to HCV treatment and Medication Assisted Treatment for those diagnosed with substance use disorder.
30th Operation Boo helps keep communities safe
On Oct. 31, parole agents participated in the 30th annual Operation Boo. More than 320 parole agents, along with local law enforcement partners, conducted compliance checks on sex offenders. These individuals on parole supervision are not authorized to have contact with minors. Sex offenders must adhere to a curfew and strict guidelines on Halloween.
(Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.)
Operation Boo is part of the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) mission to help keep children safe on Halloween and throughout the year.
“DAPO agents are partners with their communities to help ensure public safety. Operation Boo provides children a safe experience on Halloween while they enjoy evening activities in the community. This highlights our parole agents’ dedication to keeping communities safe year-round,” said DAPO Director Jason Johnson.
Incarcerated students earn associate degrees
In October, CDCR celebrated milestone graduations at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility when honored 22 incarcerated students earned their associate degrees from Southwestern College, with most going on to pursue a bachelor’s degree with the University of California, Irvine.
KPBS and NBC 7 covered the event. Read the CDCR press release.
“We know that college changes lives and can be transformative,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “We are thrilled that the graduates today are using these opportunities to positively transform not only themselves, but also inspire those around them to do the same.”
CCHCS celebrates ACE award recipients
The pinnacle of recognition, the annual CCHCS Always Creating Excellence (ACE) award celebrates the very best among us. Each year, CCHCS recognizes three individuals for their commitment to excellence, this includes one rank-and-file staff member, a manager or supervisor and one of our leaders. Congratulations to the first year’s awardees!
- Marc Wakefield, Information Technology Specialist III
- Dr. Gwen Hammer, with the Office of Nursing Public Health and Infection Control
- Jasinda Muhammad, Deputy Director of Human Resources
Department announces pay raises for incarcerated workers
In October, CDCR proposed wage increases for all incarcerated workers.
Visit CDCR.ca.gov to learn more about the many career pathways offered at CDCR.
The new pay scale will provide more incentive for the population to accept and retain jobs. In addition to a paycheck, work assignments build technical and social skills, instill accountability and responsibility, and prepare incarcerated people for future careers. Proposed regulations also would eliminate all unpaid work assignments and change up to three-quarters of full-time job assignments to half-time.
The increase will result in doubled daily wages for fire crew members, up to $10.24 per day. Other workers’ wages will increase from a maximum rate of $0.22 per hour (for jobs such as custodial and laundry services) to $0.74 per hour (for higher-level assignments such as lead clerks in office and warehouses). These changes will be in effect beginning April 1, 2024.
Several outlets covered the proposal, including KQED and the Los Angeles Times.
NOVEMBER
CDCR, DMV update state identification card application process for incarcerated people
Incarcerated people now have a streamlined process to reapply for a California identification card upon release.
Using a portable DMV office and assisted by trained CDCR staff, people with less than 13 months on their sentence can use an electronic process to submit their application for a replacement state ID card.
Univision covered the story.
Online search tool gets a new look
CDCR’s inmate locator has a new look and a new name. The new California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS) has all the features of the previous locator, with the new ability to view incarcerated individuals’ counties of commitment, and to sort results by age range.
The following information is available using CIRIS to search for a person in custody at a CDCR institution:
- Name
- Age
- CDCR number
- Current location
- Date of admission to CDCR
- County or counties of commitment
- Parole eligible date (month and year)
- Board of Parole Hearings actions (if applicable)
DECEMBER
California Medical Facility’s school honored as CDCR Distinguished School
Mountain Oaks Adult Education Center, serving students within California Medical Facility, received CDCR’s Distinguished School Award during a celebration Dec. 5.
The school was being recognized for meeting the unique needs of students, immersing them in relevant, rigorous, and valuable education programs, improving lives and increase engagement. Their success is thanks to the dedicated efforts to educators, staff and constructive collaboration with every student.
The celebration included speeches from educators, staff and students as well as exhibits showcasing achievements. The Re-Creation Band, with incarcerated and staff musicians performing side-by-side, provided uplifting tunes throughout the ceremony.
San Francisco 49ers inspire children, incarcerated people with holiday visit
The San Francisco 49ers, champions on and off the field, sought to inspire the incarcerated as well as their children during their annual holiday visit to San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. This is part of their ongoing commitment to community engagement.
(Read the full story on Inside CDCR.)
The 49ers have a variety of NFL initiatives focusing on community outreach. The organization has been entering SQRC for nearly two decades. This year’s visit centered on a round table discussion with the incarcerated residents, tour of the facility, and distributing Christmas gifts with residents’ children in the visiting room. Kicking off the Dec. 5 visit, players and residents gathered in the chapel to have a candid conversation about resilience, redemption, and the power of second chances.
Valley State students debate Fresno State
Valley State Prison (VSP) hosted its first-ever formal debate between incarcerated college students and visiting Fresno State University students.
The Dec. 14 debate provided an opportunity for the incarcerated to engage and learn from outside students. Debate topics ranged from artificial intelligence to the Second Amendment.
(Visit Inside CDCR to read the full article.)
Preparing for reentry
Los Angeles Times California Columnist Anita Chabria toured one of CDCR’s Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP) facilities. Her column ighlighted how the MCRP helps returning individuals develop and access the necessary skills, tools and resources to successfully transition back into the community.
(Visit LAtimes.com to read the column.)
By the Numbers
Inside CDCR
Inside CDCR tells the stories CDCR staff, volunteers and programs.
Total Inside CDCR views for 2023: 4,920,328
Most viewed stories
- 26,797 CDCR welcomes 252 new correctional officers (Aug. 15)
- 23,684 California Model will transform corrections (Apr. 7)
- 22,727 190 graduate Basic Correctional Officer Academy (May 9)
- 15,989 CDCR is a tradition for Morales family (Feb. 1)
- 14,974 Off-duty officer responds to fatal accident (May 8)
Videos
The Office of Public and Employee Communications’ video unit has been up and down the state of
California in 2023, documenting the people, places and programs that make CDCR a leader in correctional excellence. We asked CDCR’s videographers to share their favorite videos of 2023.
Social media
In 2023, CDCR’s Facebook posts reached more than 8 million people. Instagram posts reached approximately 700,000 people. Twitter posts reached over 150,000 people. CDCR’s social media pages have a combined audience of over 84,500 people. Employee news, including welcoming new Correctional Officers, and rehabilitation stories continue to be the most popular social media content on CDCR’s pages.
- This year’s-highest performing post included Parlin Park Conservation Camp’s kitchen crew serving residents at a senior center Thanksgiving Day meals. (View the post.)
- The second-highest post highlighted the Correctional Training Facility auto body shop remodeling to include a new auto paint booth, auto body aligner and paint mixing room to better help participants with marketable job skills. (View the post.)
- The third-highest performing post of 2023 recognized incarcerated at Folsom State Prison (FOL) receiving their bachelor’s degree in general communication studies thanks to CDCR’s partnership with the Transforming Outcomes Project at Sacramento State (TOPSS). (View the post.)
- The fourth-highest performing post of 2023 celebrated 190 cadets graduating from CDCR’s Basic Correctional Officer Academy. (View the post.)
- The fifth-highest post celebrated twenty students at Pelican Bay State Prison who received their AA degree from the College of the Redwoods. Graduates earned AA degrees in Liberal Arts, Behavioral Science, or Social Sciences. (View the post.)
CDCR Unlocked
CDCR Unlocked explores correctional issues including rehabilitation and reentry, peace officer recruitment, employee wellness and other criminal justice topics. The department podcast features interviews with and profiles of CDCR executives, administrators, staff, volunteers and community partners. Visit rss.com to listen to the podcast episodes.
Most downloaded episodes of 2023:
- 4,691 Recruitment on the Road at San Quentin (Aug. 2)
- 3,148 Recruitment on the Road: Life in Crescent City, CA and working at Pelican Bay State Prison (March 16)
- 1,885 Case Records professionals are key to CDCR’s success (Aug. 31)
- 1,821 ‘Show them that your time was worth it’-A Career Technical Education Story (Feb. 16)
- 1,704 ARCAID connects returning citizens to community resources (June 22)