Through proactive enforcement sweeps at CDCR, staff have discovered multiple weapons, cellular devices, controlled substances, and various prohibited items in the past week and a half.
These additional searches began after CDCR initiated modified programming March 8, 2025, at 11 high-security locations.
“I am impressed with the commitment and ongoing dedication of CDCR employees to root out contraband, deescalate tensions, and improve the environment for staff, incarcerated individuals and visitors”
Secretary Jeff Macomber
Sweeps find weapons, drugs, dangerous contraband
The following contraband items were confiscated:
- 105 improvised weapons
- 123 cellular devices
- 62 hypodermic needles
- 189 additional items including controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, escape paraphernalia, and other miscellaneous contraband
“I want to recognize the hard work of staff as they are taking steps during this modified programming to make our institutions safer,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “I am impressed with the commitment and ongoing dedication of CDCR employees to root out contraband, deescalate tensions, and improve the environment for staff, incarcerated individuals and visitors.”
CDCR employs many practices to limit contraband from ever entering its institution by conducting daily cell/bunk searches in all housing units, directing K-9 searches for controlled substances and cell phones, searching incoming mail for contraband, and utilizing cameras at most institutions.
As part of a comprehensive response to a recent surge in violence, CDCR implemented modifications to movement within Level IV high-security areas at the following prisons:
- Calipatria State Prison
- Centinela State Prison
- California Correctional Institution
- High Desert State Prison
- Kern Valley State Prison
- California State Prison-Los Angeles County
- Mule Creek State Prison
- Pelican Bay State Prison
- California State Prison-Sacramento
- Substance Abuse Treatment Facility
- and Salinas Valley State Prison.
Each institution will continue to conduct systematic searches and assess when the modified programming at each facility should be concluded.
CDCR remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of its facilities while ensuring the well-being of staff and individuals in its care.
Division of Adult Institutions
Office of Public and Employee Communications
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