Lowriders pull into RJ Donovan Correctional Facility

September 18, 2025

Thanks to owners of lowriders, the incarcerated population and staff enjoyed a special car show at RJ Donovan Correctional Facility.

The Sept. 3 Low & Slow Car Show was held on RJ Donovan’s Facility E. In all, seven lowriders from multiple car clubs attended the event. They were presented with certificates of appreciation. There was also a contest in which staff and incarcerated persons voted for their favorite vehicles.

Watch the video (story continues below):

“The event was a success, giving staff and the population the opportunity to attend a public-like event,” according to the institution. “It felt as if we were outside the walls and got to attend something we’ve never seen before.”

RJ Donovan Correctional Facility thanked the Facility E Education Machine Shop and Instructor Mr. Wooten for facilitating the event. His crew created machined trophies for the participating vehicles.

Meanwhile, Prison Fellowship brought people together for a positive event while also obtaining approval to film.

“A special thanks to San Diego’s ‘The X-Man’ of Magic 92.5 radio for deejaying and showing off his ride,” organizers said.

“This is about people being able to be people even though we are in a prison setting,” said one of the incarcerated participants as he checked out the cars.

Events like these help people on the inside interact with the community on the outside.

“It brings a different gaze, something from the outside,” said Lt. Adam Garvey, the institution’s public information officer. “It’s important for the staff and the incarcerated population.”

The lowrider car club said it’s also a way for the group to give back to the community.

Story by Lt. Adam Garvey, RJ Donovan Correctional Facility
and Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor

Video by Pedro Calderón Michel, Deputy Press Secretary
Office of Public and Employee Communications