Beyond the Badge, Jobs, Training and Facilities

Kern Valley State Prison celebrates 20 years

November 13, 2025

Acting Warden Pat Horn acknowledges correctional officers who activated Kern Valley State Prison in 2005.

This year, Kern Valley State Prison celebrated its 20-year anniversary.

Activated June 2005, Kern Valley State Prison in Delano is surrounded by farms and a small community rich in history.

In honor of the 20-year anniversary, the Kern Valley State Prison Employees’ Association, in coordination with California Correctional Peace Officer Association, organized a special event.

Serving breakfast during first watch at Kern Valley State Prison. — *Serving breakfast to the first-watch staff arriving at Kern Valley State Prison.*

The event included food for over 1,300 people. First watch staff received breakfast burritos, while second- and third-watch staff received burgers. The event included a car show, music DJ, golf simulator, beanbag toss, eloté, kettle corn, transportation hubs new bus on display, opportunity drawings for prizes, and food.

The event also included recognition for 85 staff who activated the prison and still currently work there. Each activation team staff member was given a shirt.

“The event was a huge success,” said organizers. “It was a great way to give back to staff while honoring the prison’s history.”

Submitted by Lt. J. Hernandez