Week in Review: January 30, 2026

January 30, 2026

In this January 30 Week in Review, we spotlight case records analyst Lila Gonzalez, a GRIP graduation at ASP, and officers mentoring Law Academy students.

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Lila Gonzalez

Meet Correctional Case Records Analyst, Lila Gonzalez, who has been with Wasco State Prison – Reception Center (WSP-RC) for nearly 32 years. She recently retired after a long career at the institution.

“Throughout her career, she consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to accuracy and timeliness, setting a high standard within the Records Department,” according to a WSP-RC statement. “We thank her for her many years of dedicated service to the State of California and wished her continued success and happiness in retirement.”

When did you start at WSP-RC and what positions have you held?

I began in April 1994 and have served in multiple roles in medical, records, and casework management. Since 2006, I’ve been a correctional case records analyst.

What are you passionate about?

Seeing people grow and change. I was a self-help sponsor for 22 years, providing support for our incarcerated persons.

What are you going to miss about working at WSP-RC?

I’ll miss the people I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. They are like family. But, I’m looking forward to this next stage in life.

Upward Mobility

Mario Ramirez, acting Warden, Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility

Rafael Acevedo, acting Associate Director for Region IV, Division of Adult Institutions

Rosalinda Rosalez, acting Warden, Folsom State Prison

Sarah Brattin, Assistant Secretary and Chief Counsel, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

*Listed in alphabetical order by first name

Observances

National Blood Donor Month

January marks National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the lifesaving impact of blood donors and highlight the ongoing need for donations, especially during the winter months. In support of this effort, CDCR and CCHCS headquarters staff in Elk Grove rolled up their sleeves during a blood drive, donating blood through Vitalant, a nonprofit organization supporting local hospitals.

Organized by the Office of Employee Health Management, the drive reminds staff that a single donation can help save lives. With hospitals continuing to face critical blood shortages, organizers emphasized that regular donations make a meaningful difference for patients in need.

In Our Institutions

GRIP graduation begins the New Year at ASP

Guiding Rage in Power (GRIP) held its annual graduation ceremony at Avenal State Prison (ASP), honoring 87 participants completing the 52-week intensive program. Families and staff attended the event, recognizing the graduates’ dedication to self-improvement and positive change.

The GRIP program focuses on helping participants stop violent behaviors, practice mindfulness, develop emotional intelligence, and understand the impact of their actions on victims. Students learn practical tools to manage stress, regulate strong emotions, and respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.

grad and staff member posing for a photo

CIM hosts annual Remembrance Memorial

Staff gathered at California Institution for Men’s (CIM) for the 21st annual Remembrance Memorial. The memorial honors correctional officer Manuel Gonzalez and all CIM employees who have fallen in the line of duty.

The ceremony stood as a solemn tribute to lives dedicated to service, courage, and duty. Names were remembered with reverence, reflecting a legacy of sacrifice that continues to shape the institution’s values and purpose. Officer Gonzalez’s service remains a lasting symbol of commitment and professionalism within the CIM community.

Now in its 21st year, the Remembrance Memorial remains a powerful tradition—one that ensures CIM’s fallen are never forgotten, their legacy living on through continued service, unity, and honor.

Officer Gonzalez's family next to his memorial photo

Project Pat inspires at LAC

Project Pat speaking to incarcerated at LAC

California State Prison, Los Angeles County (CSP-LAC) welcomed Project Pat of Three 6 Mafia for a two-day visit focused on accountability, personal growth, and making better life choices. During the event, Project Pat delivered a powerful message to more than 250 incarcerated persons centered on “breaking bags”—breaking cycles of negative behavior and poor decision-making.

Drawing from his own life experiences, Project Pat spoke candidly about the consequences of choices and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions. He encouraged participants to reflect on how their decisions impact their families, communities, and futures, while emphasizing discipline, self-awareness, and commitment to change.

The sessions generated meaningful dialogue and strong engagement, as participants connected with his authentic message of accountability and hope.

In the Community

Officers at Centinela mentor Law Academy students

Centinela State Prison partnered with Central Union High School to connect students with law industry partners in the Law Academy Mentorship program.

Correctional lieutenants Ramos, Rodriguez, and Castellanos served as mentors, connecting with students through monthly meetings. The sessions provide meaningful exposure to real-world legal careers and build skills such as communication, critical thinking, and career awareness.

Their mentorship played a vital role in helping students better understand pathways within the justice and legal fields and prepare for their future goals.

Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services

Staff attend Parole Justice Works event

OVSRS staff that attended PJW presentation

The Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services (OVSRS) attended a training program through Parole Justice Works (PJW). The training was led by Heidi Rummel and her team of survivors and formerly incarcerated individuals. Presenters discussed the parole hearing process and the roles of the incarcerated person’s attorney and the Board of Parole Hearings. Additionally, the training examined how survivor voices can be meaningfully included in a hearing without causing further harm or re-traumatization. Speakers took questions and told their stories of healing and accountability.

PJW is a nonprofit organization providing education and resources to individuals involved in the parole hearing process. These include attorneys, victims and survivors, formerly incarcerated persons, and advocates.

Recruitment

Recruitment represents at First Responders Night

The Peace Officer Recruitment Unit (PORU), in collaboration with the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO), represented CDCR at the Sacramento Kings’ First Responders Night game against the Toronto Raptors.

The event recognized the dedication of first responders while providing an opportunity for public safety agencies to engage with the community.

CDCR staff hosted an informational recruitment booth on the concourse, where PORU and DAPO representatives interacted with attendees, shared information about career opportunities, and discussed pathways into both custody and parole careers. Staff answered questions regarding the hiring process, training, and professional development within CDCR.

Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.

Participation in events such as First Responders Night allows CDCR to strengthen community partnerships, increase public awareness, and support recruitment efforts.

>> Learn more about becoming a parole agent.

PORU attracts candidates at CSU Fresno

CDCR’s Recruitment teams continued their efforts at California State University, Fresno, where recruiters host monthly tabling sessions to engage students pursuing careers in public safety and other specialized areas. This ongoing presence on campus has become a reliable point of connection for students and a key component of CDCR recruiting strategy to strengthen interest in correctional careers throughout the Central Valley.

Support from the Office of Peace Officer Selection (Central-Unit) correctional sergeants and Fresno County Division of Adult Parole Operations agents continues to strengthen these efforts.

Their on-the-ground presence provides students with broader insight into correctional operations, community supervision, and the diverse career paths available within CDCR. By returning each month, Recruitment staff have built familiarity with Fresno State’s campus community, allowing students to revisit the booth for updated information, follow-up questions, and guidance on the application process. The regular interaction has also helped CDCR stay visible to criminal justice majors and related programs that frequently pass through the area.

Modesto students tour CTC

students at CTC watching a demonstration

Students from Grace M. Davis High School in Modesto recently toured the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center (CTC). During the tour, students gained firsthand exposure to the standards, expectations, and opportunities in the department.

Students observed key training areas, learned about the Academy’s rigorous preparation process, and engaged directly with CDCR staff to discuss career pathways in both custody and non-custody roles. The CTC experience offered a realistic and informative look into the custody side of operations, helping students better understand the commitment, discipline, and purpose required for a career in law enforcement.

The tour also served as an important outreach opportunity for CDCR, allowing staff to connect with students who have expressed an early interest in public service and criminal justice careers. By engaging with students at this stage, CDCR continues to build awareness and strengthen its future workforce pipeline.

“Academy tours give students the opportunity to see what a career with CDCR truly looks like,” said Recruiter Lauren Hieb. “By exposing them to our training environment and having open conversations about expectations and career options, we help future candidates make informed decisions and envision themselves in roles where they can serve their communities with integrity and professionalism.”

These tours remain a valuable tool in CDCR’s recruitment and outreach efforts, fostering early engagement and encouraging motivated students to consider a future in public service.

In the Media

Gordon Philanthropies staff and CDCR staff cutting ribbon

Gordon Philanthropies and Community Leaders Mark the Opening of the Children’s Center Serving Fire Camp Families

Gordon Philanthropies (GP) and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) this week celebrated the grand opening of the Malibu Conservation Camp Outdoor Educational Center, a safe and welcoming space for incarcerated women firefighters to connect with their children.