How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at California State Prison, Los Angeles County is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

Frequently asked questions about California State Prison, Los Angeles County

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at California State Prison, Los Angeles County. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   Mailing address:

   California State Prison, Los Angeles County
   44750 60th St W
   Lancaster, CA 93536
   Phone: (661) 729-2000

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   Visiting hours at California State Prison, Los Angeles County vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (661) 729-2000 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with California State Prison, Los Angeles County for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   You can send money to an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At California State Prison, Los Angeles County, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at California State Prison, Los Angeles County?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact California State Prison, Los Angeles County for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at California State Prison, Los Angeles County, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC) in Lancaster provides a comprehensive range of educational opportunities designed to support successful reintegration into the community. The facility's academic programs include Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and high school diploma completion, along with higher education options spanning associate's, bachelor's, and master's degree programs. The Peer Literacy Mentor Program allows incarcerated individuals to support fellow participants in their educational journey, while Pre-Release Transitions programming helps prepare individuals for their return to society.

Vocational training at the facility focuses on practical skills that may enhance employment prospects upon release. Programs include Computer Related Technologies, Industrial Painting, Electronics, Plumbing, and Masonry, providing hands-on experience in trades with strong job market demand. The Prison Industry Authority (PIA) offers additional work experience through cleaning products manufacturing, construction services, facilities maintenance, laundry operations, and various support services. These programs typically combine skill development with real-world work experience.

The facility also emphasizes personal development and community connection through specialized programs such as the Religious Services Program, Victim Awareness classes, and Convicts Reaching Out to People (CROP). Creative expression is supported through programs like "Men For Honor: Creative Writing" and "Men Utilizing Sounds to Incorporate Collaboration." Community Service Crews provide opportunities for those incarcerated to contribute positively to the surrounding area. Like most California correctional facilities, LAC may also offer substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and family reunification programs to address the diverse needs of its population and support successful reentry into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Incarcerated individuals at California State Prison, Los Angeles County wake each morning in one of five distinct housing facilities - Facilities A through D, the Administrative Segregation Unit (ASU), or the Minimum Support Facility - each with its own designated mailing address system that reflects the institution's organized structure. The day typically begins with count procedures and meal service, followed by work assignments that may include positions with the Prison Industry Authority producing cleaning products, providing construction services, or handling facilities maintenance and laundry operations throughout the complex.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a significant part of the daily routine, with inmates potentially attending classes in computer technologies, industrial painting, electronics, plumbing, or masonry training programs. Academic pursuits range from basic education and GED preparation to college coursework leading to associate's, bachelor's, or master's degrees through the Peer Literacy Mentor Program and other educational initiatives. The facility also offers various rehabilitative programs including religious services, victim awareness classes, and specialized groups like Convicts Reaching Out to People (CROP) and Men For Honor creative writing workshops.

Communication with family and friends occurs through the structured mailing system, with separate post office boxes designated for legal mail, money orders, and general correspondence based on housing assignment. Visitation provides another vital connection to the outside world, though specific scheduling and procedures require advance planning. Throughout the day, inmates may also participate in community service crews or pre-release transition programs designed to prepare them for eventual reintegration, creating a structured environment that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal growth and skill development.